Explore Alpharetta’s Hidden Gems

When Alpharetta comes to mind, you might think of the hundreds of unique retail options available at Avalon, North Point Mall and Downtown Alpharetta, or perhaps you think of the delectable dining options available around every corner. Maybe you think of the incredible live music scene with shows at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, The Velvet Note, and Roaring Social. Possibly, you think of the fun you can have at one of Alpharetta signature events like Alpharetta Restaurant Week and Wire & Wood Alpharetta songwriters festival. But just when you think you know all that Alpharetta has to offer, there’s even more art, history and beauty waiting to be explored. Follow along and we’ll guide you to some of our favorite “hidden gems” in Alpharetta that are part of our city’s unique charm!

Downtown Alpharetta Arts Walk

For those who have a passion for art or a penchant for the extraordinary, the Downtown Alpharetta Arts Walk is an absolute must. This self-guided stroll will lead you through every corner of the city’s downtown district, offering a glimpse of enduring public sculptures such as Marc Moulton’s “Twist and Shout” and Geemon Xin Meng’s “The Visitor.” Combining an assortment of permanent installations and temporary showcases, Alpharetta guarantees a collection of favored artworks to revisit, all the while introducing fresh and captivating elements to keep you engaged and enthralled. This tour provides an opportunity to deeply engage with art, all amid the backdrop of the charming downtown locale and in proximity to delightful culinary and shopping escapades.

Big Creek Greenway

If you’re a nature enthusiast who thrives on outdoor adventures and connecting with local plant and animal life, the Big Creek Greenway presents an ideal choice. Spanning 9 miles, this paved walkway offers an immersive experience through a flood plain shaped by the meandering Big Creek. The terrain remains relatively even, ensuring an accessible journey suitable for individuals of varying fitness levels. For those seeking a swifter pace, the option to explore the Greenway on an e-bike from Pedego Alpharetta adds an extra thrill.

Amidst the serene expanse, Big Creek Greenway remains a haven for deer, wild turkeys, and melodious songbirds, graciously sharing their picturesque surroundings with visitors. Beyond its scenic charm, the Big Creek Greenway wayfinding signs guide travelers along the path and also offering an interactive element. Each sign features a QR code that leads users to an interactive map By utilizing this feature, users can pinpoint their exact location on the Greenway, access interactive navigation to nearby facilities, estimate travel time to their destination, and receive directions to shopping and dining districts.

MiniMe Factory

“Take a picture, it’ll last longer” has a new meaning when 100 high-resolution cameras work together to capture you on the MiniMe platform. The image from those cameras will then create a 3D statue for you to place on display. Perfect to take the kids and have a one-of-a-kind gift for the grandparents or have a custom wedding cake topper created for the big day, a stop at MiniMe Factory is not only a unique experience, but you will also leave with a souvenir you cannot find anywhere else!

Walk of Memories

For those of you who love history or want to honor those who have bravely served our country, a visit to the Walk of Memories, located at American Legion Post 201 is a must! The only one of its kind in Georgia, this memorial pays tribute to U.S. veterans, family, and friends through a walkway of nearly 8,000 bricks inscribed with the names of Georgians who have served our country.  Monuments along the walkway spotlight several conflicts, including WWII, Korea, and Vietnam Wars. The Walk of Memories also features a WWII M60 tank, a Vietnam-era UH-1 Huey helicopter and a 40mm Mark 1 twin gun mount removed from the USS Polk County on display, adding to this moving experience.

Disc Golf at Wills Park

For a unique sport that is easy to play with friends or family, Disc Golf is a fantastic option. Located at Wills Park, you will find a challenging course that everyone will enjoy. It is the perfect location to bring a picnic and have an afternoon of fun playing 18 holes of Disc Golf! The course at Wills Park is open year-round and no reservation is needed. Children and adults alike will love the game and enjoy Wills Park for its’ gorgeous greenery and spaciousness.

AlphaLoop Trail

Live like a local when you visit Alpharetta. Part of living like a local is knowing the shortcuts around town. The AlphaLoop currently connects Downtown Alpharetta to Avalon via a 1-mile trail and is in the process of expanding! The 1-mile trail between the two popular shopping and dining districts is an easy, paved path that is shaded, flows through Thompson Street Park, and features art pieces to make the short jaunt go by in a blink! To make the trail even more of a breeze, be a two-wheel tourist and ride a bike! May we recommend a basket on the front to help hold your bags full of brand new goodies from the fantastic retailers in both districts!

Motorcycle Safety Foundation

For a high-octane experience, zoom on over to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation for fun motorcycle and dirt bike training classes. Whether you are a gear head or simply have a need for speed, there’s heart-pounding fun for anyone aged six years old or above. Check out MSF’s DirtBike School, an ultra-cool six-hour session full of hands-on rider training on a closed range exercise course. That means full-throttle fun in the dirt with an emphasis on safety and skill development.

Mansell House & Gardens

Take a walk back in time at The Mansell House, a Queen Anne-style home constructed in 1912, that is filled with period antiques and surrounded by gorgeous gardens.  An adaptive reuse project of the Alpharetta & Old Milton County Historical Society, the house and gardens bring the past and the present together. The Mansell House is a beautiful venue for wedding ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, meetings and more. The historic home and gardens are also a great option choice for those interested in local history or who love appreciating historic Southern architecture and beautiful gardens.

Community Garden

Calling all gardeners (or wannabe gardeners)! The Alpharetta Community Garden (ACG) at Wills Park is an organic educational garden where Alpharetta volunteer gardeners come together to learn, teach, and share their gardening experience with each other, the community and visitors on how to grow and eat healthy fresh and delicious organic vegetables, herbs and fruits on a year-round basis. Even those who fear they don’t possess a “green thumb” will discover tricks and tips for gardening success!

Without a doubt, Alpharetta has something to offer everyone, and we hope that you take an opportunity to experience these one-of-a-kind experiences during your next visit. To experience more of Alpharetta’s unique offerings, turn your visit into an overnight adventure by booking a stay at any of Alpharetta’s 30 luxurious hotels. Book your Awesome Alpharetta accommodations directly here.