Buckhead Atlanta Travel Guide

Buckhead is Atlanta’s stylish district where culture meets class. It’s a destination brimming with high-end shopping, celebrated cuisine, historic landmarks, and lush green escapes. For travelers seeking a fusion of modern luxury and Southern tradition, Buckhead provides a dynamic and fulfilling experience.

Whether you’re planning an indulgent getaway or a culturally rich weekend, Buckhead offers a spectrum of activities for every interest. From upscale boutiques and gourmet dining to vibrant nightlife and serene parks, this part of Atlanta holds endless appeal for all types of visitors.

Best Places To Visit

Explore Buckhead’s must-see attractions that highlight its culture, history, and leisure.

• Atlanta History Center: Dive into the city’s heritage with exhibits, historic homes, and manicured gardens.
• Lenox Square: A luxury shopping complex featuring premium brands and iconic department stores.
• Phipps Plaza: A refined retail center with high-end boutiques and an upscale movie theater.
• Chastain Park: Atlanta’s largest park with a golf course, trails, and live music amphitheater.
• Swan House: A grand 1928 mansion showcasing classic Southern architecture and opulent interiors.
• Buckhead Theatre: A popular venue hosting concerts, comedy shows, and live performances.
• Blue Heron Nature Preserve: A peaceful 30-acre sanctuary with nature trails and wildlife viewing.
• The Shops Buckhead Atlanta: A walkable luxury shopping and dining district in the heart of the city.

Things To Do

Buckhead offers a rich mix of experiences from historic tours to retail therapy.

• Tour the Atlanta History Center: Stroll through exhibitions, Civil War relics, and gardens in one immersive site.
• Shop at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza: Find everything from international luxury brands to trendsetting labels.
• Unwind at Chastain Park: Enjoy open-air concerts, jog along trails, or play tennis amid scenic surroundings.
• Visit the Swan House: Take a guided tour of one of Atlanta’s most elegant historic homes.
• Night out on Peachtree Road: Explore a stretch packed with vibrant bars, gourmet restaurants, and nightlife.
• Admire art at MOCA GA: View rotating exhibitions highlighting regional and national contemporary artists.
• Walk the Blue Heron Trails: Reconnect with nature in this tranquil woodland and wetland preserve.
• Attend a show at Buckhead Theatre: Experience intimate performances across genres in a landmark setting.

Where To Stay

Buckhead offers diverse accommodations for travelers with varying tastes and budgets.

• Peachtree Road Corridor: Ideal for proximity to shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Near Lenox Square: Stay close to luxury retail and quick MARTA access.
• Chastain Park Vicinity: Perfect for those wanting green surroundings and easy entertainment.
• Phipps Plaza Area: Offers high-end lodging steps from upscale boutiques.
• North Buckhead: A quieter zone with boutique hotels and peaceful streets.
• Buckhead Village: Great for walkability to restaurants, galleries, and lounges.
• East Paces Ferry Road: Popular for luxury hotels and central convenience.
• Piedmont Road Corridor: Offers more affordable lodging with excellent transit links.

Best Accommodations

Choose from top-tier hotels offering comfort, style, and convenience.

• The St. Regis Atlanta: Features elegant rooms, an infinity pool, and exceptional service in the heart of Buckhead.
• Thompson Buckhead: A modern boutique hotel known for its rooftop bar and stylish interiors.
• Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead: Offers a luxurious spa, fine dining, and central location.
• The Burgess Hotel: A character-filled boutique stay with Mediterranean decor and attentive hospitality.
• Hampton Inn Atlanta-Buckhead: A practical and affordable option with complimentary breakfast and good location.

Scenic Road Trips

Take a drive from Buckhead to Georgia’s most scenic and engaging nearby destinations.

• Stone Mountain Park: Just 15 miles away, enjoy hiking trails and panoramic views from the summit.
• Lake Lanier: Head north to unwind along calm waters ideal for boating, swimming, and picnics.
• Blue Ridge Mountains: Drive through rolling hills and charming towns like Dahlonega for a tranquil escape.
• Helen’s Bavarian Village: Explore a quirky alpine-style town surrounded by wineries and river walks.
• Callaway Gardens: A lush botanical retreat filled with trails, lakes, and butterfly centers southwest of Buckhead.

Best Beaches

You’ll find refreshing lakeside and coastal beach escapes just a drive away from Buckhead.

• Margaritaville at Lake Lanier: Offers sandy shores, a wave pool, and water slides ideal for families.
• Acworth Beach at Lake Allatoona: A family-friendly beach with shallow waters and picnic spaces.
• Little River Marina Beach: Offers boat rentals and peaceful swimming spots along Lake Allatoona.
• Tybee Island: A coastal favorite with a lighthouse, fishing pier, and wide sandy beaches.
• Hilton Head Island: Known for beautiful beaches, biking trails, and excellent seafood along South Carolina’s coast.

Must-Visit Mountains

Explore Georgia’s impressive mountainous landscapes just beyond Buckhead.

• Stone Mountain: A granite monolith offering scenic hikes, a skyride, and historical attractions.
• Brasstown Bald: The state’s highest peak with a summit view that stretches into four states.
• Kennesaw Mountain: A Civil War site with hiking trails and expansive views northwest of Buckhead.
• Arabia Mountain: A natural heritage area with striking geological features and rare plant species.
• Blood Mountain: A rewarding hike along the Appalachian Trail with panoramic ridgeline views.

Must-Try Restaurants

Buckhead’s dining scene delivers on every front from upscale plates to regional favorites.

• Umi: A sleek spot for world-class sushi and Japanese cuisine crafted with artistic precision.
• Chops Lobster Bar: A sophisticated restaurant known for its expertly prepared steaks and fresh seafood.
• South City Kitchen Buckhead: Serves elevated Southern fare like fried chicken and shrimp and grits.
• Cooks & Soldiers: Offers Basque-inspired tapas and wood-fired specialties in a trendy setting.
• St. Cecilia: Blends Italian coastal cuisine with Southern influences in an elegant atmosphere.

Best Theme Parks

Families and thrill-seekers can access a range of theme parks just outside Buckhead.

• Six Flags Over Georgia: Features roller coasters, family rides, and year-round special events.
• Stone Mountain Park Attractions: Combines scenic nature with fun activities like the Skyride and train.
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Indoor play zones, 4D cinema, and creative stations for younger children.
• Fun Spot America Atlanta: Affordable fun with go-karts, mini rides, and a laid-back vibe.
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park: Offers wall-to-wall trampolines and obstacle courses just a short drive away.

Best Time To Visit

Mild weather and local events make certain seasons more ideal for travel to Buckhead.

• Spring (March to May): Blooming flowers and outdoor festivals make this a popular season.
• Fall (September to November): Crisp air and fall colors add appeal to parks and walking tours.
• Summer (June to August): Hot and lively with pool outings and indoor shopping sprees.
• Winter (December to February): Quieter time with lower rates, ideal for low-key travelers.

Transportation Tips

Getting around Buckhead and beyond is simple with various transportation choices.

• MARTA Rail: Connects Buckhead to downtown Atlanta and the airport via the Red Line.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft are widely available and reliable at all hours.
• Walking: Some areas like Buckhead Village are pedestrian-friendly and ideal for casual strolls.
• Rental Cars: Convenient for road trips and suburban exploration.
• Valet Parking: Common at hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants.
• Parking Apps: Use apps like ParkMobile to secure spots and avoid hassles.
• Bike Rentals: Enjoy parks and trails with rentable bikes in select areas.
• Scooters: Electric scooters are available through apps for quick local trips.

Things To Know

A few helpful facts can make your Buckhead visit more enjoyable.

• Luxury shopping is a major draw: Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza anchor the retail scene.
• Free Wi-Fi is common: Many cafes, public areas, and accommodations offer free connectivity.
• The area is generally safe: Still, use caution and be mindful of surroundings in the evening.
• Festival season peaks in spring and fall: Plan ahead if attending major local events.

What To Pack

Smart packing ensures comfort whether you’re exploring, dining, or relaxing in Buckhead.

• Breathable clothing: In warmer months, light and airy clothes help you stay cool on the go. Buckhead can get humid, so moisture-wicking fabrics are a plus.
• Layered outfits: In spring or fall, bring layers for cool mornings and warmer afternoons. A light jacket is often sufficient.
• Comfortable shoes: Essential for walking tours, museum visits, or shopping marathons. Avoid new shoes that could cause discomfort.
• Rain gear: A small umbrella or rain jacket is handy for sudden showers. Summer afternoons often see brief downpours.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses: Protection from UV rays is important when outdoors. Carry a travel-size sunscreen to reapply.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring parks, trails, or retail districts. Most venues offer refill stations or fountains.
• Travel chargers and power bank: Keep devices powered for maps, transit apps, and photos. Outlet access may not always be guaranteed.
• Swimwear: For hotel pools or lake visits nearby. Some hotels have rooftop or garden pools worth enjoying.

Facts & Info

• Country: United States
• Capital: Washington, D.C.
• Largest Metropolitan Areas: New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta
• Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
• Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
• Population: Buckhead (approx. 90,000), Metro Atlanta (over 6 million)
• Airports: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• Universities: Georgia State University, Emory University (main campuses in Atlanta)
• Religion: Predominantly Christian, diverse spiritual communities present

Estimated Costs

• 3-Star Hotel Room: $150–$250 per night
• 1 Bedroom Apartment Rental (Airbnb): $100–$180 per night
• Rental Car: $45–$100 per day
• Public Transit Ticket (MARTA): $2.50 per trip
• Take Out Meal for Two: $25–$40
• Sit Down Dinner for Two: $60–$120
• Draft Beer: $6–$10

FAQs

1: Is Buckhead a safe area to visit?
Yes, Buckhead is considered safe, especially in commercial and hotel zones, though visitors should stay alert at night.

2: What is the best way to get to Buckhead from the airport?
Take MARTA’s Red Line directly from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Buckhead Station.

3: Are there good shopping options in Buckhead?
Absolutely. Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza offer premier luxury and brand-name retail experiences.

4: Can I explore Buckhead without a car?
Yes, with MARTA, rideshares, and walkable neighborhoods, it’s possible to get around without driving.

5: Are there family-friendly attractions in Buckhead?
Yes, families enjoy LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Chastain Park, and nearby theme parks like Six Flags.