Austell Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Austell with our comprehensive guide. Discover the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, what to eat and more.


Austell, a small city located in the southern part of Metro Atlanta, Georgia, has been gaining significant recognition due to its natural beauty and a multitude of attractions. Visitors to Austell are treated to an array of adventures, such as hiking, biking, exploring historical sites, and soaking in natural wonders.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best of Austell, Georgia. From the must-visit sites, to outdoor adventures, to the food and drink scene, and more, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Austell!

Introduction to Austell

Austell is a city that’s becoming increasingly popular amongst nature and outdoor lovers, with a population of around 7,000 residents. It’s located in Cobb County and is known for its rich cultural attractions and significant contribution to the state of Georgia.

List of Places to Visit in Austell

Let’s dive into a list of the top places to visit in Austell:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Six Flags Over Georgia: A theme park featuring roller coasters, shows, and other attractions, Six Flags Over Georgia is located in Austell and offers plenty of entertainment for all ages.

  • Austell Museum: Learn about the history of Austell at the Austell Museum, located in the heart of the city. The museum houses various artifacts and exhibits showcasing the town’s past.

  • Smith Plantation: Built in the 1840s, the Smith Plantation is a magnificent historical site that tells the story of southern society before, during, and after the Civil War. Visitors can enjoy a walk through the property and its beautiful gardens.

Natural Attractions of Austell: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sweetwater Creek State Park: Surrounded by beautiful views, Sweetwater Creek State Park features hiking trails that showcase various levels of difficulty. It’s famous for scenic views of historic ruins, cascading waterfalls, and a picturesque lake.

  • Powder Springs Park: Powder Springs Park offers a serene environment for visitors to refresh their minds and soak up nature’s peace. With picnic areas, various hiking trails, and playgrounds, there’s something for everyone in this park.

  • The Silver Comet Trail: The Silver Comet Trail is an ideal route for hiking or biking that offers a tranquil environment and stunning views of Georgia’s natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Austell

Austell is known for its hiking and biking opportunities, and here are the must-visit routes for adventurers:

  • Sweetwater Creek Red Trail: This trail takes visitors through the beautiful Sweetwater Creek State Park and is 4.5 miles long, featuring the Eastside Trail and an Old Mill along the way.

  • Powder Springs Trail: The Powder Springs Trail is approximately 6 miles long and takes visitors through a scenic environment with natural streams out of Powder Springs.

  • The Silver Comet Trail: The Silver Comet Trail is a 61.5-mile long trail enjoyed by walkers, runners, and bikers alike. The trail is mostly flat and hard-packed, making it ideal for visitors of all fitness levels.

Best Things to Do in Austell: Activities and Tours

Visitors to Austell can add these activities and tours to their itinerary to make their trip even more enjoyable:

  • Food Tour: Discover Austell’s vibrant food scene by embarking on a guided tour. You’ll get to taste some of the best local cuisine and sample the town’s authentic flavors.

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take in the scenic beauty of Austell from the sky with a hot air balloon ride that offers a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area.

  • Whitewater Rafting: For adventure seekers, whitewater rafting on the Chattahoochee River is a thrilling experience that will give you a rush of adrenaline.

Week-Long Itinerary for Austell

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for those visiting Austell:

Day Activity
Day 1 Spend the day exploring Six Flags Over Georgia
Day 2 Visit Sweetwater Creek State Park and Powder Springs Park
Day 3 Take a guided tour of Austell’s food scene
Day 4 Embark on Whitewater Rafting on the Chattahoochee River
Day 5 Visit the Austell Museum and Smith Plantation
Day 6 Enjoy a hot air balloon ride over Austell
Day 7 Take a relaxing stroll along The Silver Comet Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Austell

Austell’s culinary scene is a haven for foodies, and visitors cannot leave without trying some of the following dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barbecue: The best places to grab some mouth-watering barbecue in Austell include John Boy’s BBQ and Wallace Barbecue.

  • Southern Fried Chicken: For crispy and delicious southern fried chicken, try Austell’s Marie’s Kitchen, where they serve up the most authentic recipe you’ll taste in the town.

  • Peach Cobbler: Georgia is also famous for its sweet and juicy peaches, and Austell’s Four Seasons Restaurant boasts the best Peach Cobbler around.

Local Beverages

  • Georgia Sweet Tea: Georgia Sweet Tea is an iconic southern drink, and you’ll find the best version at the Austell Family Restaurant.

  • Craft Beer: If you’re a beer fan, Three Taverns Brewery in Austell is a must-visit spot for a pint of craft beer.

Where to Stay in Austell: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors to Austell will find a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious:

  • Six Flags Over Georgia TownePlace Suites: Located adjacent to Six Flags Over Georgia, TownePlace Suites are perfect for families with children looking for comfortable and convenient lodging.

  • Magnuson Hotel: Magnuson Hotel is Austell’s budget-friendly option that offers great amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor pool.

  • The Westin Peachtree Plaza: For visitors looking for some added luxury, The Westin Peachtree Plaza is a five-star, top-rated hotel in downtown Atlanta, located just about 30 minutes from Austell.

What to Buy in Austell: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the most popular items visitors purchase to bring home from Austell are:

  • Peach Jam or Preserves: Many local stores in Austell sell delicious Peach jam or preserves, which are perfect for gifting to friends and family back home.

  • Sweet Tea Mix: Southern sweet tea mix is an unforgettable and traditional product of Georgia that visitors frequently take home as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Austell

Being an important part of southern USA, Austell has its unique culture and customs that one may find interesting. It’s common for people to say “y’all” instead of “you all” as a southern greeting. Visitors may also find the locals have an affinity for sweet tea and barbecue, as well as other southern dishes.

Best Time to Visit Austell

The ideal time to visit Austell is during late spring or early fall, from April to May or September to October. The weather is pleasant during these months, and there’s plenty of beautiful foliage and autumn colors in the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Austell

Do:

  • Try some authentic southern food, particularly barbeque and peach dishes.

  • Embrace the city’s love for sweet tea.

  • Take a ride on the Skycoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash in the beautiful parks or natural sites.

  • Forget to wear sunscreen while taking hikes or walking under the bright sun.

  • Use slang or curse words in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Austell

Austell is a relatively safe city, but visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Austell

It’s important to stay hydrated while enjoying outdoor activities during summer months and to pack an emergency first aid kit.

Getting to Austell: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Austell

Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the closest airport to Austell, located approximately 17 miles from downtown Austell. Another option is the DeKalb-Peachtree Airport, which is located about 32 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Austell

The Greyhound Bus Station is located about 12 miles away from the heart of Austell and offers services to other major cities in Georgia. Meanwhile, the MARTA bus line offers transportation to Austell from downtown Atlanta.

Other Options

Taxis, Ubers, and rental cars are also available in the area for those who prefer more flexibility.

How to Get Around in Austell

Austell is small, and most areas can be accessed on foot. However, you can rent a bike or car to explore the area more efficiently and comfortably.

Where to Go Next from Austell: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some places visitors may wish to explore after completing their Austell itinerary:

  • Atlanta: Being the capital of Georgia, Atlanta has a multitude of attractions, including Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium, and the World of Coca-Cola.

  • Marietta: Marietta is a small city located just 9 miles from Austell. Visitors can enjoy a walk through Marietta’s historic neighborhoods and various parks.

  • Kennesaw: Kennesaw is situated approximately 8 miles from Austell and boasts attractions like the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History.

Conclusion

Austell is an excellent destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in a city that offers both culture and outdoor adventures. With its natural beauty, significant tourist attractions, and a variety of food and drink options, Austell is a must-visit destination for visitors who want to experience the best of Georgia.