College Park (Georgia) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture to experience in College Park (Georgia) with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to College Park (Georgia)

Located in the south of the United States, College Park is a charming city situated in the Metro Atlanta region of Georgia. The city is steeped in rich history and culture and offers visitors a mix of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and a friendly Southern hospitality.

List of Places to Visit in College Park (Georgia)

Visitors to College Park will find plenty of things to explore and experience. The following list showcases the top places to visit in College Park, Georgia.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wren’s Nest: A turn-of-the-century Queen Anne-style house that was the home of Joel Chandler Harris, author of the Uncle Remus stories.
  • National Museum of Commercial Aviation: Explore the history of commercial aviation at this museum that features exhibits on the evolution of aircraft and the airline industry.
  • Georgia Renaissance Festival: An annual festival held in April and May that showcases the history and culture of the Renaissance era.

Natural Attractions of College Park (Georgia): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Woodward Academy Outdoor Classroom: This 26-acre natural area features walking trails and wildlife exhibits that are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
  • Lake Feldwood: A serene lake that is perfect for fishing, boating, and enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding forest.

Hiking/Biking Routes of College Park (Georgia)

College Park has numerous options for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The following are some of the best hiking and biking routes in College Park:

  • The Atlanta Beltline: A popular 22-mile trail that passes through several parks and neighborhoods, starting from the Atlanta Botanical Garden and ending at the Boulevard Crossing Park.
  • The Silver Comet Trail: A 61.5-mile paved trail that leads from Smyrna to the Alabama state line and is ideal for cycling, walking, and running.

Best Things to Do in College Park (Georgia): Activities and Tours

From outdoor activities to historical tours, College Park offers a wide range of experiences for visitors to enjoy. Some of the best things to do in College Park include:

  • The Walking Dead Tours: Fans of the popular TV series can join a guided tour of filming locations in the city.
  • Zoo Atlanta: Home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including pandas, gorillas, and elephants.

Week-Long Itinerary for College Park (Georgia)

A week-long itinerary for College Park could include the following:

Day Activity
1 Visit the National Museum of Commercial Aviation in the morning and take a stroll in the afternoon at the Woodard Academy Outdoor Classroom
2 Head to Wren’s Nest in the morning and explore the city’s history at Hapeville Depot Museum in the afternoon
3 Bike or hike on the Atlanta Beltline Trail
4 Tour the historical sites of Martin Luther King Jr. and Ebenezer Baptist Church
5 Explore Lake Feldwood and enjoy some fishing or boating
6 Visit the Georgia Renaissance Festival
7 Take the Walking Dead Tour and experience the filming locations of the popular TV series.

Food and Drink Scene of College Park (Georgia)

Visitors to College Park will discover a diverse culinary scene that offers a mix of Southern classics and international cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried chicken and waffles: A Southern delicacy that combines fried chicken with a side of waffles.
  • Peach cobbler: A classic Southern dessert made with fresh peaches and a buttery crust.
  • Pimento cheese: A creamy and zesty spread made with cheddar cheese and pimento peppers.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet tea: A Southern staple that is made by blending tea with sugar and served over ice.
  • Peach cider: A refreshing beverage made with fresh peaches and apple cider.

Where to Stay in College Park (Georgia): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

College Park offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in College Park include:

  • Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport North - A modern hotel located near the Atlanta Airport.
  • The Westin Atlanta Airport - A luxurious hotel that offers easy access to the airport and downtown Atlanta.
  • Phoenix Inn - A budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in College Park (Georgia): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to College Park can find a variety of souvenirs and local products to take home with them. Some of the best things to buy in College Park include:

  • Sweet treats from Honeysuckle Gelato: A local dessert shop that serves delicious gelato made with fresh and natural ingredients.
  • Handmade pottery from Atlanta Clay Works: A local pottery studio that creates beautiful and unique pieces of art.

Local Culture and Customs of College Park (Georgia)

College Park is a city steeped in Southern hospitality and traditions. Visitors should take note of the following local customs:

  • Say “yes, ma’am/sir”: It is customary to address elders and authority figures with “ma’am” or “sir” to show respect.
  • Tipping etiquette: Tipping is customary in Georgia, and it is expected to tip servers, bartenders, and taxi drivers.

Best Time to Visit College Park (Georgia)

The best time to visit College Park is during the spring and fall seasons, when the weather is mild, and the city is awash with colorful blooms and foliage. The winter season can be chilly, while the summer season can be hot and humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of College Park (Georgia)

Here are some do’s and don’ts to follow when visiting College Park:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine: Georgia is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, so make sure to try the local dishes and beverages.
  • Do visit the historical sites: College Park is home to numerous historical sites that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to tip: Tipping is customary in Georgia, so make sure to tip your servers and other service providers.
  • Don’t forget to pack for the weather: Georgia weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack accordingly.

Safety and Health

Safety in College Park (Georgia)

College Park is generally a safe city, but visitors should take precautions to stay safe. Some tips for staying safe in College Park include:

  • Avoid walking alone at night: Stick to well-lit and populated areas when traveling at night.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity around you.

Health in College Park (Georgia)

Visitors to College Park should stay hydrated and use sun protection when outdoors, as the city can experience high temperatures during the summer months. It is also important to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, as the city is located in a region that is prone to mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile virus.

Getting to College Park (Georgia): Transportation Options and Logistics

College Park is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The following are some transportation options for traveling to College Park:

Airports Near College Park (Georgia)

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: This airport is located in the heart of College Park and is one of the busiest airports in the world.

Bus Stations Near College Park (Georgia)

  • Greyhound Bus Station: This bus station is located in downtown Atlanta, just a short drive from College Park.

Other Options

  • Rental cars: Visitors can rent cars from several rental car agencies located at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
  • Ride-sharing services: Services such as Uber and Lyft are available in College Park and provide a convenient way to get around the city.

How to Get Around in College Park (Georgia)

College Park is a walkable city, and visitors can explore it on foot. Alternatively, visitors can use public transportation, such as buses and trains, or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from College Park (Georgia): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to College Park can easily explore nearby cities and attractions. Some of the best destinations to visit near College Park include:

  • Atlanta: The vibrant city of Atlanta is just a short drive away from College Park and offers a wide range of attractions, including the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.
  • Stone Mountain Park: A popular tourist destination located just outside of Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities and attractions, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a scenic skyride.

Conclusion

College Park is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring history, indulging in delicious Southern cuisine, or enjoying outdoor adventures, you are sure to find it all in College Park, Georgia.