Doraville Travel Guide

Explore the stunning town of Doraville with our comprehensive tour guide covering everything from top attractions, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, food, safety and health, transportation options and more.


Introduction to Doraville

Doraville is a charming town located in the north-central portion of the state of Georgia, USA. Nestled in the metro Atlanta area, Doraville boasts a diverse population, lively neighborhoods, and rich cultural attractions. Whether you are into outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or traditional southern food, Doraville is the perfect destination to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Doraville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Southeastern Railway Museum: Explore the history of transportation with over 90 railway cars and various exhibits that provide a glimpse into the golden age of American rail travel.
  • South Atlantic Modern Language Association (SAMLA): Dedicated to promoting the study and teaching of languages and literature, this cultural institution hosts workshops, lectures, and events featuring authors and academics from around the world.
  • Pleasantdale Park Historic District: Take a walking tour and discover the historical charm of Doraville through its beautiful houses and landmarks.

Natural Attractions of Doraville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Keswick Park: Unwind and take in the scenic views of the lush park, perfect for picnics, bird-watching, or just a relaxing walk.
  • Lionel Hampton-Beecher Hills Tree Conservation District: Discover the beauty of nature under the shade of its natural tunnels and forests.
  • Chastain Park Amphitheatre: Enjoy live outdoor performances ranging from outdoor concerts to plays and festivals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Doraville

  • Brook Run Park Trail: Explore the beautiful scenery of Brook Run Park via its scenic trail with a medium-level difficulty suitable for bike lovers and hikers of all fitness levels.
  • Peachtree Creek Trail: Try out one of the most beloved trails in the area, and enjoy the serene calm, perfect for those who are looking for a relaxing and peaceful hike.

Best Things to Do in Doraville: Activities and Tours

  • Historic Downtown Tour: Take a downtown tour of Doraville and explore the landmarks, shops, and restaurants that define its unique character.
  • Escape the Room: Experience an interactive adventure game of puzzle-solving and teamwork with friends or family, and escape within the time limit.
  • Tin Roof Cantina: Unwind with some great live music with some classic American food, while taking a break in one of the most popular pubs in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Doraville

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Southeastern Railway Museum and take a stroll at Keswick Park.
Day 2 Hiking at Peachtree Creek Trail and enjoying a concert or show at Chastain Park Amphitheatre.
Day 3 Visit SAMLA, grab some food at Tin Roof Cantina, and join a walking tour in Historic Downtown.
Day 4 Bike along Brook Run Park Trail, and enjoy some late lunch at one of the local food trucks.
Day 5 Take a day trip to the Chattahoochee Nature Center for some outdoor fun, and picnic at the nearby Panther Island or Virginia-Highland -choose your own adventure!
Day 6 Day of unwinding — Relax at a spa or go shopping at nearby malls like Perimeter Center along with trying out some mouth-watering Southern cuisine.
Day 7 Visit the CN Tower, and try a hand at solving puzzles with friends or family at Escape the Room before heading back home.

Food and Drink Scene of Doraville

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken: Known for its smoky, juicy, and crispy skin, this dish can be found across many local restaurants like BabyBird, JCT Kitchen, South City Kitchen, and more.
  • Pecan Pie: Top off your meal with the perfect Southern dessert, best served at Pie Bar.
  • Shrimp and Grits: A staple in the Southern cuisine, find the best version of this dish at Wisteria.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A Southern classic, visit Revolution Doughnuts and Coffee House for their delicious freshly brewed sweet tea in addition to their doughnuts.
  • Local Beer: Sample locally brewed ales, stouts and porters, while relaxing at the local brewery, Three Taverns Craft Brewery.
  • Cocktails: Discover the area’s signature cocktails, especially at The Porter Beer Bar, known for their impeccable cocktails and seasonal menus.

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

  • Atlanta Marriott Northeast/Emory Area: Enjoy luxurious and spacious rooms, along with a fitness center and outdoor pool (address: 200 Interstate N Pkwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30339).
  • Hyatt Place Atlanta/Perimeter Center: Located near several entertainment and shopping options, along with free WiFi and a complimentary breakfast (address: 1005 Crestline Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30328).
  • Cozy Bungalow in Historic Doraville: A perfect choice for your trip with a great location and fully furnished amenities, including a kitchen and a cozy living area (found on Airbnb).

## What to Buy in Doraville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Peach Tea Syrup: Make your own Southern sweet tea with this syrup that will remind you of your trip. Find it at local markets or online.
  • Southern-Style Jams and Preserves: Bring home a jar of locally made jams and preserves from Pie Lab in nearby Midtown.
  • Georgia Peanuts and Pecans: Try out roasted peanuts and pecans grown in Georgia and available at various farmer’s markets in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Doraville

  • Doraville is known for its diversity and much of the cultural heritage is preserved through annual events like the Doraville Multi-Cultural Festival which celebrates various cultural cuisines, music, and arts.

Best Time to Visit Doraville

The best time to visit Doraville is between March and May and September and November when the weather is mild with plenty of sunshine. It is also during these months when various festivals, outdoor concerts, and events take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Doraville

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try out the local Southern cuisine and beer.
  • Connect with the locals through events and tours.

Don’t:

  • Litter or cause harm to the natural parks and trails.
  • Make loud noise at the public parks and accommodations.
  • Overlook the traffic, especially during rush hour.

Safety and Health

Safety in Doraville

Doraville is a relatively safe place to explore, though, as in any area, it is important to remain aware of your surroundings and secure your valuables. Always follow basic safety guidelines such as locking your car doors and avoiding isolated areas late at night.

Health in Doraville

Doraville has several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies where you can receive medical treatment if the need arises. Make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially during the warm summer months, as UV rays can be harmful to your skin.

Getting to Doraville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Doraville

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: Located about 18 miles south of Doraville, Hartsfield-Jackson is the busiest airport in the world and served by many airlines including Delta, United, and American.

Bus Stations Near Doraville

  • MARTA Doraville Station: Located in the heart of Doraville, MARTA is the best option for getting around town and into the city center of Atlanta.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Several car rental services are available at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
  • Cab/Taxi Services: Call Atlanta Checker Cab or Metro Atlanta Limousine Service for reliable cab services.

How to Get Around in Doraville

The best way to get around Doraville is through a combination of walking and public transportation. Try out MARTA for efficient bus and train services that make getting around the town and city center of Atlanta quite convenient.

Where to Go Next from Doraville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Stone Mountain Park: Located about 25 miles east of Doraville, the park is home to the largest granite outcropping in North America, and offers hiking trails, scenic views, and live performances.
  • Ponce City Market: Discover this historic market in Atlanta that hosts an indoor food hall and retail shops along with arts & crafts makers. Also a rooftop park named Skyline Park with carnival games and a dab of history to find out.
  • Savannah: This beautiful coastal city is about a three-hour drive from Doraville, and is known for its picturesque streets, rich history, and delicious Southern cuisine.

Conclusion

Doraville is a wonderful place to explore and enjoy Southern hospitality with rich cultural experiences, hiking trails, picturesque views and unique cuisine. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your trip with ease and make the most of your visit to this charming town in Georgia.