Piedmont (Georgia) Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Piedmont (Georgia). Explore outdoor adventures and scenic views, culturally important attractions, and where to stay and dine in the region.


Introduction to Piedmont (Georgia)

Piedmont is a charming city located in the southern part of Georgia in the United States. It is blessed with natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural importance. Whether you are visiting Piedmont for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, the place has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Piedmont (Georgia)

Piedmont has plenty of attractions, ranging from outdoor adventures and scenic views to culturally important museums and historical sites. Here are some must-visit places in Piedmont:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hudgens Center for the Arts - Hudgens Center is a contemporary art museum that showcases both regional and national artists.

  • Atlanta History Center - The Atlanta History Center is a museum and research center that preserves and interprets Atlanta’s history and culture.

  • Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site - The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is a museum complex dedicated to the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

  • Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park - Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a historic site that features a Civil War museum and nature trails.

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

  • Stone Mountain Park - Stone Mountain Park is a state park that features the largest exposed granite dome in North America and offers hiking trails, an aerial tram, and a laser light show.

  • Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area - Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a nature park that features the Chattahoochee River, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

  • Sweetwater Creek State Park - Sweetwater Creek State Park is a nature park that features the ruins of a mill, hiking trails, and fishing areas.

  • Piedmont Park - Piedmont Park is a popular urban park that features a lake, playgrounds, and sports fields.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Piedmont (Georgia)

Piedmont is a hiker’s paradise, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some popular trails include:

  • Appalachian Trail - The Appalachian Trail is a world-famous hiking trail that crosses Piedmont.

  • Silver Comet Trail - Silver Comet Trail is a paved bike trail that runs over 61 miles from Smyrna, Georgia to Alabama.

  • Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Trails - The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area has over 50 miles of hiking trails that offer scenic views of the Chattahoochee River.

  • Sweetwater Creek State Park Trails - Sweetwater Creek State Park has over nine miles of hiking trails that run through the park’s beautiful forested areas and alongside the creek.

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

Piedmont offers a range of activities and tours for visitors, from family-friendly fun and outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and culinary delights. Here are some must-do activities in Piedmont:

  • Visit the High Museum of Art - The High Museum of Art is one of the leading art museums in the southeastern United States and offers world-class collections and exhibitions.

  • Take a Walking Tour of the Historic Oakland Cemetery - The Historic Oakland Cemetery is a beautiful Victorian garden cemetery that is home to over 70,000 Atlanta citizens.

  • Experience the Children’s Museum of Atlanta - The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a hands-on museum that offers interactive exhibits and fun activities for kids.

  • Explore the CNN Center - The CNN Center offers a behind-the-scenes guided tour of the world’s largest news organization.

Week-Long Itinerary for Piedmont (Georgia)

Piedmont is a great place to spend a week exploring. Here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
2 Explore Piedmont Park and its attractions
3 Go on a guided tour of the CNN Center
4 Visit the High Museum of Art
5 Spend the day hiking at Sweetwater Creek State Park
6 Take a walking tour of the Oakland Cemetery
7 Go on a scenic drive on Stone Mountain and enjoy the laser light show

Food and Drink Scene of Piedmont (Georgia)

Piedmont’s food and drink scene is as diverse as its attractions, offering a mix of Southern favorites, international cuisine, and craft breweries. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken - Fried chicken is a quintessential Southern dish, and Piedmont has some of the best.

  • Pimento Cheese - Pimento cheese is a cheesy spread that is popular in the South.

  • Grits - Grits are a Southern breakfast staple made from ground corn.

  • Peach Cobbler - Peach cobbler is a delicious dessert made with fresh peaches and a flaky crust.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea - Sweet tea is the quintessential Southern beverage, and you can find it everywhere in Piedmont.

  • Craft Breweries - Piedmont has a thriving craft beer scene, with many breweries offering tours and tastings.

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

Piedmont has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta - The Ritz-Carlton is a luxurious hotel in the heart of downtown Atlanta that offers an elegant atmosphere and excellent amenities.

  • Hyatt Place Atlanta Downtown - Hyatt Place is a modern hotel located in the heart of downtown Atlanta that offers spacious rooms and excellent amenities.

  • Atlanta Marriott Marquis - Atlanta Marriott Marquis is a luxurious hotel that is located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, and it offers excellent amenities and services.

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

Piedmont is known for its local crafts, artisanal foods, and handmade goods. Some popular items to buy include:

  • Piedmont Peanuts - Piedmont Peanuts are a local specialty that is known for their deliciously roasted peanuts.

  • Atlanta CityPASS - Atlanta CityPASS is a pass that offers discounted admission to some of Piedmont’s top attractions, including the Coca-Cola Museum, the Georgia Aquarium, and the Atlanta Zoo.

Local Culture and Customs of Piedmont (Georgia)

Piedmont has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant local community that is proud of its traditions and customs. Some established customs that you might encounter in Piedmont include:

  • Southern Hospitality - Southerners are famous for their warm and welcoming personalities, so expect to be greeted with a smile and open arms.

  • Church Culture - Church-going is a big part of life for many people in Piedmont, so don’t be surprised to see large church gatherings on Sundays.

Best Time to Visit Piedmont (Georgia)

The best time to visit Piedmont is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. During this time, the city comes alive with festivals, outdoor events, and beautiful fall colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Piedmont (Georgia)

Do:

  • Be Polite and Friendly - Southern hospitality is a way of life in Piedmont, so be sure to smile and greet people warmly.

  • Take Advantage of the Weather - Piedmont has beautiful weather throughout the year, so be sure to spend time outdoors and explore the city’s many attractions.

Don’t:

  • Overlook Safety Precautions - While Piedmont is a generally safe city, it is still important to take basic safety precautions such as locking your car and being aware of your surroundings.

  • Disrespect Cultural Traditions and Customs - Piedmont is proud of its cultural heritage, so it is important to be respectful and mindful of local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Piedmont (Georgia)

Piedmont is a generally safe city with a low crime rate. However, it is still important to take basic safety precautions, such as locking your car and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Piedmont (Georgia)

Piedmont has excellent healthcare facilities and services, with several top-ranked hospitals and medical centers in the city.

Getting to Piedmont (Georgia): Transportation Options and Logistics

Piedmont is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. Here are some transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Piedmont (Georgia)

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport - Hartsfield-Jackson is the busiest airport in the world and serves Piedmont.

  • DeKalb-Peachtree Airport - DeKalb-Peachtree Airport is a smaller airport that primarily serves private and charter flights.

Bus Stations Near Piedmont (Georgia)

  • Greyhound Bus Station - Greyhound has a bus station in downtown Piedmont that offers service to other cities in the region.

  • MARTA Bus Station - MARTA is Piedmont’s public transportation system and offers a range of bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station - Amtrak has a train station in downtown Piedmont that offers service to other cities in the region.

  • Car Rentals - Piedmont has several car rental companies that offer rentals for visitors.

How to Get Around in Piedmont (Georgia)

Piedmont has a well-connected public transportation system, with bus and train services that cover the city and surrounding areas. Additionally, taxis and car rentals are readily available for visitors.

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

Piedmont is a great base from which to explore other cities and destinations in the region. Some popular nearby destinations include:

  • Savannah - Savannah is a charming coastal city that is known for its southern charm, antebellum architecture, and historic squares.

  • Blue Ridge - Blue Ridge is a charming mountain town in the north Georgia mountains that offers hiking, biking, and scenic views.

  • Chattanooga - Chattanooga is a vibrant city that is known for its history, culture, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Piedmont is a hidden gem that is filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, there is something for everyone in Piedmont. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable vacation in Piedmont (Georgia).