2025-2026
are family
t h g i E y t e n i N
YEARS OF GOOD FOOD & EVEN BETTER COMPANY
Contents Welcome
Editorial
Greetings from Atlanta Mayor 4 Atlanta Convention &
A free, weekly newsletter for Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community
Collin Kelley Executive Editor
Visitors Bureau
6
Staff Writer
Introduction
10-12
Katie Burkholder
Events
14
Cover Design
Arts
20
Elizabeth Holmes
Attractions
28
Published By
Neighborhoods
32
Shopping
44
Hotels
50
Food
54
Nightlife
62
Outdoors
66
Fitness
70
Organizations
74
Communities of Faith
78
Rough Draft Atlanta Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau Keith Pepper Publisher Rico Figliolini Creative Director Advertising sales@RoughDraft.news Operations Savannah Pierce savannah@RoughDraft.news
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Facebook.com/ DiscoverAtlanta
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Facebook.com/ georgiavoice
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©2025 with all rights reserved Publisher reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertising for any reason. Publisher assumes no responsibility for information contained in advertising. Any opinions expressed in print or online do not necessarily represent the views of Georgia Voice or Rough Draft Atlanta.
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ATLANTA
A LETTER FROM THE MAYOR Greetings: As the 61st Mayor of Atlanta, it is my honor to welcome you to our city through this year’s edition of Destination Gay Atlanta. Atlanta is a city that tells a larger story. It is the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, a national leader in arts and culture, and proudly recognized as the LGBTQIA+ capital of the South. We’re proud of this reputation. It has been built through decades of collective effort from residents, organizers, allies, and leaders committed to the idea that progress is a shared responsibility. In Atlanta, we often say this city is a group project, and that commitment extends to ensuring that everyone who lives, works, or visits can thrive. Through the Division of LGBTQ Affairs and our LGBTQ Advisory Board, we work every day to make that promise real. Our city continues to earn a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index, reflecting the strength of Atlanta’s policies and programs in advancing equality. These achievements reflect the values we live out as a city and the ongoing dedication to equity and dignity for everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community. Atlanta welcomes people who come to celebrate, explore, and connect. From Piedmont Park and the Atlanta Beltline to our historic neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife, and rich arts scene, this city is full of experiences that showcase both its history and its future. Just as importantly, Atlanta offers a spirit of belonging that extends beyond attractions or events. In this city, you are valued. You are part of the story we continue to write, together. On behalf of the people of Atlanta, I thank you for placing your trust in our city and for being part of what makes Atlanta shine. My hope is that during your visit, you can experience everything that makes this city special, and that you leave knowing you will always have a home in Atlanta.
Sincerely,
Mayor Andre Dickens
Embrace love in DeKalb Atlanta’s DeKalb is rich in diversity, we offer progressive communities. We are located six miles east of downtown Atlanta.
Don’t miss... Lips - Drag Dining, Piedmont Park home of Atlanta GAY Pride, Buford Highway International Corridor, Mary’s - Karaoke Bar, Charis Books & More. Atlanta’s DeKalb offers 63 hotels and is just a short drive away from Midtown the mecca for LGBTQ+ nightlife, with restaurants and shops. Say “I Do” in DeKalb - ask us about our FREE Wedding Services. Welcome to Atlanta’s DeKalb! Chamblee | Stonecrest | Stone Mountain | Tucker | DeKalb County Our LGBTQ+ Specialist 770-492-5012 www.discoverdekalb.com
ATLANTA
WELCOME TRAVELERS Greetings! On behalf of Atlanta’s hospitality community, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our city. As a global partner with the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, Atlanta takes great pride in being the LGBTQ+ capital of the South and a destination that welcomes all visitors. The city garners recognition each year for being a top gay travel destination. Most recently, Atlanta was featured on misterb&b’s Safest U.S. Cities for LGBTQ+ Travelers in 2025 list and placed on its 2024 list as one of the Gayest Cities in the World. Additionally, Money Magazine named Atlanta one of the best places to live in 2023 and 2024, solidifying its reputation as a highly sought-after destination. Atlanta has earned a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index for 12 consecutive years. Adorned with personality and pride flags on many businesses and homes, Atlanta’s intown neighborhoods champion the LGBTQ+ community. Atlanta has year-round LGBTQ+ events for locals and visitors alike to attend. Atlanta Black Pride Weekend is held each Labor Day weekend and celebrates diversity within the community. Atlanta Pride Festival is a week-long celebration in October and is the largest of its kind in the Southeast. The event draws members of the LGBTQ+ community, allies and advocates together, concluding with National Coming Out Day. We offer a variety of things to do while you’re here, such as walking through Centennial Olympic Park, which is surrounded by must-see attractions including Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame, Georgia Aquarium, National Center for Civil and Human Rights and World of Coca-Cola. The center is home to the LGBTQ+ Institute, which develops and implements programming to advance equality through research and education. As the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Atlanta served as the catalyst for the American civil rights movement. The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park explores the life and history of Dr. King, allowing visitors to follow in his footsteps and honor his legacy. Atlanta’s arts and culture scene generates offerings unmatched in the South. You’ll find an array of visual arts, music and theatrical venues across the destination such as Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Fox Theatre, High Museum of Art and Museum of Design Atlanta. Out Front Theatre Company tells LGBTQ+ stories through theater and performing arts in Atlanta’s Westside, and don’t forget to explore Midtown to see our iconic rainbow crosswalk at the intersection of 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue. For a quick and easy way to discover places to eat and things to do and see in Atlanta, visit DiscoverAtlanta.com. Once again, we extend a warm welcome and hope you have a wonderful time in Atlanta. Sincerely,
William Pate, President and CEO Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau
8 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE
ATLANTA MOST WELCOMING CA P I TA L O F CR E AT I V I T Y
scan and DISCOVER MORE
DiscoverAtlanta.com
DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 9
INTRODUCTION
WELCOME TO ATLANTA
Here in Atlanta, we pride ourselves on love, acceptance, and creating a culture where “y’all” includes all, served with a side of good ol’ Southern hospitality. The South gets a bad rap, but we’re here to put the myths to rest. In truth, the South is a vibrant and diverse region to live. Did you know that more LGBTQ people — one in three! — live in the South than any other American region?Of course, there are plenty of nasty people here, just like in any other place, that are full of hate and prejudice (unfortunately, some of them have the power to introduce and make laws), but that doesn’t mean it’s not possible to find yourself a place here where you can be loved for who you are. Atlanta is that place. Our city is one with a rich LGBTQ history, and it’s because of this history and the work of those who came before us that we are able to call ourselves the gay mecca of the South. This history isn’t a pretty one; it is one of tragedy, but it’s also one of triumph. That’s because when something needs to be done, Atlantans get it done. The South isn’t just home to the most LGBTQ Americans; it’s home to more than half of Black Americans as well. So, we would be remiss if, when discussing the work queer Atlantans have put in to fight for our right to life, freedom, and joy, we didn’t highlight the role Black queer Atlantans have taken on at the forefront of this fight.
10 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE
In 1980, the Gay Atlanta Minority Association was founded and sponsored a forum called “Black Lesbian/Gay/Transperson Survival in the ‘80s.” Of course, the ‘80s would come to bring tragedy that would threaten the survival of LGBTQ Atlantans for decades to come. In 1981, what would later become known as HIV first came to public awareness through a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report. Even today, Black LGBTQ people are disproportionately impacted by HIV. Out of this tragedy, though, emerged Black LGBTQ organizations dedicated to creating community and bolstering solidarity in the face of adversity. These organizations include ZAMI NOBLA, Second Sunday, Southerners on New Ground, Brothers Back 2 Back, and In the Life Atlanta. LGBTQ activists, particularly Black activists and other people of color, have made Atlanta — and Georgia —a household name nationwide with their dedication to not only LGBTQ issues, but racial and gender equality, combatting police brutality, the eradication of HIV, advocating for voting rights, and more. They are truly the backbone not only of this city, but this state and country. As you peruse both this travel guide and our beautiful city, know that both are what they are only because of the work of these individuals, now and throughout history. Georgia Voice is proud to produce Destination Gay Atlanta, a
travel guide with everything you need to know about exploring the city: where to shop, what to eat, where to stay, what to do… everything. We’re dedicated to providing Atlanta’s visitors and locals alike with the most up-to-date and LGBTQ-friendly guide to exploring our beautiful city. For those new here, Georgia Voice is the oldest and largest LGBTQ publication in Atlanta with roots tracing back to the ‘80s, a period rife with LGBTQ activism. When this publication was launched, it was with the mission of fighting to be a voice of gay Atlanta, and we continue this mission today. We pride ourselves on creating a safe haven for all Georgians and those around the region and country who want to experience a taste of Southern culture without fear. As Georgia Voice continues to cover the issues affecting our community, locally and nationally, we’d like to take on a journey back in time to see how our state and city have evolved over the years.
drinking. The warrant was deemed invalid because Hardwick had already paid the fine, and Hardwick challenged the antisodomy law in court, deeming it an infringement on his right to privacy. In 1986, the Supreme Court finally ruled in Powell v. State that an individual’s right to privacy trumped the law, effectively making homosexuality legal in Georgia. After fear of arrest was eliminated for LGBTQ Georgians, LGBTQ presence in Atlanta and beyond grew exponentially — and with it, LGBTQ activism. Now that you’ve got a crash course in Georgia LGBTQ history, it’s time to see what Atlanta and our surrounding communities have to offer while you’re here in our great city! We’re so glad to have you here, enjoy y’all!
Georgia’s LGBTQ History In 1817, Georgia enacted its first anti-sodomy law. A few years later, in 1833, the law was expanded to outlaw “carnal knowledge and connection against the order of nature by man with man, or in the same unnatural manner with woman.” The punishment? A sentence of life imprisonment with labor. The law existed for more than 50 years before the U.S. Supreme Court heard and overturned Georgia’s first-ever conviction of sodomy in 1884. However, the law was still in place. In 1949, the penalty was reduced to one to 10 years in prison, something Michael Hardwick faced after being caught having consensual sex with his partner after the police raided his home on a warrant for failing to appear in court on a charge of public
DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 11
ATLANTA
ACT LIKE A LOCAL
From navigating the city to blending in as a true Southerner, here’s everything you need to know to act like a native Atlantan – or at least to not stick out like a sore thumb! Make a Plan Atlanta is known for its hot hot HOT summers. So, if you’re going somewhere outdoors anytime from May to even as late as October, dress accordingly. Our beautiful – if not scorching – Southern weather attracts people in troves. If you’re going out during the weekend, especially somewhere outdoors, expect crowds. Atlantans also love their weekend brunch, so if you’re planning on a morning of chicken and waffles and mimosas, make a reservation or be ready for a wait.
Getting Around Town Atlanta is infamous for its transportation. When it comes to driving around the city, you will need to be comfortable driving on the highway. While you can drive back roads pretty much anywhere within the perimeter (aka I-285, which loops around the city), chances are it’ll take much longer, and – unless there’s a crash on the highway – the traffic probably won’t be much better. We suggest opting for MARTA to get to Piedmont Park (especially if you’re going to a festival like Music Midtown or Atlanta Pride), the Fox Theatre, the Woodruff Arts Center (home to the High Museum, Alliance Theatre, and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra), downtown Atlanta, downtown Decatur, or the airport. The bus system will take you further outside the bounds of the subway, but it can be confusing and tedious even for locals. Atlanta is very hilly, and our streets don’t operate on a grid system, meaning it can be difficult to walk to your location. However, the Atlanta Beltline (Beltline.org) is working to
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change that. The Beltline links you to Piedmont Park, Ponce City Market, Krog Street Market, and dozens of other green spaces. Other walkable pockets that provide a charming afternoon of shopping and dining include the tourist area around Centennial Olympic Park, Atlantic Station, Decatur, East Atlanta Village, Little Five Points, Virginia-Highland, the Midtown epicenter of 10th and Piedmont, and more! If you’re looking to just take a walk without a destination, Atlanta has several expansive parks that offer a more relaxing, nature-filled experience than the bustling Beltline. Some of our favorites include Westside Park, Piedmont Park, Freedom Park, and the Decatur Cemetery.
Stay Safe If you’re out for a night on the town, think safety first: don’t leave valuables in your car, park only in well-lit areas, and remember there’s safety in numbers.
Look Out for One Another In Atlanta, we advocate for one another, especially those of us who are marginalized. Atlanta is a queer city. Atlanta is a Black city. If you are not down for that, we’re not down for you. Unfortunately, the state surrounding our wonderful city is not completely on the same page, and while Atlanta is a wonderful place to live and be, it also has its problems. So, we Atlantans have to regularly take to the streets in protest. Larger protests often happen at the Capitol and Centennial Olympic Park, but smaller actions happen all over the city. If you don’t have the time or ability to protest, there are still ways to be involved.
PROUDLY CELEBRATING
TRAILBLAZERS Gone With the Wind remains one of the most talked-about films in cinema history. At the Road To Tara Museum in Jonesboro, Georgia, new exhibits spotlight the groundbreaking contributions of African American actresses Hattie McDaniel—the first Black person to win an Academy Award—and Butterfly McQueen.
These powerful exhibits explore their lives beyond the screen, honoring their resilience, talent, and impact on the entertainment industry and community. ROAD TO TARA MUSEUM 104 N. Main St., Jonesboro, GA RoadToTaraMuseum.com, 800.662.7829
Join us in recognizing the stories that history nearly forgot—and the voices that helped shape Hollywood.
HOME TO THE WORLD’S BUSIEST AIRPORT— HARTSFIELD-JACKSON ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT For moreinformation or to order a Clayton County, Georgia visitor’s guide: SeeClaytonCountyGA.com or call 800-662-7829
EVENTS
WHAT’S HAPPENIN’ IN THE A? There’s no end to what you can do in Atlanta, but the city’s home to several events each year, LGBTQ+ and otherwise, that are worth planning a trip around. We’ve rounded up some of Atlanta’s favorite events, fundraisers, parties, and festivals – so start filling up your calendar now!
Atlanta Streets Alive Monthly
Once a month, the Atlanta Department of Transportation turns a street into a public park for Atlantans to bike, walk, skate, dance, and play. AtlantaStreetsAlive.org
Atlanta Greek Festival October 2-5, 2025
For over four decades, Greek Orthodox Cathedral has opened its doors to host one of Atlanta’s landmark cultural events, The Atlanta Greek Festival. Come experience warm hospitality, exuberant dancing, sumptuous wines, unique artisan jewelry and apparel, rich history, deep faith, and some of the most delicious food in Atlanta! AtlantaGreekFestival.org
Decatur Book Festival October 3-4, 2025
Angie Thomas, author of “Nic Blake and
the Remarkables,” and Saeed Jones, author of “The People’s Project,” are the keynote speakers of the 20th annual Decatur Book Festival.
Warren, Shane Marcus, Mohammad, Kardonna, Kevin Durard, Martin Fry, and Phoenix.
DecaturBookFestival.com
Atlanta Pride Festival
Festival on Ponce October 10-11, 2025
The Festival on Ponce is an Atlanta arts and crafts festival set in the historic park, Olmsted Linear Park. Visitors will enjoy the gorgeous landscape of Olmsted Linear Park at this free arts and crafts festival. FestivalOnPonce.com
Big Ol’ Slice of 100% Atlanta Gay Pride October 10-13, 2025
Come party with thousands of men from around the country for this ultimate circuit party experience! This year’s DJ lineup includes Rosabel, Micky Friendmann, Paulo, GSP, Twisted Dee, Cindel, Karsten Sollors, Deanne, J.
GaBoyEvents.com October 11-12, 2025
For more than 40 years, Atlanta Pride has been the most powerful reminder of the city’s LGBTQ+ progress. An estimated 300,000 attend the weekend festivities and support local businesses and organizations at the market. The festival is one of the largest Pride celebrations in the country and continues to bring locals and visitors alike to Piedmont Park and the parade down Peachtree Street. AtlantaPride.org
Decatur BBQ Festival October 18, 2025
Enjoy barbecue and music to benefit The Solarium, a Decatur-based nonprofit providing community support by hosting and supporting events, as well as providing grants to other local non-profits. DecaturBBQFestival.com
Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade October 18-19, 2025
Each October, over 35,000 people flock to Little 5 Points to experience the signature Halloween festival in the Southeast and one of the top ten Halloween events in the country. Enjoy great food and drink, live entertainment, and the best Halloween parade in the South! L5PHalloween.com
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DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 15
Stone Mountain Highland Games October 18-19, 2025
One of the premier Scottish festivals in the U.S., Stone Mountain Highland Games will feature colorful pipe bands, Scottish Athletics, piping and drumming competitions, Highland dancers competing before judges of worldwide renown, country dancing, Scottish harping and fiddling, Scottish foods and drink, clan tents and vendors selling goods imported from the British Isles, and Celtic performers. Smhg.org
Chastain Park Fall Arts Festival November 1-2, 2025
Visitors will gather in Chastain Park for fine arts and crafts, local food, and local acoustic musicians. ChastainParkArtsFestival.com
Chomp & Stomp Chili Festival November 8, 2025
city and neighbors is the mound of toys on display each December at the annual Toy Party. The event, presented by For the Kid in All of Us, has grown into one of the largest social events of the year.
sure to come in costume!
ForTheKid.org
Atlanta’s St. Patrick’s parade dates back to 1858, making it one of the oldest in the country! Don your green and celebrate the day when “everybody is Irish.”
Atlanta Santa Speedo Run December 6, 2025
This one-mile fun run will have you stripped down to your skivvies in the name of charity – supporting Joining Hearts and the fight against HIV/AIDS – alongside others who are just as bold and beautiful as you are, inside and out! JoiningHearts.org
Anime Weekend Atlanta December 18-21, 2025
AWA at the Georgia World Congress Center is a four-day celebration of Japanese culture, anime, and manga, with a dash of general pop culture. Awa-con.com
Head to Cabbagetown for the chili cookoff and Bluegrass festival.
Atlanta Jewish Film Festival
ChompAndStomp.com
The AJFF is committed to strengthening Jewish life and fostering intergroup understanding across Atlanta with more than two weeks of film screenings.
Atlanta Veterans Day Observance Ceremony and Parade November 8, 2025
Military and Veteran speakers will honor the Americans in uniform at Azadi Galleria at the Woodruff Arts Center before the parade starts near the High Museum and ends by the Fox Theatre. GeorgiaVeteransDay.org
Piedmont Park Holiday Gift Market November 29-30, 2025
With an emphasis on the visual arts and holiday gift-giving, this event is centered around buying local and supporting local artists at Piedmont Park! PiedmontParkArtsFestival.com
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights
Nightly November 15, 2025 – January 2026
Every winter, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is transformed with over two million lights into a magical holiday wonderland. AtlantaBG.org
Toy Party
December 2025 TBD
One of the most poignant signs of LGBTQ+ Atlantans’ commitment to their
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February-March 2026 TBD
Ajff.org
Cupid’s Undie Run February 2026 TBD
Every year, thousands of runners don their undies to raise money and awareness for NF, a group of genetic conditions that cause tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body. The event kicks off with drinking and dancing before a mile(ish) jog and an epic dance party! Cupids.org
Atlanta Film Festival Spring 2026 TBD
One of only two dozen Oscar-qualifying festivals in the U.S., the Atlanta Film Festival welcomes almost 30,000 people to discover hundreds of independent, international, animated, documentary, and short films. AtlantaFilmFestival.com
The Georgia Renaissance Festival Spring 2026 TBD Go back to the Medieval era at the Renaissance Festival! Enjoy jousting, archery, turkey legs, and periodappropriate art and wares – and make
GaRenFest.com
Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 14, 2026
AtlantaStPats.com
Atlanta Dogwood Festival April 10-12, 2026
The Dogwood Festival is Atlanta’s favorite springtime tradition with a nationally renowned artist market, music, and, of course, the blooming dogwood trees! Dogwood.org
Atlanta Jazz Festival
Memorial Day Weekend 2026
The Atlanta Jazz Festival is one of the largest free jazz festivals in the country. You can enjoy live music all weekend long at Piedmont Park. AtlJazzFest.com
AIDS Vaccine 200 Bike Ride May 2026 TBD
Each year, dozens of bike riders gather for a 200-mile fundraising ride from Emory University to Rock Eagle 4-H Center. The ride raises money for HIV/ AIDS research at the Emory Vaccine Center and other LGBTQ nonprofits, while celebrating the memories of lives lost to the disease. AV200.org
Big Peach Softball Tournament May 2026 TBD
Hosted by the gay Hotlanta Softball League, the Big Peach draws hundreds of players from dozens of teams around the country for a weekend of softball competition in multiple divisions, plus plenty of socializing. HotlantaSoftball.org
Decatur Arts Festival May 2026 TBD
This can’t-miss arts event brings the community to Downtown Decatur Square with 150 artist booths, 200+ performances, and a full weekend of fun! DecaturArtsFestival.com
In Chamblee, In Chamblee, every every corner corner has has a a story story -make yours make yours here here
From coffee From morning morning coffee dates to cocktails cocktails dates to under the stars, stars, under the Chamblee sets the the Chamblee sets scene for scene for unforgettable unforgettable moments. moments.
2026 FIFA World Cup June 11 – July 19, 2026
People from around the world will flock to Atlanta for eight matches, including one semi-final, that will be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Grab your tickets for a match to join in on the fun, or keep a lookout for matches screened at local restaurants and bars across the city. FIFA.com
Flying Colors Butterfly Festival HRC Atlanta Gala Dinner & Auction May 2026 TBD
Raising about $400,000 annually for the Human Rights Campaign, the Atlanta HRC dinner is a standard-bearer throughout the nation. The annual black-tie affair, which will celebrate its 34th year, features leading activists and entertainers advancing gay rights and honors local LGBTQ+ leaders and allies. Atlanta.HRC.org/events/alanta-Dinner
Peach Party Atlanta May 2026 TBD
Atlanta’s premier circuit party weekend brings in the hottest DJ talent from around the world! Thousands of the hottest men from around the world converge in the metro to dance the night away to the best beats in the Southeast. PeachPartyAlanta.com
Atlanta Comic Con Summer 2026 TBD
Embrace your inner nerd at Atlanta’s #1 family-friendly comic convention. Head to the Georgia World Congress Center to enjoy a weekend of comic books, cosplay, panels, celebrity appearances, and more! AtlComicConvention.com
Atlanta Pride Run June 1, 2026
The Atlanta Pride Run & Walk is an annual 5K race and walk organized by the Front Runners Atlanta running club. Proceeds from the registration and other fundraisers are donated to a local charity that supports the LGBTQ+ community in Georgia. FrontRunnersAtlanta.org
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June 2026 TBD
Celebrate the beauty, science, and spirit of pollinators at Chattahoochee Nature Center. Step inside the live butterfly encounter, meet pollinator experts, and enjoy food, music, games, and more. ChattNatureCenter.org
Southern Fried Queer Pride June 2026 TBD
This homegrown version of Pride puts the spotlight on queer and trans Southerners, offering an inclusive atmosphere at each of its parties, potlucks, pop-ups, and workshops. SouthernFriedQueerPride.com
Virginia-Highland Summerfest June 2026 TBD
Kick off summer with live bands, great art, good food, and a 5K in the beautiful Virginia-Highland neighborhood. VaHi.org
Joining Hearts Weekend July 2026 TBD
An extra dose of “fun” is added to “fundraising” each summer during the Joining Hearts party, which uses 100 percent of proceeds to provide housing for people with HIV. JoiningHearts.org
Peachtree Road Race July 4, 2026
Atlanta’s Fourth of July tradition is the world’s largest 10K with over 50,000 runners and walkers taking to Peachtree Road. AtlantaTrackClub.org/Peachtree
Piedmont Park Arts Festival August 2026
Enjoy art, live music, and family-friendly fun while basking in the summer sun at this two-day festival. Up to 250 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metalworkers, glassblowers, and other
visual artists will be featured at one of Sunshine Arts Magazine’s Top 100 Arts Festivals. PiedmontParkArtsFestival.com
Black Gay Pride
Labor Day Weekend 2026
What began as informal house parties grew into the largest Black Gay Pride celebration in the world. Join fellow Black LGBTQ+ folks for a weekend full of partying and community! AtlantaPrideWeekend.com
Dragon Con
Labor Day Weekend 2026
Sci-fi and fantasy lovers, this one’s for you! At Dragon Con, you’re sure to see some of the biggest names in sci-fi and fantasy, some of your favorite characters in the form of cosplay and costumes, and so much more. DragonCon.org
Peach International Tennis Championships Labor Day Weekend 2026
The Peach International Tennis Championships is hosted by the Atlanta Team Tennis Association, the city’s LGBTQ+ league, at the South Fulton Tennis Center. It draws players from throughout the region for competition in men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles in as many as four divisions. Atta.org
Pure Heat Community Festival September 2026
This free “day of unity” is a gathering of Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ minorities and allies, organized by Atlanta Black Pride. The event will be equipped with market and food vendors, live celebrity and local performers, entertainment, dance competitions, live hair battles, educational forums, prizes, and giveaways. ureHeatCommunityFestival.com
Yellow Daisy Festival September 2026
Travel outside the perimeter to historic Stone Mountain Park for this 55-yearold, award-winning festival, which connects families and friends with shopping, live music, delicious food, and tons of fun. The Yellow Daisy Festival is a big show with a small-town feel, perfect for those of all ages. StoneMountainPark.com
Atlanta Food & Wine Festival
Out On Film
Since the festival’s inception in 2011, this celebration, held in Historic Fourth Ward Park, has been a must-attend destination event for food enthusiasts from all over the world. With over 150 renowned chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, and industry insiders descending to Atlanta for a weekendlong of deliciousness, the festival showcases the best of what the region has to offer.
You’re invited to attend the 38th annual Out On Film LGBTQ film festival! A slew of movies will hit the big screen in various theaters across the city as part of this epic event, many of them documentaries or never-before-seen indie films.
AtlFoodAndWineFestival.com
This free festival, deemed the most exciting urban music festival in the U.S., draws in thousands of people to the Sweet Auburn District to experience good food, good music, and tons of fun. From upcoming hip-hop acts to timeless R&B, gospel stars, rap veterans, and alternative greats, the Sweet Auburn Music Fest has it all.
September 2026
North Georgia State Fair September 2026
There’s nothing better than a classic state fair. Great rides, free concerts, liveaction and death-defying events, and all the trimmings that come with the annual state fair abound once again in Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta. NorthGeorgiaStateFair.com
September 2026
OutOnFilm.org
Sweet Auburn Music Fest September 2026
SweetAuburnMusicFest.com
AIDS Walk Atlanta September 2026
to register as individuals or teams to run or walk in this 5K course in Piedmont Park to raise money for critical HIV/AIDS research. This year, there will be a music festival to follow! AidsWalkAtlanta.org. East Atlanta Strut September 2026
The East Atlanta Strut is a free, one-day extravaganza that showcases the hottest in-town neighborhood in Atlanta, East Atlanta Village. More than 10,000 folks from the Atlanta metro area join the Strut as paraders, shoppers, eaters, drinkers, and players. EastAtlantaStrut.com
Old Fourth Ward Fall Arts Festival September 2026
Head out to Historic Fourth Ward Park to celebrate community and tradition and enjoy fine arts and crafts, a children’s play area, local food and beverages, and live acoustic entertainment. OldFourthWardParkArtsFestival.com
Atlantans and tourists are encouraged
DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 19
ARTS
ATLANTA’S ARTISTIC ARRAY Calling all theater geeks, dance fanatics, musical maniacs, and art aficionados! Atlanta’s arts scene is top-notch and sure to impress even the most pretentious artist. Check out what’s going on in the city’s art world this season. 7 Stages Theatre (7Stages.org), located in Little 5 Points off Euclid Avenue, has brought works of political and social importance to the stage since 1979. They also host the Atlanta Fringe Festival, a week’s worth of live performances spanning genre and format, including comedy, drama, dance, circus, aerial, puppetry, poetry, and more. Now’s the time to make plans to attend the spectacular shows scheduled for the City Springs Performing Arts Center at City Springs! In their 2025/26 season, enjoy “The Producers: The Mel Brooks Musical,” “The Wizard of Oz,” the regional premiere of “Come From Away,” and “Mean Girls the Musical.” Learn more and buy tickets at CitySpringsTheatre.com.
The World’s a Stage Since its inception in 2016, LGBTQ+owned Out Front Theatre Company has produced outstanding theatrical experiences that focus on the voices of the LGBTQ+ community. The theatre is the only one in Atlanta that caters specifically to queer audiences. To keep up with their current season, visit OutFrontTheatre.com. The famous Fox Theatre has a slew of Broadway favorites in its 2025/26 season. Check out classics like “Hadestown,” “The Outsiders,” “The Sound of Music,” “Six The Musical,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and more. Learn more and buy tickets at FoxTheatre.org. You may have heard of the Alliance Theatre because it boasts its very own
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Tony Award. For its 58th season, Alliance is back at the Woodruff Arts Center with a lineup of incredible performances. Keep up with their current season at AllianceThreatre.org. Atlanta is also home to theaters that bring independent works into the spotlight. Horizon Theatre (HorizonTheatre.com) has 172 seats to watch its contemporary plays. Actor’s Express grows talent through regular performances at the King Plow Arts Center. Their 2024/2025 season continues with “A Strange Loop” from July 24 to August 31 and “A Thin Place” from October 2 to 6. To keep up with their upcoming season and buy tickets, visit Actors-Express.com.
Theatrical Outfit is an Atlanta-based theater company whose purpose is to provide their diverse audiences, actors, and artists with rich theater experience. Learn more and buy tickets at TheatricalOutfit.org. Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company (TrueColorsTheatre.org) is a non-profit theater company co-founded by Tony-winning Broadway director Kenny Leon and Jane Bishop in 2002. The theatre company produces worldpremiere plays by diverse playwrights with a commitment to preserving African American classics. At the Aurora Theatre (AuroraTheatre. com) in Lawrenceville, expect “The Wiz,” “Christman Canteen 2025,” “The Play That Goes Wrong,” “Initiative” and “In the Heights” this season.
Discover Atlanta’s creative side.
19,000+ works of art. Live music nights. Endless ways to be inspired. Step into the High Museum of Art and see what’s capturing local imaginations right now.
high.org
Calvin Thompson and Bjorn Dupaty in Alliance Theatre’s 2022/23 Season production of THE HOT WING KING. Photo by Greg Mooney.
Celebrating LGBTQ+ stories, artists, and audiences— on stage and off! Tickets for the 2025/26 season are on sale now!
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Dancers, left to right: Catherine Conley & Denys Nedak, Jessica Assef, Miguel Angel Montoya & Gianna Horton-Sibble, Mikaela Santos. Photos by Rachel Neville. Season artwork by Monica Lind. Nutcracker character illustration by John Holder. Snow White illustration by Jade Orlando. Choreography by George Balanchine © The George Balanchine Trust.
The Sound of Music
all the visual art around — it’s in gift shops, it’s on murals, it’s on the walls of the famous Krog Street Tunnel. It’s also on display in more traditional museums and galleries, like the High Museum in Midtown. The High’s upcoming exhibits include “Kim Chong Hak, Painter of Seoraksan,” “Ezrom Legae: Beasts,” “Viktor&Rolf. Fashion Statements,” and more. Learn more and buy tickets at High. org.
Voices of Note, the organization that includes both the Atlanta Women’s Chorus and the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus, presents dynamic vocal performances that act as catalysts for social change. Keep up with their performances at VoicesOfNote. org. Atlanta is also lucky enough to have more than one LGBTQ+ chorus; OurSong (OurSongAtlanta.org) is another LGBTQ+ choral group that has been promoting acceptance, diversity, and social justice through music for more than 20 years. The Atlanta Philharmonic Orchestra and Atlanta Freedom Bands. The APO (AtlantaPhilharmonic.org) is a volunteer symphony orchestra for the LGBTQ+ community dedicated to educating audiences on musical knowledge, providing high-quality programming to Atlanta, Georgia, and the broader Southeast, and affirming the power of the LGBTQ+ community. AFB (AtlantaFreedomBands.com) is a collective of ensemble bands providing positive LGBTQ+ representation in Atlanta through music. Atlanta Ballet (AtlantaBallet.com) is one of the nation’s premier dance companies, and its 93-year history helped make it the State Ballet of Georgia. The dancers bring us a fabulous slate of performances this season, including their annual “The Nutcracker” performance during the winter holidays, as well as a lineup of amazing dance performances year-round. The Atlanta Opera is another can’tmiss swarm of vocal talent, bringing
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performances like “La Traviata,” “The Marriage of Figaro,” “Turandot,” and “Twilight of the Gods” to audiences at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Marietta. Learn more and buy tickets at AtlantaOpera.org. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. This season, the symphony is hosting a variety of events, including LGBTQ+ comedian Fortune Feimster on her Takin’ Care of Biscuits Tour, Andrea Bocelli in concert, “Lang Lang Performs Beethoven,” “Halloween at Hogwarts,” and more. Learn more and buy tickets at Aso.org.
Eye Spy It’s hard to be in Atlanta without noticing
Atlanta also boasts several other amazing art galleries, including the Museum of Contemporary Art (MocaGa.org), the Museum of Design Atlanta (MuseumOfDesign.org), The Bakery (TheBakeryAtlanta.com), The Supermarket (TheSupermarketAtl. com), Johnson Lowe Gallery (LoweGallery.com), Alan Avery Art Company (AlanAveryArtCompany. com), Tew Galleries (TewGalleries. com), and the rek Gallery (Rek. Gallery). If paintings and pictures aren’t your thing, you can also check out SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film (ScadFash.org) and the Center for Puppetry Arts (Puppet.org). If seeing art isn’t enough for you, you can also make your own! Make a pit-stop at Decatur Glassblowing (DecaturGlassblowing. com), All Fired Up (AllFiredUpArt.com), Atlanta Clay Works (AtlClayWorks. org), Metal Arts Guild of Georgia (MetalArtsGuildGa. org) and MudFire (Mudfire.com) for some one-of-a-kind, handmade souvenirs from your trip to the big city.
2025-2026
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ATTRACTIONS
AMAZING ATTRACTIONS Atlanta and its surrounding areas boast amazing sights and attractions that you won’t want to miss. From educational museums and natural marvels to high-octane theme parks and one-of-a-kind attractions, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. biodiverse ecosystems, fossils, a giant screen theater, and an old-growth forest, there’s so much to explore and learn.
In Atlanta Atlanta Botanical Garden AtlantaBG.org With 30 acres of cultivated gardens and a fantastic restaurant, the Atlanta Botanical Gardens offers something new to see every season of the year. If you’re visiting during the winter holidays, stop in and see the incredible Garden Lights exhibit after dark. Fernbank Museum FernbankMuseum.org There’s no better family outing than Fernbank, Atlanta’s natural history museum. With exhibits on Georgia’s
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Georgia Aquarium GeorgiaAquarium.org Home to the annual Atlanta Pride Kickoff in October and located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, guests can explore over 11 million gallons of wonder at the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere. The Georgia Aquarium features a spectacular collection including whale sharks, bottlenose dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, African penguins, California sea lions, and hammerhead sharks. All shows are on a first-come, first-served basis. You can plan your visit in advance and save on advanced purchase admission at georgiaaquarium.org/discoveratlanta. Historic Oakland Cemetery OaklandCemetery.com Historic Oakland Cemetery is Atlanta’s oldest public park and the final resting place of many of the city’s most noted citizens, like Margaret Mitchell and Ivan Allen, Jr. Less than a mile from
downtown, its 48 acres are full of treasures: history and gardens, sculpture and architecture, ancient oaks and magnolias. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site NPS.gov/MaLu/index.htm Atlanta’s activist roots can be tied to the Civil Rights movement with heroes like Martin Luther King, Jr. Tour the 35 acres dedicated to his life and work and see where he and his wife (and ardent LGBTQ+ ally) Coretta Scott King are now laid to rest. You can also stop by and tour Dr. King’s birth home just down the street. Michael C. Carlos Museum Carlos.Emory.edu Set in the heart of Emory’s campus in Decatur, the Michael C. Carlos Museum is a dynamic, interdisciplinary center for the study of art and culture from around the world, with collections from Africa; ancient Egypt, Nubia, and the Near East; ancient Greece and Rome; the Indigenous Americas; and South Asia; as well as American and European Works on Paper. Museum of Illusions MOIAtlanta.com Enter the fascinating world of illusions, where nothing is quite as it seems. Get ready to be mesmerized at this new interactive museum, all dedicated to optical illusions. This is a fun, familyfriendly, and Instagrammable outing that’s great for anyone.
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DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 29
and take your pick of the 750,000 acres of lush scenery, with rivers, lakes, and waterfalls, plus the perfect terrain for hiking, swimming, picnicking, kayaking, and more.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights CivilAndHumanRights.org Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, the Center for Civil and Human Rights connects the African American, LGBTQ+, and global human rights movements in an engaging and thought-provoking way, which is why this attraction is at the top of many lists and has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Piedmont Park PiedmontPark.org Grab an electric scooter or bicycle or put on your comfiest walking shoes for an afternoon of sheer beauty! The sprawling hills, breathtaking lake, and miles of walking paths are perfect for an afternoon outdoors, and the park is home to Atlanta’s Pride festival and other fantastic events throughout the year. The park offers several baseball fields, beach volleyball courts, several playgrounds, two dog parks, and even a pool for those hot summer days. SkyView SkyViewAtlanta.com Enjoy the best views in the city on this 20-story Ferris wheel, located directly across Centennial Olympic Park. Go at night to soak in the lights of downtown from your own climate-controlled gondola. World of Coca-Cola WorldOfCoca-Cola.com Travel through the history of one of Atlanta’s favorite brands in this 20-acre complex dedicated to all things Coke – from exploring the vault of the secret formula to designing your own beverage.
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Zoo Atlanta ZooAtlanta.org Come see birds, elephants, monkeys, reptiles, and so much more at Zoo Atlanta — and if you time it right, you can even help feed the giraffes.
A short drive away Blue Ridge BlueRidgeMountains.com This mountain town 90 miles north of Atlanta is full of lush scenery, can’t-miss shops, and restaurants in the downtown area. It’s also a surprising haven for a sizable number of LGBTQ+ people, so you’ll see plenty of friendly faces. Booth Western Art Museum BoothMuseum.org A little less than an hour from downtown Atlanta, you’ll land in Cartersville — home to Booth Western Art Museum, one of the greatest museums featuring contemporary Western-American art, presidential portraits and letters, and Western-movie memorabilia. There’s also a cafe and multimedia theater on the premises. Callaway Gardens CallawayGardens.com Head southwest of the city for 1.5 hours and you won’t regret what you find at this resort complex in Pine Mountain. Gardens of azaleas and magnolias, lakes, and even a large enclosed butterfly habitat dot the area, and the Festival of Lights is worth a drive up during the winter holidays. Chattahoochee National Forest FS.USDA.gov/CONF Point your car toward North Georgia
Fun Spot America FunSpotAmericaAtlanta. com Roughly an hour south of Atlanta, this theme park is nestled in Fayetteville, Georgia. Attractions include a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and various rides and rollercoasters like ArieForce One, the Hurricane coaster, and the Riptide ride. Helen HelenGa.org Because nothing says “Deep South” quite like a replica of a Bavarian alpine village. Helen is a quirky little north Georgia town, great for a day trip to stroll around the various shops or go tubing on the Chattahoochee. Plus, you’re only a 20-minute drive from beautiful Anna Ruby Falls. Lake Lanier LakeLanier.com Lanier is the most popular lake for Atlanta residents looking for a day or weekend to water ski, swim, sunbathe, or just relax on the water. Make sure to visit Gay Cove on the west side of the lake just north of marker 21 to make some like-minded friends! The Oddities Museum TheOdditiesMuseum.org Are you a fan of all things eccentric, creepy, and just plain odd? The Oddities Museum in Chamblee is the place for you. For only $10, take in the extensive collection of exotic taxidermy, antique medical equipment, creepy carnival accoutrement, and SO much more. Savoy Automobile Museum SavoyMuseum.org This unique attraction in Cartersville is a must-visit for car enthusiasts. Savoy Automobile Museum connects people to the cultural diversity of the automobile. Through changing exhibits, educational programs, and engaging experiences, you’ll have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty and history of automobiles.
State Botanical Garden of Georgia BotGarden.UGA.edu Sure, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is no slouch at 30 acres of beautiful grounds, but head for Athens, Georgia, to visit its much bigger sibling — there are over 300 acres to roam! Be sure to stop for a meal or afternoon cocktail in the always fun downtown area. Six Flags Over Georgia SixFlags.com/OverGeorgia Love the thrill of going upside down at 60 miles per hour? Head to Georgia’s most visited amusement park just miles from downtown Atlanta! Located in Austell off the Chattahoochee River, the theme park houses more than 11 roller coasters and a total of 44 rides for all ages. Don’t forget to cool off at Hurricane Harbor with three water slides and more than a dozen attractions. Six Flags White Water SixFlags.com/WhiteWater Take a break from the blistering Georgia heat at Six Flags’ water park, located in Marietta. This refreshing 69-acre park boasts countless exciting water slides, a 700,000-gallon wave pool, and a slew of kid-friendly attractions.
Stone Mountain Park StoneMountainPark.com The city of Stone Mountain is uber LGBTQ+-friendly, with numerous “familyowned” businesses dotting the downtown area and a welcoming mayor to boot. Make sure to visit the 3,200acre park and either walk or take a chairlift to the top to get the ultimate Georgia view. Tellus Science Museum TellusMuseum.org Take a drive out to Cartersville to visit this world-class, 120,000-square-foot natural history and science museum. This hands-on museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, is perfect for nature lovers and future scientists.
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secondlifeatlanta.org DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 31
A CITY OF NEIGHBORHOODS
Midtown/Downtown Home of some of Atlanta’s most recognizable landmarks –from the rainbow crosswalk and Fox Theatre in Midtown to the World of Coke and Georgia Aquarium in Downtown – the heart of Atlanta is a tourist favorite. While Midtown boasts some of Atlanta’s best gay nightlife, Downtown is the perfect locale for a day trip: stop by the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, take a ride on Skyview, the 20-story Ferris wheel overlooking Centennial Park, and catch a Falcons or Atlanta United Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With the 2026 Fifa World Cup coming to the Benz in June and July, Downtown Atlanta has been undergoing a revitalization effort by the City. New additions to the neighborhood include Crates, a record store specializing in Black-dominated genres like Neo Soul and Acid Jazz; sushi and burger restaurant Bottle Rocket; Thai restaurant Tyde Tate Kitchen; and Spiller Park Coffee. If you’re in Midtown, swing by the brand-new Museum of Illusions, an edutainment museum all about optical illusions – you won’t believe your eyes! Then, head to the rainbow crosswalk (at the intersection of 10th and Piedmont) to stop by Boy Next Door Menswear, the place to shop for gay men. They offer an expanding selection of brands for men’s activewear, undergarments, and swimwear – they’ve got everything you need for any occasion, from Sunday brunch to circuit parties.
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Fun Facts The intersection at 10th and Piedmont, where the rainbow crosswalks are currently located, was the location of Outwrite Bookstore and Coffeehouse, Atlanta’s first LGBTQ bookstore. In 1971, the Georgia Gay Liberation Front held Atlanta’s first Gay Pride March through Midtown, from Peachtree Street to Piedmont Park. Midtown residents are more than twice as wealthy as the average American; the average household income is about $120k, compared to about $52k. Downtown traces its roots back to 1826, when railroad surveyors began looking for a route from Milledgeville to Chattanooga. As a result, a town named Terminus was founded in 1837 in what is now Downtown Atlanta. Auburn Avenue was once called “the richest Negro street in the world” and is now home to Black historical sites like Apex Museum, Auburn Avenue Research Library, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, the King Center, and Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King preached. Downtown Atlanta was home to the Atlanta Daily World, the first Black daily newspaper. It was in publication from 1928 to 2008. You can still see the Atlanta Daily World sign at 145 Auburn Ave.
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Regardless of your plan, Midtown and Downtown Atlanta host a myriad of restaurant and retail options, offering something for everyone. Start your day with breakfast (or brunch) at one of Atlanta’s favorites, Mary Mac’s Tea Room. Established in 1945, Mary Mac’s offers Southern favorites like chicken and dumplings, collard greens with crackling bread, and Georgia peach cobbler. If you haven’t yet gone, every Atlanta tourist has to stop for lunch at least once at The Varsity, the largest drive-in in the country. The food is simple – hot dogs, hamburgers, and PCs (Google it) – but the fun of The Varsity experience is unmatched. As for dinner, some of our favorites include Casa Almenara (formerly 10th and Piedmont, it’s located at the former home of LGBTQ landmark Outwrite Bookstore) for delicious Mexican fare, Campagnolo for Italian and Mediterranean, Poor Calvin’s for Thai fusion with Southern influences, Mediterranean Grill, and Papi’s Cuban and Caribbean Grill. If you want to splurge on an upscale meal, head to The Sun Dial at the top of the Westin Peachtree for 360-degree
Buckhead Located uptown, Buckhead is the hot spot for the bougiest of Atlantans. Since at least the 1950s, Buckhead has been known as an area of extreme wealth. In 2011, The Gadberry Group compiled the list of the 50 wealthiest zip codes in the United States, ranking Buckhead’s western zip code (30327) as the second wealthiest zip code in the South. If you’re a lover of luxury goods or a patron of high-end nightlife, Buckhead is the place for you. If you’re looking to live lavishly, take a visit to Phipp’s Plaza, a mall for Atlanta’s most upscale shoppers. Anchors include Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, with many smaller luxury retailers like Hermés, Fendi, Loewe, and Christian Louboutin. You should also stop by private jeweler Jonathan Buckhead to splurge on a diamond for a special someone (hey, you’re a special someone, too!). When it comes to food and drinks, Buckhead’s high-end ethos remains steadfast. The Garden Room is a must-visit. Delectable small bites are served with creative cocktails in one of the most awe-inspiring atmospheres in Atlanta. Plants, flowers, and extravagant light fixtures fill the greenhouse-like glass building. Make sure to make reservations and be ready to drop some moolah. Upscale casual bistro Terra Terroir is a hidden gem, boasting a lengthy wine list, an eclectic menu created by award-winning chef Charles Zeran, and a gorgeous woodsy patio. If you’re a fan of tapas, wine, and charcuterie, you won’t want to skip The Iberian Pig. Even if you’re not a high roller, there are some more affordable options in the Buckhead area. Lost-n-Found Youth Thrift Store has thousands of reasonably priced, secondhand items for sale. Proceeds help fund the operation of the nonprofit, which takes unhoused LGBTQ youth off the street and transitions them to more permanent housing. If you’re a proud nerd, you definitely won’t want to stop by Buckhead without visiting Oxford Comics and Games for new and vintage
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views of the city skyline. If you’re seeing a show at the fabulous Fox Theatre, pair the evening with dinner and drinks at Livingston. Located in the Georgian Terrace Hotel just across the street from the theatre, Livingston is the perfect place for cocktails and a bite to eat before or after catching a show. Looking to do some shopping? Atlantic Station is your onestop shop, with mall favorites including H&M, Bath and Body Works, and Victoria’s Secret as well as the Falcons and United Team Store, Target, IKEA, bowling, and a Regal Cinema. Midtown and Downtown are Atlanta’s gay nightlife hot spots. Gay men, make sure to stop by Blake’s on the Park, located just off of Piedmont Park; Bulldogs for house music, hip-hop, and heavy-handed bartenders; and Flex, a gay bathhouse complete with sauna, steam room, pool, sun deck, and private rooms. Lesbians can find their folks at My Sister’s Room, the longest-running lesbian bar in Atlanta, and everyone will enjoy dancing the night away at Future Atlanta, a 14,000-squarefoot cabaret and dance club.
comics, graphic novels, action figures, DVDs, and posters. And don’t forget your furry friend – visit The Pet Set to pick them up a souvenir from your travels. Some more low-key dining options in Buckhead include Alon’s Bakery and Market, Fellini’s Pizza, Grindhouse Killer Burgers, OK Café, and Roasters Rotisserie. When it comes to LGBTQ+ nightlife, Buckhead has a few fabulous offerings. Lips Atlanta is the ultimate in drag dining in Atlanta. Georgia’s top drag queens perform Vegas-style shows five nights a week: shows include Twisted Broadway on Wednesdays, The Divas on Thursdays, Glitz and Glam on Fridays and Saturdays, Taboo: The Dirty Show late Saturday nights, and Showstoppers on Sundays. They also host a Dragalicious Brunch on Sunday afternoons. If you’re looking for something with less frills, Woofs is the place for you. Atlanta’s only gay sports bar, Woofs hosts a regular bear crowd with little elbow room on game days. The weekly line-up includes trivia, poker, sports on 21 screens, pool, darts, and a popular menu of bar grub. Tripp’s Bar is a cozy, unassuming gay bar that offers karaoke, darts, free Wi-Fi, and a taco bar on Wednesdays – plus male go-go dancers on Fridays. If you’re looking to keep the party at home, shop Green’s Beverages’ huge stock of liquors, craft beer, wine, and kegs.
Fun Facts Built in 1974, Tower Place was Buckhead’s first skyscraper. Buckhead was not officially a part of Atlanta until it was annexed in 1952. Out of all generations, Millennials are Buckhead’s largest population. “Peachtree” is in the name of 15 streets in Buckhead.
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Decatur A city all its own, Decatur is every suburbanite’s dream. Minutes east of Atlanta proper, Decatur combines the charms of a small town, the excitement of a college town (it’s home to renowned colleges Emory University and Agnes Scott University), and the connection of a major city. Named after 19th century U.S. Naval hero Stephen Decatur, the city’s strong connection to history is apparent. The streets of Decatur are lined with gorgeous historic homes and buildings, ivy-covered stone, and plenty of trees, making it one of the prettiest areas to walk, bike, or drive through. If you find yourself in Decatur, visit the Dekalb History Center’s museum in the Old Courthouse to get a glimpse into local history through furniture and Civil War artifacts, the Woodlands Garden for treelined trails and native plants, and Emory’s Michael C. Carlos Museum for ancient art and artifacts from Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Asia. In Atlanta during the FIFA World Cup from June 11 to July 19? Decatur is hosting a month-long festival with local music in the square and matches screened at local restaurants, bars, and on the big screen in the square. Learn more at DecaturWatchFest2026.com. Whether you’re a local or a tourist opting for groceries over restaurants, Your Dekalb Farmer’s Market is a must-visit. While the name may bring to mind a quaint outdoor market, Your Dekalb Farmer’s Market is actually a huge warehouse with a diverse selection of fresh produce and food from around the world. If you’re looking for something you can’t find at Kroger, you’ll be able to find it here. You can also opt for buying fresh ingredients from local farmers at Decatur’s farmers markets. There’s one on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sceptre Brewing Arts from January 7 through December 16 and another on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Decatur from March 29 through November 15. If you are looking to eat out, though, Decatur has an abundance of options. Parker’s On Ponce, located in the heart of historic downtown Decatur, calls itself a steakhouse, but it’s so much more. It’s hard to pass on the salmon, sea scallops, and calamari. The oasis of wood, warmth, and wine begs your return. Wahoo! Grill is also an excellent dining choice. The glass-walled dining room of this European-influenced bistro is surrounded by an enchanting garden paradise, making it a warm and intimate setting for a delicious dinner of lamb lollipops or sea scallops. Chai Pani is a great spot for Indian fare. The butter chicken is to die for, but if you really want to experience all it has to offer, go for their lunch buffet and enjoy all the deliciousness you can eat. Visit The Iberian Pig for a delectable Spanish charcuterie board or opt for a warm bowl of Japanese ramen at Wagaya. Decatur is also a perfect neighborhood to grab a coffee and
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pastry on a lazy Sunday morning: Dancing Goats Coffee Bar, Revolution Doughnuts and Coffee, Guild+Journeyman, and Southern Sweets Bakery are all excellent options. Pair your coffee with a book from Book Nook or Charis Books and More, the oldest and largest independent feminist bookstore in the Southeast. If it’s a nice day out, take your coffee and book on a relaxing and beautiful walk through the Decatur Cemetery. If you’re interested in antiquing, Decatur is the perfect spot for you. Kudzu Antiques + Modern is a 25,000 sq ft space featuring 100 of Atlanta’s best antique dealers, selling everything from glassware and trinkets to clothing and furniture. You’re bound to find something that’s truly one of a kind. Make a day of it by also stopping by the Decatur Estate Vintage Market for vintage furniture, art, tchotchkes, rare books, and more!
Fun Facts Decatur is known for its food scene – the New York Times even dubbed the city “Atlanta’s gastronomic equivalent of Berkeley or Brooklyn” in 2016. Decatur’s downtown area was named a top 10 neighborhood by the American Planning Association. The Decatur Book Festival is the largest independent book festival in the country. Decatur used to be a trading center for small farmers. Decatur is home to the Benjamin Swanton House, the city’s oldest structure.
Piedmont Heights/ Virginia-Highland Just north of Midtown is Piedmont Heights, Atlanta’s oldest neighborhood known as a “small town in a big city.” If you’re looking for a chiller, more suburban vibe, Piedmont Heights is the place for you. The area is home to Ansley Mall and Ansley Square Shopping Center, gay Atlanta’s hot spot. There, you can find a slew of gay-friendly establishments (even the Starbucks is lovingly referred to as Bearbucks). Hit up Brushstrokes Pleasures, the one-stop shop for gifts, pleasures, DVDs, and other adult entertainment since 1989, or check out Barking Leather for leather clothing, accessories, and all things BDSM and fetish. Ansley Mall is also the home of Ansley Wine Merchants, a seven-days-a-week wine shop with over 1,000 bottles of wine, 600 types of liquor, and 200 types of beer; The Cook’s Warehouse, a local chain that carries a huge selection of more than 15,000 kitchen tools and supplies; and Intaglia Home Collection, a furniture and home décor store that brings a fresh approach to Atlanta furniture. If you’re a movie lover, catch a film at Plaza Theatre, Atlanta’s longest continuously operating independent movie theatre, or the historic Tara Theatre. You can also pick up a DVD at Videodrome, an old-school video rental shop stocking both indie and obscure films as well as recent releases. Afterwards, head across the street to The Supermarket to enjoy local art, performances, and workshops in a one-of-a-kind venue. When it comes to gay nightlife, Ansley is the place to be. Felix’s Atlanta is a friendly, small neighborhood bar that’s perfect for early evening drinks and hanging out with friends. Oscar’s Martini Bar offers video on demand with weekly events that include show tunes, karaoke, and DJs. And of course, the Atlanta Eagle is the favorite among Atlanta’s leather community. Other gay nightlife in the area includes District Atlanta, the only venue in the U.S. with a unique, 300+ floating orbs kinetic light system, making it the perfect spot to dance the night away. Friends on Ponce is a no-attitude bar with inexpensive drinks and pool tables popular among the alt gay crowd, and Mixx Atlanta is Atlanta’s premier video venue, hosting three different lounges for socializing with friends or hosting a party or event. Chill on weeknights with piano night on Tuesdays, then sizzle with DJs Fridays through Sundays. Or enjoy some karaoke with a live band every Monday night at Dark Horse Tavern. Keep the party going with libations from Green’s Beverages or Tower Beer, Wine, and Spirits. Virginia-Highland is also home to Ponce City Market, a favorite among tourists and locals alike. Housed in a former Sears catalog facility, Ponce City Market is home
to several retailers, including Citizen Supply, Madewell, Lululemon, Modern Mystic, Nike, Sephora, West Elm, and Williams-Sonoma, as well as a diverse food hall. Grab some Mexican fare and craft cocktails at Minero or enjoy Asian cuisine at Pacific Passage, Ponce’s new Asian food market that includes street food, pho, baos, bubble waffles, and more. Then head up on The Roof to enjoy carnival games, delicious cocktails, seasonal ice and roller skating, and awe-inspiring views of the Atlanta skyline. Just outside Ponce City Market is City Winery, a hip, intimate venue with a New American restaurant, bar, and on-site winery. The venue is often home to Wussy Mag’s beloved themed drag brunches, check their website to see if any brunches are happening while you’re here! Outside of Ponce City Market, there are so many other delicious choices for dinner in the neighborhood. La Hacienda is a casual Mexican restaurant offering tableside guacamole, a full bar, a rooftop patio, and vibrant decor. Metrofresh is “world food” restaurant that delivers fresh fare fast and gives back to its community; fundraisers for AID Atlanta and PALS are just a few of its LGBTQ-friendly gestures. Nowak’s neighborhood bar and restaurant serves high-quality steaks and seafood, but if you’re looking for something more casual, Eats is quick, conveniently located, and won’t put a dent in your pockets. Enjoy pasta dishes and good ol’ jerk chicken, plus delicious Southern sides like green beans and baked sweet potatoes. If you want to opt for some home cooking, pick up some ingredients at the Virginia Highland Farmers Market at VaHi Farm Burger on Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. from March 30 through November 16.
Fun Facts Piedmont Heights is Atlanta’s oldest community, settled in 1822 by Benjamin Plaster. Entrenchments built by General T.J. Wood’s troops during the Civil War remained in the area until they were destroyed by the construction of a Holiday Inn in the 1950s. Today, a few crumbling stone steps and historic marker on the site honor the Edwin Cheshire family’s handyman “Gold Tooth John,” whose ghost is rumored to still wander the halls of the old hotel at night. Virginia-Highland used to be considered one of the seven “arboreta” in the city of Atlanta. In 2021, thatsister.com rated Virginia-Highland as the best neighborhood for Black families to move to. Virginia-Highland is home to Fire Station #19, Atlanta’s oldest fire station.
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East Atlanta East Atlanta is the hot spot for Atlanta’s artsiest countercultural crew. If you’re one for witches, hippies, street performers, and vintage shopping, Little Five Points is a must-visit. Here, you can shop for vinyl at Criminal Records, Moods Music, or Wax ‘n’ Facts; vintage clothing at The Clothing Warehouse; secondhand streetwear at Rag-O-Rama; over-the-top costumes and fashion at Psycho Sisters; and crystals, tarot cards, and other witchy wares at Crystal Blue. When it comes to nightlife, East Atlanta Village is the place to be. Mary’s has been the hip bar of choice for alt gays and selfproclaimed queers for several years. Proudly called East Atlanta’s gay dive bar, they host Mary-oke every Tuesday and Saturday evening and massive theme parties almost every weekend. EAV is also the spot for live music. Check out local bands (and the edgy locals they attract) at 529 and The EARL. As for grub, check out Emerald City Bagels for yummy breakfast sammies and Gaja Korean Bar for dinner. This tucked-away spot is uber hip with a focused menu of traditional Korean dishes given a contemporary spin. If you want to look cool and in-the-know when taking out a date or some friends, it’s a great choice. East Atlanta also consists of Candler Park, Kirkwood, and Reynoldstown. Some of the best spots in these neighborhoods include El Tesoro for Mexican food on an expansive and eclectic patio (expect long lines on the weekends!); Dulce Vegan for some vegan sandwiches and baked goods; Home Grown GA for a classic meat-and-three made with local ingredients; and Sun in My Belly for a delish breakfast.
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If you’re looking for some fresh ingredients from local farmers, East Atlanta has some great farmers markets throughout the year: in EAV at the EAV Community Park every Thursday from 4-8pm from March 30 through November 16 and in Grant Park at The Beacon ATL on Sundays from 9am-1pm from January 8 through December 17. Learn more at cfmatl.org/markets.
Fun Facts Little Five Points gets its name from the five-pointed intersection between Moreland Avenue, Euclid Avenue, and Seminole Avenue at the center of the neighborhood. Know whose land you’re on: before East Atlanta Village was colonized, it was home to one of the Creek Nation tribes. East Atlanta first became annexed to the greater city of Atlanta in 1915, a decision residents voted on to gain fire protection and public education in the area. While it might be sizeable now, East Atlanta wasn’t always so big! During the 1890s, the town (not yet officially part of Atlanta) was home to just five businesses: a grocery store, blacksmith, feed and seed store, a livery stable, and a dry goods store. East Atlanta is the primary site of the Battle of Atlanta, which is considered to have sealed the fate of the Confederacy towards the end of the Civil War.
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Cheshire Bridge Cheshire Bridge is a neighborhood just above Piedmont Heights that’s home to several LGBTQ+-owned and -loved businesses – and after being struck by misfortune in 2021, the area is finally coming back to life. In November 2021, a large fire broke out under a bridge on Cheshire Bridge Road near I-285, only months after another bridge on the same road was severely damaged by fire. No one was injured, but a section of road between Woodland Avenue and Faulkner Road was closed to all traffic until October 2023, when one lane in both directions was finally opened. While local businesses in the area took a toll, the LGBTQ+ businesses in the area are back on their feet after the bridge’s full reopening in May 2024. The neighborhood is home to The Colonnade, a favorite among gay Atlanta. The gays mingle with the grays at this Atlanta landmark of Southern food served up the way you want it. Mama’s Cocina Latina is also a great spot for Mexican food. For a fun time, make sure you stop by Tokyo Valentino Erotique, an iconic Atlanta landmark touting the largest selection of adult toys, products, lingerie, and bondage gear in the Southeast since 1995. If you want to enjoy Cheshire Bridge’s LGBTQ+ nightlife mainstays, visit BJ Roosters, a friendly neighborhood gay bar that features pool, darts, videos, and an eclectic handful of go-go boys, and The Heretic, the perfect spot to go if you’re looking to dance with a mix of shirtless and light leather crowds. You’ll find a diverse mix on weekends with heavy beats from guest DJs from around the country.
Fun Facts As the first southbound exit on I-85 in the non-dry Fulton County, Cheshire Bridge became a magnet for liquor stores and bars because northern Georgia outlawed alcohol. The Colonnade has been a local favorite restaurant since 1927. Cheshire Bridge was the home to Sweet Gum Head, which was once the leading drag bar in the South. Cheshire Bridge is the result of Captain Cheshire’s two sons, Napoleon and Jerome, building two farms and a small bridge to connect them. Cheshire Bridge is home to the Cheshire Farm Trail, which was named after Captain Hezekiah Cheshire, a captain from the War of 1812.
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Old Fourth Ward, Cabbagetown, and Edgewood Head east from Downtown and find Old Fourth Ward and Cabbagetown, two of the best neighborhoods for walking around and enjoying public street art. Old Fourth Ward is one of Atlanta’s trendiest historic neighborhoods – located in a former industrial area, it holds the BeltLine’s Eastside Trail, a converted railway line for walking and cycling through the city, and Historic Fourth Ward Park. It’s also home to one of Atlanta’s best hidden gems, Carroll Street Café, a cozy bohemian restaurant serving eclectic American-Mediterranean fusion meals and tapas; JenChan’s, a queer-owned Asian fusion joint hosting mahjong every other Monday; The T, a casual neighborhood gay bar with karaoke, pool, video games, a jukebox, and nightly specials; and a mano, a cozy cottage serving handmade pasta and other seasonal Italian dishes. Cabbagetown is best known for Krog Street Tunnel, which acts as a graffitied canvas for Atlanta’s best street artists. Walk through the tunnel and you’ll find a path lined with beautiful city-sponsored murals and the first of Atlanta’s famous “tiny doors” (check out tinydoorsatl. com for more info) – don’t forget your camera! Get a beer steps away at 97 Estoria or walk a few blocks to find Krog Street Market, one of Atlanta’s best (and busiest) food halls. There, you can get a delicious wood-fired pizza at Varuni Napoli or “Mex-Tex” at Superica. Talk a walk down the paved BeltLine to find Hawkers, a hip spot for Asian street food and craft cocktails, and Guac Y Margys for tacos, guac, and margaritas. While you’re in the area, pick up a rare houseplant and locally handmade pot at Flora/Fauna (it’s Black womanowned!) or get a gift for a loved one (or yourself) at The Merchant. While in Cabbagetown, make sure you stop by Agave Restaurant. From stuffed mountain trout tomatillo to Mexican rack of lamb and traditional Posole soup, Agave is known for its eclectic Southwestern menu and extensive tequila bar. If you’re vegan (or not), you can also get some Latin cuisine and delicious cocktails at La Semilla. If you’re looking for a fun night out, look no further than Edgewood Avenue. While there, visit Joystick Gamebar, Atlanta’s premium bar-cade, for some old-school arcade games like pinball, Pac-Man, and Mortal Kombat; Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room and Ping-Pong Emporium (it’s a mouthful, locals just call it Church) for tongue-in-cheek religious art and killer Organ Karaoke every Wednesday night; Lore, Atlanta’s newest queer club; and Pisces for some late-night house music in a femme-friendly environment.
Fun Facts Prior to the city’s 1909 annexation, Edgewood was originally its own town and was developed during Atlanta’s Reconstruction-era economic boom that lasted from 1870 to 1910. Edgewood was geared primarily towards blue-collar workers, hence the abundance of craftsman bungalows. Edgewood has an Edgewood Community Learning Garden. The original location for Morris Brown College, the first educational institution in Georgia for African Americans. Old Fourth Ward is where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr was born.
West Atlanta Atlanta’s Westside, located – you guessed it! – on the west side of I-75, is a sprawling industrial area, but it still hosts a ton of fun! Visit one of Westside Provisions District’s upscale food and retail spots, swing your club at TopGolf or Puttshack, play a game of high-tech darts at Flight Club, take part in a game of pickleball at Painted Pickle, play some games and grab some grub at Your 3rd Spot, or spend the day at Westside Reservoir Park, one of the largest parks in Atlanta complete with a creek and quarry. The area boasts some of the most delectable food in Atlanta. Come in for comfortable, modern soul food at Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours from lesbian chef Deborah Van Trece, who gives Southern classics and brunch a creative approach. Bacchanalia offers a seasonal, organic menu of contemporary American cuisine from chef/owners Anne Quatrano and Clifford Harrison, who source many of the ingredients from their own farm. Enjoy a romantic night out at Barcelona Wine Bar with a selection from its extensive list of wine and Spanish tapas in an intimate, warmly lit atmosphere; Cooks and Soldiers, an upscale Spanish restaurant offering up Basque tapas and other shareable dishes, all cooked on a wood-burning grill; or Ginya Izakaya for sushi and ramen. Star Provisions is a culinary dream for the gourmet chef and novice cook alike. This market sells cheeses, meats, seafood, and other gourmet foods – imagine having access to a restaurant pantry and walk-in cooler for your cooking preparations. Not a cook? Stop by their café for breakfast or lunch. Another great lunch spot is Upbeet, a local spot serving clean, healthful, and organic salads and bowls. Swing by Coffeeman to grab yourself a pick-me-up later in the afternoon. Make sure to stop by Chattahoochee Food Works, an eclectic food hall housed in a historic industrial space. There,
you can grab anything from barbecue and oysters to gourmet cookies and mochi donuts. Tucked away into the Westside Provision District, you can find Ormsby’s, a stylish speakeasy offering craft beers and pub fare alongside games like bocce, shuffleboard, darts, and pool. If you’re looking for a chill night at a brewery, look no further than Fire Maker Brewing Company. Ranked #2 best new brewery in America by USA Today, Fire Maker has a rotating list of in-house beers, as well as weekly general and themed trivia on Wednesdays and Thursdays, respectively. Head south to find Cascade Heights, one of Atlanta’s upand-coming neighborhoods. The neighborhood is rich with natural beauty, with the second largest tree canopy in the city of Atlanta, second only to Piedmont Park; 600 acres of green space; and Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, which boasts miles of hiking trails. It’s also rich with history and diversity. Cascade Heights is a predominantly Black neighborhood — 95 percent of the 76,000 residents are Black — and has been since the ‘60s. There, Chef VanTrece has a brand-new restaurant: Oreatha’s at the Point, offering up internationally inspired comfort food. West Atlanta is also home to Tokyo Valentino Erotique, an iconic Atlanta landmark touting the largest selection of adult toys, products, lingerie, and bondage gear in the Southeast since 1995.
Fun Facts In 1961, the state of Georgia allowed nine Black students to attend four previously segregated schools, one of which was Brown High School (now Herman J. Russell West End Academy). Cascade Heights Nature Preserve boasts the only waterfall in Atlanta. Much of Atlanta’s industrial and Civil War-era history occurred in West Midtown. Several buildings still in use today are located next to the Norfolk Southern fail lines General Sherman used when he invaded Atlanta in 1864. West End is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was the first locally designated historic district in the City of Atlanta. Outkast made their public debut at Club Fritz in the West End.
Read more of our travel guide online by scanning the QR Code DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 43
SHOPPING
SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP The city has a slew of incredible shopping, so you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for – just try not to spend all your money in one place! 2nd Street Ponce 1057 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-814-7158 2ndStreetUSA.com
Book Nook 3073 N Druid Hills Rd Decatur, GA 30033 404-633-1342 BookNookBookstoreDecaturGa.com
Charis Books & More is the oldest and largest independent feminist bookstore in the Southeast, carrying a wide range of titles covering feminist, LGBTQ+, and intersectional topics.
This secondhand chain has an inventory of almost 15,000 items, from designer clothing to vintage gems – enough to truly shop until you drop!
Book Nook has helped customers find quality used books, music, movies, board games, video games, and comics since 1973. Whether you’re looking for something specific, wanting to sell or trade, or just interested in browsing and relaxing, this bookstore is the place for you.
The Clothing Warehouse 420 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-524-5070 TheClothingWarehouse.com
A Cappella Books 208 Haralson Ave. NE Atlanta, GA 30397 404-681-5128 acappellabooks.com A staple in Atlanta for more than 35 years, A Cappella sells new, used and rare books as well as hosting readings and signings around the city. Ansley Wine Merchants 1544 Piedmont Ave NE Ste 211 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-876-6790 Ansley-Wine-Merchants. shoplightspeed.com Located in Ansley Mall, this seven-daya-week wine shop offers over 1,000 bottles of wine, 600 types of liquor and 200 types of beer. Barking Leather 1510 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-900-5847 BarkingLeather.com Leather clothing, accessories, and more for the BDSM, fetish, and fashion lifestyles. Want something different? If they don’t have it, they’ll “fetch” it for you.
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Boy Next Door Menswear 1000 Piedmont Ave NE Ste A Atlanta, GA 30309 404-873-2664 BoyNextDoorMenswear.com At its new location by the rainbow crosswalk, Boy Next Door is proud to offer an expanding selection of brands for men’s activewear, undergarments, and swimwear, not to mention the perfect outfits for business and date nights. Brushstrokes Pleasures 1510-D Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-876-6567 Facebook.com/BrushstrokesAtlanta An Ansley Square staple since 1989, Brushstrokes is the one-stop shop for gifts, pleasures, DVDs, and other adult entertainment. Charis Books & More 184 S Candler St Decatur, GA 30030 404-524-0304 CharisBooksandMore.com
If you’re looking for hand-curated retro vintage clothes, look no further. While on the pricier side, The Clothing Warehouse is sure to have a one-of-a-kind piece you’ll instantly fall in love with. The Cook’s Warehouse 1544 Piedmont Ave NE Ste 403-R Atlanta, GA 30324 404-815-4993 CooksWarehouse.com This local chain carries a huge selection of more than 15,000 kitchen tools and supplies, including the top brands of cookware, cutlery, kitchen electrics, and gadgets, as well as some unique local products. More than 700 cooking classes are also taught yearly by renowned chefs. Crates ATL 215 Mitchell St SW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-458-3711 MoodsMusic.net This brand new vinyl shop in Downtown Atlanta boasts new and used records, turntables, speakers, home goods, plants, and so much more.
Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center
Upcoming Events OCT
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17 21 20 6 OCT STRAIGHT Upcoming Events NO CHASER 24 Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center
Holiday Road
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Collins
JOHNNY MATHIS
NEW YEAR’S EVE with the
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
sandyspringspac.com SandySpringsPAC.com (770) 206-2022 (770) 206-2022
Vienna Boys Choir
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DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 45
Criminal Records 1154 Euclid Ave NE Ste A Atlanta, GA 30307 404-215-9511 CriminalAtl.com This classic record store houses both new and used vinyl from across almost every genre. Crystal Blue 1168 Euclid Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-522-4605 CrystalBlueL5P.com Nestled right in the heart of Little 5 Points, Crystal Blue is a one-stop shop for all things witchy and metaphysical: we’re talking crystals galore, tarot and oracle cards, altar supplies, jewelry, and more. Decatur Estate Vintage Market 3429 Covington Hwy Ste C Decatur, GA 30032 404-378-4889 DecaturEstateAntiques.com Transport back in time as you step into this expansive, 20,000+ square foot vintage emporium, filled with an eclectic collection of furniture, art, collectibles, and more. ElectroBike Georgia 151 Sampson St NE Ste C Atlanta, GA 30312 404-400-7132 ElectroBikeGA.com ElectroBike is Atlanta’s first full-serve electric bike shop with the largest selection of e-bikes in the Southeast, offering over 30 different models from multiple e-bike brands.
furniture, one that relies on timeless interior design. Junkman’s Daughter 464 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-577-3188 TheJunkmansDaughter.com A Little Five Point’s staple, this store offers something for everyone, from clothing and footwear to prints from local artists and gifts for your favorite person. Kaboodle Home 485 Flat Shoals Ave SE Ste B Atlanta, GA 30316 404-522-3006 Facebook.com/KaboodleHome Kaboodle Home in East Atlanta Village offers local art, locally made eclectic home furnishings, home décor, candles, gifts, and more. Kiss and Ride 483 Moreland Ave NE Ste 1 Atlanta, GA 30307 KissAndRideAtl.com Grab yourself or your partner(s) a sexy little somethin’ somethin’ at this queercentered and disability-inclusive sexual wellness store! Kudzu Antiques + Modern 2928 E Ponce de Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-6498 KudzuAntiques.com
A family-owned business, Kudzu has grown over 40 years into one of Atlanta’s most beloved furniture stores. The unique marketplace imports fabulous finds from worldwide to craft an eclectic Flora/Fauna selection of both old and new items. 751 Gaskill St SE Lavender Bookshop Atlanta, GA 30316 1289 Roswell Rd Ste 600 404-500-2192 Marietta, GA 30062 FloraFaunaAtl.com 678-899-8951 This Black woman-owned local plant LavenderBookshop.com shop is nestled in Cabbagetown. They A drive outside of the perimeter will offer a unique procurement of rare and get you to the Lavender Bookshop, hard-to-find houseplants and also carry where all books sold have LGBTQ+ main locally handmade pottery perfect for characters. The queer bookstore also your favorite plant’s next re-potting. hosts free events like open mics, book Intaglia Home Collection clubs, and more. 1544 Piedmont Ave NE Ste 105 Lost-n-Found Youth Thrift Store Atlanta, GA 30324 2585 Chantilly Dr NE 404-607-9750 Atlanta, GA 30324 IntagliaHome.com 678-856-7824 A furniture and home décor store that Lnfy.org brings a fresh approach to Atlanta
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Lost-n-Found Youth’s thrift stores have thousands of donated items for sale. Proceeds help fund the operation of the nonprofit, which takes homeless LGBTQ+ youth off the street and transitions them to more permanent housing. The Merchant Atlanta 99 Krog St NE Ste A Atlanta, GA 30307 404-331-1200 TheKrogDistrict.com/the-merchant Whether you’re looking for books, bedding, stationary, candles or something one-of-a-kind, The Merchant’s perfectly curated selection of gifts, stationary, and vintage goods has something for you. The Mission Motif 747 Miami Cir NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-370-1505 MissionMotif.com Atlanta’s source for Arts and Crafts-style furniture, The Mission Motif supports a portfolio of fine artisans and designers to deliver top-quality, customizable products perfectly suited for you. Moods Music 1131 Euclid Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-653-0724 MoodsMusic.net Moods Music is an eclectic spot for music lovers, with an inventory spanning AcidJazz, Afro-Cuban, Neo Soul, and other rare genres you won’t find anywhere else. Out of the Closet - Ansley 1512 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324 470-447-6473 OutOfTheCloset.org Not only does this thrift store sell an incredible variety of clothing, books, and housewares, all profits benefit the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Oxford Comics and Games 2855 Piedmont Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-233-8682 OxfordComicsAndGames.com Browse Oxford’s amazing selection of new and vintage comics, graphic novels, action figures, DVDs, posters, and more!
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DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 47
Phoenix and Dragon Bookstore 5531 Roswell Rd NE Sandy Springs, GA 30342 404-255-5207 PhoenixAndDragon.com A short drive outside the perimeter will bring you to this amazing spiritual shop and bookstore. Psycho Sisters 428 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-523-0100 Psycho-Sisters.com If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind piece or costume, Psycho Sisters is the place for you. Rag-O-Rama 1111 Euclid Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-658-1988 RagORama.com This unique thrift store offers some of the most interesting finds you’ll see in a secondhand shop. They offer a wide range of recycled classic, current, and vintage styles, with something for everyone.
Richards Variety Store 1544 Piedmont Ave NE Ste 191 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-879-9877 2347 Peachtree Rd Atlanta, GA 30305 404-237-1412 RichardsVarietyStore.com Richards has everything, from novelty items, gag gifts, and old-fashioned toys to home décor, furniture, and books! Second Life Upscale Resale 1 N Clarendon Ave Avondale Estates, GA 30002 678-974-5671 SecondLifeAtlanta.org Shop for treasures, save money, and help animals! This non-profit thrift store has donated $2.7 million to animal rescues and spay/neuter programs. Tokyo Valentino Erotique 1739 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-875-9200 TokyoValentino.com This iconic Atlanta landmark has touted the largest selection of adult toys,
products, lingerie, and bondage gear in the Southeast since 1995. Videodrome 617 N Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-885-1117 VideodromeAtl.com This old-school video rental shop is a blast from the past with a huge collection of rentable DVDs, from indie, obscure, and cult films to the latest releases. Wax ‘N’ Facts 432 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-525-2275 WaxNFacts.com This veteran music shop offers new and used vinyl, cassettes and CDs, turntables, accessories, and t-shirts. Worthmore Jewelers 500 L3 Amsterdam Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-892-8294 WorthmoreJewelers.com With a slogan like “enlarging your family jewels since 1994,” you know to expect more from Worthmore than just your average jewelry store.
GET YOUR TICKETS AT WWW.GEORGIAAQUARIUM.ORG 48 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE
Where the LGBTQ+ community comes together to experience symphony concerts.
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HOTELS
WHERE TO STAY Looking for the perfect place to call your home away from home? Atlanta has countless hotel options, ranging from conveniently affordable to indulgently high-end. Whether you prefer a unique boutique or a chain close to all the attractions, there’s something for you.
Buckhead AC Hotel by Marriott Buckhead at Phipps Plaza 3600 Wieuca Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 470-231-3030 Marriott.com This modern European hotel experience offers authentic tapas and cocktails at AC Lounge, delicious breakfast at AC Kitchen, and a heated indoor pool. Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead 3300 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-237-1234 Hyatt.com Located in the heart of Buckhead with easy access to luxury shopping at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza, you can soak in views of Stone Mountain and downtown at Grand Hyatt and enjoy some time in the peaceful Japanese Zen garden. Hotel Colee 3377 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 678-500-3100 HotelColee.com This boutique destination offers an enticing rooftop, inviting meeting space, and tempting room service. Hyatt Place Atlanta/Buckhead 3242 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-869-6161 Hyatt.com This affordable and unassuming hotel offers an outdoor pool and 24-hour gym, plus free parking and Wi-Fi. *Pet-friendly
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InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta 3315 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-946-9000 InterContinentalAtlanta.com InterContinental offers an upscale urban retreat within easy reach of many attractions and adventures. Shopping, dining, and entertainment are only steps away. JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead 3300 Lenox Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-262-3344 Marriott.com Discover timeless elegance at one of the premier hotels in Buckhead, featuring luxurious suites, modern amenities, and updated décor. Nobu Hotel Atlanta 3520 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 470-945-8888 NobuHotels.com/Atlanta This five-star Buckhead hotel offers concierge services, a rooftop pool, and room service – and of course houses the acclaimed Nobu sushi restaurant. St. Regis Atlanta 88 West Paces Ferry Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30305 404-563-7900 Marriott.com The St. Regis is a true in-town luxury resort with several restaurants, extraordinary cuisine, and wines – plus their fabulous spa. *Pet-friendly
Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead 3376 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-995-7500 Hilton.com You can expect over-the-top luxury and pampering at the exclusive spa, relaxation in the private gardens, and incredible views of the city at this boutique hotel located near Lenox and Phipps Plaza. The Westin Buckhead 3391 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-365-0065 Marriott.com This upscale hotel has sweeping skyline views and is located close to upscale shopping – plus it’s only a three-minute walk from the Buckhead MARTA train station. *Pet-friendly The Whitley 3434 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-237-2700 TheWhitleyHotel.com This hotel touts a blend of cosmopolitan style with timeless elegance, an ideal location in Buckhead, and easy access to world-class shopping, dining, and nightlife. *Pet-friendly Wyndham Atlanta Buckhead Hotel and Conference Center 3405 Lenox Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-566-6383 WyndhamHotels.com This contemporary hotel is steps away from world-class shopping and dining in
one of Atlanta’s trendiest neighborhoods. *Pet-friendly
Downtown Aloft Atlanta Downtown 300 Ted Turner Dr NW Atlanta, GA 30308 678-515-0300 Marriott.com This hip hotel is just steps from downtown Atlanta’s hottest attractions. Get some R&R at the Bliss Spa and enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. *Pet-friendly Atlanta Marriott Marquis 265 Peachtree Center Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-521-0000 Marriott.com Experience urban energy and a stylish vibe in the heart of downtown at this four-star hotel with an amazing atrium and cool cocktail lounge, an indoor and outdoor pool, spa, and unique dining options. The Candler Hotel Atlanta 127 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-523-1200 Hilton.com This boutique hotel is housed in a 17-story high-rise built in 1906 as Atlanta’s first steel skyscraper. Located in the heart of downtown, this hotel perfectly blends modern and historical styles while putting you only blocks from some of Atlanta’s best attractions. Clarion Inn and Suites Atlanta Downtown 186 Northside Dr SW Atlanta, GA 30313 404-587-6912 ChoiceHotels.com Experience the convenience of affordable accommodations for groups, meetings, and events. This location offers easy access to entertainment, nightlife, and dining. *Pet-friendly Courtland Grand Hotel 165 Courtland St NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-6500 CourtlandGrandHotel.com Southern charm and modern style blend in this expansive, completely renovated Atlanta hotel ideal for both business and leisure travelers. *Pet-friendly
Courtyard Marriott Atlanta Downtown 133 Carnegie Way NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-222-2416 Marriott.com Experience historic charm and sophistication at this high-energy downtown location with an array of boutique amenities including on-site restaurant The Bistro. Easy access to Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and more. *Pet-friendly Ellis Hotel 176 Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-523-5155 EllisHotel.com The Ellis offers superb service and an excellent location. *Pet-friendly Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park 267 Marietta St NW Atlanta, GA 30313 404-223-2300 Hilton.com
The Embassy touts spacious two-room suites, free made-to-order breakfast, and a complimentary evening reception with snacks and drinks – plus 16,000 square feet of flexible space for events. Glenn Hotel 110 Marietta St NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-521-2250 GlennHotel.com The Glenn Hotel touts 110 rooms of intimacy, comfort, and personalized service in downtown Atlanta. Enjoy cocktails on the rooftop SkyLounge or dinner at Glenn’s Kitchen. Hilton Atlanta 255 Courtland St NE Atlanta, GA 30303
404-659-2000 Hilton.com A central location meets high-quality amenities with extensive meeting space, comfortable guestrooms, and three unique dining options. *Pet-friendly Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown 275 Baker St NW Atlanta, GA 30313 404-577-2001 Hilton.com This contemporary hotel in a vibrant area is only one block from top Atlanta attractions including the Georgia Aquarium. Offers over 9,000 square feet of multi-use event and meeting space with lots of natural light. Hyatt Place Atlanta/Downtown 330 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-577-1980 Hyatt.com Located in the heart of downtown and ideally situated near popular area attractions, their 24-hour guest kitchen offers cafe-quality, made-to-order meals,
and snacks, along with free breakfast daily for members. *Pet-friendly Hyatt Place Atlanta/ Centennial Park 300 Luckie St NW Atlanta, HA 30313 404-521-0008 Hyatt.com Stay directly across the street from the famed Georgia Aquarium and unwind at the gorgeous outdoor pool. *Petfriendly Hyatt Regency Atlanta 265 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-577-1234 Hyatt.com This downtown location has easy access
DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 51
to the Georgia World Congress Center, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and the Georgia Aquarium. The world’s first contemporary atrium hotel, built in 1967, is home to the most event space in the city and the largest hotel ballroom in Georgia. Inn at the Peachtrees 330 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-577-6970 ChoiceHotels.com An affordable stay and modern alternative to big downtown hotels, this hotel features a complimentary breakfast buffet, free wireless internet, and meeting rooms. Very LGBTQfriendly.
Twelve Downtown 400 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-418-1212 Marriott.com If you’re looking for an upscale urban experience right in the middle of downtown, look no further than Twelve’s spacious designer suites. W Atlanta – Downtown 45 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-582-5800 Marriott.com Discover an urban oasis that captures the city’s energy at this luxury hotel touting two restaurants, the Spa @W, a rooftop pool, and the seasonal WETBAR.
Omni Hotel at Centennial Park 190 Marietta St NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-0000 OmniHotels.com The Omni Hotel holds 1,059 spacious luxury guest rooms and suites with breathtaking views overlooking the downtown Atlanta skyline, Centennial Park, and the lively CNN Center atrium. *Pet-friendly
The Westin Peachtree Plaza 210 Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-1400 Marriott.com Towering 73 stories and topped by the famous Sun Dial Restaurant, this John Portman-designed hotel is conveniently located in the heart of downtown – a business traveler’s dream location. *Pet-friendly
REVERB Downtown Atlanta 89 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW Atlanta, GA 30313 470-552-8410 Reverb.HardRock.com This smart hotel from Hard Rock is perfect for music fans and located right next to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Come for the rooftop bar, but stay for the amazing skyline, incredible music, and contemporary atmosphere. *Petfriendly
Midtown
The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta 181 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-0400 RitzCarlton.com The Ritz-Carlton touts luxury, first-rate service, and an excellent location for business and downtown tourist fun. Signia by Hilton Atlanta Georgia World Congress Center 159 Northside Dr NW Atlanta, GA 30313 404-223-4414 SigniaByHiltonAtlanta.com Overlooking the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Signia by Hilton Atlanta stands at 40 stories with the largest ballroom in Georgia and an outdoor pool with spectacular skyline views.
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Canopy by Hilton Atlanta Midtown 1414 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-685-1677 Hilton.com This hotel in Midtown offers complimentary Canopy Bikes to explore the Arts District and delicious culinary options at Xhibit Studio Kitchen and Bar. *Pet-friendly Crowne Plaza Atlanta - Midtown 590 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-877-9000 IHG.com Enjoy panoramic views of the city from all rooms, the on-site THRIVE Coffee, and the on-site bar and restaurant NEXT. Want to splurge? Four unique pool suites have private terrace pools. *Pet-friendly Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta 75 14th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-881-9898 FourSeasons.com/Atlanta The only five-star, five-diamond hotel in the city, chic urban meets Southern
tradition in this neoclassical wonder of polished marble and sweeping staircases. Just steps from the High Museum of Art, eclectic Peachtree Street, and Piedmont Park. *Pet-friendly The Georgian Terrace 659 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 844-650-8052 TheGeorgianTerrace.com Across the street from the Fox Theatre, the Georgian Terrace is more than a century old and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. Very LGBTQ+-friendly — the perfect place to host your wedding! Hampton Inn and Suites Atlanta Midtown 1231 W Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-685-3690 Hilton.com Only one block from the Arts Center MARTA station, this hotel includes free hot breakfast and Wi-Fi, a rooftop bar, and easy access to the Alliance Theatre and Piedmont Park. *Pet-friendly Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Midtown and Homewood Suites 97 10th St NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-524-4006 / 404-524-4076 Hilton.com These modern, connected properties are located just one block from the Midtown MARTA train station. Both offer complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness center, and pool. Homewood Suites is an all-suites hotel with fully equipped kitchens. Hotel Granada Midtown 1302 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-737-3030 GranadaAtlanta.com Located across the street from the High Museum, this gem of a hotel offers a vibe straight out of a charming European getaway. *Pet-friendly Hotel Indigo Midtown 683 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-874-9200 IHG.com This Midtown boutique hotel offers free wireless throughout the property and is directly across the street from the Fox Theatre. Bring your pets to visit live-in furry resident, Indie. *Pet-friendly
Hyatt Centric Atlanta Midtown 125 10th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-443-1234 Hyatt.com This four-star property holds 194 redesigned guestrooms with floor-toceiling windows and views of Piedmont Park and downtown Atlanta, plus the fabulous new bar and restaurant Author’s Den! *Pet-friendly
Stonehurst Place Bed & Breakfast 923 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-881-0722 StonehurstPlace.com This woman-owned romantic B&B combines the comfort and intimacy of a small inn and the amenities and luxury of a large hotel. Honeymoon suites are available for newlyweds. Eco-friendly and LGBTQ-friendly.
Kimpton Shane Hotel 1340 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-446-3456 ShaneHotelAtlanta.com This brand-new boutique hotel, located right near the Midtown Arts Center, boasts an immersive and inspired experience like no other. *Pet-friendly
Twelve Midtown 361 17th St NW Atlanta, GA 30363 404-961-1212 Marriott.com Located in thriving and colorful Midtown, Twelve offers complimentary Wi-Fi, a pool, and the on-site restaurant Allora Bistro.
Loews Atlanta Hotel 1065 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-745-5000 LoewsHotels.com/Atlanta-Hotel Luxury in the heart of Midtown, Loews is known for their hospitality. It’s gayfriendly, and the incomparable Exhale Spa makes Loews a top choice for visitors. *Pet-friendly
Old Fourth Ward, Virginia Highlands, and Inman Park
Moxy Hotel Midtown 48 13th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-9446 Marriott.com This brand-new hotel offers everything you need in a boutique hotel – including a complimentary cocktail with your room key! Located in the heart of Midtown, enjoy access to great local spots, free Wi-Fi, and TVs equipped with streaming services. *Pet-friendly Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel 866 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30308 678-412-2400 Marriott.com This gay-friendly boutique hotel is in the heart of Midtown, close to MARTA and all Midtown attractions. The Starling Atlanta Midtown 188 14th St NE Atlanta, GA 30361 404-892-6000 TheStarling.com This four-star hotel is within walking distance of Piedmont Park, where Atlanta Pride is held each October. *Pet-friendly
The Peach House 88 Spruce St NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-908-0788 ThePeach.House This adorable peach and tea bed and breakfast is 120 years old and one of the few Black-owned B&Bs in the country. Sugar Magnolia Bed and Breakfast 804 Edgewood Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-222-0226 SugarMagnoliaBB.com This beautiful Queen Anne Victorian home will transport you back in time to 1892, when the home was constructed. This gorgeous bed and breakfast is located in Inman Park, Atlanta’s first suburb.
The Outskirts
FORTH Hotel Atlanta 800 Rankin St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 470-470-8010 ForthAtlanta.com FORTH is a new hotel and social club in the historic Old Fourth Ward, touting elevated restaurants, state-of-the-art wellness amenities, and more. Hotel Clermont Atlanta 789 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 470-485-0485 HotelClermont.com Set in a landmark 1920s building overlooking the vibrant Poncey– Highland district, this trendy and sleek boutique hotel is adjacent to a MARTA bus stop, three miles from the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and five miles from the High Museum of Art.
Hilton Atlanta Airport 1031 Virginia Ave Hapeville, GA 30354 404-767-9000 Hilton.com Located only minutes away from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, this is the perfect stay for the busy business traveler. It hosts tons of business amenities as well as a barber shop, beauty salon, laundry, valet, pool, and fitness room. *Pet-friendly Omni Hotel at the Battery 2625 Cir 75 Pkwy SE Atlanta, GA 30339 678-567-7327 OmniHotels.com The Omni Hotel at the Battery – a one-of-a-kind dining, music, shopping, and entertainment hub right outside of Truist Park – is the perfect place to stay if you’re in Atlanta to see the Braves! Reserve a private cabana alongside the rooftop pool and enjoy four delicious dining options.
Read more of our travel guide online by scanning the QR Code DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 53
FOOD
DESTINATION DINING
Asian/South Asian Bangkok Thai 1492 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-874-2514 BangkokThaiAtl.com Chai Pani 406 W Ponce de Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-378-4030 ChaiPani.com Doc Chey’s Noodle House 1424 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-888-0777 DocCheys.com Gaja Korean Bar 491 Flat Shoals Ave SE Ste A Atlanta, GA 30316 404-835-2126 GajaEAV.com Ginya Izakaya 1700 Northside Dr NW Atlanta, GA 30318 470-355-5621
GinyaIzakayaAtlanta.com Green Ginger 265 Ponce De Leon Pl Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-2788 GreenGingerDecatur.com JINYA Ramen Bar 676 North Highland Ave NE Ste 3-ABC Atlanta, GA 30306 404-748-4520 3714 Roswell Rd Ste 35 Atlanta, GA 30342 404-254-4770 JinyaRamenBar.com Mukja Korean Fried Chicken 933 Peachtree St. NE Atlanta, GA 30309 MukjaAtl.com Poor Calvin’s 510 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-254-4051 PoorCalvins.com
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Ru San’s 1220 Caroline St NE Ste 200 Atlanta, GA 30307 404-653-9886 RuSanEdgewood.com The Sparrow 950 W. Peachtree St. NW Atlanta, GA 30309 Thesparrowatl.com Ton Ton Ramen & Yakitori 675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-883-3507 TonTonRamen.com Wagaya 1579 N Decatur Rd Atlanta, GA 30307 678-949-9278 339 14th St NW Atlanta, GA 30318 470-575-5799 WagayaAtlanta.com
Breakfast, Brunch, and Coffee Alon’s Bakery & Market 3500 Peachtree Rd Ste 1095-D Atlanta, GA 30326 404-978-2601 1394 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-872-6000 Alons.com Ash Coffee 1189 Virginia Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 AshCoffeeAtl.com Café Intermezzo 1065 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-355-0411 CafeIntermezzo.com Coffeeman 1192 Huff Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-500-5935 DrinkCoffeman.com
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Dancing Goats Coffee Bar 419 W Ponce De Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-687-1100 33 Peachtree Pl NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-600-6547 650 North Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-874-0370 DancingGoats.com Emerald City Bagels 1257A Glenwood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-343-3758 665 Auburn Ave. Atlanta, GA 30312 EmeraldCityBagels.com FiNCA TO FiLTER 652 Angier Ave NE Ste A Atlanta, GA 30308 470-590-7399 Finca.coffee Flying Biscuit 857 Collier Rd NW Ste 16 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-816-3152 1001 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-874-8887 1530 DeKalb Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-687-8888 3280 Peachtree St NE Ste 145 Atlanta, GA 30305 404-477-0013 2935-A N Druid Hills Rd Atlanta, GA 30329 404-835-2072 FlyingBiscuit.com Folk Art 465 N Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-537-4493 FolkArtRestaurant.com Guild+Journeyman 115 Clairemont Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-291-8486 GuildJourneyman.com Highland Bakery 25 Park Pl NE Atlanta, GA 30303 470-419-6178 HighlandBakery.com
Larakin 208 12th St. NE Atlanta, GA 30309 Larakinwineandcoffee.com Muchacho 904 Memorial Dr SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-748-9254 Muchacho.com Revolution Doughnuts & Coffee 745 Edgewood Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 470-428-2023 908 W College Ave Decatur, GA 30030 470-428-2023 RevolutionDonuts.com Ria’s Bluebird 421 Memorial Dr SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-521-3737 RiasBluebird.com Schaf Shop inside MSR My Sisters Room 1104 Crescent Ave. Atlanta, GA 30309 Schafshopatl.com Southern Sweets Bakery 186 Rio Cir Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-8752 SouthernSweets.com Sweet Cheats 692 B Kirkwood Ave SE Ste B1 Atlanta, GA 30316 404-590-6086 SweetCheatsAtlanta.com
Italian and Mediterranean a mano 587 Ralph McGill Blvd NE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-549-7727 AmanoAtl.com Barcelona Wine Bar 1085 Howell Mill Rd Atlanta, GA 30318 404-872-8000 240 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-589-1010 BarcelonaWineBar.com
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BoccaLupo 753 Edgewood Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-577-2332 BoccaLupoAtl.com Campagnolo 980 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-343-2446 CampagnoloAtl.com Carroll Street Café 208 Carroll St NE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-577-2700 CarrollStreetCabbagetown. com Cooks & Soldiers 691 14th St NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-996-2623 CooksAndSoldiers.com Divan Restaurant and Bar 87 15th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 678-732-3989 DivanAtlanta.com Fellini’s Pizza 333 Commerce Dr Decatur, GA 30030 404-370-0551 2809 Peachtree Rd Atlanta, GA 30305 404-266-0082 909 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-873-3088 1634 McLendon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-687-9190 1991 Howell Mill Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-352-0799
404-994-4990 IberianPig.com Mediterranean Grill 985 Monroe Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-917-1100 MediterraneanGrill.com Lyla Lila 693 Peachtree St NE Unit 118 Atlanta, GA 30308 (404) 963-2637 LylaLilAtl.com Sotto Sotto 313 N Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-523-6678 SottoSottoAtl.com Varuni Napoli 99 Krog St NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-500-5550 1540 Monroe Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-709-2690 Varuni.us
Latin and Mexican Agave Restaurant 242 Boulevard SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-588-0006 AgaveRestaurant.com Casa Almenara 991 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-602-5510 Casa-Almenara.com El Azteca 1784 Peachtree Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-1522 ElAztecaAtlanta.com
2820 Lavista Rd Decatur, GA 30033 404-633-6016
El Tesoro 1374 Arkwright Pl SE Atlanta, GA 30317 470-440-5502
4429 Roswell Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 404-303-8248 FellinisAtlanta.com
1010 White St SW Atlanta, GA 30310 404-254-2232 ElTesoroAtl.com
The Iberian Pig 121 Sycamore St Decatur, GA 30030 404-371-8800 3150 Roswell Rd NW Ste A3 Atlanta, GA 30305
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Guac y Margy’s 661 Auburn Ave NE Ste 120 Atlanta, GA 30312 404-343-4691 1115 Howell Mill Rd NW Ste FR100 Atlanta, GA 30318 GuacyMargys.com El Vinedo Local 730 Peachtree St NE Ste 100 Atlanta, GA 30308 (404)-596-8239 ElVinedoLocal.com La Hacienda 900 Monroe Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-941-7890 LaHacienda-Midtown.com Mama’s Cocina Latina 1958 Piedmont Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-6152 MamasCocinaAtl.com Minero 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Ste 136 Atlanta, GA 30308 404-532-1580 MineroAtlanta.com
Zocalo 187 10th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-7576 EatZocalo.com
Southern and American 97 Estoria 727 Wylie St SE Atlanta, GA 30316 678-974-7919 EstoriaBar.com Apres Diem 931 Monroe Dr Ste C103 Atlanta, GA 30308 404-872-3333 ApresDiem.com Bacchanalia 1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW Ste 1 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-365-0410 StarProvisions.com/ Bacchanalia BeetleCat 299 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 678-732-0360 BeetleCatAtl.com
Nowak’s Cantina 1397 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 678-705-4231 NowaksRestaurant.com
City Winery 650 North Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-946-3791 CityWinery.com/Atlanta
Papi’s Cuban & Caribbean Grill 216 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-607-1525 PapisGrill.com
The Colonnade 1879 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-5642 TheColonnadeAtlanta.com
Pure Taqueria 300 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-522-7873 3589 Durden Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30319 770-452-7873 PureTaqueria.com Superica 99 Krog St NE Atlanta, GA 30307 678-791-1310 3850 Roswell Rd NE Ste 100 Atlanta, GA 30342 678-705-1235 Superica.com
Eats 600 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-888-9149 EatsOnPonce.net Fat Matt’s Rib Shack 1811 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-607-1622 FatMattsRibShack.net Flatiron Bar and Restaurant 520 Flat Shoals Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-688-8864 FlatironAtl.com
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Fox Brothers BBQ 1238 DeKalb Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-577-4030 204 Chattahoochee Row NW Atlanta, GA 30318 770-755-5099 FoxBrosBBQ.com Grindhouse Killer Burgers 701 Memorial Dr SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-228-3722 1842 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-254-2273 433 N McDonough St Decatur, GA 30030 404-400-0509 GrindhouseBurgers.com Hattie B’s Hot Chicken 299 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 678-990-5100 711 10th St NW Atlanta, GA 30318 678-304-0500 HattieB.com Hobnob 245 18th St NW Atlanta, GA 30363 404-343-2800 804 Town Blvd Ste A1010 Atlanta, GA 30319 404-464-8971 HobnobAtlanta.com Home Grown GA 968 Memorial Dr SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-222-0455 HomeGrownGa.com Kevin Rathbun Steak 154 Krog St NE Ste 200 Atlanta, GA 30307 404-524-5600 KevinRathbunSteak.com Livingston Restaurant + Bar 659 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-897-5000 LivingstonAtl.com Majestic Diner 1031 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306
404-875-0276 MajesticDiner.com Mary Mac’s Tea Room 224 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-876-1800 MaryMacs.com Metrofresh 931 Monroe Dr NE Ste a106 Atlanta, GA 30308 404-724-0151 1360 Peachtree St NE Ste 150 Atlanta, GA 30309 404-500-2685 MetrofreshAtl.com Miller Union 999 Brady Ave NW Atlanta, GA 30318 678-733-8550 MillerUnion.com OK Café 1284 W Paces Ferry Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30327 404-233-2888 OKCafe.com Ormsby’s 1170 Howell Mill Rd Ste P20 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-968-2033 OrmsbysAtlanta.com Park Tavern 500 10th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-0001 ParkTavern.com Parker’s on Ponce 116 E Ponce de Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-924-2230 ParkersOnPonce.com Roasters Rotisserie 2770 Lenox Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-237-1122 RoastersFresh.com Shake Shack 670 DeKalb Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30312 1071 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 1168 Howell Mill Rd Atlanta. GA 30318 3035 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30305
Atlanta’s destination for inspired cooking and entertaining Premium brands, expert advice, exceptional cooking classes, and everything you need for the kitchen you love, including custom kitchen outfitting by Atlanta’s most passionate and best retail team. Shop Local.
Dulce Vegan 1994 Hosea L Williams Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30317 404-624-7417 DulceVegan.com Herban Fix 565 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-815-8787 HerbanFix.com
The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar, and View 210 Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-589-7506 SunDialRestaurant.com Sun in My Belly 2161 College Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30317 404-370-1088 SunInMyBelly.com Terra Terroir 3974 Peachtree Rd Atlanta, GA 30319 404-620-5274 TerraTerroir.com Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours 1133 Huff Rd NW Ste D Atlanta, GA 30318 404-350-5500 TwistedSoulAtl.com Upbeet 1071 Howell Mill Rd NW Ste A Atlanta, GA 30318 404-347-1071 Upbeet.com The Varsity 61 North Ave NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-881-1706 TheVarsity.com Vickery’s Bar & Grill 933 Garrett St Ste 101-102 Atlanta, GA 30316 404-627-8818 VickerysAtlanta.com
Victory Sandwich Bar 913 Bernina Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-963-1742 340 Church St Decatur, GA 30030 404-377-9300 VicSandwich.com The Vortex 878 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-875-1667 438 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-688-1828 TheVortexAtl.com Wahoo Grill 1042 W College Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-3331 WahooGrillDecatur.com Woody’s CheeseSteaks 981 Monroe Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-689-2339
Hippie Hibachi 1235 Chattahoochee Ave NW Ste 130 Atlanta, GA 30318 470-494-7361 HippieHibachi.com La Semilla 780 Memorial Dr SE Ste 4A Atlanta, GA 30316 404-228-3090 LaSemilla.kitchen Mamak Vegan Kitchen 2390 Chamblee Tucker Rd Ste 101 Chamblee, GA 30341 678-909-8188 MamakVegan.com Plant Based Pizzeria 730 Barnett St NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-835-9834 PlantBasedPizzeria.net Slutty Vegan 476 Edgewood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30312 470-460-8344 SluttyVeganAtl.com
Other
1245 Glenwood Ave SE Ste 6 Atlanta, GA 30316 404-737-4315
Casseroles 1393 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-228-3260 CasserolesAtlanta.com Take-away, premade casseroles to heat at home.
45 Irby Ave NW Atlanta, GA 30305 404-600-0476 WoodysCheeseSteaks.com
Fontaine’s Oyster House 1026½ North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 NightcapFoodAndSpirits.com
Vegan Calaveritas Taqueria Vegana 3795 Presidential Pkwy Atlanta, GA 30340 470-290-3636 CalaveritasVeganCuisine.com
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The Garden Room 88 W Paces Ferry Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30305 TheGardenRoomAtlanta.com Creative cocktails and small bites.
Lazy Betty 999 Peachtree St NE Ste 140 Atlanta, GA 30309 404-851-1199 LazyBettyAtl.com Multiple-course tasting menu. Oreatha’s at the Point 2287 Cascade Rd SW Atlanta, GA 30311 404-228-4852 Oreathas.com Internationally inspired comfort food. Playa Bowls 661 Auburn Ave NE Ste 160 Atlanta, GA 30312 404-963-1746 PlayaBowls.com Acai and smoothie bowls and ahi tuna poke bowls. Project LeanNation 701-1 Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30312 678-428-9857 ProjectLeanNation.com Ready-to-eat, dieticianapproved meals. Six Feet Under Pub and Fish House 437 Memorial Dr SE Ste 1A Atlanta, GA 30312 404-523-6664 1824 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 470-762-0733 SixFeetUnder.net Star Provisions Market & Café 1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-365-0410 StarProvisions.com The Steamhouse Lounge 1051 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-233-7980 SteamhouseLounge.com
NIGHTLIFE
PARTY LIKE AN ATLIEN
Whether you’re looking for some low-key weeknight fun or an all-weekend rager, Atlanta’s diverse LGBTQ+-inclusive nightlife scene includes DJs, live music, drag, drinks, and everything in between. Atlanta Eagle 1492 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-999-3826 AtlantaEagle.com Atlanta’s famed leather bar is bigger and better than ever! With events every weekend, it’s no wonder the Eagle is a favorite among everyone in the LGBTQ+ community. BJ Roosters 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd Ste 1 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-634-5895 Facebook.com/BJRoostersAtlanta This friendly neighborhood gay bar features pool, darts, videos, and go-go boys on the bar and milling about. Blake’s on the Park 227 10th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-464-7715
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BlakesOnTheParkAtl.com Blake’s is a must for gay male travelers. There’s not much of a dance floor, but that doesn’t stop the party. Blake’s attracts a beautiful mix of men of all ages, a fair number of women, and boasts some of the city’s most legendary drag queens. Conveniently located just off Piedmont Park. Bulldogs 893 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-872-3025 Facebook.com/BulldogsBarAtlanta An ATL institution since 1978 and located in the heart of Midtown, Bulldogs has some of the finest DJs spinning house and hip-hop to go with those heavyhanded bartenders assuring you get your money’s worth. Expect a line out the door on weekends.
Dark Horse Tavern 816 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-873-3607 DarkHorseAtlanta.com Dark Horse Tavern is unlike any other bar. Along with food and drinks, they also have karaoke – with a live band! Every Monday night, live out your rock star fantasy with the Metalsome Live Band. While you have to pay to take the stage, there’s never a cover to get in. District Atlanta 269 Armour Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-464-5924 DistrictAtlanta.com As the only venue in the U.S. with a unique, 300+ floating orbs kinetic light system, District creates an unparalleled sensory experience, making it the perfect spot to dance the night away.
BUILDING COMMUNITY a Drink or Two at a Time!
465 BOULEVARD SE ATLANTA 30312 404.343.2450
The EARL 488 Flat Shoals Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-522-3950 BadEarl.com Live music and classic bar food are on the menu at this popular club hosting local and national acts. Felix’s Atlanta 1510 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-249-7899 FelixsAtlanta.com A friendly, small neighborhood bar in the Ansley Square strip mall. Fun for early evening drinks and hanging out with friends. Fire Maker Brewery and Bar 975 Chattahoochee Ave NW Ste A Atlanta, GA 30318 678-705-8777 FireMakerBeer.com Ranked #2 best new brewery in America by USA Today, Fire Maker has a rotating list of in-house beers, as well as trivia and other events! Flex Spas Atlanta 76 4th St NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-815-0456 FlexSpas.com/Atlanta Flex is a 24/7 gay bathhouse complete with sauna, steam room, pool, sun deck, and private rooms. A membership is required and available on daily, sixmonth, and annual rates. Flight Club 1055 Howell Mill Rd Ste 140 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-301-8003 FlightClubDartsUSA.com Love to play darts? Flight Club is the place for you! They put a techy spin on the classic game with a digital darts board and tons of fast-paced games (if you didn’t know you could play Snakes and Ladders with darts, now you do). With creative bespoke cocktails and delicious shareable bites, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a night out with friends. Friends on Ponce 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-817-3820 FriendsOnPonce.com A no-attitude bar with inexpensive
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drinks and pool tables popular among the alt gay crowd, this quiet, easygoing spot was made for hanging out with friends. It’s also a great choice if you’re new in town. Located steps from the Beltline. The Frisky Whisker 94 Pryor St SW Atlanta, GA 30303 TheFriskyWhiskerAtl.com Along with being a non-profit cat lounge, The Frisky Whisker is also a music venue and sound gallery specializing in underground and alternative music from around the world. Future Atlanta 50 Lower Alabama St Ste 180 Atlanta, GA 30303 470-225-1955 Future-Atlanta.com Featuring two levels, this 14,000-squarefoot cabaret and dance club is a place to unwind, dance, and celebrate. The Heretic 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-325-3061 HereticAtlanta.com If you’re looking to dance with a mix of shirtless and light leather crowds, the Heretic is the place to go. You’ll find a diverse mix on weekends with heavy beats from guest DJs from around the country. It’s a butch bunch, but you’ll find all types scattered about the Heretic’s labyrinthine layout. Joystick Gamebar 427 Edgewood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-525-3002 JoystickGameBar.com If you’re a fan of old school arcade games, Joystick is a must-visit. Grab some quarters, get a beer, and play some pinball, Ms. Pac-Man, and Mortal Kombat at this LGBTQ+-owned barcade! Lips Drag Queen Show Palace, Restaurant, and Bar 3011 Buford Hwy NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-315-7711 LipsAtl.com Lips is the ultimate in drag dining in Atlanta. Georgia’s top drag queens perform Vegas-style shows five nights a week, from Wednesday to Sunday. Stop by on Sunday afternoons for their Dragalicious Brunch.
Lore 466 Edgewood Ave SE Ste B Atlanta, GA 30312 404-941-9294 LoreAtl.com Lore is a brand-new LGBTQ+ club with dancing, day parties, drag shows, karaoke, and a BYO crafting night every week! Mary’s 1287 Glenwood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-624-4411 MarysAtlanta.com Mary’s has been the hip bar of choice for alt gays and self-proclaimed queers for several years. Proudly called East Atlanta’s gay dive bar, don’t miss Maryoke held every Tuesday and Saturday evening or the massive theme parties almost every weekend. Mixx Atlanta 1492 Piedmont Ave NE Ste B Atlanta, GA 30309 404-228-4372 MixxAtlanta.com Atlanta’s premier video venue hosts three different lounges for socializing with friends or hosting a party or event. Chill on weeknights with piano night on Tuesdays and other weekly events, then sizzle with DJs Fridays through Sundays. My Sister’s Room 1104 Crescent Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 678-705-4585 MySistersRoom.com MSR is the longest-running lesbian bar in Atlanta, with nightly events that cross musical genres and performances. Nonsmoking with a sports-themed menu and a fun patio, this legendary spot is 21+ after 8 p.m. Oscar’s Bar 1510 Piedmont Ave NE Ste C Atlanta, GA 30309 404-815-8841 OscarsAtl.com Oscar’s offers video on-demand with famous martinis and weekly events that include show tunes, karaoke, and DJs.
Pisces 483 Edgewood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-997-3742 Ra.co/Clubs/248652
The Star Community Bar 437 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-390-3062 StarBarAtl.bar
Twain’s Brewpub and Billiards 211 E Trinity Pl Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-0063 Twains.net
Pisces is Edgewood Avenue’s newest addition! The club – owned by iconic Atlanta DJ and the mind behind LGBTQ+ Atlanta’s favorite party Chaka Khan Hacienda, Ree de la Vega – is open Wednesday through Saturday and attracts a cool young crowd with its music-forward ethos.
This punk bar is perfect for a beer with friends or to enjoy live music, their monthly drag show Alt3r, or shop at their flea markets and other pop-ups on Sundays.
Gastropub with house-brewed tap beers.
Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium 466 Edgewood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-522-8275 SisterLouisasChurch.com Though not specifically geared to a gay audience, you’ll find plenty of gay folks partying throughout the week. Church, as it’s commonly called, is a quirky spot loaded with tongue-in-cheek religious art and a killer Organ Karaoke every Wednesday.
The T 465 Boulevard SE Ste 103-A Atlanta, GA 30312 404-343-2450 Facebook.com/TheTInGrantPark
Woofs Sports Bar 494 Plasters Ave NE Ste 200 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-869-9422 WoofsAtlanta.com Atlanta’s only gay sports bar, Woofs hosts a pretty regular bear crowd with little elbow room on game days.
Known for its friendly atmosphere, great drinks, and good times, it’s “always a party” at this casual neighborhood gay bar with karaoke, pool, video games, a jukebox, and nightly specials. Tripp’s Bar 1931 Piedmont Cir NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-555-1212 Facebook.com/TrippsBar This cozy, unassuming bar offers karaoke, darts, free Wi-Fi, and a taco bar on Wednesdays.
Read more online by scanning the QR Code
DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 65
OUTDOORS
THE GAY OUTDOORS Atlanta is known as the “City in the Forest,” with large parks and must-see hiking spots, both inside and just outside the perimeter. Explore the city’s great outdoors in groups or alone for a weekend adventure. From social meetups to meditative quiet, Atlanta offers several outdoorsy options for its vast LGBTQ+ community to enjoy. Atlanta LGBTQ Hikers Georgia has some of the most beautiful nature trails and reserves, especially in and around Atlanta. Don’t forget your favorite water bottle as you explore hidden hiking gems and make new friends with Atlanta LGBTQ Hikers. The group is completely free to join. If you ever have to pay anything, it’ll be directly to whichever park has fees. Meetup.com/Atlanta-LGBTQ-Hikers Feminist Bird Club Atlanta Connect with the natural world with Feminist Bird Club, an organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity in birding for the LGBTQ+ community, BIPOC, and women. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a newbie, FBC provides a great opportunity to engage in the outdoor hobby with likeminded individuals. Instagram.com/FBC.Atlanta The Hideaway Dip your toes in one (or all) of the six freshwater lakes and springs at this members-only, gay men’s campground (formerly Roy’s Hideaway) in Collins, Georgia. Privacy fencing allows you to be your most authentic self at the bathhouse, saltwater pool, and spa onsite. Lakeside cabins and campsites keep you close to the award-winning and affordable Eduardo’s Cafe, located by the pool. Select weekends encourage all genders to attend wild parties with a full stage, disco, and DJ booth.
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268 Catfish Ln Collins, GA 30421 912-225-3900 RoysHideaway.com
In The Woods Campground Go au naturel at this expansive Northeast Georgia clubhouse, owned and operated by two gay men. Enjoy 30 wooded acres, including 4.5 miles of landscaped trails at this discrete, clothing-optional 19+ campground, then cool off in the crystal-clear pool. Take in breathtaking views day or night with the rooms, tent, and RV sites available to overnight visitors. 142 Casey Court Canon, GA 30520 706-246-0152 InTheWoodsCampground.com Les Go Hiking Atlanta Explore Atlanta’s best trails on the first and third Saturday of every month with lesbian and bisexual women of Atlanta. Chase waterfalls and connect with nature with Les Go Hiking, the free-to-join, multichapter hiking group. With groups in Birmingham and Chattanooga, LGH encourages queer women to foster friendships and embrace the natural world with regular hikes and excursions. Instagram.com/LesGoHiking.ATL
Oz Campground Dance your heart out at Georgia’s finest LGBTQ+ campground and resort. Oz Campground hosts fun-filled events like Country weekend, bourbon tastings, and drag shows in the 4,000-square-foot
dance bar. Take a break from the busy city life with all the comforts of home in one of the cabins, RV, or tent sites. While you’re there, pick up some new leather fares at the on-site Bulldog Leather shop. 50 GA Hwy 230 Unadilla, GA 31091 478-892-2299 OzCampground.com
The River’s Edge Find likeminded nature lovers at this 21+ “100 percent gay-owned and -operated” campground in Northeast Georgia. For 30 years, this private membership, clothing-optional campground has been a frequent haunt for its loyal members, so much so that a group of them took over ownership and management in 2013. Enjoy the sights, heated pool, and themed weekends in one of the luxurious cabins, RV, or tent sites. 2311 Pulliam Mill Rd Dewy Rose, GA 30634 706-213-8081 CampTheRiversEdge.com
Wilderness Network of Georgia Get out and give back with other gay and bisexual men 18 years and older in Atlanta with the Wilderness Network of Georgia. Annual membership dues are only $20 and broaden your natural horizons with scenic hikes, hot air balloon rides, and regular volunteer clean-ups along the BeltLine. Make long-lasting friendships and get active with other men in the greater Atlanta area. WildernessNetworkOfGeorgia.org
We have expanded our store and stock of eBIKES! Come in and select the right one for you!
VISIT US ON THE ATLANTA BELTLINE! 151 SAMPSON STREET NE ATLANTA, GA 30312 • 404-400-7132 WWW.ELECTROBIKEGA.COM
Free newsletters for whatever you're into. Daily News Recap Active Seniors Art LGBTQ+ Food Jewish Community Film Books
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In Print. Online. Via Email.
Support local journalism. TheGaVoice.com
FITNESS
WORK IT OUT Whether working out is your favorite pastime or your least favorite chore, Atlanta is loaded with welcoming gyms. Looking to meet members of the city’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community? Consider these LGBTQ+-friendly fitness clubs and personal trainers for every budget!
Anytime Fitness
LA Fitness
North Buckhead 4920 Roswell Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 404-343-6017
Ansley Mall 1544 Piedmont Ave NE Ste 115 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-249-6463
Buckhead 550 Pharr Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-549-3523 AnytimeFitness.com Clarity Fitness Body-positive luxury gym 1 West Court Sq Ste 100 Decatur, GA 30030 216-245-3965 FitWit 630 East Lake Dr Decatur, GA 30030 888-534-8948 FitWit.com The Forum Athletic Club Ponce City Market 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Ste E179 678-904-1940 (ext. 105) Atlanta, GA 30308 Lenox Square - Buckhead 3393 Peachtree Rd NE Ste 2010A Atlanta, GA 30326 678-904-1940 (ext. 102) TheForumAthleticClub.com Gravity Fitness 2201 Faulkner Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-486-0506 GravityFitnessAtl.com
Atlantic Station 261 19th St Ste 1140 Atlanta, GA 30363 404-810-9015 Brookhaven 755 Brookhaven Ave Atlanta, GA 30319 678-280-8844 Camp Creek 3755 Carmia Dr SW Ste 700 Atlanta, GA 30331 404-344-1248 Decatur 1496 Church St Decatur, GA 30030 404-267-2723 Lenox/Buckhead 3232 Peachtree Rd NE Ste A Atlanta, GA 30305 404-233-8311 Midtown 75 Fifth St NW Ste E Atlanta, GA 30308 404-212-1065 Peachtree Road 3535 Peachtree Rd NE S te 300 Atlanta, GA 30326 404-389-1143
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Toco Hills 2880 N Druid Hills Atlanta, GA 30329 404-321-2330 LaFitness.com
Midtown 933 Peachtree St NE Ste 939A Atlanta, GA 30309 404-747-7107
Lion’s Den Fitness 900 Peachtree St NE Ste 105 Atlanta, GA 30309 678-439-6399 LionsDenFitnessAtl.com
Peachtree Hills 2255 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30309 770-267-5777 OrangeTheory.com
Orangetheory Fitness
The Training Room ATL 742 Ponce De Leon Pl NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-333-3677 TheTrainingRoomAtl.com
Buckhead Village 3097 Piedmont Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-719-0170 Decatur 319 W Ponce de Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030 770-797-5080 Emory Point 855 Emory Point Dr Ste 115 Atlanta, GA 30329 404-698-0251 Glenwood Park 975 Memorial Dr SE Ste 816 Atlanta, GA 30316 470-489-5701 Howell Mill 857 Collier Rd NW Ste 15 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-455-0402 Inman Park 299 North Highland Ave NE Ste H1, H2 Atlanta, GA 30307 404-662-2308
Team Lis Smash LGBTQ+ and body-positive strength training 488 Moreland Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-919-8049 TeamLisSmash.com Urban Body Fitness 500 Amsterdam Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-885-1499 UrbanBodyFitness.com
Atlanta Pride 2025
October 11-12 | Piedmont Park
SAVE THE DATE FOR ATLANTA PRIDE 2026: October 10-11 | Piedmont Park ATLANTAPRIDE.ORG
BECAUSE EVERY GREAT STORY DESERVES TO BE SUNG.
DISCOVER THE POWER OF OPERA. DISCOVER YOURSELF. THE ATLANTA OPERA 2025-26 SEASON: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
LA TRAVIATA
THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO
TURANDOT
Sep 4 - Oct 12
Mar 14, 17, 20, 22, 2026
Nov 8, 11, 14, 16, 2025
Apr 25, 28, May 1, 3, 2026
ATLANTAOPERA.ORG 404-881-8885
LA BELLE ET LA BÊTE Nov 15, 2025
TWILIGHT OF THE GODS (Götterdämmerung) May 30, Jun 2, 5, 7, 2026
ORGANIZATIONS
ATLANTA’S LGBTQ+ ORGANIZATIONS
Atlanta is home to tons of organizations assisting LGBTQ+ Atlantans in finding housing, advocating for their rights, living with HIV, and so much more. While you’re here, check out and support some of the work these incredible orgs are doing to make Atlanta a great place to live for everyone. Advocacy/Political ACLU of Georgia Acluga.org Atlanta Solidarity Fund AtlSolidarity.org Fair Fight Voting rights organization FairFight.com Georgia Equality GeorgiaEquality.org Georgia Log Cabin Republicans GeorgiaLogCabin.org Georgia Stonewall Democrats StonewallDemocrats.us/Georgia GLAAD Atlanta Glaad.org/tag/Atlanta Housing Justice League HousingJusticeLeague.org Human Rights Campaign Atlanta.Hrc.org
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Lambda Legal LambdaLegal.org March for Our Lives Atlanta MarchForOurLives.org Mayor’s Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion AtlantaGa.gov/Government/mayor-soffice/executive-offices/office-of-equitydiversity-and-inclusion Solutions Not Punishment Collaborative Black trans-led community safety organization Snap4Freedom.org Stonewall Bar Association of Georgia StonewallBar.org Women on the Rise WomenOnTheRiseGa.org
Business Metro Atlanta Association of Professionals MaapAtl.org Out Georgia Business Alliance OutGeorgia.org
Culture/Arts Atlanta Freedom Bands AtlantaFreedomBands.com Atlanta LGBTQ History Project AtlantaLGBTQHistoryProject.org Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus & Atlanta Women’s Chorus VoicesOfNote.org Atlanta Philharmonic Orchestra AtlantaPhilharmonic.org Atlanta Queer Arts Alliance Aquaa.org Charis Circle CharisCircle.org
OurSong Mixed gay and lesbian chorus OurSongAtlanta.org
Positive Impact Health Centers PositiveImpactHealth Centers.org
Out On Film OutOnFilm.org
Status Housing for homeless people and people living with HIV StatusHome.org
Family/Youth CHRIS 180 Provides assistance to homeless LGBTQ+ youth Chris180.org Georgia Safe Schools Coalition GaSafeSchools.org Lost-n-Found Youth Provides emergency housing 24/7 for homeless LGBTQ+ youth Lnfy.org Crisis Hotline (call or text): 678-743-6473 PFLAG Atlanta PFLAGAtlanta.org
Health AID Atlanta AIDAtlanta.org Galano Club LGBTQ+-friendly Alcoholics Anonymous plus other 12-step groups Galano.org Grady Health Ponce de Leon Center One of largest and most comprehensive HIV/AIDS facilities GradyHealth.org/Locations/Ponce-deLeon-Center Emory’s Hope Clinic HopeClinic.Emory.edu Feminist Women’s Health Center FeministCenter.org Living Room Housing placement and financial assistance for people living with HIV LivingRoomAtl.org Open Hand Meals for homebound people with HIV and other critical illnesses OpenHandAtlanta.org Planned Parenthood Southeast Abortion services, birth control, hormone therapy, and STD screening Plannedparenthood.org/PlannedParenthood-Southeast
Support/Social/Service AARP Georgia Services and resources for seniors States.Aarp.org/Georgia/ American Veterans for Equal Rights Aver.us Atlanta Prime Timers AtlantaPrimeTimers.com North Georgia Asexuals and Aromantics Meetup.com/North-Ga-Aces-and-Aros SAGE Services for LGBTQ+ seniors SAGEUSA.org Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence Drag nuns who conduct community outreach and fundraisers AtlSisters.org SOJOURN Southern Jewish Resource Network for Gender and Sexual Diversity SojournGSD.org Southern Bears AtlantaBearFest.com Southern Fried Queer Pride SouthernFriedQueerPride.com Southerners on New Ground SouthernersOnNewGround.org TRANScending Barriers TranscendingBarriersAtl.org Trikone For LGBTQ+ South Asians Trikone.org Touching Up Our Roots Non-profit preserving Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ history TuorQueerAtlanta. org
Regional Pride Organizations Athens Pride AthensPride.org Atlanta Black Pride AtlantaBlackPride.org Atlanta Pride AtlantaPride.org Augusta Pride PrideAugusta.org Macon Pride MaconPride.org Chattanooga Pride ChattanoogaPride.com Colgay Pride Columbus, Georgia ColgayPride.org Famously Hot South Carolina Pride Columbia, South Carolina ScPride.org Key West Pride GayKeyWestFl.com Pure Heat – Atlanta Black Pride PureHeatCommunity Festival.com Rome Georgia Pride RomeGaPride.com River City Pride Jacksonville, Florida JaxRCPride.org Savannah Pride Center SavannahPrideCenter.org South Georgia Pride Valdosta, Georgia SouthGaPride.com Upstate Pride South Carolina Spartanburg, South Carolina UpstatePrideSc.org Visibility Club Norcross, Georgia VisibilityClub.org
Zami NOBLA For Black lesbians 40 and older ZamiNobla.org
Pets Are Loving Support Pet care assistance for people with HIV PalsAtlanta.org
DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 75
ALL ARE
WELCOME. Episcopal Dio
“WE ARE MANY KINDS. WE ARE BLACK AND WHITE, GAY AND LESBIAN AND STRAIGHT, SOME OF US HAVE MONEY AND EDUCATION, OTHERS NOT SO MUCH; BUT WE ARE FIRST AND FOREMOST FOLLOWERS OF JESUS AND THIS WAS JESUS’ ONLY REQUEST OF USTHAT WE WOULD LOVE THE WORLD BECAUSE HE LOVES THE WORLD, WITH ALL OF ITS WARTS, ALL OF THEM, AND ALL OF ITS WONDERS, ALL OF THEM.” – Bishop Rob Wright
ocese (Spread)
YOU HAVE A HOME HERE. All Saints’ Episcopal Church is a vibrant, progressive community, located at the heart of Atlanta in Midtown. Whoever you are, wherever you are in your spiritual journey, you are welcome here. Come find us: a city block of urban oasis between The Varsity and the North Avenue MARTA Station. In the City. For the City. Allsaintsatlanta.org
Scan to find a LGBTQ+ Ministry near you episcopalatlanta.org/lgbtq-ministries
COMMUNITIES OF FAITH
WHERE TO WORSHIP
No matter your faith or how you worship, there’s a safe space and community for you in Atlanta! All Saints’ Episcopal Church 634 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-881-0835 AllSaintsAtlanta.org Cathedral of St. Philip 2744 Peachtree Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30305 404-365-1000 CathedralAtl.org Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Conception 48 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr SW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-521-1866 CatholicShrineAtlanta.org
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Central Congregational United Church of Christ 2676 Clairmont Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-633-4505 Central-UCC.org Central Presbyterian Church 201 Washington St SW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-0274 CPCAtlanta.org Church at Ponce & Highland 1085 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 (404) 874-5721 ChurchAtPonceAndHighland.org
Church of the Epiphany 2089 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-373-8338 Epiphany.org City of Light 3125 Presidential Pkwy Atlanta, GA 30340 470-545-2821 CityOfLightAtlanta.com Clifton Sanctuary Ministries 369 Connecticut Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-373-3253 CliftonSanctuary.com
Congregation Bet Haverim 2074 Lavista Rd Atlanta, GA 30329 404-315-6446 CongregationBetHaverim.org Congregation Or Hadash 7460 Trowbridge Rd Sandy Springs, GA 30328 (404) 250-3338 Or-Hadash.org Decatur First United Methodist-Avondale Pattillo 3260 Covington Hwy Decatur, GA 30032 404-378-4541 DecaturFirst.org/Avondale-Pattillo Drepung Loseling Monastery, Inc. Center for Tibetan Buddhist Studies, Practice & Culture 1781 Dresden Dr Atlanta, GA 30319 404-982-0051 Drepung.org Druid Hills Presbyterian Church 1026 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-875-7591 DruidHillsPresbyterian.org First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta 470 Candler Park Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-378-5570 FirstExistentialist.org The Gathering Place Worship Center 999 Brady Ave NW Ste 10 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-815-0007 GLBTChurch.com Gentle Spirit Christian Church 601 West Ponce de Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-604-8124 GentleSpirit.org Inman Park United Methodist Church 1015 Edgewood Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-522-9322 InmanParkUMC.org Johns Creek Christian Church 10800 Bell Rd Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-418-1101 JohnsCreekChristian.org
Kadampa Meditation Center Georgia 741 Edgewood Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 678-453-6753 MeditationInGeorgia.org METRON Community 931 Monroe Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-879-0160 MetronCommunity.Blogspot.com New Covenant Church of Atlanta 1600 Eastland Rd Atlanta, GA 30316 404-394-2513 NewCovenantAtlanta.com Oakhurst Baptist Church 222 East Lake Dr Decatur, GA 30030 404-378-3677 OakHurstBaptist.org Ormewood Church 1071 Delaware Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 678-962-7828 OrmewoodChurch.org Park Avenue Baptist Church 486 Park Avenue SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-627-2175 ParkAveBaptist.com Saint Mark United Methodist Church 781 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-873-2636 StMarkUMC.org
St. John’s Lutheran Church 1410 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-378-4243 StJohnsAtlanta.org St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 435 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-873-7600 StLukesAtlanta.org Temple Emanu-El 1580 Spalding Drive Atlanta, GA 30350 770-395-1340 TempleEmanuelAtlanta.org The Temple 1589 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-873-1731 The-Temple.org Trinity Center for Spiritual Living 1095 Zonolite Rd Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30306 404-296-6064 TrinityCenterAtlanta.org Trinity United Methodist Church 265 Washington St SW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-6236 Atlantatrinity.org Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta 2650 N Druid Hills Rd Atlanta, GA 30329 404-634-5134 UUCA.org
SGI-USA Atlanta Buddhist Center 421 17th St NW Atlanta, GA 30363 404-817-8100 SGI-Atlanta.org
Unity Fellowship Church, Greater Atlanta 601 W Ponce de Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-599-8243 UnityWideOpen.com
Shambhala Meditation Center 1447 Church St Decatur, GA 30030 404-370-9650 Atlanta.Shambhala.org
Virginia-Highland Church 743 Virginia Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-348-4830 VHChurch.org
St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church 1790 Lavista Road NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-634-3336 StBartsAtlanta.org
Vision Church of Atlanta 704 Ormewood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-622-9470 TheVisionChurch.org
St. John’s Episcopal Church 3480 East Main St College Park, GA 30337 404-761-8402 StJohnsCollegePark.org
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