CITIES & NEIGHBORHOODS

Buford

Since 1892, Buford has been a destination for industry. Built to connect Charlotte and Chamblee rail lines, Buford became home to the Bona Allen Tannery and the Buford Dam that supplies power to Georgia. Now, it’s an entertainment enclave with international restaurants, museums, and shops.

Eat: Taste creative twists on global comfort food like Filipino eggrolls and mojo pork at Rico’s World Kitchen. Pick surf or turf with Aqua Terra Bistro’s charbroiled steak or seared scallops— plus vegetarian options. In an old bank, Bare Bones Steakhouse grills prime cuts with classic sides. Parma Tavern’s Italianinspired menu serves everything from pizza to tacos.

Shop: Decorate with candles, dried flowers, and art from Rusted Fence Spend hours browsing vintage pieces—from art deco dressers to kitschy collectibles—at Queen of Hearts Antiques Honey + Lu features decor and clothes for all ages with a sense of humor. Shop handmade jewelry, abstract art, and sculptures right from the makers at Tannery Row Artist Colony

Do: Watch shows at the Sylvia Beard Theatre and concerts on the Town Park Lawn at Buford Community Center, which brings the arts to the community. Stop by the Museum of Buford for some local history, including Native American artifacts and goods from the city’s industrial age. Walk five miles of trails at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Sip vintages from around the world at wine bar Cork It.

Duluth

Originally dubbed Howell’s Crossing, this former Cherokee territory became the center of agricultural exports for the region when the rail depot and merchant building complex was constructed in the 1870s. Now it’s a center for commerce and culture, but visitors can check out the Southeastern Railway Museum to learn more about its history.

Eat: Mexican eatery Nacho Daddy specializes in deluxe nachos, with unique toppings like buffalo chicken and filet mignon. Sample from 20 of the best brews and food trucks on Truck & Tap’s rotating schedule. Order the famous Grandma Pie or Jersey slices at O4W Pizza. Grab some chopsticks for poke, ramen, or Thai at Sweet Octopus Empanada House features creative twists on the classic pastry, from goulash to bulgogi.

Shop: Find a cute dress, the perfect candle, or natural skincare products at women’s shop Lillies. Kids can stock up on picture books and toys at Hello Rainbow Vom Fass procures the best olive oils, vinegars, and gourmet foods. Colorful women’s clothes and accessories are plentiful at Personify Shop.

Do: BYOB and paint on canvases, pottery, or even wine glasses at Eye Candy Art Studio. Catch a rock, country, or folk act before they hit it big at Eddie Owen Presents Work on your needle skills at Spool School’s sewing classes for kids and adults.