A Weekend Away

WHERE TO STAY, EAT AND PLAY WHILE EXPLORING METRO ATLANTA’S FAVORITE CITIES THIS SUMMER

By Amy Meadows

There’s a reason why so many people make their way to metro Atlanta during their summer vacations. With so much to see and do, there’s something for everyone. Of course, if you’re a local resident, it can be easy to take all of those fantastic recreational opportunities for granted. So, this season, why not enjoy a weekend away close to home and explore the areas around you that make great destinations? Here, KNOWAtlanta offers info about the best places to stay, eat and play in a few of our favorite local cities.

Braselton

braselton.net

Located 43 miles northeast of Atlanta at the convergence of Barrow, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson counties, the North Georgia town welcomes thousands of visitors each year and has become one of the metro area’s most coveted residential locations.

STAY: Château Élan Winery & Resort chateauelan.com

Escape to the rolling vineyards and wooded forests of Château Élan, North Georgia’s premier destination resort. Château Élan Resort offers an array of accommodations, including inn rooms and suites, spa suites and villas. The beloved property also offers countless activities and adventures to fill any itinerary, from golf and wine tasting to an array of workshops, classes and demonstrations. Customizable packages are available to create the perfect getaway focused on wellness, exploration, fitness and rejuvenation.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham wyndhamhotels.com

La Quinta is conveniently located off I-85 and GA-53 close to Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. Surrounded by several restaurants and shops, it is located near the historical district with activities for the whole family. The hotel also is pet friendly and features a host of comfortable accommodations, convenient amenities and more.

EAT: Cotton Calf Kitchen cottoncalf.com

A contemporary American steakhouse, Cotton Calf Kitchen is a true date night destination. The menu boasts tapas-style appetizers, heirloom vegetables and an impressive selection of seafood and steaks. This highly rated favorite is a go-to spot for birthdays and special occasions among locals, and the intimate dining experience definitely puts the icing on the cake. It is highly recommended that you make reservations early for this popular downtown restaurant.

The Galloping Galette facebook.com/TGG.The GallopingGalette

Run by a husband-and-wife team from Bretagne, this authentic French crêperie offers buckwheat galettes and crêpes. Dine on sweet crepes and savory galettes in a French-inspired atmosphere with daily specials, vegan and gluten-free options and artisan coffee. The vibe is relaxed as families kick back and chat, while heavenly aromas drift out of the kitchen. Indoor seating is available, or choose the patio overlooking historic downtown Braselton. This is a local brunch/lunch spot, open Wednesday through Sunday, so check its hours and arrive early because seating is limited.

PLAY:

The 1904 explorebraselton.com/1904

Located in the heart of downtown Braselton, The 1904 is a multi-tenant modern mercantile in the newly restored historic Braselton Brothers Store building. Tenants include Flourish Taproom, Rebar, Inner Nerd Collectibles, Sugar ‘N Proof Bakery, Carden Records and Doe A Deer Interiors. An active live entertainment and events calendar make The 1904 a hotspot in historic downtown and Braselton’s new favorite local hangout.

The Braselton Trolley explorebraselton.com/trolley

The vintage-inspired Braselton Trolley offers a fun free ride to fixed locations around town on Fridays and Saturdays starting at 4 p.m. Hop aboard, sit back and enjoy the sites. Riders can track the trolley in real time with the Ride Systems website or app, making it easier to plan your evening. In addition to regular free trolley routes, tickets may be purchased for one of several trolley tours throughout the year.

Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov

Gwinnett County’s largest city, Peachtree Corners is conveniently located with easy access to Interstate 85, Interstate 285 and GA 400 and sits just 30 minutes northeast of Atlanta. It is an innovative and progressive community known for its economic development and excellent quality of life.