Sandy Springs, Georgia: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Sandy Springs boasts over 950 acres of parks and natural areas despite being just minutes from downtown Atlanta? This vibrant city offers the perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation.

Getting to Sandy Springs

Sandy Springs is conveniently located just 10 minutes north of downtown Atlanta, making it easily accessible for travelers. The closest major airport is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which offers flights from destinations worldwide.

Once you arrive at the airport, you have several options to reach Sandy Springs. The MARTA public transit system connects the airport directly to Sandy Springs via the Red Line. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and is an affordable option for travelers. Alternatively, taxi services and rideshares are readily available, though they will cost more than public transportation.

Best Time to Visit Sandy Springs

Sandy Springs enjoys a moderate climate with four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences for visitors. The most popular times to visit are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are pleasant and outdoor activities are at their best.

Summer brings warmer temperatures, making it perfect for water activities along the Chattahoochee River, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Winter is mild compared to northern states, but you’ll want to pack layers as temperatures can fluctuate. The city hosts various seasonal events throughout the year, including the Sandy Springs Festival in September and holiday celebrations in December.

Getting Around Sandy Springs

While having a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Sandy Springs and the surrounding Atlanta area, there are several transportation options available to visitors.

Sandy Springs is also becoming increasingly bike-friendly, with dedicated paths and bike lanes throughout the city. Several local companies offer bike rentals if you prefer to explore on two wheels. For visitors staying near the Chattahoochee River, walking is a pleasant option for enjoying the natural scenery and accessing nearby restaurants and shops.

Where to Stay in Sandy Springs

Sandy Springs offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. The city is home to 18 hotels, ranging from luxury establishments to comfortable mid-range options and extended-stay properties.

Most hotels in Sandy Springs are clustered around Perimeter Center, providing easy access to shopping, dining, and MARTA stations. This central location makes it convenient to explore both Sandy Springs attractions and venture into downtown Atlanta when desired.

Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty

Sandy Springs is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with the magnificent Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area serving as the crown jewel of the city’s natural attractions. With 22 miles of shoreline along the river, visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities and scenic trails.

Kayaking on the Chattahoochee River is one of the best things to do in Sandy Springs during summer months

Chattahoochee River Activities

The Chattahoochee River offers numerous recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Popular activities include:

• Kayaking and canoeing through gentle rapids and calm waters
• Tubing down the river (a favorite summer activity for locals)
• Fishing for trout, bass, and catfish
• Stand-up paddleboarding in calmer sections
• Swimming at designated areas during summer months

Several outfitters in Sandy Springs offer equipment rentals and guided experiences on the river. High Country Outfitters and Shoot the Hooch are popular choices for rentals and river trips.

Parks and Trails

Beyond the river, Sandy Springs boasts several beautiful parks and trail systems:

The stunning sunset view from Morgan Falls Overlook Park is a must-see in Sandy Springs

Other notable outdoor spaces include John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve, Island Ford Park, and the Sandy Springs Tennis Center. The city continues to develop its trail network, with plans to connect various parks and green spaces for enhanced accessibility.

Cultural Attractions and Museums

Sandy Springs offers several cultural attractions that showcase the area’s rich history and vibrant arts scene. From museums to performing arts venues, there’s plenty to explore for culture enthusiasts.

Heritage Sandy Springs Museum

Located in the heart of the city, the Heritage Sandy Springs Museum preserves and celebrates the history of the area. The museum features rotating exhibits that highlight local history, from the Native American settlements to the city’s incorporation in 2005. The museum complex includes historic buildings and the beautiful Heritage Green park.

The Heritage Sandy Springs Museum offers fascinating insights into the area’s history

Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center at City Springs

The crown jewel of Sandy Springs’ cultural scene is the state-of-the-art Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center, which opened in 2018 as part of the City Springs development. This modern facility includes:

• The Byers Theatre – A 1,070-seat main theater hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and performances
• The Studio Theatre – A flexible black box space for intimate performances
• City Green – An outdoor park space that hosts concerts and events
• Art galleries featuring rotating exhibitions

The center is home to the City Springs Theatre Company, which produces professional Broadway-quality musicals throughout the year. Check the official schedule to see what performances coincide with your visit.

The Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of shows and performances throughout the year

Anne Frank in the World Exhibit

Sandy Springs is home to the “Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945” exhibit, which features over 600 photographs and documents telling the story of Anne Frank against the background of the Holocaust and World War II. This powerful and educational exhibit is free to the public and offers guided tours for groups.

Dining and Culinary Experiences

Sandy Springs boasts a diverse and thriving culinary scene with over 100 independent restaurants representing cuisines from around the world. From upscale dining to casual eateries, the city offers something for every palate and budget.

Sandy Springs restaurants are known for their creative cuisine and presentation

Restaurant Row

Sandy Springs’ famous “Restaurant Row” along Roswell Road features a concentration of excellent dining options within a short distance. This area has become a foodie destination with everything from Mediterranean street food to contemporary Caribbean and Asian fusion cuisines.

Farmers Market

The Sandy Springs Farmers Market operates on Saturday mornings from April through November at City Springs. This popular market features local produce, artisanal foods, baked goods, and crafts from regional producers. It’s a great place to sample local flavors and pick up unique food souvenirs.

For coffee lovers, Café Vendôme offers authentic French pastries and excellent coffee, while Copper Coin Coffee serves locally roasted beans in a cozy atmosphere. Both are perfect spots to start your day of exploration in Sandy Springs.

Shopping Destinations

Sandy Springs offers diverse shopping experiences, from upscale malls to charming boutiques and specialty stores. Whether you’re looking for designer brands or unique local items, you’ll find plenty of retail therapy options.

Perimeter Mall

Located on the border of Sandy Springs and Dunwoody, Perimeter Mall is the area’s premier shopping destination with over 150 stores. The mall features major department stores like Nordstrom, Dillard’s, and Macy’s, alongside popular brands such as Apple, Anthropologie, and H&M. With its convenient location near the Dunwoody MARTA station, it’s easily accessible for visitors without a car.

Perimeter Mall offers a premium shopping experience with over 150 retailers

Boutiques and Specialty Shops

For a more unique shopping experience, explore the local boutiques scattered throughout Sandy Springs:

• The Shops at City Springs – Browse local retailers in the heart of the city’s downtown development
• Sandy Springs Farmers Market – Find handcrafted goods alongside fresh produce (seasonal)
• Kudzu & Company – Shop for antiques, vintage items, and unique home decor
• The Art Place Mountain Park – Discover works by local artists and artisans

Sandy Springs is also home to several specialty food shops worth visiting, including Savi Provisions for gourmet foods and wines, and Trader Joe’s for unique snacks and ingredients.

Family-Friendly Activities

Sandy Springs offers numerous activities that cater specifically to families with children of all ages. From outdoor adventures to educational experiences, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.

Morgan Falls Overlook Park offers playground facilities and picnic areas perfect for family outings

Playgrounds and Parks

Sandy Springs has several parks with excellent playground facilities:

• Morgan Falls Overlook Park – Features a modern playground with river views and picnic pavilions
• Hammond Park – Offers playgrounds, sports fields, and a splash pad for summer fun
• Abernathy Greenway Park – Home to unique playable art sculptures that double as creative play structures

Educational Experiences

Combine fun with learning at these family-friendly attractions:

Seasonal Events

Sandy Springs hosts several family-oriented events throughout the year:

• Stars and Stripes Celebration – A July 4th event with fireworks, live music, and family activities
• Sandy Springs Festival – A fall celebration with arts and crafts, live performances, and children’s activities
• Sparkle Sandy Springs – A holiday light display and celebration in December

For rainy days, check out local entertainment options like the Showcase Cinema movie theater or Stars and Strikes for bowling and arcade games.

Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, Sandy Springs hosts a variety of festivals and events that showcase the city’s vibrant community spirit, cultural diversity, and artistic talent. These events provide visitors with unique opportunities to experience local traditions and entertainment.

The annual Sandy Springs Festival draws thousands of visitors with its art displays, live music, and food vendors

Annual Highlights

Performing Arts Events

The Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center hosts a year-round calendar of events, including:

• Broadway productions by City Springs Theatre Company
• Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performances
• Comedy shows at the Byers Theatre
• Dance performances and cultural celebrations

Check the City Springs event calendar when planning your visit to see what performances coincide with your trip.

Day Trips from Sandy Springs

Sandy Springs’ central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other attractions in the greater Atlanta area and beyond. Here are some worthwhile day trips, all within a short drive from the city.

North Georgia’s wine country makes for a perfect day trip from Sandy Springs

More Nearby Destinations

• Chattahoochee Nature Center (15 minutes) – Environmental education center with wildlife exhibits and nature trails
• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park (30 minutes) – Civil War battlefield with hiking trails and historical exhibits
• Callaway Gardens (90 minutes) – Beautiful botanical gardens, butterfly center, and recreational activities
• Athens (90 minutes) – College town home to the University of Georgia with a vibrant music scene and historic downtown

For those willing to venture a bit further, Chattanooga, Tennessee and the Blue Ridge Mountains are within a two-hour drive, offering even more outdoor adventures and scenic beauty.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Make the most of your Sandy Springs visit with these helpful tips and local insights that will enhance your experience and help you navigate the city like a pro.

Accessibility

Sandy Springs strives to be accessible to all visitors. The City Springs complex, Performing Arts Center, and most parks have accessible facilities. MARTA buses and trains are equipped for wheelchair users, and most hotels offer ADA-compliant rooms. Contact specific venues in advance if you have special accessibility requirements.

The City Springs complex features accessible walkways and facilities throughout

Emergency Information

In case of emergency, dial 911. The Sandy Springs Police Department and Fire Department provide quick response throughout the city. For non-emergency medical care, Northside Hospital and several urgent care centers are located within Sandy Springs.

Conclusion

Sandy Springs offers visitors the perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. From the peaceful shores of the Chattahoochee River to the vibrant performances at the City Springs complex, this dynamic city provides diverse experiences for every type of traveler. Its proximity to Atlanta’s world-class attractions, combined with its own unique charm and character, makes Sandy Springs an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or an extended stay.

Whether you’re paddling down the river, enjoying a show at the Performing Arts Center, sampling culinary delights at local restaurants, or simply relaxing in one of the city’s beautiful parks, Sandy Springs welcomes you with genuine Southern hospitality and modern amenities. Start planning your Sandy Springs adventure today and discover why this vibrant city has become one of Georgia’s most beloved destinations.