The Fourth of July is around the corner, which means it’s time to celebrate the original #Brexit.
Beyond a chance to reflect on America’s virtues such as democracy, Independence Day provides a three-day weekend this year.
If you are visiting Atlanta on July 4th, or are a native looking for an excuse to explore the city, here are our foodie recommendations for getting out and about to celebrate.
1. Grab a Bite at Revolution Doughnuts
Photo courtesy of @revolutiondoughnuts on Instagram
So, the pun here is bad, but the doughnuts are great. The Declaration of Independence was a central part of the American Revolution, so consider journeying to Revolution Doughnuts this weekend.
Take the time to read up on the American Revolution while munching on a True Blueberry doughnut. Revolution Doughnuts has a location in Decatur, or you can find them at the Grant Park Farmers Market on Sundays from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm.
2. Kick Back at Turner Field
Photo courtesy of @iridescentnoelle on Instagram
The 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence are often hailed for being brave. Celebrate this quality by taking a trip to Turner Field and enjoying some classic ballpark fare.
For the July 4th weekend, the Braves will be facing off with the Miami Marlins, and Friday’s game will be followed by an epic fireworks display.
Not only is a baseball game a classic American way to kick back for the 4th, but it is also one of your last chances to do so at Turner Field. This is the Brave’s final season inside the Perimeter before they move to a new stadium in Cobb, so go make some history of your own.
3. Visit Monroe, GA
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While James Monroe did not sign the Declaration of Independence, he was one of the country’s Founding Fathers, and interestingly, he was one of three presidents to die on July 4, along with Thomas Jefferson and John Adams.
Remember Monroe by visiting the Georgia city named after him for a day trip. Monroe is about an hour outside Atlanta and 30 minutes from Athens, and it is chock-full of antique markets to peruse and explore.
Take a break from looking at old postcards and Coca-Cola relics to grab a bite at the Cotton Cafe. They serve up cupcakes, cheesecake, sandwiches, breakfast classics and our favorite Athens coffee, Jittery Joe’s.
4. Explore the World Through Your DeKalb Farmers Market
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If you can’t make it out to Monroe, stay closer to town and celebrate the American melting pot at one of the most diverse spots in Atlanta.
Your DeKalb Farmers Market has been an Atlanta gem since 1977 and sells an immense array of international foods to patrons with cultural roots from around the globe.
As you walk in, prepare for an adventure with crowded aisles, the sounds of tens of different languages being spoken at once, and tantalizing smells.
If it is your first visit, plan to leisurely explore the aisles. If you are a seasoned visitor though, bring a clear shopping list and make a plan.
#Spoon Tip: don’t try and divide and conquer with your friends or family. Stick together so you don’t get lost in the excitement.
Be sure to grab some red, white and blue fruit to cook up a colorful 4th meal.
5. Absorb the View at the Georgia Aquarium
Photo by Mollie Simon
For the 21+ crowd with a chunk of change to spare, consider checking out Georgia Aquarium’s Summer “Red, White & Brew” Beer Festival.
The event is from 7 to 11 pm on Saturday, July 2 and costs $65 per person — money which goes to support the aquarium’s education efforts.
Attendees get a souvenir glass, unlimited tastings, food from Wolfgang Puck, and a chance to explore the aquarium…but remember, fish are friends, not food.
6. Run the BeltLine to Grab Ice Cream
Photo by Lara Schwieger
If you aren’t joining your 59,999 best friends for the 35th annual Peachtree Road Race, consider working off your July 4th weekend indulgences with a visit to the BeltLine’s Eastside Trail, which stretches from Piedmont Park to Inman Park and the Old Fourth Ward.
Along the way, you can grab a King of Pops treat or stop into Ponce City Market or Krog Street Market for a scoop of Jeni’s ice cream. Expect some crowds for the weekend, but the “darkest chocolate” flavor will be worth your wait (or weight…we’re not sure).
7. Enjoy Fireworks for Your Taste Buds with Food Trucks
Photo courtesy of @eatheavenlycupcakes on Instagram
Are July 4th fireworks too much for your ears? Let your taste buds enjoy some fireworks instead by visiting the Atlanta Food Truck Park & Market, which is open Friday through Sunday each week.
The fare includes burgers, tacos, ice cream and more, and the park is the first permanent food truck site in the city.
The park is located on Howell Mill Road and boasts extended summer hours. To make sure they are open when you head out, check their Facebook page.