Things To Do
in Chamblee
Chamblee is a small, diverse city in northeastern Atlanta’s metro area known for its international dining scene and evolving downtown. Once a railroad and manufacturing hub, it now mixes historic buildings with new shops, breweries and apartments. The city is home to a sizable immigrant community, especially along the Buford Highway corridor, which gives it a rich variety of food and grocery options.
Chamblee is also conveniently close to Atlanta and regional outdoor attractions like Stone Mountain and several nature preserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café before heading out to explore the charming streets of Chamblee's Historic District. Marvel at the vintage architecture and visit unique antique shops that showcase the town's rich history. Don't forget to stop by the Chamblee Public Library for a quick glance at its historical exhibits.
After lunch at a nearby eatery, stroll through the Chamblee Rail Trail, a scenic pathway that offers a mix of nature and urban vibes. Grab a coffee from one of the local roasters as you relax at a park bench, enjoying the sounds of the city. For the adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore more of the trail.
As evening descends, treat yourself to dinner at one of Chamblee's diverse restaurants that feature international cuisines. After your meal, catch a live performance at a nearby venue or enjoy a movie at the local theater. Wind down your day with a leisurely walk under the twinkling lights of the town.
Begin your day with a visit to one of Chamblee's local art galleries, where you can appreciate the work of talented local artists. Enjoy coffee and a light breakfast at a café nearby that features local artwork. Take your time to enjoy the installations and pick up some unique souvenirs.
After visiting the gallery, head to the Chamblee Antique Row to browse through shops filled with vintage finds and collectibles. Have lunch at a quirky diner that serves comfort food with a twist. Spend the afternoon soaking in the eclectic atmosphere and chatting with shop owners about their treasures.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant where you can savor fresh, local ingredients. Post-dinner, participate in a community art workshop to unleash your creativity and connect with locals. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, enjoying live music from a local band.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (bar) | $5-8 |
| 🚇MARTA one-way fare / local bus | $2.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Extremely diverse international food scene and grocery options
- Convenient access to Atlanta and nearby outdoor destinations
- Affordable compared with central Atlanta, with growing local amenities
- Friendly, community-focused small-city atmosphere
- Car-oriented layout outside the small downtown core
- Traffic congestion on major corridors like Buford Highway during peak hours
- Summer heat and humidity can be intense
- Limited late-night entertainment compared with downtown Atlanta
Places to Visit in Chamblee
Visit one of these nice places.
Charming small-town streetscape with historic buildings, murals and occasional street festivals — good for candid shots and architectural details.
Vibrant signs, colorful storefronts and bustling markets offer vivid street photography opportunities and cultural context.
Panoramic views of the Atlanta metro area from trails and overlooks, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Green spaces and creekside trails provide nature shots, wildlife and seasonal foliage close to town.
Food in Chamblee
Chamblee Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy Korean-style fried chicken and tabletop Korean BBQ are widely available along Buford Highway — look for busy spots where grilling and banchan (small side dishes) are part of the experience.
Must-Try!
Classic Southern smoked meats and sides can be found at neighborhood BBQ restaurants and food trucks — a good way to taste regional flavors.
Hearty bowls of phở and other Vietnamese noodle soups are common at family-run restaurants that serve fresh broths and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A string of grocery stores and markets offering ingredients from across the world — great for exploring snacks, fresh produce and prepared foods from Latin America, Asia and Africa.
A seasonal farmers market in town where local vendors sell produce, baked goods and ready-to-eat items; check seasonal schedules for hours.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People tend to be friendly and polite; brief small talk and greetings are common. Using polite language and thanking service staff is appreciated.
Respect personal space and queueing. Avoid overly loud behavior on residential streets, especially in the evening.
Chamblee is multicultural; be respectful of different cultural norms and languages. When photographing people or small businesses, ask politely before taking close portraits.
Safety
Tipping in Chamblee
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is standard; for exceptional service you may tip more. Tip bartenders $1–2 per drink, tip taxi or rideshare drivers a few dollars or rounding up, and tip hotel staff for housekeeping and porters when appropriate.
Cards (credit/debit) are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common. Small vendors and some market stalls may prefer cash, so keep some on hand for street food or smaller purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures and blooming trees make spring a great time to visit; be aware of pollen if you have allergies and occasional severe thunderstorms.
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms possible; plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings and stay hydrated.
Generally mild and comfortable with lower humidity; fall foliage is modest but attractive on hikes and at nearby parks.
Winters are mild by northern standards, though occasional cold snaps and light ice/snow can happen; most outdoor attractions remain accessible.
Chamblee at Night
Hiking in Chamblee
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular nearby destination with several trails, scenic overlooks and a large monolith carving — offers family-friendly hikes and panoramic views of the Atlanta skyline.
A granite monadnock with guided hikes and conservation-focused trails; quieter than Stone Mountain and good for more peaceful nature experiences.
Protected creek corridors and green spaces in DeKalb County with walking trails and birdwatching opportunities not far from Chamblee.
Airports
How to reach Chamblee by plane.
The region’s main international airport, approximately 20–40 minutes by car depending on traffic; excellent domestic and international connections and ground transportation options including rental cars and airport shuttles.
A busy general aviation airport near Chamblee that serves private and corporate flights; convenient for small-plane access and some regional services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Chamblee is home to a substantial and diverse immigrant population, including Korean, Hispanic/Latino, Indian and Southeast Asian communities that shape the local economy and food scene.
Many residential neighborhoods are family-oriented with schools, parks and community services catering to households with children.
Recent development and proximity to Atlanta attract young professionals seeking more affordable housing with convenient transit access.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
College and NFL football are very popular; game days draw fans to watch parties and local sports bars. High school football is also a community focus.
Local parks host youth and adult leagues; spring and summer are prime seasons for community games.
Soccer participation is growing among youth and adult recreational leagues, reflecting the area’s diverse communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chamblee.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly available — many Asian restaurants have vegetable-forward dishes, and some Indian restaurants offer extensive vegetarian menus. Always ask staff about broths and sauces that may contain fish or meat products.
Vegan choices exist but can be limited in some traditional Southern places; specialty markets and international restaurants often provide plant-based options and ingredients to prepare meals.
Gluten-free options are available at many restaurants but cross-contamination can occur. Communicate dietary needs clearly and consider Asian or Indian places where rice-based dishes are common.