Things To Do
in Clarkston

Iconic granite monolith with sweeping views of Atlanta, carved reliefs, and sunrise/sunset compositions; great for landscape and cityscape photography.

Unique granite outcrops, lichen-covered rock surfaces, and quiet trails that offer minimalist, almost otherworldly landscape shots.

Colorful murals, signage and bustling markets provide vibrant street-photography opportunities reflecting the area’s multicultural life.

Food stalls, performances and community gatherings are excellent for candid portraits and cultural documentary-style shots — always ask permission before photographing people.

Spongy teff flatbread served with a variety of spicy stews (wats) — common at local Ethiopian restaurants and community meals.

Must-Try!

A crunchy, tangy salad made with fermented tea leaves — look for family-run Burmese restaurants and markets along the Buford Highway corridor nearby.

Fried pastry pockets filled with spiced meat or vegetables found at East African and South Asian shops; great as snacks from markets or small eateries.

Hearty rice-and-curry plates or grilled meats served in intimate, home-style restaurants — many run by refugee families and often very affordable.

In restaurants, tipping 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is standard for good service. Tip bar staff $1–2 per drink and round up on small services; tipping taxi/ride-share drivers 10–15% is common.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful at small markets and some family-run eateries. Mobile payment apps and contactless payments are common in larger venues. ATMs are available nearby, though small shops may have minimum card purchase amounts.

Hot, humid and often in the upper 80s–90s°F (30s°C); afternoon thunderstorms are common. Dress light, carry water, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings to avoid peak heat.

Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity make outdoor activities ideal; fall foliage is modest compared with northern states but pretty in parks and surrounding hills.

Mild winters with occasional cold snaps; snow is rare but possible. Layers are useful as indoor heating balances cooler mornings and milder afternoons.

Warm, increasingly humid weather with abundant blooms; spring pollen can affect allergy sufferers, and sudden thunderstorms occur.

Several trails range from easy walks to steeper climbs up the rock face; the perimeter trail and summit routes provide excellent city and landscape vistas.

Well-maintained trails across granite outcrops, ponds and pine forests with boardwalk sections and accessible viewpoints — ideal for photography and easy-to-moderate hikes.

A protected granite monadnock with guided hikes, boardwalks and natural habitats; quieter than Stone Mountain and good for a half-day excursion.

Historic park with several miles of trails and viewpoints; a bit farther away (northwest of Atlanta) but worth a day trip for longer hikes and Civil War history.

Primary international airport for the Atlanta region, about 20–30 minutes by car in normal traffic; offers extensive domestic and global connections.

Smaller general aviation and regional airport north of Atlanta (useful for private flights and some charters), roughly 20–30 minutes away depending on traffic.

Vegetarian options are readily available in many Asian and South Asian restaurants (dal, vegetable curries, lentil stews). Be explicit about avoiding meat and ask about broths and sauces when in doubt.

Vegan dishes exist but may require asking staff to omit butter/ghee or fish sauce; markets and vegetarian-friendly restaurants are present but sometimes limited — calling ahead helps.

Rice-based dishes are common and often safe, but many sauces and fried foods use wheat; check with cooks about soy sauce, flour, and cross-contamination.

Because of the large Muslim population, halal meat is available at several shops and eateries; ask directly to confirm preparation methods.