Things To Do
in East Point

East Point, Georgia is a diverse, welcoming suburb just southwest of downtown Atlanta. It blends a strong sense of community with growing dining options and easy access to the city via MARTA and major highways. The area has a history rooted in rail and industry, which has shaped its neighborhood character and local culture.

Visitors will find convenient transit, parks, and quick access to the broader Atlanta metro scene in a city with a distinctly Southern hospitality vibe.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring southern-style biscuits and gravy. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic streets of East Point, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant murals. Don't forget to visit the East Point Historical Society Museum to learn about the city's rich past.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the nearby East Point Farmers Market, where you can explore local produce and artisan goods. Enjoy a picnic lunch at East Point's City Park, soaking in the sun and the lush greenery. Before leaving, stop by a local art gallery to appreciate the works of local artists.

evening
:

As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at a cozy restaurant known for its classic Southern cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the park, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sounds of nature. Conclude your day with a visit to a local jazz club, where you can unwind to the smooth sounds of live music.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast, then head to nearby Lakewood Park for a day of sun and sand. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters while enjoying the morning sun. If you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife, including colorful birds and playful squirrels.

afternoon
:

After a morning of water fun, grab a light lunch at a nearby beachside café, where fresh seafood is the highlight. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun with a good book or engaging in a game of beach volleyball with new friends. As the heat of the day settles in, consider taking a refreshing dip in the lake.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy a beachfront sunset, where the colors of the sky reflect beautifully on the water. Dine at a seaside restaurant known for its sunset views and fresh local dishes. Wrap up the evening with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories with fellow beachgoers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee or latte$3-5
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3-4
🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center)$1,200-1,800
🏥Doctor’s visit (outpatient)$100-200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to downtown Atlanta and ATL airport
  • Diverse dining and cultural scenes
  • Relatively affordable compared to downtown Atlanta
  • MARTA access for easy city travel
  • Limited nightlife in East Point itself
  • Some areas may have higher traffic during peak hours
  • Smaller local attractions compared to central Atlanta
  • Dependence on car or transit to access broader metro hotspots

Places to Visit in East Point

Visit one of these nice places.

Jackson Street Bridge – skyline view

Iconic vantage of downtown Atlanta’s skyline, best captured at sunrise or sunset from the bridge area.

Ponce City Market rooftop

Wide-angle cityscape and historic warehouse architecture with dynamic angles and perspective.

Castleberry Hill murals

Colorful street art and urban textures in downtown Atlanta’s Castleberry Hill Arts District.

Chattahoochee River outlooks

Riverside vistas and treeline scenery along the Chattahoochee, accessible from several trailheads in the metro area.

Culinary Guide

Food in East Point

The local cuisine around East Point reflects classic Southern flavors with modern twists, plus strong influences from Atlanta’s diverse dining scene. Expect hearty comfort foods, smoked meats, fresh seafood, and plenty of seasonal produce at neighborhood eateries and markets.

East Point Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fried Chicken

Crispy, seasoned fried chicken served with collards, mac and cheese, or cornbread; a staple at many Southern diners.

Must-Try!

Shrimp and Grits

Creamy, buttery grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a savory sauce—popular at Southern eateries in the metro.

Barbecue (Pulled Pork or Ribs)

Slow-smoked barbecue with tangy or sweet sauces; look for local BBQ joints in East Point and nearby Atlanta neighborhoods.

Collard Greens

Slow-cooked greens often flavored with ham hock or smoked meat for depth of flavor.

Peach Cobbler

A warm, fruit-forward dessert featuring Georgia peaches and flaky crust or topping.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

East Point Farmers Market (seasonal)

Seasonal market featuring local produce, baked goods, and crafts; check city pages for schedules.

Atlanta-area markets

Nearby markets offer fresh produce, seafood, ready-to-eat street food, and artisanal treats along major corridors.

Climate Guide

Weather

East Point experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild, comfortable winters. Spring and fall are typically pleasant, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Polite greetings such as Hello or How are you; use Mr./Ms. if appropriate; casual first-name exchanges are common once familiarity is established.

Southern hospitality

Friendly conversation and small talk are valued; please and thank you go a long way.

Queue etiquette

Stand in line and wait your turn; cutting in line is discourteous.

Tipping and politeness

Tipping is expected; maintain a respectful and friendly demeanor in public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of surrounding activity in crowded or late-night areas; use well-lit routes and trusted transit options; keep valuables secure and be mindful of traffic when walking or crossing streets.

Tipping in East Point

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the US, tips typically range 15-20% for table service; round up at bars; tip for delivery and rideshares as appropriate.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is common; mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and plan indoor or shaded activities during peak heat.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures with mild humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration and city photography.

Winter

Mild to cool days with occasional cold snaps; layer clothing and be prepared for rain.

Spring

Warm, with blooming trees and higher pollen levels; great for outdoor markets and parks.

Nightlife Guide

East Point at Night

The nightlife scene in East Point is neighborhood-focused, with casual bars, breweries, and lounges. For a broader range of options, downtown Atlanta and nearby neighborhoods offer live music venues, rooftop bars, and late-night clubs with a wider variety of vibes and performances.

Hiking in East Point

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area trails

Extensive trail network along the river with river views and easy-to-moderate hikes.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

Scenic trails with panoramic views and historical sites in nearby Kennesaw.

Arabia Mountain Trail

Nature preserve with boardwalks and easy-to-moderate hiking near Lithonia.

Airports

How to reach East Point by plane.

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

Major international hub about 15-25 minutes from East Point by car; public transit and ride services connect the city efficiently.

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK)

Small regional airport located in Chamblee, about 25-40 minutes away by road; serves private and some commercial flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

East Point offers walkable corridors in some neighborhoods, particularly along Main Street and near transit stops, but overall walkability is variable. Most travelers will rely on cars or MARTA for longer trips.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

African American community

A large and vibrant core of East Point and surrounding areas.

White and multiracial residents

Growing presence of diverse communities and families.

Hispanic and Asian communities

Increasing representation in residential and business sectors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A popular indoor sport; local leagues and pro teams (Atlanta Hawks) are part of the city’s sports culture.

Football and soccer

American football and soccer are enjoyed by many; major leagues and college programs contribute to a vibrant sports scene.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy on major corridors like I-85 and I-285 during weekday rush hours; MARTA rail and bus services offer alternatives for city travel; weekends may be busy around events in downtown Atlanta.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting East Point.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist at many Southern restaurants; look for veggie plates, salads, beans, greens, corn, and fruit-based desserts; ask for meatless versions of local dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are accessible in the Atlanta metro area, including major hospitals such as Grady Memorial Hospital and Wellstar facilities; urgent care centers and clinics are widely available in East Point and nearby cities.

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