Road Atlanta Map Track
Road Atlanta Map Track
Introduction
Road Atlanta Map Track is a world-renowned destination for motorsports enthusiasts. Located in Braselton, Georgia, the track has hosted numerous events since its opening in 1970. But there’s more to Road Atlanta than just racing. The area offers a wealth of attractions, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the top things to do in and around Road Atlanta, from hidden gems to family-friendly activities, and everything in between.
Top Attractions
Road Atlanta Map Track
The Road Atlanta Map Track is the main attraction in the area. It hosts a variety of racing events throughout the year, including the Petit Le Mans and the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship. Visitors can watch the races from various vantage points around the track, or take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about the history and inner workings of the facility.
Chateau Elan Winery and Resort
Located just a few miles from Road Atlanta, Chateau Elan is a luxurious winery and resort that is worth a visit. The property features a 16th-century-style chateau, a vineyard, a spa, and several restaurants. Wine tastings and tours are available, and the resort also offers golf, tennis, and other activities.
North Georgia Premium Outlets
If you’re looking for some retail therapy, the North Georgia Premium Outlets are just a short drive from Road Atlanta. The outdoor mall features over 140 stores, from high-end brands like Burberry and Michael Kors to more affordable options like Nike and Coach.
Hidden Gems
Mayfield Dairy Farm
A visit to the Mayfield Dairy Farm is a fun and educational experience for all ages. The farm offers tours of its milk processing plant, where visitors can see how milk is bottled and packaged. There’s also a petting zoo, a hayride, and an ice cream parlor that serves up delicious treats.
Piedmont College Arrendale Library
The Piedmont College Arrendale Library is a beautiful and historic building that is worth a visit. The library features stunning architecture, including a stained-glass dome and a spiral staircase. It also has an extensive collection of books and other materials, as well as a coffee shop and study areas.
Fort Yargo State Park
Fort Yargo State Park is a peaceful and scenic destination that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a lake for fishing and boating, several hiking trails, and a disc golf course. There are also camping facilities and picnic areas for those who want to spend more time in the great outdoors.
Food Scene
The food scene in and around Road Atlanta is diverse and delicious. From Southern comfort food to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Some of the top restaurants in the area include:
- The Cotton Calf Kitchen
- Antebellum
- The Colletta
- Coconut Thai Cuisine
- Bluefin Sushi & Thai Grill
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Here are some tips to help you save money during your visit to Road Atlanta:
- Visit during the off-season to take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.
- Look for hotel deals and packages that include tickets to local attractions.
- Eat at local diners and cafes instead of expensive restaurants.
- Take advantage of free activities, like hiking and visiting parks.
- Buy souvenirs at local markets instead of tourist shops.
Outdoor Adventures
The area around Road Atlanta is full of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Some of the top activities include:
- Hiking at Stone Mountain Park
- Canoeing on the Chattahoochee River
- Biking at Harbins Park
- Zip-lining at North Georgia Canopy Tours
- Rock climbing at Yonah Mountain
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? There are plenty of family-friendly activities in and around Road Atlanta. Some of the top options include:
- Visiting the Interactive Neighborhood for Kids
- Exploring the Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Going on a safari at the North Georgia Zoo
- Riding the roller coasters at Six Flags Over Georgia
- Learning about science at the Tellus Science Museum
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique and off the beaten path, consider these options:
- Visiting the Old Sautee Store, a historic country store that has been in operation since 1872.
- Taking a hot air balloon ride over the North Georgia mountains.
- Exploring the abandoned town of Auraria, which was a thriving gold rush town in the 1800s.
- Attending a live performance at the Holly Theater, a historic venue in downtown Dahlonega.
- Going on a ghost tour in one of the area’s haunted towns, like Jefferson or Dahlonega.
Natural Wonders
The area around Road Atlanta is home to some stunning natural wonders. Here are a few to add to your itinerary:
- Amicalola Falls, the highest waterfall in Georgia
- Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia
- Tallulah Gorge, a deep and scenic canyon
- Smithgall Woods State Park, a peaceful forest with hiking trails and fishing spots
- Chattahoochee National Forest, a vast and beautiful wilderness area
Vibrant Nightlife
Looking for some nightlife after a day of exploring? Check out these hotspots:
- 37 Main, a live music venue that hosts local and national acts
- The Georgia Theatre, a historic venue in Athens that features concerts and events
- Ironshield Brewing, a popular brewery in Lawrenceville that offers a variety of beers and live music
- The Globe, a cozy bar in downtown Athens with a great beer selection
- The Velvet Note, a jazz club in Alpharetta that features world-class musicians and delicious cocktails
Local Markets
If you’re a fan of shopping for local goods, there are several markets in the area worth checking out:
- The Braselton Farmers Market, which features fresh produce and handmade crafts
- The Dahlonega Farmers Market, which offers local produce, meats, and artisanal products
- The Buford Highway Farmers Market, which has a wide selection of international foods and ingredients
- The Athens Farmers Market, which features local produce, baked goods, and crafts
- The Suwanee Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music
Beaches and Mountains
Despite being located inland, the area around Road Atlanta offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy both the beach and the mountains. Here are a few destinations to consider:
- Tybee Island, a quaint beach town on the Georgia coast
- St. Simons Island, a charming island with historic landmarks and beautiful beaches
- Blue Ridge Mountains, a scenic mountain range with hiking trails and stunning views
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a vast and beautiful wilderness area that spans Tennessee and North Carolina
Cultural Immersion
If you’re interested in learning more about the local culture and history, here are a few places to visit:
- The Atlanta History Center, which features exhibits and artifacts related to the history of the city and the South
- The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, which includes King’s childhood home, church, and tomb
- The Center for Civil and Human Rights, which explores the history of the civil rights movement and current human rights issues
- The Fox Theatre, a historic venue in downtown Atlanta that hosts concerts, plays, and other events
- The High Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of art from around the world
Art and Music Scene
The area around Road Atlanta is home to a thriving arts and music scene. Here are some places to check out: