Geo-caching, disc golf, dirt biking and more beckon visitors to Alpharetta
Soak up every minute of summer in Alpharetta, located off Georgia 400 the State’s “Hospitality Highway,” just north of Atlanta, where warmer temps call visitors outdoors for unforgettable experiences like geo-caching, dirt-biking, horseback riding and disc golf. A premier outdoor concert venue, a triathlon just for tykes and a 5K paired with a craft beer festival top off the summer bucket list in Alpharetta.
Get the adventure started on Alpharetta’s Big Creek Greenway, a safe, paved pathway ideal for getting active while walking, running, biking or inline-skating through the more than eight miles of trail. Nature’s friends and the gorgeous woodlands highlight the excursion. The trail is equipped with many access points starting at the YMCA at Preston Ridge, or North Point Parkways, Haynes Bridge Road, Kimball Bridge Road and Marconi Drive. Hungry for more? Alpharetta offers 12 other trails to explore.
Alpharetta’s three arboretums at Cogburn Road Park, Webb Bridge Park and Wills Park are living museums of trees that can be used for education, research and enjoyment. Follow the complimentary, downloadable brochures for each arboretum, available at www.AwesomeAlpharetta.com, and turn nature into an outdoor classroom. Interested in a garden tour? Call 678-575-7643 for a tour schedule.
Gather a group for a round of disc golf at Alpharetta’s Wills Park. The renovated, tournament-ready course engages both novices and experienced players, with challenging holes, new tee positions, concrete tee pads and all new baskets. Explore the first home course of World Champs Cam Todd and Brad Hammock.
Horse around and plan a day at one of the city’s six equestrian facilities. Each location offers different and exciting experiences. Start the day by spectating and cheering on the pros at Chukkar Farm as they showcase their skills during a polo match. Be inspired to take a personal riding lesson at one of these equestrian farms. Other activities offered at area stables include private parties, summer camps, horse shows and rodeos.
Take it to two wheels with one of the many courses offered at Alpharetta’s Motorcycle Safety Foundation located at 1450 Morrison Parkway. Get your thrill seeker on with their Dirt N’the Skirt Course or the Intermediate Trails Course. Learn all about dirt biking at the Basic Dirtbike School. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation also offers ATV Safety Institute: ATV RiderCourse; and Street Bike Training: Basic Rider Course.
Continue the adventure with artistic pursuits. Stroll through Cashin’s Sculpture Garden where 21 sculptures, information kiosk, benches and rest areas–all set against the beauty of nature–provide an outdoor museum experience.
Alpharetta’s Topgolf is the ultimate golf entertainment complex where the competition of sport meets your favorite local hangout spot. Challenge the family to addictive point-scoring golf games that anyone from the hopeful pro golfer to a 7-year-old can play year-round. TIP: Don’t miss the extensive menu of bites and brews available here.
Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park welcomes visitors for unforgettable music experiences. Credit: Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Celebrate the season in style with a concert at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park, Alpharetta’s premier outdoor concert venue offering 12,000 seats in a state-of-the-art setting. Catch performances by big names like the Dixie Chicks, Keith Urban, Van Morrison and Bryan Adams.
Plan to visit during one of the city’s Don’t Miss Events, like Brew Moon Countryfest, June 4, when the downtown area comes alive with great food and beverages for purchase. Bring your own chairs or there are tables available for purchase.
The Old Soliders Day Race and Parade takes place August 6. This Parade began years ago as tribute to veterans of war. Experience a slice of pure Americana complete with free hot dogs, soft drinks and children’s activities at the parade finish.
Also in August, the Mayor’s Corporate Challenge 5K Run and Block Party celebrates 20 years in 2016. The race will start and finish in front of the newly-constructed City Hall. Afterwards, join in the fun and experience Alpharetta’s walkable downtown and the very popular Food Truck Alley & Live Music sponsored by the City of Alpharetta.
IronKids Alpharetta takes place September 18. The largest youth triathlon in the country will take place in Alpharetta. IronKids Alpharetta allows children ages 6 to 15 an opportunity to test their strength with a swim, bike and run competition.
At the end of the day, rest easy in the comfort of one of Alpharetta’s 23 upscale and modern, yet affordable, hotels–many of which offer special packages for additional savings. This summer, make Alpharetta home base when it comes to outdoor adventure.
Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau, www.AwesomeAlpharetta.com, 678-297-2811.
