From museums and the performing arts to beloved seasonal events and one-of-a-kind culinary experiences, Brookhaven, Georgia, offers memorable experiences that are sure spark repeat visits to this small town packing a big punch
BROOKHAVEN, GEORGIA—AUGUST 2023—From museums to the performing arts to an international food scene, there’s certainly no shortage of culture in Brookhaven, located 19 miles northeast of Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and just 10 miles from downtown Atlanta. The destination’s community-focused vibe enchants visitors and locals alike while its distinct neighborhoods offer all the perks and benefits of a big city. Visitors will find the area’s authentic charm interwoven throughout walkable neighborhoods, well preserved parks, outstanding locally owned restaurants, one-of-a-kind shops and lodging. Here are a few of Brookhaven’s not-to-miss cultural experiences.
Start your cultural adventure by taking in a performance at the Conant Performing Arts Center at Oglethorpe University. Located on the historic campus of Oglethorpe University, the Conant Performing Arts Center has hosted student productions and local performance companies for over 20 years. From the award-winning Alliance Theatre and the Georgia Ensemble Theatre Company to the Capitol City Opera Company, students and professionals alike have found inspiration and success within the vibrant walls of Conant. For more information on performances, click here. Conant Performing Arts Center, 4484 Peachtree Road Northeast, Atlanta, Georgia 30319; 404-364-8467
Next up, spend the afternoon perusing the art exhibits at Oglethorpe University’s Museum of Art. The only small liberal arts university museum in the Southeast that regularly shows nationally and internationally recognized exhibitions, Oglethorpe University is indeed a rare jewel. Visitors to the museum will also enjoy exploring the beautiful campus grounds. The museum is open noon-5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Mondays. Admission is free. Oglethorpe University Museum of Art, 4484 Peachtree Road Northeast, Atlanta, Georgia 30319; 404-261-1441
Get ready for glitz, glam and a simply outrageous time with a show at Lips Atlanta! Ideal for birthdays, bachelorettes or a fun night out, Lips Atlanta is the ultimate spot for drag dining. Featuring shows such as “Twisted Broadway!,” “The Divas!,” “Glitz and Glam” and a “Dragalicious Brunch,” there’s no doubt audience members will be entertained. Performances are Wednesday through Sunday with dinner and show menus available. Advance reservations are highly recommended. Lips Atlanta, 3011 Buford Highway Northeast, Atlanta, Georgia 30329; 404-315-7711
Take in a flick like never before at LOOK Cinemas! This dine-in cinema offers uninterrupted movies, great food and cocktails in an immersive environment. Nosh on a charcuterie board, sushi or a deluxe dessert shake piled high with treats while enjoying a movie. For the full experience, place your order ahead a of time at the kiosks and have your food and beverages delivered right to your seat. LOOK Cinemas, 1004 Town Boulevard, Brookhaven, Georgia, 30319; 470-805-3962
Feeling adventurous? Try out your escape skills at Time to Escape. This multi-layered escape room will provide the most realistic escape room experience in Atlanta. All escape rooms are complete with the look, feel and sound of the era you will be transported to for your mission. From immersive room designs and in-game character roleplay to in-room actors and unexpected reveals, it’s sure to be a memorable experience for years to come. Time To Escape, 1441 Dresden Drive, Brookhaven, Georgia, 30319; 678-705-4320
Not to miss annual events
Another thing that makes Brookhaven special is the beloved annual events. Don’t miss Taste Brookhaven in September, it’s the perfect way to welcome fall and explore the area’s culinary scene in a fun way. Happening September 21st at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta Perimeter, this community festival features local bites, craft cocktails, beer and wine tastings from more than 15 local restaurants and live music. This event showcases the heart of the Brookhaven community and supports a local charity.
For a true international experience, don’t miss the Brookhaven International Festival October 21-22. This robust event happening along the Buford Highway Cultural Corridor will feature a variety of live cultural performances and music, international cuisine, an art walk, interactive art creation, a Kidz Zone, vendors and so much more. Lace up your shoes and gather your crew to participate in the festival’s 5K walk/run on the 22nd. This two-day event truly has something for the whole family.
Visiting during the holidays? Kickstart the season with a fun filled event packed with festive cheer! Mark your calendar for Light Up Brookhaven, 6-9 p.m., December 6. This family friendly event is the holiday happening locals and visitors look forward to year after year. Featuring holiday-themed food, music, entertainment and the arrival of Santa, this annual event is sure to make all merry and bright!
Explore culinary delights
With each Brookhaven neighborhood offering its own unique dining options, visitors to Brookhaven can explore nearly every corner of the globe by tasting their way through the area’s 75+ locally owned restaurants. Here is just a taste of what Brookhaven’s neighborhoods have to offer.
Sip and savor at Haven Restaurant and Bar. This upscale neighborhood eatery opened over 15 years ago and is often referred to as a centerpiece of the community. Its lush patio, wrought iron accents and twinkling fairy lights take al fresco dining in the city to a whole new level. Known for their themed Patio Parties happening throughout the year, diners will appreciate the fresh American cuisine with seasonal menus that inspire patrons to return time and again. Haven Restaurant and Bar, 1441 Dresden Drive Suite 1, Brookhaven, Georgia 30319; 404-969-0700
Havana Sandwich Shop will transport diners straight to Cuba with delicious Cuban sandwiches that are sure to have you coming back for more! This family-owned operation has been serving authentic Cuban fare to the Atlanta area for more than 40 years. Havana Sandwich Shop, 2905 Buford Hwy NE, Brookhaven, Georgia 30329; 404-636-4094
Brookhaven Farmer’s Market is another noteworthy stop. This popular market serves as a go-to spot for anyone seeking fresh finds from local farmers. Many Brookhaven restaurants also turn to the Brookhaven Farmer’s Market to stock their kitchens with fresh, locally produced food and items for an ultimate farm-to-table experience. Operating Saturdays in April through November, Brookhaven Farmers Market features over 50 vendors offering everything from fresh produce, dairy and packaged foods to bath and body products, pet food and treats, as well as items from artists and crafters. Brookhaven Farmers Market, 1375 Fernwood Circle NE, Brookhaven, Georgia 30319
For more on Brookhaven’s diverse and vibrant culinary scene, click here.
If you go
From traditional hotels and extended stay properties to family/pet-friendly and luxury accommodations, Brookhaven has a variety of options to suit your needs, all of which offer easy access to Atlanta and the metro area. DoubleTree by Hilton Atlanta Perimeter Dunwoody is a favorite among families and those traveling with pets. Offering a complimentary shuttle within a five-mile radius, an onsite restaurant and a heated outdoor pool, this property is sure to become your favorite, too. DoubleTree by Hilton Atlanta Perimeter Dunwoody, 4386 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Brookhaven, Georgia 30341; 770-457-6363
Exuding Brookhaven’s charm, Hyatt Regency Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina is a lavish urban hotel offering a luxurious experience. Nestled into Perimeter Summit, this property offers spacious, suite-inspired guestrooms, a rooftop pool and gym. Convenient to Brookhaven’s neighborhoods, shopping and dining, this pet-friendly property is also close to big city area attractions. Hyatt Regency Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina, 4000 Summit Boulevard, Brookhaven, Georgia 30319; 678-539-1234
For more of Brookhaven’s lodging options, click here.