Top Fall Activities in Atlanta

During the fall season Atlanta provides sunny skies, a break from the humidity, and a crisp chill in the air. Emory students–and Atlantans alike–love to partake in outdoor activities when the heat of the summer has passed. 

Whether you want to spend a Saturday afternoon with friends or you’re in the mood for a quick study break, Atlanta offers many opportunities to enjoy the city without setting reservations or buying tickets. In this blog, we’ll review top fall activities you don’t want to miss in Atlanta. 

Celebrate Atlanta Pride

In addition to June’s festivities, Atlanta celebrates Pride in the month of October, culminating in the Atlanta Pride Festival October 14th and 15th. Emory University is proud to be represented in the Atlanta Pride Parade by the Office of LGBT Life and Emory students, faculty, and staff. Participate in the fun and show your support by attending the festival, marching with Emory, and supporting LGBTQ+ businesses.

Check out the Historic Oakland Cemetery

Historic Oakland Cemetery is where you can step back in time to learn about many of the city’s most noted citizens. Spanning nearly 50 acres, you can explore its gardens, sculptures, architecture, ancient oaks and magnolias. And, as a public park, the cemetery is open and free to the public. 

To get the true historic Oakland Cemetery experience, however, you have to attend a Capturing the Spirit of Oakland tour. These tours bring the stories of the cemetery’s residents to life and provide a one-of-a-kind experience.

Visit the North Georgia Mountains

The North Georgia Mountains boast some of the best hiking in the southeast – including the start of the Appalachian trail! Whether it’s hiking Arabia Mountain to see the yellow daisies (local flora that only grows within a 60 mile radius of the mountain!) or joining one of the Emory Wellness and Recreation day hikes, going for a hike during the fall promises spectacular views and refreshing weather.

While in North Georgia, you can also visit “Apple Orchard Alley” – a stretch of Highway 52 near Ellijay that is named because of it’s many public apple orchards. Hillcrest Orchards, for example, offers apple picking, tractor tours, a petting farm, and more.

Can’t make it up to the North Georgia mountains? Emory students can enjoy the fall right on campus. Lullwater Preserve offers some of Atlanta’s most beautiful in-town trails, right on Emory’s Atlanta campus. For Oxford College students, the Oxford Trail, which runs alongside the campus, is a great chance for a bike ride or an invigorating walk in the woods. 

And, of course, tour Emory University

There is nothing like the Emory campus in the fall. Schedule a tour at our Atlanta or Oxford campus to take in the magic and see why it’s so great to be an Emory Eagle. If you do come visit, be sure to check out the top 10 most iconic spots on our Atlanta campus.