Stone Mountain is home to Stone Mountain Village and Georgia’s number one tourist attraction, Stone Mountain Park. The Village is a collection of shops, restaurants, and businesses right outside of the park gates.
Some of my favorite places in the Village are The Vibrary, Cherokee Rose, and Stillwell’s Emporium. The Vibrary is a minority and woman owned wine and book bar offering a selection of organic and small/family-owned wines as well as a variety of books for purchase. Cherokee Rose is a fantastic restaurant with a fully stocked bar. The best way to describe it is elevated Southern cuisine. They have a smoked and fried chicken entrée that is #chefskiss! Everything you need to cleanse energy and usher in good vibes can be found at Stillwell’s.
Stone Mountain is the largest piece of exposed granite in the world. The summit can be reached by hiking up the west side of the mountain or riding the aerial tram. Stone Mountain Park has a plethora of activities to choose from - recreational water sports, hiking trails, train rides, boating, golf, a laser show, and seasonal activities and events. Water sport equipment can be rented seasonally. For absolutely breathtaking views of the state and the Atlanta skyline, hike the 1-mile trail to the top of the mountain.
Hidden Gem
Smoke Rise, incorporated in 2016, is an upscale, tightknit community in Stone Mountain. It’s home to highly rated Smoke Rise Elementary School, Smoke Rise Country Club, and Smoke Rise Crossing Park. Smoke Rise Crossing Park is serene and scenic with several trails to choose from. Smoke Rise Country Club offers: an expansive fitness center; a junior Olympic-size swimming pool; eight world-class, lighted tennis courts; as well as an acclaimed 18-hole golf course, designed by Gary Roger Baird, renowned for its picturesque landscape and challenging layout.
