15 Best Things to Do in Sandy Springs (GA)

Sandy Springs is a city nestled in the state of Georgia that lies to the north of Atlanta.

Due to its location Sandy Springs is also part of the Atlanta Metropolitan area and so for visitors to Atlanta, Sandy Springs offers the perfect getaway for those who want to get out of the big city and explore something a little smaller.

With a population of just over 100,000 inhabitants, Sandy Springs is also home to a wealth of beautiful landscapes and parks, so if you want to witness some greenery then this is definitely the place to come.

Not only that, but Sandy Springs is also located on the Chattahoochee River, so those who love water sports will have plenty to occupy them.

All in all, Sandy Springs has heritage sights, outdoor pursuits, and fine dining and shopping options all within easy access of Atlanta for those looking for a day trip or a few days of relaxed exploration.

These are the best things to do in Sandy Springs:

1. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum

The Heritage Sandy Springs Museum is dedicated to telling the story of Sandy Springs to interested guests and has been running since the 1980s.

The museum is based in the historical Williams-Payne House that was built in the 1860s and has a full time exhibit that chronicles the history of the land and people of the Sandy Springs region.

Alongside the permanent exhibit there are also rotating galleries that feature period artifacts from the museum’s collection as well as items from neighboring areas.

The exhibitions held at the Heritage Museum are packed full of interesting information about the Civil War period and its significance in Sandy Springs, as well as offering a glimpse at how life has changed in the area from the past up until the present day.

Definitely this is the place to come for visitors who love history and want to know more about how life would have been in rural Georgia in the days of old.

2. Anne Frank in the World Exhibit

The Anne Frank in the World Exhibit is run by the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust and is situated near to the Sandy Springs Welcome Center.

This moving exhibition is made up of a collection of 600 photographs and narrative pieces that depict the story of Anne Frank.

The exhibit has a mission to preserve Anne Frank’s powerful message of hope and also to discuss and reflect upon this period in history.

As well as providing a historical perspective on the Holocaust, the Anne Frank in the World Exhibit aims to develop dialogue within the local community on issues such as morality and social responsibility.

3. John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve

Just 4 miles to the north of Sandy Springs lies the John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve, a plant and wildlife sanctuary that spans an impressive 30 acres.

The preserve came about as a result of the work of the conservationist John Ripley Forbes from whom the area takes its name and stands in order to preserve areas of urban forestlands that are at risk.

The preserve is open every day from sunrise to sunset and offers a dynamic and engaging look at conservation in the Sandy Springs area and nature lovers are sure to enjoy the chance to explore the local flora and fauna on display.

4. Abernathy Greenway Playable Art Park

A great hit in the Sandy Springs area, especially if you are traveling with little ones, the Abernathy Greenway Playable Art Park is an award winning park with a love of all things art related.

The park was created in 2001 with the goal of inspiring budding young artists, and is built along the same lines as a traditional playground but with art pieces for youngsters to play on and with.

These come in the form of moveable sculptures that encourage imaginative play and are also visually appealing for adults who may want to indulge in an art walk around the area to take in the pieces in the park.

5. The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Come to the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area for gorgeous clear views over the Chattahoochee River, a gem in Georgia’s crown that stretches for an amazing 48 miles.

Located in Sandy Springs, the National Recreation Area was opened in the 1970s and is still going strong to this day thanks to the array of activities on offer here, and visitors can easily spend a full day taking in the sights and sounds.

If time is an issue then the area can be visited in just a few hours and is perfect for those looking for a relaxing stroll amidst stunning local scenery.

Should guests have more time, and a lot of energy, then boating, kayaking, and fishing on the river are all great ways to spend a morning and afternoon here.

There are also picnic areas dotted around that make it the perfect place to stop for a spot of lunch.

6. Nantahala Outdoor Center

For those who want to get out on the water the Nantahala Outdoor Center is the perfect place to get started and there are two locations to choose from, both of which are located on the Chattahoochee River.

Activities are available to both younger and older visitors and start for children aged 5 years and above so that the whole family can join in.

Some of these include water sports such as kayaking or, if you don’t mind getting wet, tubing down the rapids of the river.

For even more of an adrenaline ride then rafting is available or visitors can even try their hand at stand up paddle boarding if they want to do something a little different.

Whatever guests choose, all activities come with gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape.

7. Center Ice Arena

For something fun that also involves a bit of a workout, come to the Center Ice Arena in Sandy Springs where visitors can take to the ice and spend a morning or afternoon skating away.

If skating sounds a bit tame then there are also games available like ice hockey and curling and the arena can also be booked for private events.

You can even hire instructors to teach you how to ice skate if you are a complete beginner and in need of a little coaching. Perfect if you want to wrap up warm and enjoy some indoor exercise.

8. Lefont Theatre

For no ordinary day at the movies come to the Lefont Theatre, a movie theatre that first opened its doors in 1976 and has been entertaining residents and visitors to Sandy Springs ever since.

The theatre shows all the latest releases as well as being dedicated to hosting movie evenings that showcase classic films for the enjoyment of patrons young and old.

Classic films are chosen and screened by the Lefont Film Society and include foreign, independent, and art house films.

9. Lost Corner Preserve

For those who want to explore off the beaten track, look no further than the Lost Corner Preserve which features a former farmhouse that was built in the 1800s.

The Lost Corner Preserve is part of 24 acres of stunning forestland and it has the dual qualities of appealing to those who love both history and nature.

The property used to be a fully working farm in the days of old and the area was also inhabited by Native Americans.

The park that surrounds the property not only features the restored farmhouse, but also has secluded nature trails and spectacular gardens for guests to enjoy.

10. The Sandy Springs Farmers Market

Should visitors happen to be in Sandy Springs from the springtime until October then they can visit the local Farmers Market which is open every Saturday morning.

The market showcases the best of Sandy Springs’ local produce so expect eggs fresh from the farm as well as home cooked food, all made with ingredients from the area.

Aside from the food and drink there are also fun activities like musical performances and activities for younger visitors like games and face painting.

11. Morgan Falls Overlook Park

Locals flock to Morgan Falls Overlook Park for the famous sunsets over the water.

The park is located riverside and spans 30 acres in the Sandy Springs area and there are a wealth of activities and amenities on offer here from a children’s playground to porch swings.

Due to its location on the water there is a boat dock here and boating and fishing are popular pursuits in the park.

There are also light hiking trails around the park and pavilions for those who fancy a picnic at the end of a day of exercise. There are even fire pits if you want to set up your own barbecue.

12. Roswell Road

Roswell Road in Sandy Springs is known for its high concentration of delicious food and beverage outlets, so for those who are looking for the finest dining in town then look no further.

The beauty of Roswell Road is that patrons will find cute cafes serving pancakes for breakfast, as well as chic bars for after hour’s drinks, with Italian family bistros thrown in if you fancy a spot of lunch or dinner.

Mexican and Italian cuisines are both highly celebrated in Sandy Springs, but guests to Roswell Road will also find cozy coffee shops as well as a range of international restaurants serving Thai and Indian dishes.

13. Hammond Park

Hammond Park is the place to come for visitors who are interested in sports of all kinds as the park has these in spades.

Aside from the tennis courts and basketball courts in Hammond Park there are is also a gymnastics hall where budding gymnasts can try out their moves or for those who want some lighter recreation, there are trails that run all over the park and are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

14. Steve’s Live Music

Known on the music scene in Sandy Springs, Steve’s Live Music started out in 2012 and has been going strong ever since with a mission to entertain residents and visitors to the region.

This listening room can accommodate up to 95 spectators at one time and promotes songwriters and influencers on the local music scene, showcasing natural talent from the Sandy Springs area.

Food and drinks are also served on site in order for patrons to further enjoy the shows and there are also rotating acts from other areas that perform alongside local talent.

15. Ridgeview Park

Ridgeview Park in Sandy Springs is known for its hiking trails and playground but the main reason that people come here is for the quaint and ornate pavilions that dot the area.

The green pavilions are perfect for those who want to explore the area on foot and take in all the Sandy Springs flora and fauna before using on the of the pavilions for a lunchtime spread or light picnic.

The pavilions are free for all visitors to use and can be reserved in advance should visitors want to book them for a special event.