Sandy Springs, GA, blends modern sophistication with natural beauty, offering visitors a refreshing alternative to the bustle of downtown Atlanta. This vibrant North Fulton city is known for its upscale shopping destinations, extensive park system, and thriving cultural scene. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventures along the Chattahoochee River or prefer exploring art galleries and trendy restaurants, Sandy Springs delivers a diverse array of must-visit attractions.
Heritage Sandy Springs Museum
Located in the heart of the city center near City Springs, Heritage Sandy Springs Museum celebrates the area’s transformation from a rural community to a thriving suburb. The museum features rotating exhibits that showcase local history, including artifacts from the original sandy spring that gave the city its name. Visitors can explore photographs, documents, and personal stories that trace Sandy Springs’ development over the past two centuries. Admission is free, making it an accessible way to connect with the community’s roots.
City Springs Theatre Company
City Springs Theatre Company anchors the downtown cultural district at the stunning City Springs complex on Galambos Way. This state-of-the-art performing arts venue hosts Broadway-caliber productions, concerts, and comedy shows throughout the year. The 1,070-seat Byers Theatre features exceptional acoustics and sightlines, while the intimate Stage 2 offers a more personal theater experience. The complex also includes a conference center and city hall, creating a true civic heart for Sandy Springs.
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area offers 48 miles of scenic riverfront, with several access points located within Sandy Springs’ boundaries. Visitors flock here for kayaking, fishing, hiking, and picnicking along the peaceful waterway that forms the city’s western edge. The park’s well-maintained trails wind through forests and along riverbanks, providing opportunities to spot wildlife including herons, deer, and river otters. Popular Sandy Springs entry points include Island Ford and Cochran Shoals, both offering parking and easy river access.
Morgan Falls Overlook Park
Morgan Falls Overlook Park sits along the Chattahoochee River in the northwest section of Sandy Springs, providing stunning water views and family-friendly amenities. The park features a fishing pier, covered pavilions, a playground, and an accessible observation deck that overlooks Morgan Falls Dam. A dedicated boat launch makes it a favorite spot for kayakers and paddleboarders looking to explore the river. The park’s mix of open lawns and shaded areas creates an ideal setting for everything from casual picnics to community events.
Abernathy Greenway Park
Abernathy Greenway Park stretches through central Sandy Springs along Abernathy Road, offering a linear green space perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. The paved trail connects neighborhoods and shopping areas, making it both a recreational amenity and a practical transportation corridor. Native plantings and rain gardens line the pathway, demonstrating the city’s commitment to sustainability and stormwater management. Benches and public art installations along the route provide spots to rest and appreciate the urban nature experience.
Big Trees Forest Preserve
Big Trees Forest Preserve protects 30 acres of old-growth forest in Sandy Springs, offering a rare glimpse of what the area looked like before development. The preserve is home to some of the largest trees in the Atlanta metro area, including massive oaks and tulip poplars that tower overhead. Well-maintained trails loop through the forest, providing peaceful hiking opportunities just minutes from busy Roswell Road. The preserve serves as both a nature sanctuary and an outdoor classroom for environmental education programs.
Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center
The Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center, located at 1 Galambos Way, serves as a community cultural hub in the central part of the city. This versatile venue hosts everything from student performances to professional touring acts, comedy shows, and film screenings. The 850-seat theater features professional lighting and sound systems that create an intimate yet polished entertainment experience. Its partnership with City Springs and other arts organizations helps make Sandy Springs a growing destination for performing arts in metro Atlanta.
