Best things to do in Alpharetta

A family adventure park, Stone Mountain Park is nestled atop Stone Mountain, a historical spot well known for hosting the largest bas relief sculpture in the world, the Confederate Memorial carving. The park encompasses 1,295 hectares (3,200 acres) of terrain. Overlook active geysers from a tower or navigate trails through suspended treetop paths. Go hiking, fishing, or golfing, or a scenic cable car or train ride. Just don’t forget to pack closed-toe shoes, which are required for some activities.

Formed from two separate streams merging into the twin waterfall, Anna Ruby Falls provides hikers with a quiet respite in the center of a national forest. The falls are accessible via a 0.8 km (0.5 mi) paved trail from the parking lot and features benches along the way. Winding along Smith Creek, the trail gives information on the local environment; you can admire the waters merging into Smith Creek from the viewing point. The Lion's Eye trail is a specially designed route for the visually impaired, providing handrails and braille signs. Head to the visitor center for tickets. A gift shop sells local crafts and paintings next door. Remember to pack good walking shoes, as the paths can be slippery and wet.

The 335 hectare (829 acre) Amicalola Falls State Park means "tumbling water" in Cherokee and aptly describes this park that includes Georgia's highest waterfall--222 m (729 ft) in height. The park also serves as one of the starting points of the 3,500 km (2,175 mi) Appalachian Trail. Stop by the visitor center first to orient yourself, collect maps, and view an Appalachian Trail display. Choose from among four groups of trails, one of which leads up to the top of the waterfall, for treks amidst the mountainous terrain. The park hosts hiking trails, campsites, picnic shelters, lodging, and dining facilities. On site you'll find 25 campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs, and there's a playground for kids.

Open since 1943, Mercier Orchards brings people together with nature in various fruit picking events. The orchard features U-pick opportunities; apple picking is the most popular and the site offers more than 35 different varieties of the fruit. Depending on the season, you can find strawberries, cherries, blueberries, peaches, plums, nectarines, and pumpkins in this countryside haven. The orchard features a bakery and deli store, a fruit market, and a winery.You can buy fresh fruits and fruit pies, ciders, dressings, and sauces, fruit jellies, butters, and preserves on site and taste specialty candies, such as apples dipped in dark or white chocolate fudge, or glazed nuts and brittles. If you're not sure what to choose, try a staff favorite--the apple cinnamon bread.