Best Holiday Season Outings for Couples in Atlanta

Best Holiday Season Outings for Couples in Atlanta
I am making my list and checking it twice. And comparing it to my calendar. Yes, it’s that time of year again. There are always so many fun things to do in the Atlanta area this time of year to make the holiday season magical. So I am trying to figure out which holiday season outings MUST go on our calendar this year.
Having lived in Atlanta for over 30 years there are events that we like to rotate. Then there are always new things popping up that we like to try. I know that many people think that the holiday season is magical for children, but I like to think that it is magical for adults too. Living a childfree lifestyle, we tend to seek out things to do that are fun for couples. Sometimes children are there as well. If it is something that we think will attract a lot of children, then we go during the school week.
You can read about why we chose a childfree lifestyle many years ago here.
Our Favorite Holiday Season Outings on Rotation
Having lived in Atlanta for so many years we have experienced so many of the events that take place every year. That is why we have some that are on rotation. Not that we don’t love experiencing them, it’s just that you only have so many weekends each holiday season. So here are some that we have been going to for years.
Atlanta Symphony
There are always different holiday shows each year at the Woodruff Arts Center. Over the years we have gone to the Holiday Pops, Christmas with the ASO, and shows that feature other famous artists. Something for everyone’s musical tastes.
Alliance Theatre
The Alliance Theatre is the home to A Christmas Carol. A holiday classic not to be missed.
Atlanta Fox Theatre
For years the Fox Theatre was the home to Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker. Now that show has move to the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre so you can find various holiday special shows at the Fox Theatre. Make sure to check their calendar well in advance every year to see what is coming and when to make your plans.
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
The Atlanta Botanical Gardens are lit up with over 2 million lights for this event every year. It is truly spectacular and magical. I always have my fingers crossed for cold weather for this holiday season outings. The tickets are timed so it is best to plan ahead for this evening outing. Many dates sell out. Tickets for this are non-refundable and they do not offer rain check for inclement weather so be prepared.
Other Fun Holiday Outings Around the City
The last few years several venues have added holiday events. Also, many bars and restaurants are doing special pop ups and over the top decorations for the holiday season. Here are several other things that you may want to add to your calendar.
Santa’s Secret Stache at Avalon
This is a new to Avalon this year. Avalon is located in Alpharetta, north of the city. Santa’s Secret Stache is a fantastical pop up at the seasonal ice rink. You will find desserts and holiday themed cocktails at the venue. Make sure you make a reservation. After 7pm no one under the age of 21.
Ice Skating At Avalon or Ponce City Market
Whether you are an avid ice skater or just like to watch. Either venue is a great place to go. Both venues also have great holiday cocktail themed options to enjoy as well.
Restaurants/Bars That Are All Decked Out for the Holidays
There are oh so many great restaurants and bars in the city and in the suburbs. It is hard to decide which ones to include in my list, but here are some that just stand out for one reason or another and they are in different areas of the city.
Mercantile Social, Alpharetta
Ok, this is at the top of my list because I am a HUGE fan of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Yes, Mercantile Social does an AMAZING Grinch pop up this time of year. Themed cocktails and food included.
The Select, Sandy Springs
Located near the Sandy Spring Performing Arts theatre, this restaurant launches their holiday spirit after Thanksgiving. It is known as one of the prettiest restaurants in the city.
Bistro Niko, Buckhead
This well known French restaurant is part of the Buckhead Life Group. It is always decorated in a glamorous style and their food/cocktails never disappoint.
Blind Elf, Buckhead
This is a holly jolly bar where you will find over-the-top decor and lots of great cocktails. After Thanksgiving, they are open 7 days a week for this one of a kind experience. Reservations are strongly recommended and they do require that you purchase a Blind Elf Experience package for the evening. See their website for details and a menu.
North Pole, Colony Square, Midtown
Colony Square has been a part of Midtown for forever. The last few years it has gotten a total facelift and become one of the hottest hangout spots in Atlanta. The pop up bar is a large igloo that overlooks The Grove. Here you can enjoy cocktails under the holiday lights.
THANKS
Thanks so much for stopping by. It never ceases to amaze me at all of the wonderful places that the city of Atlanta has to offer. We have lived here for over 30 years and have seen so much growth and so many changes. Now there are so many great places in the suburb as well as in the city to enjoy the holiday season. I hope that this gave you some great ideas for holiday season outings this year. It’s time to get out the calendar and start planning. Cheers to a fabulous holiday season!
Hugs,
