Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour

Our review of the Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour offers a detailed look at this engaging experience designed for those curious about Atlanta’s culinary scene and its history. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the consistent praise from previous travelers suggests it’s a well-rounded, tasty exploration of the city’s past and present.

What makes this tour stand out is the perfect blend of food and history—you’ll walk through Victorian Grant Park and Oakland Cemetery, learning about Atlanta’s founding and its journey from a sleepy railroad town to a bustling metropolis. Plus, the tour includes three locally owned restaurants, offering a variety of Southern flavors, from shrimp and grits to pastries from a James Beard-nominated bakery. It’s a tour that bridges the past and future, making it both educational and mouthwateringly delicious.

A small drawback? The tour involves a 1.2-mile walk and is primarily designed for those comfortable on their feet. Also, if you’ve got a big appetite, be prepared for a hearty lunch—this isn’t just a tasting, but enough to count as a meal. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy combining culinary delights with cultural insights, especially those keen on exploring Atlanta’s historic sites with a flavorful twist.

Key Points

• Balanced experience of food and history in Atlanta’s Grant Park and Oakland Cemetery
• Includes a hearty lunch from three local restaurants, making it a great value
• Knowledgeable guides bring Atlanta’s past to life with engaging storytelling
• Accessible and flexible with options for weather and mobility considerations
• Supports local and preservation efforts, with part of proceeds benefiting Oakland Foundation
• Perfect for food lovers and history buffs looking for an authentic Atlanta experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour

What to Expect and Why it Matters

This 2.5-hour tour does a fine job of covering Atlanta’s early days and its evolving culinary scene. You start at the meeting point in front of Six Feet Under—an iconic restaurant and bar—before heading into the historic Oakland Cemetery and through Grant Park. Expect to walk approximately 1.2 miles, mostly on flat terrain, which makes it suitable for most visitors in decent health. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, allowing your guide to answer questions and share stories in a lively manner.

The Historic Oakland Cemetery

Your journey begins with a guided walk through Oakland Cemetery, Atlanta’s oldest public cemetery, filled with Victorian-era monuments and notable figures from the city’s past. The guide shares stories about the individuals buried there, revealing Atlanta’s growth from a modest railroad hub into the state capital. The cemetery itself is a visual delight, with towering tombstones, elegant mausoleums, and trees that provide shade and a contemplative atmosphere.

Previous travelers appreciate the background on the city’s name changes and the way the guide makes history accessible and engaging. One reviewer notes, “Great food and drink selection! I really enjoyed learning about the history of Atlanta and getting to sample local cuisine!” This indicates that the storytelling complements the food tasting, making the experience both educational and sensory.

Enjoying the Food Tastings

After the cemetery walk, you’ll visit three popular Grant Park restaurants and food shops, sampling eight modern Southern and Southern fusion dishes. Highlights include shrimp and grits at a seafood favorite and pastries from a James Beard-nominated bakery—a culinary treat that showcases Atlanta’s innovative takes on Southern classics.

The tastings are generous enough to serve as a full lunch, so come hungry. If you find yourself too full to finish, the tour thoughtfully provides to-go desserts. This flexibility is appreciated, especially considering how flavorful and filling the dishes are.

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The Impact of Food on Atlanta’s Identity

Beyond just eating, the guide discusses how food has shaped Atlanta’s culture and development, helping travelers understand the city’s identity. The tour emphasizes local, independently owned establishments, making it a more authentic experience than typical tourist fare. The backdrop of Atlanta’s transformation—its culinary evolution in tandem with its historical growth—adds depth to each tasting.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Reviews emphasize the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guide, who makes the tour lively and informative. One reviewer raved, “The guide’s background and passion made the history come alive, and the food was fantastic.” The combination of storytelling and culinary delights creates a memorable experience, especially for those who appreciate local, well-prepared food and insightful commentary.

Practical Details and Value

Tickets cost $95 per person, which includes eight tastings enough for lunch and a donation supporting Oakland Foundation. Considering the private food experiences and the historical context, this price represents solid value for a multi-sensory half-day adventure. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress in weather-appropriate clothing and wear comfortable shoes.

Parking can be a consideration. It’s recommended to park on the street or at a secondary lot at 408 Woodward Ave, as the parking lot behind Six Feet Under might tow long-term parkers. The tour does not include hotel pickup, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies and history buffs who enjoy tasting local cuisine while learning about a city’s roots. It suits small groups, making it a cozy setting for conversation and questions. If you’re interested in supporting local businesses and preservation efforts, the donation component adds a feel-good element.

It’s particularly good for travelers who want a meaningful, authentic insight into Atlanta’s culture without a lot of walking or complex logistics. Family-friendly? Yes, but keep in mind the tour involves a fair amount of walking and some standing.

Final Thoughts

The Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour offers a delightful way to combine history, culture, and cuisine into one compact package. It’s a smart choice for those wanting to explore Atlanta beyond the usual tourist spots, focusing instead on local stories and flavors. The knowledgeable guides, flavorful tastings, and scenic walk make it both enjoyable and informative.

While the tour’s price might seem steep for just 2.5 hours, the quality of the food and the depth of storytelling add to its value. It’s an excellent way to spend part of a day, especially if you’re passionate about food and history or simply want to sample Atlanta’s authentic side.

In all, this tour stands out as a well-rounded, authentic experience—ideal for curious travelers eager to taste, see, and learn all at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves a 1.2-mile walk on mostly flat terrain. It’s generally accessible, but those with mobility concerns should consider their comfort with walking.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, the tour runs regardless of weather, so dress accordingly and bring rain gear if needed.

Are the food tastings enough for lunch?
Absolutely. The eight tastings from three restaurants are hearty enough to serve as a full meal, but you can bring additional snacks if you’re very hungry.

Can I park nearby?
Yes, it’s best to park on the street or at the secondary lot at 408 Woodward Ave. Avoid the lot behind Six Feet Under, as it has limited spots and may tow.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While suitable for many ages, consider the walking distance and the age of your children. It’s best for those who can comfortably walk and stand for the duration.

Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, reservations are recommended and can be made online. The tour offers flexible options to book now and pay later.

How much of the ticket price goes to local causes?
$5 from each ticket supports the Historic Oakland Foundation, helping preserve and maintain the cemetery.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, and any personal essentials you might need.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour is a small-group experience, providing an intimate setting for stories and tastings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour provides a thoughtful, tasty way to discover the city’s roots and flavors. Perfect for those who love authentic experiences that combine history with a delicious meal, it’s a memorable way to enjoy Atlanta’s unique charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: