Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour

Travelers seeking a taste of Atlanta that combines delectable Southern dishes with a splash of local history will find this tour an engaging way to spend a few hours. The Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour, offered by Unexpected Atlanta Tours & Gifts, earns high praise for its friendly guides, tasty samples, and intriguing stories. It’s a chance to see a side of Atlanta many visitors miss—where culinary delights meet historical landmarks.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to blend food and history seamlessly. You get to sit outside enjoying shrimp and grits with a city skyline view, then walk past grand Victorian homes and into Oakland Cemetery, all while learning about Atlanta’s past. The second aspect that stands out is the genuine hospitality and knowledge of the guides, who enrich each stop with insights that turn a simple tasting into a meaningful lesson.

A possible consideration is the walking involved—it’s about 1.2 miles on flat terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since the tour runs rain or shine, weather could impact your experience, so packing an umbrella is smart. But overall, this tour suits curious travelers who enjoy food, history, and small-group adventures—perfect for first-timers and locals alike.

Key Points

• The tour combines food tastings with historical explorations in Grant Park and Oakland Cemetery.
• It’s designed as a small-group experience, enhancing personal interaction.
• Expect 8-9 different tastes, including Southern specialties and a local cocktail.
• The guides are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling skills.
• It offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and culinary delights.
• The total cost, around $95 per person, provides a solid value for the quality and quantity of experiences.

A Walk Through the Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point at Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House

The tour kicks off outside this well-loved seafood spot, directly across from Oakland Cemetery. Guests meet their guide and settle into outdoor seating, which is perfect for a relaxed start. Here, you’ll dive into your first tastings—shrimp and grits, fried catfish, and okra served with a cucumber wasabi soy sauce. The setting offers a chance to enjoy views of the city skyline and the historic cemetery. Many reviews highlight how these restaurant stops feel more like a sit-down meal than a quick snack; one recent traveler remarked, “The portions were great, and everything was delicious—we were stuffed by the end!”

Victorian Homes and Historic Streets

After the initial tasting, the guide leads a brief walk through Grant Park to showcase its stunning Victorian houses. This segment isn’t about long sightseeing, but enough to give you a sense of Atlanta’s architectural character and its development over time. Expect a 15-minute stroll, during which your guide shares insights into the city’s growth and notable residents. As one visitor noted, “Learning about Atlanta’s early residents while strolling past these grand homes made history come alive.”

Oakland Cemetery Tour

The highlight for many is the 40-minute guided walk through Oakland Cemetery. This historic site isn’t just a somber graveyard—it’s a window into Atlanta’s past, with stories of notable figures and the city’s evolution. Your ticket includes a donation to the Oakland Foundation, emphasizing its preservation. Expect to hear about early Atlanta residents and how food played a role in the city’s growth. Guests often comment on how this part of the tour adds depth: “Our guide’s stories made even the graves feel alive.”

Modern Pizza and Local Distillery

Next, you’ll visit Firepit Pizza Tavern for a contrast—sample a modern pizza, inspired by early Atlantans’ cuisine, alongside a cocktail from a local distillery. Owner Leslie Cohen’s background in competitive cooking adds a fun, personal touch. The 30-minute stop offers a chance to compare old and new culinary traditions. Many reviews highlight the quality of food and drinks here; one guest said, “The cocktails and pizza were fantastic, and it’s a great way to see how Atlanta’s food scene continues to evolve.”

Sweet End at The Little Tart Bakeshop

The tour wraps up with a visit to this James Beard-nominated bakery, where you’ll try two to-go desserts. The bakery’s community involvement and dedication to fair working conditions shine through their offerings. The 15-minute stop provides a sweet finish and a chance to savor thoughtfully prepared baked goods. Multiple reviewers mention how well-sized the portions are: “These desserts felt like a perfect ending—just enough sweet without overdoing it.”

What This Tour Means for Travelers

The price of $95 per person covers not just the tastings but also the guide’s storytelling and the historical context, making it a good deal for anyone interested in authentic Atlanta experiences. The tour’s duration of about 2.5 hours is manageable, offering enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The small group size (maximum of 14 guests) ensures a personal experience, allowing plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

The actual food portions are generous, often enough for lunch, and the variety of tastes showcases the diversity of Atlanta’s culinary scene—from traditional Southern fare to modern twists. What’s particularly appealing is the inclusion of an alcoholic beverage, which adds a layer of local flavor, though non-alcoholic options are available.

The walking component is moderate—just over a mile on flat, easily accessible terrain. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and remember that Atlanta’s sidewalks can sometimes be uneven. Rest stops at each tasting location mean you aren’t on your feet constantly, but a good level of mobility will ensure you enjoy the full tour.

Guides and Reviews: Why We Trust the Experience

Many reviews praise the guides for their passion and knowledge. Joy, Courtney, Leigh, and Krista are singled out for their storytelling abilities, enthusiasm, and ability to make history come alive. One reviewer said, “Courtney’s theatrical twist kept us engaged, and she added just the right amount of interesting history.” This personalized attention elevates the tour from a simple tasting to an educational journey.

Travelers also appreciate the scenic and historic elements, especially the views of the city and the cemetery. The cemetery itself is a highlight, with stories of Atlanta’s early residents and the role of food in shaping the city. Guests repeatedly mention how the experience is both fun and educational, making it suited for a wide range of interests and ages.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable shoes; expect about 1.2 miles of walking.
• Dress for the weather, rain or shine; an umbrella might come in handy.
• Arrive at the meeting point early to settle in and meet your guide.
• Let the tour operator know about any dietary restrictions beforehand.
• Bring a camera—there are plenty of photo-worthy moments.
• The tour is accessible, though some areas at Oakland Cemetery may not be wheelchair friendly.
• Restrooms are available at several points along the route.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Atlanta’s culinary and historic scenes. Foodies will enjoy the diverse tastings, while history buffs will appreciate the stories behind the city’s landmarks. It’s perfect for those who prefer small groups and personalized attention, making it a good fit both for visitors new to Atlanta and locals wanting a fresh perspective.

Families with children aware of the historical context may find it suitable, but younger kids with limited attention spans might prefer a shorter experience. The tour runs rain or shine, so be prepared for the weather, and always wear comfortable shoes. If you’re looking for a tasting tour that offers more than just bites—something that balances food, history, and scenic views—this experience delivers on all fronts.

In essence, the Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour offers a delightful glimpse into the city’s soul, served up with tasty bites and stories that stick with you long after you leave.

FAQ

Where do we meet for the tour? The tour departs from 437 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312. It’s a central location with nearby parking, and the meeting point is outside Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House.

Is parking available? Yes, street parking is encouraged near the starting point, and there is free parking nearby.

Can I use public transportation? Absolutely. The tour starts within a short 10 to 15-minute walk from a MARTA station, making it accessible via Atlanta’s metro system.

Which restaurants do we visit? The typical stops include Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House, Firepit Pizza Tavern, and The Little Tart Bakeshop, but locations may vary.

How much food is served? Most guests find the tastings are enough for lunch and end up quite full. The portions are generous, and you’ll get a good taste of Atlanta’s cuisine.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated? Yes, you should specify any allergies or dietary preferences during booking. They can cater to vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free diets, and allergies when notified in advance.

Can I join if I don’t want to eat? All guests need a ticket, whether they plan to partake in tastings or not. The experience is designed around the food, so non-eaters might find it less fulfilling.

This tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable glimpse of Atlanta’s vibrant food scene mixed with its historic roots. Whether you’re a traveler eager for local flavors or a resident looking to rediscover your city, it’s a worthwhile outing that combines education, scenery, and plenty of delicious bites.