Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour

Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour: A Delicious Walk Through History

If you’re considering a way to experience Atlanta that combines good eats with a touch of history, this Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour offers a unique look at the city’s southern charm. Based on hundreds of glowing reviews, it seems to be a favorite for travelers who want more than just the typical sightseeing. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or both, this tour promises a little bit of everything in a relaxed, well-paced package.

What we love about this experience? First, the quality of food tastings at some of Atlanta’s most loved local eateries, and second, the insights from guides who bring the city’s story to life with their knowledge and enthusiasm. One potential consideration is the moderate walking involved—it’s about 1.2 miles on mostly flat ground, so comfortable shoes are a must. But overall, this tour caters best to those who enjoy a leisurely stroll with plenty of opportunities to learn and sample.

This experience is particularly great for adventurous travelers eager to uncover Atlanta’s hidden gems, both culinary and historical. It’s also ideal if you want a small-group setting so you can ask questions and get personalized attention. If you’re into Southern food, historic cemeteries, and charming neighborhoods, this tour checks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of food and history: Enjoy tastings and learn about Atlanta’s past.
• Quality food stops: Sample dishes like fried catfish, pork belly toast, and desserts from a James Beard-nominated bakery.
• Insightful guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling.
• Convenient location: Starts in Grant Park near parking and public transit.
• Comfortable pacing: 2.5 hours with plenty of seated tastings and rest stops.
• Limited group size: Small groups (max 14) for a more personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point at Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House

The tour kicks off outside Six Feet Under, a popular seafood spot in Grant Park, just across from Oakland Cemetery. It’s an accessible meeting spot with street parking nearby, which is a big plus. Here, you’ll be greeted by your guide and start with some classic Southern dishes—think shrimp and grits, fried catfish, and okra with an unusual cucumber wasabi soy sauce. Guests rave about the view from the patio, which offers a scenic glimpse of both the city skyline and the surrounding cemetery. A review highlights, “The patio is legendary with stunning views,” which sets the tone for a memorable experience.

Exploring Victorian Homes and Historic Grant Park

From your first bites, the walk takes you past grand Victorian houses, giving you a taste of Atlanta’s architectural history. Though the tour doesn’t go into the park itself, it provides a brief walk through Grant Park, setting the scene for the cemetery visit. Expect engaging commentary about how the city grew, and why these homes are considered some of Atlanta’s most beautiful.

Visiting Oakland Cemetery

The highlight for many is the visit to Oakland Cemetery, a place where Atlanta’s notable residents are buried, like early leaders and Civil War figures. The guided 40-minute tour there offers insights into how food played a role in the city’s development. One reviewer noted, “Our guide shared stories about the early residents and how the city evolved around food.” The tour also includes a contribution to the Historic Oakland Foundation, which adds an element of preservation and community involvement.

Comparing Modern and Traditional Pizzas at Firepit Pizza Tavern

Next, you’ll stop at Firepit Pizza Tavern, owned by Leslie Cohen, a chef who gained fame on Cutthroat Kitchen. Here, you’ll taste a modern twist on a dish early Atlantans loved and compare it to a contemporary pizza, alongside a sample cocktail from a local distillery. Guests often mention the good-sized portions and the fun atmosphere, which makes this stop both tasty and lively.

Sweet Endings at The Little Tart Bakeshop

The tour wraps up with desserts from The Little Tart Bakeshop, a James Beard-nominated bakery deeply involved in the local community. You’ll get to try two to-go treats, which many guests find the perfect sweet finish. One review mentions, “The desserts were excellent, and the bakery’s focus on community made it extra special.”

What Does the Price Cover?

At $95 per person, this tour offers an impressive amount of value. You get 8 or 9 tastings from three local restaurants, including alcoholic beverages, a knowledgeable guide, and a walking tour of historic sites. Many guests find the amount of food more than enough for lunch—some even say they are so full they need a nap afterward. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, which adds to the experience’s value.

The inclusion of donations to Oakland Cemetery’s preservation adds a thoughtful touch, supporting local history. It also means your ticket isn’t just about food; it’s about supporting the city’s ongoing stories and sites.

The Guide and Group Size

Reviews consistently praise guides like Courtney, Leigh, and Krista for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and storytelling skills. They make the history engaging, often sharing stories that aren’t in guidebooks. The small group size (up to 14) allows for a more intimate experience, and travelers appreciate the ability to ask questions and interact.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Since the tour involves a little over a mile of walking, comfortable shoes are a must. The sidewalks can be uneven, so think sneakers rather than sandals. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly and bring an umbrella if needed. Restrooms are available at some tasting locations, making it easier to stay comfortable during the outing.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for foodies eager to taste authentic Southern dishes and history lovers interested in Atlanta’s past through its cemeteries and architecture. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a relaxed, engaging way to explore neighborhoods off the usual tourist path. If you enjoy small-group experiences where you can learn and ask questions, this is a solid choice.

It’s worth noting that children should be aware of the historical content, and the walking distance may not suit those with mobility issues, although the tour is generally accessible.

Final Thoughts

The Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour offers a well-rounded experience blending delicious local cuisine with historical insights that give context to the city’s development. It’s especially suited for those who want to understand Atlanta beyond its postcard sights, tapping into its culinary soul and storied past.

The consistent five-star reviews point to a reliable, enjoyable outing—and the positive feedback about guides and food portions suggest you’ll leave feeling full and informed. Whether you’re visiting Atlanta for a few days or a local looking for a fresh way to explore, this tour is a taste of the city you won’t soon forget.

FAQ

Where do we meet for this tour?
The tour starts outside Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House at 437 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta. Parking nearby is available, and the location is within walking distance from public transit.

Is there parking available?
Yes, street parking is encouraged around the meeting spot, making it convenient for most travelers.

Can I get to the tour via public transportation?
Absolutely. The tour departs within a short 10-15 minute walk from a MARTA station, making it accessible without a car.

Which restaurants are visited during the tour?
Typically, stops include Six Feet Under, Firepit Pizza Tavern, and The Little Tart Bakeshop, though locations may vary.

How much food is included?
Guests usually find the tastings enough to function as a full meal, with generous portions at each stop. Many leave feeling happily full.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, dietary restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, shellfish allergies, and nut allergies can be accommodated if noted in advance.

Can I make substitutions for the food offered?
While the selected samples highlight some of the best local dishes, last-minute substitutions aren’t generally possible.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, sample sizes of alcoholic beverages are part of the tour, along with non-alcoholic options.

How much walking is involved?
Expect about 1.2 miles of walking, with plenty of seated moments. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

In the end, this tour offers a tasty, informative peek at Atlanta that balances history with hospitality. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re seeking an authentic, engaging way to explore the city’s neighborhoods, food scene, and past all in one go.