Exploring the Green Havens: Farms and Gardens Near Atlanta

By Sofia Espina

Published December 12, 2024

In recent years, the call of green spaces has grown louder. Beyond Atlanta’s bustling streets and glittering skyline lies a treasure trove of farms and gardens. From U-pick orchards to the botanical garden, these spaces offer a chance to connect with nature, enjoy farm-to-table produce and learn sustainable gardening practices. Here are some farms and gardens to visit in and around Atlanta.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

While not a traditional farm, Atlanta Botanical Garden is an oasis of curated landscapes in the city’s heart. Explore the edible garden for herbs, fruits and vegetables grown sustainably, and get inspired by the garden’s creative landscape designs. The garden also hosts seasonal events, including the Garden Lights, Holiday Nights winter show, which transforms the garden into a wonderland of lights.

Chastain Park Community Garden and The Garden at The Chastain

Chastain Park Community Garden offers a tranquil escape into a green haven within Atlanta’s Chastain Park, one of the city’s largest parks. Community members tend individual plots, and the garden encourages sustainable and organic practices. Stroll through seasonal vegetables, flowers and herbs, and enjoy a peaceful walk in this lovely space. Nearby, The Chastain restaurant cultivates its own garden, incorporating fresh herbs, vegetables and edible flowers into the restaurant’s seasonal dishes. This commitment to local ingredients makes dining here a flavorful and eco-conscious experience.

Historic Westside Gardens

Atlanta’s Historic Westside Gardens are a unique community-driven project focused on urban agriculture and food access. This garden network collaborates with residents to establish backyard and community gardens, fostering healthy, sustainable food sources. Visitors can explore garden spaces that showcase seasonal vegetables, native plants and edible landscaping, all while supporting a movement aimed at food security and empowerment.

Jaemor Farms

Northeast of Atlanta, Jaemor Farms in Alto, Ga., is worth the trip. Known for its peaches, this family-owned farm offers seasonal U-pick experiences, letting you gather fresh fruits like strawberries, blackberries and pumpkins, depending on the time of year. Fall is an especially festive time at Jaemor, with corn mazes, hay rides and a pumpkin patch perfect for family outings.

Serenbe Farms

Nestled about 30 miles southwest of Atlanta, Serenbe Farms offers a unique experience combining organic farming with community living. Serenbe itself is a sustainable wellness community, and its farm provides fresh produce for local restaurants and hosts farmers markets. Take a guided tour to learn about regenerative farming practices, and sign up for one of the farm-to-table dinners.

Southern Belle Farm

Located in McDonough, Southern Belle Farm brings the classic Southern farm experience just a short drive from Atlanta. Known for its family friendly atmosphere, Southern Belle Farm offers everything from peach picking to fall-themed corn mazes. Kids and adults can try milking cows, navigating the corn maze or learn about life on a working farm.

Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture

One of Atlanta’s most inspiring urban farms, Truly Living Well Center, is a must-see. Located in the city’s heart, this urban farm focuses on sustainable agriculture and healthy, organic produce. Visitors can tour the gardens, volunteer in the programs or attend workshops on topics ranging from composting to urban beekeeping. It’s a great place to learn about farming practices designed for city living.

Pack a picnic, lace up your walking shoes and prepare to savor the sights, sounds and tastes of Georgia’s green gems. Visit an Atlanta Farmers Market. Shop Local at these Atlanta Festivals and Farmers Markets.

Sofia Espina is a bilingual Emmy Award-winning journalist who believes that everyone has a story to tell. She’s a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, working to create a more equitable world.