A Weekend in Hapeville: The Perfect Staycation Near Atlanta for Food, Culture & Art Lovers
Conveniently located just minutes from downtown Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Hapeville is the ideal destination for travelers or locals seeking a quick escape packed with history, arts & culture, or adventure. Its walkable main streets, eclectic restaurants, and creative energy make it one of Metro-Atlanta’s most charming hidden gems.
Day 1: Need for Speed and Southern Flavors
Begin your Hapeville staycation in style with lunch at Restaurant 356, a refined, yet relaxed spot inside the Porsche Experience Center Atlanta. The restaurant’s seasonal, chef-driven menu and panoramic views of the driver development track make it one of the area’s most unique dining destinations. Guests can enjoy modern Southern-inspired cuisine while watching sleek Porsche models speed across the course — a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
After lunch, step into the world of high performance by touring the Heritage Gallery. With general admission priced at just $5, visitors can explore classic Porsche models, or get hands-on in the Simulator Lab, where they can virtually test their driving skills on international tracks. The Simulator Lab (which definitely gives elevated adult arcade)—it’s a must! For the extra adventurous, additional tickets can be purchased that provide an opportunity to participate in real demo laps–it’s an adrenaline rush like no other!
After such a thrilling start, slow it down and explore Hapeville’s rich history at the Hapeville Depot Museum — a beautifully restored 19th-century train depot. The museum showcases the town’s railroad roots, its ties to Atlanta’s growth, and its transformation into a creative community filled with storytelling and Southern charm. Admission is free!
End the day with casual dining at the beloved Hapeville Pizza Company, known for its friendly atmosphere and hand-tossed pizzas topped with locally sourced ingredients. The lemon pepper chicken with spinach is a must! For dessert, stroll over to Buttersweet Bakery, a Black-owned bakery famous for its cupcakes, cookies, and Southern desserts that taste like home. The sweet potato pie is their standout dessert!
Then, rest in modern comfort at the Kimpton Overland Hotel, a sleek boutique stay offering contemporary design and warm hospitality (bonus, you can stay with your pet, too!). Before turning in, enjoy cocktails and panoramic city views from The Rooftop at the Overland, where planespotting becomes part of the evening’s entertainment.
Day 2: Art, Coffee, and Creative Inspiration
Start your morning with a taste of New Orleans at Yay Beignet, a Black-owned café serving fresh, fluffy beignets and rich Ethiopian coffee. On Saturday mornings, guests can sometimes witness an authentic Ethiopian coffee ceremony, an experience that’s both cultural and communal — a reminder of Hapeville’s global influences and inclusive spirit.
Next, head to the Atlanta Printmakers Studio, where local artists transform paper and ink into works of art. This nonprofit hub showcases rotating exhibitions, creative workshops, and community collaborations, making it a must-visit for those seeking a glimpse into Hapeville’s flourishing arts scene.
End your staycation with a memorable brunch at Paper Plane, a locally loved restaurant that blends American classics with Thai-inspired flavors. The relaxed, airy atmosphere and makes it the perfect place to unwind, connect with locals at the bar or on the patio, and savor dishes that reflect Hapeville’s diversity and creativity. For cocktails, be sure to try the espresso martini, and for the main course, the Thai fried fish with rice is a must — perfectly crispy and flavorful!
