McDonough is a short drive south of Atlanta, offering a quiet getaway with a charming atmosphere and year-round events. Here you’ll find plenty of shopping and popular local restaurants, as well as a list of other unique things to do. It’s the perfect place to stay when you want to be close to downtown, but not in it.
Queen Bee Coffee
What Is It? In the cutest 1928 historical cottage, the family-owned Queen Bee Coffee small-batch drum roasts their own blends, while whipping up killer caffeinated beverages with a Victoria Arduino Athena Leva espresso machine.
Why Do It? All the beans come from farmers they know on a personal level, and one dollar, for every pound of coffee that is sold goes toward providing clean water in Central America. From the live music on certain days, tree-covered outdoor seating, to the captivating coffee aroma that greets you at the door, Queen Bee is the best place to drink coffee in McDonough.
Good to Know: Insider Tip; try a basic latte with cascading whipped cream on top.
Southern Belle Farm
What Is It? Every season, Southern Belle Farm has something really cool happening.
Why Do It? The spring consists of strawberry picking, while blackberries and blueberries ripen toward the summer; you can pick them yourself! When fall rolls around, pumpkins fill the patch and market, which also sells old-fashioned candies and seasonal baked goods. In December, you can get a fresh Christmas tree, have a warm drink on a hayride, and visit Santa!
Good to Know: Animals, a corn maze, and small rides are other things you’ll see through the year.
Heritage Park
What Is It? Not only is there a fantastic playground, but the park also pays homage to our country via the 80-foot Veterans Wall of Honor which is engraved with battle scenes and quotes to honor those who’ve served.
Why Do It? Take the walking path through the grounds to see an 1827 log cabin, original historic schoolhouse and Henry County’s first library, along with other treasures. Be sure to book an appointment if you’d like a tour.
Good to Know: In the big red barn near the playground, the Heritage Park Veterans Museum displays WW1 artifacts.
The Original Shane’s Rib Shack
What Is It? Back in 2002, a little white shack that just couldn’t host a successful restaurant was scooped up by barbecue master, Shane.
Why Do It? Come here to chow down on oversized chicken tender tossed in buffalo sauce, and generously piled pork sandwiches.
Good to Know: Now The Shack is a national phenomenon, but there’s only one Original off of Highway 155.
Kirby G’s Diner
What Is It? This cute 50s diner is located right off the square; from the booths to the floor, it feels adorably authentic.
Why Do It? The burgers and wings have become well known among the community, and other soda shop style fare such as floats and sundaes are delicious too.
Good to Know: The names of menu items keep with the theme, such as the “Love Me Tenders” chicken plate.
Pilgreen’s
What Is It? It’s Georgia’s original steakhouse that was booming years ago, but now one location remains in the Lake Dow District, and thank goodness!
Why Do It? Steaks have always come with a special marinade that the taste buds long for, and the thin, crispy onion rings must have fallen from heaven itself. Fried cauliflower and mushrooms with signature horseradish sauce taste like they always have, and their house-made blue cheese dressing would make anyone want a salad.
Good to Know: The building in which it now resides was once a bustling country club, and it still sees its fair share of weddings and parties. But the tall brick structure with towering porch posts draws folks in for a taste of nostalgia and steak that stomps any Longhorn or Outback.
