Alpharetta City Guide

Food focuses on American and Southern dishes with good international options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are widely available. Late-night food is limited but some fast food and casual spots stay open.

Nightlife centers on bars, breweries, and live music spots mainly in Avalon and downtown. It’s relaxed and less club-focused.

Strong coffee culture with many quality local shops and chains.

Tipping is standard in U.S. service jobs, usually 15-20% at restaurants and taxis; $1-2 for baristas.

SIM cards are sold at AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile stores, and Best Buy. Coverage is strong. Prepaid plans require ID but are easy to get. eSIMs are becoming more common.

Alpharetta is clean with well-maintained public spaces and good waste services.

Limited 24/7 services. Some pharmacies and gas stations open all night. Mostly fast food for late meals.

Supermarkets like Publix, Kroger, Whole Foods, and Sprouts have good international selections. Most open by 7 or 8 AM and close around 9 or 10 PM. Sundays and holidays are usually open with shorter hours.

Most places accept credit/debit cards. Cash is rarely needed for daily buys.

ATMs are easy to find at banks like Bank of America and Wells Fargo, grocery stores, and convenience shops. Expect fees of $2.50 to $5.00 for out-of-network use plus your bank's fees.

Public schools include Alpharetta High, Milton High, and Cambridge High. Instruction is in English. International schools are in Atlanta, not Alpharetta.

Small nomad community; some tech meetups but no major nomad hubs or co-living spaces.

Many parks and greenways provide excellent outdoor space and trails.

Good running trails like Big Creek Greenway and local parks. Running groups exist and the area is generally safe.

Several gyms and fitness centers offer a range of options around town.

Many public and private tennis courts with coaching available.

Padel is rare, mostly found in wider Atlanta area, not common in Alpharetta.

Several yoga studios with varied classes and drop-in options.

Martial arts options include BJJ, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, Karate, and Boxing with English-speaking instructors.

No local skiing; closest ski areas are several hours away.

Lake Lanier nearby offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating mostly in late spring to early fall.

No surfing; Alpharetta is inland.

No diving spots; inland location.

Northside Hospital Forsyth and Emory Johns Creek Hospital offer good care with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens carry OTC meds and some are 24/7.

Tap water is safe and meets all drinking standards.

Alpharetta has many playgrounds and parks like Wills Park. Baby supplies are easy to find. Family events are often at Avalon.

Generally accepting suburb near LGBTQ+ friendly Atlanta. Safe spaces available; Pride is in Atlanta.

Pet-friendly parks and services abound. Many places welcome pets, especially outside.