Summer break is trying its best to slip away, but I’m not ready to let it go just yet. Before the back-to-school chaos kicks in, I’m carving out time for one last getaway. And you know what? I think you should, too.
Visit Brookhaven
Carillon Hall on the campus of Oglethorpe College in Brookhaven, GA.
Back in March, I took a quick trip to Brookhaven, Georgia, and it turned out to be exactly the kind of meaningful, low-stress escape I didn’t know I needed. Located just a few miles northeast of Atlanta, Brookhaven is only a couple hours from Birmingham. That makes it an ideal destination for a last-hurrah kind of trip. If time is short—but the urge to explore is strong—pack your bags and head to Brookhaven.
Brookhaven is a blend of big-city energy and small-town charm. It’s a community of cozy neighborhoods, 90-plus locally owned restaurants, 19 parks, and more trees than you’d expect from a metro suburb. In fact, the tree canopy covers about 44 percent of the city. There’s a gentleness to the pace there that invites you to slow down, look around, and enjoy your time away.
Visit Brookhaven
My Brookhaven adventure started with food. After settling into my hotel, I made a beeline for the Buford Highway corridor. This renowned stretch is lined with international restaurants serving up everything from Cuban sandwiches to Korean BBQ. One night, I dipped spongy injera into spicy lentils at an Ethiopian spot; the next, I was savoring smoky jerk chicken that gave me pause between bites.
Besides the great food options, another plus is Brookhaven is pretty easy to navigate. Between the walkable neighborhoods and Georgia’s MARTA public transportation system, I rarely felt stuck in traffic or worried about parking.
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Paula Bond Heller
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If you’re wondering what children can do in Brookhaven, rest assured—there are plenty of parks to explore. From shaded playgrounds to wide-open green spaces, the city offers a variety of outdoor spots perfect for burning off energy or enjoying a family picnic. Parks like Murphey Candler Park and Blackburn Park feature walking trails, sports fields, and playground equipment designed for all ages. Whether your kids want to climb, swing, run, or just enjoy the sunshine, Brookhaven makes it easy to create fun, active memories together.
For a quieter afternoon, I visited Oglethorpe University. With its storybook architecture and serene campus, it was a lovely place to wander. Inside the university’s small but impressive museum, I caught an art exhibit that added just the right touch of culture to my itinerary.
When it came time to rest, Brookhaven delivered. The city offers a variety of accommodations, each with the kind of comfort and convenience that families appreciate. And if you plan it right, your visit might overlap with one of the city’s community events, like Restaurant Week in August or the Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring. I’m always drawn to destinations that let me blend in with the locals.
As I packed the car to head home, I found myself already thinking about the next visit. There’s something powerful about a trip that doesn’t require a passport, a long drive, or weeks of planning. One that leaves you feeling refreshed, connected, and just a little more ready for whatever comes next.
If you’re clinging to summer like I am, trying to hold on to the quiet before the calendar fills up again, consider Brookhaven for your last-minute escape. It’s close, vibrant, welcoming, and just what you need to reset before the school bell rings.
You still have time for one more adventure. Take it.