In this edition of the Constant Epicurean’s Atlanta Travel Guides we explore some wonderful places OTP. In case you didn’t know OTP stands for Outside the Perimeter in reference to Interstate 285 which circles Atlanta. A locally appointed barrier that separates the self proclaimed cultural city of Atlanta from the wilderness of the suburbs. Make no mistake, the lands outside the perimeter offer some amazing opportunities for many wonderful excursions. Whether it’s hiking wonderful mountain trails, lowland river landscapes or touring some of the greatest settings for classic cinema and television. Atlanta OTP might just surprise you.
East
Stone Mountain
Located in the eastern suburbs of Atlanta is Stone Mountain. A striking sight in the relative low rolling hills of the region, Stone Mountain is an 825 feet above the surrounding landscape and comprised almost entirely of quartz monzonite. Early explorers told tales of a giant rock that was “very high, shining when the sun set like a fire”. Today the park is home to to a confederate memorial, a village which has amusement style attractions, the largest bas-relief carving in the world, and a lawn which hosts a beautiful and culturally southern laser show across the rock face. Whether your looking to park the R.V. for awhile or stay at some award winning hotels Stone Mountain has just what you’re looking for.
Covington Square
About 35 mile east of Atlanta on I-20, Covington is a jewel of southern culture. The square with its iconic courthouse has graced many a scene in film and television. From classics like the Dukes of Hazard and In the Heat of the Night to Iconic films like Remember the Titans and My Cousin Vinny, Covington will wow you with it’s cinema history. Head to the boutique shops around Covingtons square and see if you can spot some of your favorite scenes. While your there have a bite at some of the independent restaurants nearby like the casual Mystic Grill from The Vampire Diaries to City Pharmacy for some finer fare. If your looking to do a little shopping check out our friends at McKibbon music or head over to the Soap Box for some boutique cleansers. The square is often blocked for current productions so park at the deck on Elm street and check out the sights.
