A night out on the town with your friends is always fun. But once the weather starts warming up, there's nothing better than tossing back a few daytime drinks while hanging out on some of Atlanta's best patios. Whether you're looking for stunning views of the city or TVs to watch your favorite teams al fresco, this guide has you covered. Here are six spots where you can catch some rays, have a few drinks and kick back with friends.
Best Rooftop Bar: Six Feet Under
Grant Park
Graveyard views may not seem like a perk, but at the cheekily named Six Feet Under, the rooftop vistas of both the historic Oakland Cemetery and the Atlanta skyline are to die for. With more than two dozen draft brews and a seafood-centric menu (try the famous "rat toes," baked jalapeños stuffed with shrimp and wrapped with crispy bacon), it's great for a lazy afternoon hang.
Patio with Killer Cocktails: Leon's Full Service
Decatur
This former gas station now fuels up the hip crowd in Decatur, with delicious cocktails like the Chime In (dark rum, Foro amaro, espresso, mole bitters, chai) and the Horse's Neck (bourbon, Angostura bitters, orange bitters, and housemade ginger beer). The patio features misters in summer, heat lamps in winter, and is dog-friendly, with an outdoor bocce court and great people-watching on the square.
Patio to Catch the Game: Dantanna's
Buckhead
Sports, sports, and more sports are the mission at this easygoing spot, which has TVs spaced all around its patio so you don't miss a second of the action. Big umbrellas help shield diners from the Georgia heat, allowing you to stay for a second round of build-your-own bloody marys or Red Bull mimosas when the game goes into overtime. Be sure to save room for the famous Krispy Kreme donut bread pudding for dessert.
Best Patio For Brunch: The Garden at Community Smith
Midtown
Open exclusively from March to November, this stunning rooftop (formerly known as Rooftop 886) offers great skyline views and an outstanding brunch menu. Kick things off with a basket of sugared buttermilk biscuits or some avocado toast with burrata, then sip an $8 mimosa or bloody mary while you tuck into an asparagus and Gruyere omelet. If the weather's a little cool, you can even enjoy your meal by the fire pits.
Best Dog-Friendly Patio: Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall
Old Fourth Ward
After taking your pup for a stroll or a cycle on the Beltline, drop in for a beer or brunch at Ladybird, whose huge outdoor area is often packed with other diners and their pooches. With a quirky "summer camp" feel and plenty of lawn games, it's ideal for whiling away a sunny afternoon, and the staff will make your dog feel right at home with a fresh water bowl.
Trendiest Patio: Public School 404
Westside/Home Park
School is cool again at this Westside newbie, which carries its scholastic theme everywhere from the menus ("recess," a.k.a. happy hour, features $5-8 snacks on weekdays from 3-6pm) to the textbook and microscope-heavy decor. Relax under the umbrellas on the spacious front patio, order up some tater tots (unlike the cafeteria's, theirs have bacon and cheddar) and forget about doing any homework—the only class on the schedule is Fun 101.
