Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
The Varsity
★3.0(2,518 reviews)$Restaurant
🕑 30-45 minutes👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger kids enjoy the novelty of the drive-in experience and simple menu favorites like hot dogs and fries, while older children and teens appreciate the historical significance and Instagram-worthy retro vibe.🧡 Saved by 150+ families
About
The Varsity is Atlanta's legendary drive-in restaurant where families can experience a slice of history while enjoying classic American fast food. Kids get a kick out of the old-school ordering system where staff shout "What'll ya have?" and the massive two-story location buzzes with energy. It's a quintessential Atlanta stop that combines nostalgia for parents with fun, kid-friendly food in a unique atmosphere.
Highlights
- ✓Famous chili dogs and chili cheese fries that have been served since 1928
- ✓Iconic frosted orange drinks that are a must-try for first-time visitors
- ✓Unique ordering experience with staff calling out "What'll ya have?"
- ✓Rooftop patio seating with views of midtown Atlanta
- ✓Classic drive-in atmosphere with car-side service still available
Pro Tips
- 1.Go during off-peak hours (2-4 PM) to avoid overwhelming crowds and get a seat on the rooftop patio with city views
- 2.Order the frosted orange drink,it's what The Varsity is famous for and kids absolutely love it
- 3.The ordering system can be intimidating; review the menu online beforehand so kids know what they want
- 4.Park in the lot and eat inside for the full experience rather than using the drive-through
- 5.Bring cash or card,prices are very reasonable at around $5-8 per person for a full meal
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons between 2-4 PM are ideal when crowds are lighter. Avoid Georgia Tech game days and weekend dinner rushes when lines can stretch out the door. Lunch on a Tuesday or Wednesday offers the best balance of atmosphere without chaos.
What to Know
Expect to spend around $5-8 per person for a meal. Parking is plentiful in their large lot. The ordering system is fast-paced and staff use unique lingo, so be prepared with your order. Indoor and outdoor seating available, with a rooftop patio offering views of the Atlanta skyline.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round. The rooftop patio is especially enjoyable during spring and fall with mild weather. Summer can be hot but the indoor dining is air-conditioned. Particularly busy during Georgia Tech football season and major events at nearby Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Follow The Varsity
More Activities Near Atlanta
Restaurant
Mary Mac's Tea Room
★3.9$$❤️122
Mary Mac's Tea Room is an Atlanta institution serving up classic Southern comfort food that kids and parents will love in a welcoming, casual atmosphere. Since 1945, families have been enjoying their famous fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and sweet cornbread in a setting that's authentic Southern hospitality without the fuss,perfect for introducing kids to traditional Southern cuisine.
Activity
Atlanta Botanical Garden
$$❤️6
Atlanta Botanical Garden offers 30 acres of stunning gardens with a dedicated children's area that transforms a nature visit into an adventure. The Lou Glenn Children's Garden is the star attraction for families, featuring interactive water features, climbing nets, a treehouse, and hands-on nature exploration opportunities that keep kids engaged while parents enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Park
Piedmont Park
★4.8Free❤️139
Piedmont Park is Atlanta's premier urban oasis where families can spend an entire day exploring 189 acres of green space without leaving the city. With multiple playgrounds catering to different age groups, wide bike paths perfect for learning riders, and a seasonal pool that's a lifesaver during hot Georgia summers, this park offers endless opportunities for outdoor fun and family bonding.
Adventure
Sweetwater Creek State Park
★4.8Free❤️513
Sweetwater Creek State Park offers families an easy introduction to outdoor adventure with well-maintained trails leading to stunning creek views and fascinating Civil War-era textile mill ruins that spark kids' imaginations. The combination of accessible hiking, historic exploration, fishing opportunities, and spacious picnic areas makes it a perfect full-day destination just 15 miles west of Atlanta.