For my 50 Surrounding Cities + 50 States adventure, I had to stop in Lithonia, Georgia, a city full of peaceful nature, community gems, and delicious food stops.
What makes Lithonia extra special is the history behind its name. “Lithonia” means “city of stone,” which comes from the Greek word for stone and connects to the area’s deep roots in the granite quarry industry. Back in the 1800s, this small town grew around farming, railroads, and stone quarries that helped build streets, buildings, and landmarks all across Georgia. Even today, you can still feel that legacy in the landscape and the massive granite formations surrounding the city.
Lithonia is one of those places that surprises you. It blends history, adventure, culture, books, food, and peaceful escapes, making it a perfect day trip from Atlanta.
✨ 5 Things to Check Out in Lithonia
1️⃣ Nature + History: Arabia Mountain
One of my favorite places in Lithonia has to be Arabia Mountain. I’ve already been a couple of times, and it was so peaceful. The wide-open granite, beautiful trails, and scenic views make it the perfect place to breathe, think, and just enjoy nature.
What made it even more exciting for me was learning the history. Arabia Mountain is part of a nationally protected heritage area where the granite was once heavily quarried in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The stone from this mountain helped shape roads, buildings, curbs, and landmarks across the region. You can still spot old drill holes and quarry remnants in the rock, which makes the hike feel like walking through living history.
For me, it was more than just a hike—it felt like stepping into Lithonia’s story.
2️⃣ Culture + Black Excellence: New Black Wall Street Market
Another must-visit is New Black Wall Street Market, and this place is such a vibe.
This market was created as a space to celebrate and support Black-owned businesses, creativity, entrepreneurship, and community wealth, inspired by the legacy of Tulsa’s historic Black Wall Street. It opened in 2021 and has quickly become one of the most important cultural and shopping spaces in the Stonecrest/Lithonia area.
From fashion and beauty to food and handmade products, there’s always something exciting to discover here. It’s the perfect place for shopping, networking, and content creation.
3️⃣ Community + Books: Stonecrest Library
I also checked out Stonecrest Library, and I loved how unique the building looked. The shape was different, modern, and stood out right away.
As a book lover, any library stop makes me happy, but this one felt extra special because it represents the community side of Lithonia. Libraries are little pieces of local history too—they hold stories, archives, learning spaces, and resources that keep a city connected.
For a travel day, it’s the perfect quiet reset stop to journal, plan your next city, or just enjoy being surrounded by books.
4️⃣ Food Stop: Smokey Bones
Smokey Bones is always a great go-to.
I enjoy their food every time because it’s flavorful, comforting, and the perfect reward after a long adventure day. The barbecue vibe fits Lithonia’s laid-back energy, and it’s a solid stop if you want something filling before heading to your next location.
Sometimes, the best part of travel is finding those reliable places you know will always hit.
5️⃣ Snack Stop: Auntie Anne’s
And of course, Auntie Anne’s.
There’s just something nostalgic about grabbing a warm pretzel while out exploring. It gives mall-day memories, road trip vibes, and the perfect quick treat before heading home.
Little snack moments like this make city adventures even more fun.
🍷 Future Visit: The Vineyard at Arabia Mountain
Still on my Lithonia list is The Vineyard at Arabia Mountain, and I already know it’s going to be beautiful.
The idea of a peaceful mountain and beautiful views sounds like the perfect mix of luxury and relaxation. It’ll be a great future stop to pair with an Arabia Mountain hike day.
💕 Final Thoughts
Lithonia gave me peace, history, Black culture, beautiful scenery, and great food all in one trip.
From its beginnings as a historic granite town in the 1800s to the modern culture and community spaces it has today, this city has so much character. It’s definitely one of those surrounding Atlanta cities worth slowing down and truly exploring.
Stay tuned with Cece in the City as I continue discovering 50 surrounding cities and 50 states, one exciting adventure at a time. ✨🗺️
