A lot of history and fun: Your city guide to Powder Springs

This fast growing city sits just west of Atlanta, and it offers plenty in the way of great eating, outdoor entertainment and a rich history.

Powder Springs was first called Seven Springs after the springs that existed there during the city’s 1838 founding. It dates back to a time when Cherokee and Creek Native American peoples inhabited the area. Like other Georgia towns, the area’s development is due in large part to the railroads that ran through it. Over the years, many of its historic touches have remained, even as it has expanded to accommodate a growing population.

Today, you’ll find an abundance of restaurants and lots of opportunity to work up an appetite before eating with fun fit for the whole the family, At just over a half hour from Atlanta’s city center, Powder Springs makes for a great day-trip destination.

What can I do for fun in Powder Springs?

Seven Springs Museum: Those seven springs? Learn all about them at this tribute to the area’s history in the Bodiford House, a Queen Anne-style home. Civil War, Native American and pioneer artifacts all contribute to the narrative. There’s also an oral history of the city’s Black community, along with displays detailing its farming heritage.

Lost Mountain Park: Want to get outside for the day? This is the place to do it. Whether you feel like playing a little tennis, doing some fishing or trail walking, there’s space here to interact with nature or get some exercise.

Seven Springs Water Park: Experience the water that gave Powder Springs its name! This water park features everything you need to keep cool on a hot day: A winding lazy river, splash pad features and twisting slides. And when you get hungry, there’s a full-service concession stand to satiate you.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Powder Springs?

Skint Chestnut Brewing Company

Love trying new beer? This brewery, born out of two family members’ interest in brewing and a desire to bring something authentic to the public, offers IPAs, sours, seltzers and more as you work to expand your palette.

Location: Skint Chestnut Brewing Company; Hours: Tuesday - 5-9 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday - noon-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday - noon-10 p.m., Sunday - 12:30-6 p.m.; Website: skintchestnutbrewco.com

1738 Restaurant & Bar

This restaurant brings together African and American flavors with Nigerian dishes that and have an American classic twist. Start off with the meat pie or breaded shrimp, and move on to a main dish of joloff rice, plantain and your choice of protein. Or try the egusi soup — egusi seed smoked turkey neck, stockfish and smoked fish and a choice of protein. You’re bound to go away with some new favorites!

Location: 1738 Restaurant & Bar; Hours: Tuesday to Thursday - 5-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday - 2 p.m. to 1 a.m., Sunday - 2-10 p.m.; Website: 1738atl.com/

SCG Chicken & Seafood

This food-truck-turned-storefront offers a wide seafood selection. Think fried lobster bites, blackened salmon cakes, lobster rolls and more. Accompany any of these delicacies with sides like loaded brussels sprouts, Cajun fries and jalapeño creamed corn, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable meal!

Location: SCG Chicken & Seafood; Hours: Wednesday to Saturday - 1-8 p.m.; Website: smithsgourmetcreations.com/

Monterrey Restaurante Mexicano

Bring on the Margaritas and nachos! This multilocation Mexican restaurant is long-standing and ready to satiate you with a menu full of cocktail indulgences, taco salads, enchiladas and more!

Location: Monterrey Restaurante Mexicano; Hours: Monday to Thursday - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday - 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Sunday - 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Website: monterreys.net/

Sangster’s Cafe

Farm to table takes on a new meaning at this family owned coffee shop, which gets its beans from a farm the family also owns in Jamaica. Located downtown, this the perfect spot to start your day or stop in for a pick-me-up with a full hot and cold coffee menu.

Location: Sangster’s Cafe; Hours: Monday-Sunday - 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; Website: facebook.com/sangstersscafe