Suburban summer resort: Your city guide to Norcross

Located in southeastern Gwinnett County between Interstate 85 and Duluth, the city of Norcross is one of Gwinnett’s oldest towns. Founded in 1870, the city was incorporated from land purchased by businessman John Thrasher along a new rail line and named in honor of former Atlanta mayor and Thrasher friend, Jonathan Norcross.

It was once known as “Atlanta’s Summer Resort” for its riverside locales, live outdoor music and convenient location. Built along the Atlanta-Charlotte tracks, the city owed its prosperity to cotton, agriculture and transit for many decades. But not everything was commercial. Founder Thrasher designated one acre as a park in perpetuity, and this land has been Thrasher Park ever since.

While Norcross has grown a lot in recent decades, and is now home to several business headquarters (like Waffle House), it still has that small town charm. With a historically preserved city core, growing neighborhoods for families, and lots of park space, there’s plenty of amenities to enjoy alongside good food nearby.

What can I do for fun in Norcross?

Travel across the pond with Taste of Britain. Operating for over 30 years in Norcross’ historic downtown, this charming shop serves up snacks and sundries from the United Kingdom. Taste of Britain will give you just that with the best biscuits, bangers, and crisps to snack on after a cup of tea. Find your favorite import candy and crumpets in the grocery aisle. Or check out their wide selection of nonfood items like tea sets, home décor and cultural swag as well to make your home a wee bit more British.

Support the arts at the Lionheart Theatre. The big Broadway productions may come to Atlanta, but there are plenty of local theaters around the metro for an entertaining night out. Norcross is home to the Lionheart Theatre, in operation since 2000. Their full season of shows has something for everyone, from kid-friendly performances to all-female comedies to dramatic adaptations. See website for tickets and details.

It’s all fun and games at Malibu Norcross. Get your game face on and bring the kids to the amusement park offerings at Malibu Norcross. Take a swing at mini golf, re-create Mario Kart in real life with go kart racing, play in the arcade, or discover the treasure that is Buccaneer Cove. Its summertime water playground is five stories tall and has a thousand feet of water slides to careen down. Still need to cool off? Ride a bumper boat for a splashy twist on the classic cars.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Norcross?

Refuge Coffee Co.

Proof of Norcross’ diversity and growth in recent decades, this outpost of Refuge Coffee downtown provides guests a warm welcome and a hot cup of joe. Refuge provides job training for refugees and immigrants, who happily serve their house blend coffees and teas. Enjoy a relaxing morning on their patio with a drink and a fresh pastry while knowing you’re helping your neighbors in need.

Location: 127 South Peachtre Street; Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Website: refugecoffeeco.com

Bleu House

Step into the eponymous blue cottage and enjoy a meal at this charming café. This lunch spot’s savory quiches and gourmet sandwiches will make you anything but blue. Bite into their signature chicken salad sandwich on a buttery croissant or go zesty with the jalapeno-infused Smokehouse wrap, and add on Parmesan mashed potatoes. Quiches vary daily, but go well with a salad or some fresh fruit. In a hurry? All meals available for pick up and delivery as well.

Location: 62 College Street; Hours: Wednesday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; Website: bleuhousenorcross.com

The Crossing Steakhouse

Retrofitted into one of the city’s earliest train depots, this unique steakhouse has both flavor and views. Sit back and watch the trains zoom by while you enjoy flavorful steaks, sip on a fine red wine, and relax in this industrial dining hall. Share Southern classics like fried green tomatoes and crab cakes with the family before a meaty main course. Their ribeye steak is nicely grilled and the berry compote adds a sweet twist, while the New Zealand lamb ties into the travel theme. Or try the feature menu specials, available daily.

Location: 40 South Peachtree Street; Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Website: thecrossingofnorcross.com

Mojitos

Still in downtown Norcross but want something a little less traditional? Check out this lively, family-owned Cuban bistro and their authentic dishes packed with island flavor. Start with some homemade ham croquettes, or sweet plantains stuffed with your choice of filling. Dig into the tender, crispy steak in their classic vaca frita that blends spice and savory. Havana-style seafood options include red snapper or their shrimp gumbo served with tostones. And of course, grab a classic mojito for a drink no matter what you choose!

Location: 35 South Peachtree Street; Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: mojitosbistro.com