GAEYC 2026 Annual Conference · October 2–3
Explore Alpharetta
Phase Events sits at the edge of one of Atlanta's most vibrant neighborhoods. Here's where to eat, drink, and unwind after a full day of learning.
We don't provide dinner on either evening — and honestly, that's intentional. Alpharetta's dining and shopping scene is worth exploring on its own terms. Avalon, a walkable open-air district with over 25 chef-driven restaurants, is less than half a mile from Phase Events.
Less than 0.5 mi from Phase Events
Where to eat
10 picks
Conference discount — show your GAEYC badge
Dinner — Friday Oct 2 & Saturday Oct 3
Oak Steakhouse
The anchor of Avalon's dining scene. Upscale American steakhouse with an open kitchen and a menu that ranges from raw bar to prime cuts. Great for groups and celebratory dinners.
Rumi's Kitchen
One of the most lauded restaurants in the Atlanta area — Persian cuisine done with elegance and care. The kind of dinner you'll still be talking about at breakfast the next morning.
South City Kitchen
Chef-driven Southern cuisine at its most satisfying — shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, craft cocktails. A Georgia experience in every sense.
The Cape Restaurant & Beach Bar
Chic coastal dining inspired by Cape Town — a concept you won't find anywhere else in the Atlanta area. Spicy tuna rolls, open-air bar, and a menu that surprises at every turn.
Superica
Lively, highly rated Tex-Mex that's perfect for groups who want something casual and fun after a full day. One of the best margaritas in Alpharetta.
Colletta
Rustic-modern Italian built around a wood-burning oven. Family-style platters, handmade pasta, and an open-concept dining room that feels warm and unhurried.
Drinks & casual
Barleygarden Kitchen & Craft Bar
The natural gathering spot for end-of-day decompression. Open-air beer garden feel, dozens of craft beers on tap, and a kitchen that holds its own. Expect to run into half the conference here.
CRÚ Food & Wine Bar
An ideal spot for smaller groups or a quieter evening. Cheese flights, charcuterie, and an extensive wine list in a relaxed Napa-inspired setting.
Morning coffee — before Day 2
Café Intermezzo
European-style café with an extraordinary pastry case, espresso drinks, and the kind of moody, unhurried atmosphere that makes Saturday mornings feel like a small luxury.
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Not breakfast — but a worthy reward at any hour. Jeni's is a national institution, and the Avalon location doesn't disappoint. Worth the line.
A note on Friday and Saturday evenings. Both conference days end in prime dinner hours — and October weekends in Alpharetta fill up fast. If you have a restaurant in mind, we recommend making a reservation in advance. Most Avalon restaurants take reservations through OpenTable or their own websites. Mention GAEYC when you call — some restaurants may offer walk-in priority for conference guests.
Shopping & wellness nearby
Avalon districtAvalon's 570,000 square feet of retail includes national brands, local boutiques, and wellness studios — all walkable from Phase Events. Whether you want to pick up something for yourself or just wander, it's a genuinely pleasant way to spend an hour between sessions or after dinner.
lululemon
Activewear
The full lululemon experience — apparel, accessories, and in-store events. A natural stop for attendees who prioritize wellness.
SHINE Wellness Studio
Wellness & Beauty
Science-backed beauty and longevity treatments. A rare find in a retail setting — worth exploring between the two conference days.
Tory Burch
Fashion & Accessories
Signature American style — ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes, and accessories.
Tecovas
Western Boots & Accessories
Handmade western boots at honest prices. If you've been curious, this is the place to try them on in person.
Free People
Fashion
Bohemian-leaning women's fashion, accessories, and home. One of the more distinct retail options in the district.
Whole Foods Market
Grocery & Prepared Foods
Great for grabbing snacks, a quick prepared meal, or anything you forgot to pack. Convenient anchor for the district.