Blending small-town charm with memorable attractions, locally owned restaurants, and plenty of opportunities to shop, Locust Grove is an ideal destination for a relaxed day of exploring. From Southern-inspired breakfast favorites and rescued animals to outlet shopping and sweet treats, this itinerary offers a little something for everyone.
Stop One: Southern Fusion Dining
Why kick-start your day with just a cup of coffee when you could pair it with a colossal cinnamon roll? Inspired by his love of Southern fusion cuisine, Chef Paul crafted the Southern Fusion Dining menu by combining masterfully prepared Southern dishes with distinctive flavors that indulge all the senses. The result is a memorable dining experience filled with creative comfort food. Be sure to ask whether the red velvet waffle is available that day!
Stop Two: Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary
Once properly fueled for the day, venture over to Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary. This inspiring attraction is home to more than 150 rescued animals, including big cats, primates, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife. Tour the sanctuary and learn the remarkable stories behind the animals’ rescue and rehabilitation. Every visit directly supports the sanctuary’s mission of providing compassionate care while educating the public about responsible animal stewardship.
Stop Three: Gezzo’s West Coast Burritos
Gezzo’s West Coast Burritos is the perfect place to take a lunch break on the way to your next destination. Fresh ingredients and eclectic flavors come together in menu items ranging from spicy jerk chicken burritos and chipotle chicken egg rolls to fish tacos and Baja veggie quesadillas. The restaurant’s flavorful creations reflect the Californian and Hawaiian roots of its brother-and-sister co-founders. Don’t forget to ask about the allergy-friendly options!
Stop Four: Tanger Outlets Locust Grove
While you are nearby, you may hear the shopping bags calling from across the street. Tanger Outlets Locust Grove features more than 70 brand-name and designer outlet stores, including Michael Kors, Coach, Old Navy, and Oakley. Check the outlet center’s website or download the Tanger app before your visit to discover additional promotions and savings.
Stop Five: Sabrosos and the Train-Watching Platform
Continue down the road to historic downtown Locust Grove for dinner. Sabrosos serves fresh, made-to-order Mexican favorites in a warm, casual atmosphere. From signature queso dips and hearty fajitas to tacos, enchiladas, and a dedicated vegetarian menu, there is something packed with bold Latin flavors to satisfy every appetite.
After dinner, walk across the street to the Locust Grove Train-Watching Platform and see whether you can catch one of the approximately 40 trains that pass through downtown each day.
Stop Six: Crumbles by Nicole
Ready to conclude the day with something sweet? After earning a spot in the final round of ABC’s The Great Holiday Baking Show and winning Food Network’s Christmas Cookie Challenge, Nicole Silva opened her own storefront in downtown Locust Grove: Crumbles by Nicole. From beautifully decorated cookies to an array of cupcake, whoopie pie, and cake flavors, Crumbles is the perfect place to enjoy a treat after a full day of sightseeing.
With its inviting restaurants, unique attractions, abundant shopping, and charming downtown, Locust Grove makes it easy to slow down and enjoy the journey. After a day this delicious and memorable, you may already be planning your next visit.