A Local’s Guide to Surviving and Enjoying All-Star Week

MLB All-Star Week is rolling in hot this Summer —and not just because of the Georgia humidity.

From July 11–15, Truist Park and The Battery will be packed with fans, mascots, celebs, and—let’s be honest—a lot of dads in jerseys. But the real scene-stealer? The Capital One All-Star Village, tucked inside the Cobb Galleria Centre, just across the pedestrian bridge from the stadium. Yes, the Galleria. Remember that place your dentist used to have an office? It’s about to get a glow-up.

All-Star Village

This is where the MLB is pulling out its kid-friendly, camera-ready stops. We’re talking:

• VR Home Run Derby (in case your real swing is a little rusty)
• Batting cages, if you want to show off
• MLB legends and mascots roaming around for photos
• Exhibits from the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Negro Leagues Museum
• A gaming zone featuring MLB The Show 25
• Food trucks and yes, sensory-friendly spaces (because loud + crowds isn’t for everyone)

It runs July 12–13 from 10 AM to 8 PM, and July 14–15 from 10 AM to 6 PM. Tickets will run you $35 for adults, $30 for kids, and less if you’ve got a college ID, military ID, or you’re over 60.

Parking is a bit of a beast over there, so ride-share or Marta + CobbLinc is your best bet unless you’re cool with circling for half an hour.

Other Events That Aren’t Just Merch and Mascots

If the Village is the playground, the real action’s still at Truist:

HBCU Swingman Classic – Friday, July 11, 7 PM
This one’s got heart. It’s a showcase for top HBCU players and a love letter to the sport’s history. Plus, there’s usually a pre-game vibe that feels more like a block party than a ballgame.

All-Star Saturday – July 12
The Futures Game is like watching tomorrow’s MVPs before they get their Gatorade deals. After that, the Celebrity Softball Game is less about skill and more about seeing someone from “Stranger Things” try to hit a slow pitch.

Home Run Derby – Monday, July 14
It’s exactly what it sounds like. Eight dudes, three rounds, a whole lot of dingers. The vibe is loud, sweaty, and pure baseball nostalgia.

If You’re Making a Weekend of It…

Maybe you’re a baseball fan with a short attention span. Or maybe you got dragged along for family bonding. Either way, Cobb has some genuinely not-bad things to do.

• Tube the Chattahoochee – Rent a tube, pack a cooler (no glass), and float your way through the afternoon. It’s cheap, chill, and somehow still refreshing even when it’s 95 degrees.
• Marietta Square – A cute downtown that doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard. Grab a drink, pop into a museum, or just people-watch.
• Kennesaw Mountain – Yes, there’s Civil War history. Yes, it’s a real hike. But the summit view? Worth it.
• Lake Acworth – No motors, no frat bros, just paddleboards, a sandy beach, and a solid place to chill without driving to North Georgia.

If You Need to Eat (and You Will)

• C. Ellet’s Steakhouse – Good for a celebratory dinner if you’ve got the budget and patience for a crowd.
• Muss & Turner’s – Smyrna locals swear by it. A little funky, very flavorful.
• Spring – Tiny, seasonal, and fancy in that quiet, minimalist way.
• Henry’s Louisiana Grill – Loud, flavorful, and probably where you’ll need a to-go box.

If You’re Staying Overnight

You’ve got options near the stadium, from Omni at The Battery (pricey but walkable) to Hotel Indigo in Vinings (quieter, cuter, still close enough). Marriott Northwest is also a solid, no-frills pick with a pool.