WHAT'S HAPPENING ON WHITLOCK THIS SUMMER?

Summer Time Staples in Marietta, Georgia

There’s something special about summertime in Marietta — slower mornings, neighborhood strolls, sweet treats, and gathering places that feel like home. Tucked along Whitlock Avenue, a growing little community hub is becoming one of the coziest summer traditions around: The Spirit Exchange Co. and neighboring Sweet Living Bakery in the Clocktower Village with Carriage House Catering and Portfolio Hair Salon (and many more small businesses who need your support)!. Together, we create the kind of local experience that turns ordinary summer days into lasting memories.

Whether you’re spending the day exploring local shops, looking for family-friendly activities, or simply searching for your next favorite bakery stop, this corner of Marietta offers a little bit of everything.

EVERYDAY: Discover a Book at the Free Little Library

One of the sweetest hidden gems outside The Spirit Exchange Co. is the Free Little Library — a charming spot where visitors can take a book, leave a book, and discover something new all summer long.

Kids can pick out their next bedtime story while parents browse nearby handmade goods, seasonal décor, and thoughtful gifts inside the shop. It’s a reminder that summer entertainment doesn’t have to be complicated — sometimes all you need is a good story and a shady afternoon.

EVERYDAY: Dinner at 3 Amigos, Aloha Bowl or Marietta Melt Yard

Once you've explored the Clocktower Village, jump (or walk) across the street and check out one of the local eateries on Whitlock - fajitas at 3 Amigos with a fresh marg, sushi or poke at Aloha Bowl or a burger and a beer (with a side of arcade) at Marietta Melt Yard!

TUESDAYS: Swap Local at the “Swap Society” Makers Market

Another can’t-miss summer staple is the “Swap Society” Makers Market, hosted on the last Tuesday of every month at 10 AM at The Spirit Exchange Co..

This monthly makers market celebrates local makers, handmade goods, and creative small businesses throughout the Marietta area. An added bonus over the summer - we'd love for our children creators to join us!! It’s part community gathering, part treasure hunt — and the perfect excuse to support local entrepreneurs while discovering something unique.

Summer markets have a way of bringing people together, and Swap Society captures that small-town charm that makes Marietta such a beloved place to spend the season.

https://thespiritexchangeco.com/products/the-tse-swap-society-tuesday-edition-may-26

WEDNESDAYS: Pick up dinner at Carriage House Catering!

Carriage House Catering is well loved and well known for their delicious catering offerings and additionally, their meals that are ready to be picked up, already prepared on Wednesday afternoons! Check out their delicious ready to go options here: https://carriagehouse-catering.com/family-meals

FRIDAYS: Story Time: A Summer Tradition for Families

Looking for something fun and screen-free to do with the kids this summer? Every Friday from 3–4 PM, families gather for Story Time at The Spirit Exchange Co..

It’s the perfect way to break up a summer afternoon with books, imagination, and community connection. Children can enjoy stories, meet new friends, and explore the Little Library while parents relax, shop, sip and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere.

These kinds of local traditions are what make summertime in Marietta feel nostalgic in the best way — simple, meaningful, and community-centered.

SATURDAYS: Don’t Miss the “Made with Love” Summer Event — June 27

Mark your calendars for the “Made with Love” event happening June 27 from 10 AM – 2 PM at The Spirit Exchange Co..

This special summer gathering will feature handcrafted goods, thoughtful gifts, local makers, and a welcoming atmosphere designed to celebrate creativity and community. Whether you’re shopping for unique finds, meeting local artisans, or simply enjoying a summer day in Marietta, “Made with Love” is the perfect addition to your summer bucket list.

TUESDAY - SATURDAY! Sweet Treats Next Door at Sweet Living Bakery

No summer outing is complete without dessert, and luckily, one of Marietta’s most charming bakery cafés sits right next door.

Sweet Living Bakery is known for its homemade pastries, desserts, breakfast favorites, and warm community atmosphere. From cinnamon rolls and cookies to coffee and brunch favorites, it’s the kind of place where you stop in for a quick treat and end up staying awhile.

Their cozy seating areas and welcoming environment make it an ideal summer meet-up spot after shopping or story time.

https://www.sweetlivingbakery.com/

TUESDAY - SATURDAY Whitlock Butcher - grab a nice bottle of wine, a few cuts to throw on the grill!

Make everyone's day when you show up with a delicious steak, premium sides and a nice bottle of wine for your evening dinner or next gathering. Check out this locally owned Butcher and be surprised and delighted!

https://www.butcheronwhitlock.com/

WEDNESDAY - SATURDAY! Fresh cuts and color at Portfolio Hair Salon

Coming from someone who sees clients come out of Portfolio Hair Salon every day...I can tell you, they do GOOD work! Check out Linsey, Tami, Lexi, Charli or Rylie for an amazing cut, color, extensions, blow out and MORE! Feel your best and look your best this summer with Portfolio Hair Salon.
https://www.portfolio-salon.com/

Your Summer Stop in Marietta

This summer, skip the big crowds, complicated parking. Browse a book from the Little Library, shop, snack, pamper, dine and enjoy the small town life away from the hustle and bustle...we promise, there's so much over here!