UVA Football on the Road: Georgia Tech

The drive down to Atlanta from Charlottesville can be a hike for most fans – if you’re lucky, the drive clocks in

Bobby Dodd Stadium in Miami

The drive down to Atlanta from Charlottesville can be a hike for most fans – if you’re lucky, the drive clocks in at around eight hours and fifteen minutes. I recommend making the trip into a weekend getaway as there is so much to see and do in the city of Atlanta.

If you have time, make a stop at the College Football Hall of Fame, which is about a mile from Bobby Dodd Stadium. You’ll find that quite a few UVA coaches and players have been inducted into the Hall of Fame over the years, including Coach George Welsh and offensive guard Jim Dombrowski.

The drive from Charlottesville to Atlanta is around 510 miles, depending on the route you decide to take. Construction along I-85 might slow you down a bit, but when things are moving it is a relatively easy drive. As you head into the city on game day be aware that traffic can be an issue.

If this is your first visit to Georgia Tech, here’s what you can expect on game day.

While I am normally with the team and helping out before the game, over the years I’ve heard of some fun restaurants and traditions to take part in close to campus.

WHAT TO DO IN Atlanta ON GAME DAY

  • The Varsity – This local institution has been serving up burgers, hot dogs, fries and shakes for 90 years! Things can get a little crazy at the world’s largest drive-in fast food restaurant so be prepared for chaos!
  • Marlow’s Tavern – If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat while you’re in town, make a stop at Marlow’s Tavern for American fare with a bit of an upscale twist.
  • Hudson Grille – Want to catch a few other college football games before heading to the stadium? Hudson Grille is a great sports bar with plenty of TVs for your viewing pleasure.
  • Fox Bros. BBQ – You can’t leave Atlanta without making a stop at Fox Bros. BBQ for a plate of their ribs.
  • Fat Matt’s – If a no-frills BBQ joint is more your style, stop by Fat Matt’s Rib Shack, which has been serving up smoked meats for 28 years. Pro tip: try the chopped pork sandwich and sweet potato pie.
  • Mellow Mushroom — You’ve probably heard of Mellow Mushroom. But did you know it was started by two Georgia Tech students and a Georgia student? Its first location was on Spring Street, not far from the Tech campus. It currently has a location that’s only a short walk from Dodd Stadium at Grant Field.

See you at the game! And if you see the UVA Football Truck – share your photos with me on Twitter using #UVAFBTruck.

– Pete, UVA Football Equipment Truck / Hilldrup Driver