Go to an often-overlooked beach: 10 things to do in July

If there’s a perfect month to be spontaneous, July is that month.

The summer season lends itself perfectly to getting out with loved ones and trying new things. Whether you’re looking for something to do over the weekend or after work, or you’re hoping to take a few days off from work, we have a few suggestions for things to do this month.

Go to the beach

Whether you’re a parent looking to keep your kids entertained this summer, someone who is in need of a solo trip, or a person who wants to get away with their closest friends or significant other, taking a road trip is a fun, inexpensive way to leave your day-to-day troubles behind.

Instead of heading to Hilton Head for your getaway, try something new. Visit a new beach with the help of our list of "10 often-overlooked beaches near Atlanta." All of our suggestions are between five to seven hours by car.

Attend an outdoor movie series

Going to the movies as a family can be expensive, but there is one way to get in on the fun for free. More than 20 outdoor movie series will take place throughout metro Atlanta this summer, so there are plenty of opportunities for families to watch films such as “Zootopia” and “Captain America: Civil War” locally. All you’ll need are a few blankets and snacks to have a good time!

“On You: Wearing Technology”

Most of us wear some form of technology on a daily basis. The Museum of Design Atlanta is looking into how these devices have become more popular and practical lately with their exhibit “On You: Wearing Technology.” Sponsored by Georgia Tech Wearable Computing Center, the exhibit will look at the people who utilize this technology as well as their creators.

The exhibit opened June 26 and will be open through October 2.

General admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children, ages 6-17.

Gatheround: Stories of Atlanta                                                                    

Admission to the Atlanta History Center will be free on Saturday, July 2 in celebration of the new exhibit “Gatheround: Stories of Atlanta.” Attendees will have access to the 33-acre campus, including all exhibits and historic homes.

“Gatheround: Stories of Atlanta” is an exhibit that features live theater performances and interactive activities in an effort to teach participants about the history of the city.

The exhibit is a permanent display, so if you can’t go to the museum on July 2, don’t worry. You’ll still be able to see the exhibit.

Learn more about the characters you will encounter at the exhibit at Atlantahistorycenter.com.

Celebrate Fourth of July

Whether you’re looking to see an amazing fireworks show or participate in a local parade, there are plenty of options for things to do in metro Atlanta this Fourth of July. Head to Lenox Square and watch their highly-anticipated 15-minute fireworks show or head to the Marietta Square for a parade, fireworks, kid-friendly arts and crafts, and more.

Dierks Bentley, Randy Houser, Cam & Tucker Beathard

Country fans should head to Lakewood Amphitheatre for an energetic show featuring Dierks Bentley, Randy Houser, and Cam & Tucker Beathard. I attended a Dierks Bentley concert last year and a woman dressed as a flight attendant vomited on the stage during Bentley’s performance of his hit single “Drunk on a Plane.” You never know what will happen on the “Somewhere on a Beach” tour.

If You Go: 7 p.m. July 15. $32.25-$57. Lakewood Amphitheatre, 2002 Lakewood Ave., Atlanta. Lakewoodamphitheater.com.

Atlanta Field Day

Some of us dreaded Field Day as children, but for people who are more coordinated and love the outdoors, Atlanta Field Day is something you should partake in this month. See if you have what it takes to win tug-of-war or a five-legged race as an adult on July 16 at Historic Fourth War Park. Sign up as an individual or gather seven of your most competitive friends to put together a team. Be sure to register at atlfieldday.com by July 15. Admission is $60 per person.

“The Rise of Sneaker Culture”

This new High Museum exhibit will showcase 150 pairs of sneakers, displaying popular products from popular brands such as Converse and Puma. Shoes in the collection are from the Bata museum, private collections and manufacturer archives.

Read more about "The Rise of Sneaker Culture" here.

Shawn Mendes

Pop singer Shawn Mendes will play Fox Theatre this month. Known for his breakout hit “Stitches,” the former Vine star has garnered quite the following amongst young music fans. Mendes recently released a new single, “Treat You Better,” the lead offering from his upcoming sophomore album.

If You Go: 7:30 p.m. July 17. $36.50. Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta.Foxtheatre.org.

Gucci Mane

The wait is over, Atlanta. Gucci Mane didn't make fans wait long at all before getting back into the music business after being released from prison in May. Now, the rapper will partake in an official homecoming concert at the Fox Theatre on July 22. "Gucci & Friends" will feature a surprise "star-studded" lineup.

If You Go: 8 p.m. July 22. $41.50 - $359.00. Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. Foxtheatre.org.