Whether or not you live in Alpharetta, you should be well-versed in all things that Avalon has to offer.

It's more than just another place to go, it's a place to be—where memories are made, new traditions emerge, families gather and community happens.

Construction began in 2013 on the $1 billion, 80-plus-acre mix of offices, retail, restaurants, movie theater and luxury rentals. Since its grand opening in 2014, visitors and locals have flocked to the suburban retail district. a hotel and conference center, more than 500 apartments and more than 100 single family residences.

For more on Avalon in Alpharetta stores and restaurants, click here.

Take a stroll down the Boulevard, make a wish at the fountain, catch a concert, play some lawn games with the family, and drink in the beauty of every season while you experience the ultimate in shopping and dining.

Here are four reasons to visit Avalon:

Seasonal Events

With each season comes many reasons to celebrate. Perhaps the most magical time of year at Avalon is during the holidays, where a seasonal ice skating rink is enjoyed by all ages, encounters with Santa leave a smile on visitor's faces, and a gorgeous tree lighting celebration invites the community together. Springtime brings Luck of the Avalon, where lads and lassies can enjoy an evening full of live music, dancing, Irish flair, and of course, green beer. Take a look at their featured events each month to stay in-the-know.

Avalon, the big Alpharetta mixed-use development, maintained regular hours and operations Friday. In this 2015 photo, skaters enjoyed the ice rink at Avalon. JONATHAN PHILLIPS / SPECIAL
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Family-Friendly Fun

Located next to Regal Cinemas, the indoor/outdoor Play Area presented by Children's Healthcare of Atlanta gives parents a chance to relax while children enjoy the custom play area complete with soft play squirrels. At 1300+ square feet, the squirrel-themed interactive play area provides children, ages 6 and under, with an area to let their imaginations soar while promoting fitness and fun exercise.

Bocado Burger Stack- American cheese, b&b pickles, mayo. Served with herb fries.

Credit: Becky Stein

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Credit: Becky Stein

Wine and dine

Looking for a burger worthy of winning the Best of Atlanta title? Look no further than Bocado. If a carefully curated Italian wine might hit the spot after a long workday, then make your way to Colletta or Crú Food & Wine Bar. Maybe you're the type to appreciate a finely crafted cocktail. Might we suggest Branch & Barrel? And there's plenty more where that came from. Dining through Avalon's restaurants is an adventure all its own.

Premium seating awaits patrons at one of the 12 theaters inside Regal Cinemas.

Credit: Jonathan Phillips

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Credit: Jonathan Phillips

Escape through the movies

Be sure to save room for popcorn while you catch the latest buzz-worthy cinematic release at Regal Avalon 12. They also have a full-service kitchen and bar, waiting to satiate your every craving. This Regal location is the first all premium VIP theater in the country to have 12 screens. Feeling special now? Don't forget to hit the recline button as the lights go down.

Here are other important things to know about Avalon:

Community, fun and experience is what Avalon was made for. There's something for everyone, no matter what age or interests you might have. Here are a few more ideas:

Shop 'til you drop. A little retail therapy is healthy every now and then.

Live there. Want all of these events and experiences in your own backyard? It's all yours as a resident of Avalon.

Play lawn games with family or friends, or even join the Avalon cornhole team. Established in 2010 in the Virginia Highlands, Cornhole ATL has quickly grown to be the home of over 400 cornhole players.

Enjoy a ladies night out. Grab your girls and head to Avalon for an evening of beauty, shopping, happy hours and more. Make sure to check-in at Concierge upon your arrival to receive a stroll map of all the special offers available. The first 50 ladies who check-in at Concierge receive a free Avalon swag bag.

Have a me day. Pamper yourself with a mani/pedinew hair style or perhaps a scoop of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

Picnic in the Plaza. This is a service in which you can order through the Avalon Concierge Team and have a prepared picnic basket ready for pick-up upon arrival. Come and enjoy your favorite eats with the best seat on the Boulevard.

Customize your experience. With different levels of concierge services, you can savor life at Avalon for a day, for an evening or as a lifestyle.

Let your pup play at the dog park. Maybe you'll make a new friend or two while watching your furry friends enjoy the great outdoors.

Hang out in the Living Room. Avalon's Living Room features a bocce court, swings and a fire pit. Don't forget to make a wish in the water fountain.

Avalon parking, access and hours

Now, that you've been given the virtual grand tour, it's time to experience the fun in person. You can find Avalon at 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. Follow signs to valet or parking options.

Hours are 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12 p.m. until 7 p.m. Sunday. Check store, restaurant and movie theater hours on their respective websites.

Channel 2's Mike Petchenik reports the development could result in hundreds of jobs.