A little downtown Atlanta guide featuring my own little city and nearby neighborhood.
This post is sponsored by Stay Alfred, all thoughts + opinions are my own.
Where to go in Downtown Atlanta
Centennial Park
Centennial is a bit of a given. It features some history from the 1996 Olympic games that were held right here in Atlanta. Beyond that, it offers up some pretty neat views of downtown. Post up here with lunch one afternoon and enjoy the panoramic views around you.
Switchyards
Switchyards is – well – a whole bunch of things. First and foremost it’s a community, next it’s a coworking space. They (currently) have 3 locations around the city, and the downtown location is their first brick and mortar. They have events pretty frequently, and some are open to the public, so check their calendar and attend one if you can! This is a great way to learn more about the Atlanta community. And, at the minimum, snap a photo with their famous ‘Made With Soul in Atlanta’ sign.
Fairlie-Poplar
Fairlie-Poplar is one of the more popular mini neighborhoods downtown. It’s in the central business district, and is home to numerous casual food + coffee spots. If you’re here in a warm weather month (which, let’s be real, is most of the year), grab a seat on Broad Street near the Flatiron, which is only open for pedestrian traffic.
Healey
The Healey building was built between 1913-1914 and is a bit of a downtown gem. While the top floors are condos, the bottom is home to galleries, a café and some take-away food options.
Find a parking deck
Okay, I know this is going to sound crazy, BUT hear me out. There are a bunch of parking decks downtown and if you walk up to the top of one, you won’t regret it. Somehow, the view is just better up there.
Where to eat and drink
White Oak
White Oak is an old downtown favorite of mine. I visited with Tim the first time we came to Atlanta together (when he first moved here about 6 years ago) and so far, it’s our favorite spot downtown. The interior is beautiful, the food is tasty, and they’ve got a good cocktail menu. What more could you ask for, right? I suggest swinging by for lunch when it’s a little quiet and honestly, quite a serene space. The natural light is a DREAM.
By George
I have to be honest that I *still* haven’t been to By George yet, but it looks SO beautiful. I feel as though all I need to tell you is that By George is a Hugh Acheson restaurant. Essentially, that means it’s going to be two things: Stunning and delicious. Here’s the menu, in case you’re curious.
Atlanta Breakfast Club
Atlanta Breakfast Club is a longstanding staple here in ATL, and yet again, I still haven’t been. I think it’s because while I really love the density of downtown, I don’t find myself there as often as I’d like. And funny enough, I can ride my bike and/or walk RIGHT down my street and it leads directly to downtown. Shame on me, I know! However, when I do finally plan to grab some breakfast downtown, it’ll be at the Atlanta Breakfast Club, for sure.
The Pantry & Provisions
Serving up gourmet sandwiches in a fast-casual setting, The Pantry & Provisions is located in the historic (and beautiful) Healey building I mentioned a few paragraphs up. They’ve got sandwiches galore, Chicago-style hot dogs, and lots more. The small, yet functional space boasts a 12-seat tasting counter, too. So basically, you’ll know where to find me when it’s dinner time.
Edgewood
Technically, the bulk of Edgewood Ave is just outside of downtown – more so in Old Fourth Ward and the Sweet Auburn area. However, it’s worth the ~20 minute walk. Edgewood has tons of nightlife including dive bars, a beer garden – even a vintage arcade style bar called Joystick. Trust me, Edgewood is entirely unique and quintessential Atlanta.
Sweet Auburn Curb Market
If you’re making your way down to the Edgewood bar scene, stop by Sweet Auburn Curb Market for a meal. It’s pretty much the food hall that started it all – now we’re known for Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market, but stop by the beloved Curb Market for some arepas or burgers, or truly anything your heart desires. Also get some tea to round out your meal – Just Add Honey is divine.
Where to stay
Stay Alfred
You’ve heard me rave about Stay Alfred before, and this time around is no different. Stay Alfred has a handful of options for stays around Atlanta, meaning you get to take your pick when it comes to location. If you’re looking for a true downtown Atlanta experience, snag a spot at Dwell ATL or Century Skyline.
Do I have you convinced yet that downtown Atlanta is 100% worth a visit? If you ARE in town, be sure to build in some time to explore the rest of the city, too.
Old Fourth Ward and Inman Park are my top two recs because I love anything and everything along the Atlanta Beltline, and I think you will, too. Just remember to bring your walking shoes!
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