Where to go on the beltline?

We’ve never been to the beltline and would like to explore on a Saturday? I heard there were lots of trails. Which trail would be the best for us to see restaurants, bars, entertainment, and people watch? Where should we park?

The Atlanta BeltLine is a great place to explore, especially on a Saturday when the area is lively with activities, restaurants, bars, and people watching. There are several trails that you can explore, but to make the most of your day, you’ll want to focus on the portions of the BeltLine that pass through neighborhoods with a lot of dining, entertainment, and shopping options.

  • Eastside Trail: The Eastside Trail is probably the best segment for what you're looking for. It runs from Inman Park to Piedmont Park and passes through areas like Old Fourth Ward, Ponce City Market, and Virginia-Highland. This section is lined with restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and plenty of spots to people-watch. You'll find vibrant public spaces, art installations, and a great mix of local and chain establishments.
  • Ponce City Market: This is a key spot along the Eastside Trail. The market is housed in a renovated historic building and has a mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. There's even a rooftop amusement park with great views of the city. It’s an ideal stop for both food and entertainment.
  • Old Fourth Ward: Another great spot along the Eastside Trail, this neighborhood has plenty of trendy bars and eateries. You can stop at places like the Krog Street Market or hit up the local breweries. The area has a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for people-watching and enjoying the urban vibe.
  • Piedmont Park: If you continue on the Eastside Trail, you'll eventually reach Piedmont Park, which is a great place to relax, walk around, and enjoy the outdoors. You can stop here for a picnic or to enjoy the views of Midtown Atlanta. There are also a few food trucks in the area on weekends, adding to the atmosphere.

Where to Park: Parking can be a bit tricky, but there are several options:

  • Ponce City Market: If you start at Ponce City Market, there is ample parking in their lot (though it can fill up on busy days). They also have valet parking options.
  • Krog Street Market: This area also has parking available, and it's another good spot to park if you plan to explore the Eastside Trail. The Krog Street Tunnel is a popular landmark nearby, so it’s an easy stop to make while you’re out walking.
  • Inman Park: Inman Park has some street parking and is a convenient spot to start if you're walking the Eastside Trail. There are also a few parking decks nearby.

Overall, the Eastside Trail offers the best combination of restaurants, bars, entertainment, and people-watching, and it’s the most active and accessible part of the BeltLine for newcomers. Whether you're looking to shop, eat, or just enjoy the vibe of Atlanta's neighborhoods, this trail is perfect for a leisurely Saturday walk.


More Atlanta Travel Questions