WELCOME TO THE BELT
THE BELTLINE
The Atlanta Beltline is a vibrant piece of Atlanta architecture that has an energy all its own. The pavement allows Atlantans a chance to come together and enjoy the open air, art, live music, and food, set alongside the skyline of Atlanta. The beltline connects roughly 45 neighborhoods within its 22-mile loop. The point of entrance that brought me to discover the beltline is connected to the entry point at Ponce City Market, located in the Old Fourth Ward section of Atlanta. I look forward to my getaways on the beltline and if I have to entertain out of town guests. The beltline provides solace, scenery, and sulliness when my schedule allows.
INCEPTION
The Atlanta BeltLine is the brainchild of Ryan Gravel, who attended Georgia Tech. Originating as Gravel’s master thesis project in 1999, the idea reimagined turning the old rail lines of the city into a 22-mile urban loop, connecting neglected neighborhoods and promoting green use. The rush of visitors and neighbors who frequent the area’s restaurants, stores, and entertainment facilities proves the BeltLine's strategic value in urban architecture, attracting large corporations and small businesses alike, improving Atlanta's economic landscape.
INFORMATION MAP
ACCESS
Once you’re inside the city perimeter of Atlanta, traffic to the beltline can be managed fairly easy. Along the 22 mile loop are various points of entry stemming from restaurants, parks, and trails. For me, the ease of getting there from Ponce City Market has a couple of advantages: the parking is safe, and the access to the beltline allows stops at PCM, and some outlying pitstops for food and drink.
PONCE CITY MARKET
Ponce City Market, on the Eastside Trail has grown to be a popular destination spot for visitors. The venue offers an energetic local food scene, breweries, and a miniature theme park on its rooftop. The 10-story historic building previously served as the warehouse for Sears Roebuck company, Atlanta’s City Hall, and now houses tenants and local businesses.
NEW REALM BREWERY
One of my fave spots right off the beltline is New Realm brewery. The brewery has great food and one of my favorite beers, KSU Owl In, which is brewed in honor of our dear university.
HARBOR COFFEE
Along the Eastside Trail of the beltline is another one of my favorite spots, Harbor Coffee. I discovered this spot on a whim after a 5K run and the coffee and staff are top shelf. The access to the coffee shop from the Beltline makes it a popular drop for the locals and tourists needing a caffeine boost, especially during events like 5K runs and music and arts festivals in the Old Fourth Ward area.