In our 10K steps series, we’ve asked writers for the best places to get in your steps while enjoying city sights, favorite routes, and some secret detours. In this one, Sheeka Sanahori takes us through some of Atlanta’s neighborhoods via the BeltLine Eastside Trail.
It doesn’t have to be rush hour for visitors to Atlanta to witness the city’s notorious traffic. With people moving to Georgia’s capital in droves, coupled with the city’s overdependence on cars, slow traffic has become a regular occurrence.
The beautiful aspect of the Atlanta BeltLine—a 22-mile outdoor trail that loops around Atlanta’s neighborhoods—is that it reduces some of the reliance on cars and revives the joy of neighborhood strolls. Before construction began on the BeltLine in 2005, many Atlanta neighborhoods weren’t closely connected, making this an exciting development.
Today, the BeltLine encourages residents to enjoy the outdoors more than ever. This trail gets busy, particularly on weekends, requiring cyclists to navigate between numerous pedestrians. A favorite stretch includes the Eastside Trail, a 4.6-mile pathway from Piedmont Park to Reynoldstown. Along this route, you’ll encounter a skatepark, renovated shopping districts, and some of the city’s best eateries. Let’s explore a delightful stroll through Atlanta’s east-side neighborhoods.
Where to Start: Piedmont Park
Begin your journey in Atlanta’s most popular park. Piedmont Park hosts several of Atlanta’s biggest festivals, but even on regular days, this midtown park is filled with joggers, bikers, and picnickers. Navigate to the southeast corner, at the intersection of 10th Street and Monroe Drive. Pass under the colorful Virginia Avenue bridge, and you’ll be on your way.
The Walk: The Eastside Trail is fully paved and wide enough to accommodate joggers, walkers, and bikers at various speeds. On weekends, the path tends to get busy by around 8:30 AM.
Stop for Shopping at Ponce City Market
Approximately one mile into your stroll, keep an eye out for the scooter-lined sidewalk on your right leading to Ponce City Market. This vibrant area connects the trail to one of Atlanta’s hottest shopping districts. Consider taking an off-trail adventure to explore the market, where you’ll find local designers, food stalls, and breathtaking rooftop views of Atlanta.
Enjoy a Patio Drink and Take in Some City Views
Having indulged in retail therapy, return to the trail and head south for another half mile until you reach the back patio of a smaller shopping center on your left. Here, you can unwind at New Realm Brewing Co for craft brews and pub grub. Alternatively, visit TWO Urban Licks for wood-fired American cuisine accompanied by live blues music. For an entertainment option, experience immersive VR exhibits at Illuminarium Experiences Atlanta.
Hang Out (or Skate!) at the Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park
A few steps further south on the trail will lead you to the Historic Fourth Ward Park on your right. Encounter skaters of all ages at the city’s first designated skate park. Adjacent to the park, a field is available for public use. On any given day, you may see individuals working out or simply enjoying this multipurpose urban oasis.
Grab a Bite in the Inman Park Neighborhood
Proceed under the Freedom Parkway underpass adorned with street art. On your right, notice the BeltLine Marketplace, which features converted shipping containers serving as incubators for emerging businesses. Once you pass the underpass, look for the rhino sculpture on your left that signals a temporary detour deeper into the Inman Park neighborhood.
This vibrant community offers a plethora of dining options, ranging from coffee shops and wine tasting rooms to gastropubs and fine dining establishments. After enjoying a meal, simply retrace your steps to get back on the BeltLine and continue your stroll.
Stop to Admire the Street Art
By now, you’ve encountered plenty of street art, but a standout section resides in the Reynoldstown/Cabbagetown neighborhoods near the Krog Street tunnel. This area features a gorgeous mix of graffiti and evolving murals inside the tunnel, complemented by permanent street art on the MARTA train wall along Wylie Street. Notable are the vibrant, open-mouthed characters created by Atlanta artist Greg Mike—his murals can be found across the city, adored by residents and visitors alike.
The Walk: Upon reaching the intersection with Memorial Drive, you will have officially completed the Eastside Trail! Should you wish to explore more of the city, consider heading west towards Atlanta’s Grant Park neighborhood or east towards East Atlanta Village. Alternatively, continue your journey by crossing over Memorial Drive and venturing south to embark on the Southside Trail.
