Atlanta is a vibrant, sprawling city that can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. I know it was for me; when I first moved here almost a year ago, I found myself paralyzed with the abundance of options and turned to my Atlanta-native friends for advice. Although I’ve explored much of the city’s interesting corners since then, like the giant former Sears store that’s now the vibrant shopping hub of Ponce City Market, one area I always find myself returning to is the neighborhood of Little Five Points. This is an artist’s haven located 3 miles from downtown Atlanta, where shopping, music, and art merge into a unique communal space.
Little Five Points was one of Atlanta’s first commercial districts beyond the downtown core in the 1920s. Although its initial success was dampened by the Depression, the 1990s saw a renewed investment, leading to the picturesque area you see today. The buildings were transformed into eclectic shops and eateries, and the walls are covered with murals that highlight the community’s history and artistic spirit. It’s hard not to feel inspired while strolling around, as there is always a new artistic element to notice and appreciate. There are plenty of murals that have become landmarks; my personal favorite is the large OutKast mural that stands over 30 feet tall, honoring the Atlanta-based hip-hop duo. Little Five Points is also only about a mile away from Inman Park, another artsy, walkable neighborhood in Atlanta.
Explore the eclectic shops and eateries at Little Five Points
The downtown area of Little Five Points is filled with unique shops that offer incredible experiences for visitors. Most shops are on Moreland Avenue and Euclid Avenue, and I recommend that first-time visitors start exploring near the intersection of Moreland and Mansfield Avenue. Here is where you can find Junkman’s Daughter, nicknamed “Atlanta’s Alternative Super Store” for good reason. Opened in 1982 by the daughter of a junkman who collected items others would consider trash, this store has over 10,000 square feet of unique clothing, collectibles, and art.
A few feet away is one of Little Five Points’ most iconic spots: the giant skull entrance to the Vortex Bar, a local favorite for cocktails and burgers. Don’t let the tough exterior and dark atmosphere scare you; in my experience, the friendly staff and excellent food are well worth the visit inside. There is another Vortex location in Midtown, one of Atlanta’s most walkable districts…