When describing Atlanta to those unfamiliar with the city, one might mention an abundance of trees, friendly people, or perhaps a favorite sports team or two. Atlanta, Georgia, the “Capital of the South,” is a growing city that in many ways can be compared to other booming metropolises such as New York, D.C. and Chicago. However, one characteristic separates Atlanta from the aforementioned cities: a limited public transportation system (MARTA) and lack of unified areas throughout the city that can be reached via foot. The issue of urban sprawl will be partially mitigated when the Beltline is completed (http://www.beltline.org/), but until then, where to walk to take advantage of the fall season?
The answer lies somewhere between the many parks and many districts that make up the City of Atlanta. Yes, it is true that one cannot walk from downtown Atlanta to Virginia Highlands to Buckhead without hailing a cab or parking one’s own car. Nevertheless, those living in Atlanta can walk down vibrant urban streets that happen to be in extremely close proximity to nature.
In Midtown, there are streets (such as 10th and Monroe) that consist of many shops and restaurants that also run adjacent to the city’s most well-known urban greenspace: Piedmont Park. Feel like retreating from society to go running in the park, only to find yourself missing your morning cup of coffee as soon as you begin to jog? This is the perfect destination for you. Another urban retreat is nestled close by at the intersection of Ponce de Leon Avenue and Moreland Avenue. The Oak Grove portion of Atlanta’s Linear Park is not as well-known as Piedmont Park, but it is equally as fun to visit. Perhaps this is due to its proximity to Little Five Points (the colorful neighborhood frequented by the city’s counter-culture) and Virginia Highlands (a neighborhood comprised of boutiques, great restaurants, and quite a few University of Georgia alumni). Or, perhaps the success of these two walking destinations can be attributed to the landscape architect who designed them: Frederick Law Olmsted. Olmsted, commonly referred to as the “Father of Landscape Architecture,” was the man responsible for the creation of Central Park in New York. Many say he was also responsible for coining the term, “landscape architecture,” over a hundred years ago.
The areas described are just two of many urban walking spots located close to natural areas throughout the city. Lucky for us Atlantans, there are too many walking destinations to describe in a single blog post! Be on the lookout for more descriptions of walking destinations throughout the city. But don’t wait to walk—get outside to enjoy some fresh air!