Capitol Gateway - Atlanta, GA Area Guide

Downtown Atlanta began as a small city in 1837 named Terminus that was a crossroads for the railroad. The 30 citizens of Terminus decided to change the name to Marthasville in 1942 as a tribute to the governor's daughter. Given its official name in 1847, Atlanta was not named the state capital of Georgia until 1868. Today downtown Atlanta has approximately 27,000 residents. The High Museum of Art has a world renowned collection of classic and contemporary art. The museum provides activities for all ages. Toddler Thursdays introduce younger children to the ABCs of art for a small fee, and Friday Night Lates are offered at half price, which allows adults to explore the galleries after 7:30. Atlanta hosts the annual Peach Drop on New Year's Eve, and the annual Atlanta Dogwood Festival presents work from a variety of artists from the area in April.

From tried and true favorites to different and adventurous entrées, restaurants in downtown Atlanta offer something for anybody who wants to satisfy a hungry appetite. Choosing from international cuisine, famous chains or traditional Southern fare, the Capital Gateway will definitely bring out the foodie in anyone. If you have ever been close to downtown Atlanta, you know you can't escape downtown without making a stop at The Varsity. Established in 1928 by Frank Gordy, this local family-friendly chain has established itself as a true icon to those who live there. Sample the famous chill dogs topped with mustard, or grab a plate of the steaming chill cheese fries (also referred to by the staff as strings). You also shouldn't leave off a frosted varsity orange, also referred to as an F.O. From the minute you walk in the door and hear, "What'll ya have, what'll ya have," listening to and learning the lingo provides a thrill to anyone new to the establishment. For a truly unique experience, Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse offers dinner and a meal. This is where the Atlanta Shakespeare Co. performs, providing entertainment for theatre enthusiasts. If you are really hungry, ask for the king-sized portions of menu-items including shepherd's pie or the signature king's supper sandwich with slices of pork loin that has been stuffed with apricots and prunes. Past performances have included Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" and Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet." Residents near the Capital Gateway need to look no further than their own backyards for plenty of nightlife and activities. The Halo Lounge has an upscale atmosphere that provides a place for networking and dancing. The sleek furnishings are made of chrome and glass and dress is dress casual. The Opera offers a red carpet atmosphere and celebrity sightings are common. You will find world-class DJs, dancing, a full service bar, excellent food and VIP booths on the second level.

The Capital Gateway neighborhood lies centrally located to a network of Interstates, including I-20, the Perimeter, I-85, I-75 and GA 400, and Peachtree Street remains the main road that runs through downtown Atlanta. The majority of the city's historic architecture can be found on this road, and the street hosts a variety of events, including the annual Christmas parade and the St. Patrick's Day parade. For those new to the area, the Peachtree road name can be confusing. There are over 70 streets in Atlanta with some variation of Peachtree in it, including Peachtree Lane, Peachtree Avenue, Peachtree Plaza and Peachtree Valley Road. Regardless of where you are in downtown, there are designated areas for pedestrians and cyclists, and bicycles have no problems navigating the streets. MARTA offers the most popular method of travel in the downtown area. Residents can choose the subway system — one of the busiest in the country — or the MARTA bus system can get you anywhere within the metropolitan area you need to go. Uber provides an option for travel in downtown Atlanta. Atlanta cab rides are not like most major cities where you have an easy process of hailing a taxi. Taxis line up outside airports, major hotels and restaurants and downtown events, so you do not need to call them. Typically, you will find a taxi booth outside of an event or location and you request a ride. If you are in a location where taxis do not line up, you will have to have the number handy to call for a pickup. If you are a commuter who prefers to drive, public parking can be hard to find, and it can be pricey depending on the event.

Centennial Olympic Park was built in 1996 as a gathering spot for visitors attending the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta. Once a poor section of town, the park currently hosts festivals and fundraisers throughout the year, and children can play in the fountains in the summer for free. Pets are allowed inside the park if they are on a leash. Each year, the park also hosts the Jingle Bell run/walk for arthritis. With six acres of sidewalks and recreational areas for walking or jogging, Woodruff Park offers a relaxing place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park has two fountains, a place for live music, monuments and benches that overlook the city and currently there are no fees for admissions.

The cost of living in the center of Atlanta in the downtown Capital Gateway neighborhood remains approximately the same as the entire Atlanta region and is just slightly more than the state. Those looking for a one-bedroom apartment can expect to pay around $900 a month, and those who enjoy evening drinks at a local pub will pay around $3 for a glass of domestic beer.

For residents of downtown Atlanta, shopping provides recreation and a way of life and not just a necessity. A wide variety of famous retail chains and local boutiques exist to suit nearly any taste. The Mall at Peachtree Center hosts a variety of high-end shops, and the Lenox Square Mall provides a premiere destination for locals who are serious about shopping. Focus Clothing Store on Peachtree Street SW offers popular, modern clothes and accessories for people who like to wear the height of fashion. The shop sells casual wear and athletic gear for men and women. For those looking for unique accessories and gifts, the Beehive has a large selection of clothing and jewelry designed by local artists. Find soaps, loose leaf teas and a little something for everyone. Major grocery chains supply most people's needs in the downtown Atlanta area, or you can stop at R & R Produce to find high-quality fruits and vegetables that are locally grown. The Buford Highway Farmers Market is always worth a visit, and it's open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.