Harland Terrace Atlanta, GA

Known as an active player in the civil rights movement in Atlanta during the 1960s, Harland Terrace still boasts some of the most active community leaders. Along with surrounding neighborhoods, Harland Terrace residents serve as leaders in local politics.

Although the neighborhood suffered during the economic crisis in the mid-2000s, residents work hard to bring back and support local businesses. You will find few areas in Atlanta with as many non-chain offerings, which has been true dating back to the 1950s.

To grab a bite in Harland Terrace, just drive down either Martin Luther King Jr. Drive or Cascade Road to pick from a number of small, locally-owned restaurants.

Both local residents and people across Atlanta come for the soul food restaurants here in Harland Terrace. You can find traditional Southern dishes served up authentically on every block. For hands-down the best oxtail served in Atlanta, you have to try 285 West Soul Food Restaurant. If oxtail isn't your style, you will enjoy most anything on the menu, especially if you wash it down with their famous peach punch. Come to 285 West hungry because the huge portions at reasonable prices will fill you up fast.

When you aren't in the mood for soul food, a number of Chinese restaurants along MLK Jr Drive will fill you up. Check out Hong Kong City if you crave some spicy Kung Pao chicken or some of the best egg foo young that you will find in the city. Although everything is cooked to order and served hot at Hong Kong City, they do not waste any time. You can go in and come out with your order in just a few minutes.

At night, the neighborhood offers a number of lounge options where patrons can relax with a drink. Although most residents look outside the neighborhood for a club, even the craziest nights wind down at some of the chill late-night spots found here. One popular option, the Aquarius Lounge, boasts hookahs and cocktails served directly to your table.

Many residents of Harland Terrace choose to drive to run errands or go to work. Conveniently located off Martin Luther King Jr Drive, Harland Terrace connects directly into downtown. For those commuting a bit farther, residents can also take either the Perimeter or I-20. Once you get into this neighborhood, you can park on most smaller streets or at local businesses for free. If you enjoy commuting with your bike, however, this area may not be for you. Cycling can be dangerous along these roads.

For those who prefer public transportation, you can take many MARTA buses to locations around Atlanta from Martin Luther King Jr Drive. The Hamilton E. Holmes MARTA stop similarly serves the community well. In a pinch, you can call a taxi or Uber to pick you up directly, and they will arrive quickly.

When you want to exercise in Harland Terrace, the Isabel Gates Webster Park offers residents many ways to work out. Whether you prefer to jog along the winding paths, play a quick game of soccer, or get in a tennis game on the free courts, Isabel Gates Webster Park can help you stay healthy. Many people enjoy taking their dog with them for a walk here as well. Located directly next to Peyton Forest Elementary School, the park also provides many child-friendly amenities, including a playground and fields.

Living in Harland Terrace costs about 10 percent lower than the rest of Atlanta, which means that a pint of your favorite beer here will only set you back about $4 in a bar or club.

Residents take advantage of significantly lower rents here, as well. A one-bedroom apartment only costs about $650 per month. An exception to the general rule, gas prices are comparable to the Atlanta average, but still about 10 percent lower than the country average.

If you want to do some shopping in Harland Terrace, simply drive down MLK Jr Drive to find excellent deals. Most of the stores clustered along this road sell affordable products at large discounts. J & J Beauty Supply stocks a huge selection of less-common beauty brands.

It's Unforgettable is a boutique featuring everything from casual to dressy. The store also sells accessories, such as costume jewelry and handbags. The store's name could be referring to the hats -- custom-made, one-of-a-kind hats made by the owners on-site.

Head to Westridge Shopping Center to find more shops, including Rainbow and Family Dollar. This plaza also contains the neighborhood grocery store, Wayfield Foods.

To cover your grocery needs, you can head to the nearby Kroger or Wayfield Foods seven days a week.