Southwest Atlanta - Atlanta, GA

Southwest Atlanta doesn't generally spring to mind when you think about neighborhoods of historical significant, but it is rich with history. The Battle of Utoy Creek occurred in Southwest Atlanta during the Civil War. This three-day battle was a part of the Atlanta campaign to defeat the Confederate army. Three years later, another historic event took place, the founding of Morehouse College. This historically black college has called the neighborhood home for the last 130 years. Alumni include Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Spike Lee, and Samuel L. Jackson.

Southwest Atlanta exudes African American culture. The Southwest Arts center is an ideal place to revel in the neighborhood’s culture. The facility was Fulton County’s first center built exclusively for the arts. Visitors can enjoy visual art exhibitions, cultural performances and events. It also provides services such as summer youth programs and art classes for all ages.

Some of Atlanta’s best-kept dining secrets reside in Southwest Atlanta. A neighborhood favorite is Baltimore Crab and Seafood. The name alone denotes high expectations and the restaurant does not fail to deliver. Take your pick of seafood favorites like crab cakes, salmon and scallops. The crab cakes have a reputation for being stuffed with ample amounts of crabmeat unlike some restaurants that give you more “cake” than “crab.” Even if you are not a fan of seafood, the restaurant has other options such as fried or grilled chicken, steak and a whole section dedicated to various hoagies. They also host brunch every Sunday featuring a celebrity chef.

Frequently described as “A hole in the wall,” African Caribbean Fine Foods may look modest in appearance but proves to be bold in cuisine. Locals of Caribbean descent will tell you the best places for authentic Caribbean food are generally small mom and pop eateries like this one. The friendly, family-oriented atmosphere brings life to the establishment and you can order classics like oxtails, curry goat and the very popular jollof rice. Menu items vary from day to day so call in advance to see what the chef has prepared.

Cascade Skating provides a popular source of entertainment for both local community residents and visitors. Although the skating center has been a staple in the community for many years, it received notoriety after serving as the main venue for the 2006 film ATL. Cascade is fun for all ages and in addition to its family skate nights held three times a week, it hosts nights tailored to specific age groups like adult skate night and teen skate night. Check out their online calendar for a full list of events.

There are several options for transportation in Southwest Atlanta. The MARTA gold line travels to and from the community. Residents can opt for an Uber or a cab as well. Bicycle lanes make cycling safe and easy while shopping areas like Underground Atlanta offer parking in garages and on the street.

Nature lovers do not have to search far for a hang out spot in Southwest Atlanta. The Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, a forest abundant in springs and wildlife, falls right in the Southwest neighborhood. Hiking trails populate this 120-acre preserve which is even home to a waterfall. After a stressful week, Cascade Springs provides a tranquil retreat. Many visitors love the serene forest as you can always find a quiet, tranquil spot to enjoy the fresh air away from the chaos of the city. Utoy Creek, the former battleground site, also rests in the peaceful Cascade Springs.

For a more family oriented park, try Perkerson Park. This well-manicured park has several amenities, including tennis and basketball courts, softball fields, walking trails and a disc golf course. It's a great place to hold birthday parties and family gatherings thanks to the park’s large picnic pavilion which can be reserved for special events. The park also attracts children in the warm months to its splash pad.

The cost of living in Southwest Atlanta is generally lower than other parts of Atlanta. The average cost of rent per month as of 2011 was $665 compared to the rest of the city averaging about $764. Notable residents of this area include Baseball Hall of Famer Hank Aaron and former Atlanta mayor Shirley Franklin.

Most Southwest Atlanta residents shop at Kroger grocery store for food staples. Castleberry Hill Farmers Market offers additional grocery options for low prices. Underground Atlanta is an Atlanta hot spot. With a variety of stores, you are bound to find something no matter what your taste may be. Make your shopping trip an all day adventure at Underground Atlanta with shopping, dining and entertainment options all in one central location. Snag something cute for your little ones at Born to be Cute or blend in with the fashionistas at Vivi Boutique.

Every New Years Eve Underground Atlanta hosts the Peach Drop, which mimics the New York City Ball drop. The whole city of Atlanta comes out to bring in the New Year at this shopping complex. In this past this day-long event has hailed celebrity performances by artists including singer Janelle Monae and comedian David Koechner. Family and friends gather to enjoy a carnival by day and fireworks by night as they countdown in anticipation for the giant peach to drop.

Other popular malls in Southwest Atlanta include the Greenbriar Mall and The Mall West End.