Peachtree Street is more than just a road in Atlanta; it’s the city’s backbone, a name synonymous with its history, culture, and vibrant urban life. If you’re planning a visit to Atlanta, or even if you’re a local wanting to delve deeper into the city’s identity, understanding Peachtree Street is key. This iconic thoroughfare, along with its many namesake streets, offers a journey through Atlanta’s evolution, showcasing everything from historical landmarks to modern skyscrapers and bustling entertainment districts.
Peachtree Street at night in Atlanta, showcasing city lights and skyscrapers
The Legacy of Peachtree Street: A Historical Journey
Peachtree Street’s story is deeply rooted in Atlanta’s past, tracing back to the early 19th century. Originally, the path was one of the Muscogee Indian trails, which was later utilized by soldiers as a route connecting Fort Peachtree and Fort Daniel. This humble trail gradually transformed into a vital artery as Atlanta grew, witnessing the city’s transformation from a small settlement to a major metropolis. Starting in the historic Little Five Points area of Downtown Atlanta, Peachtree Street extends northward, weaving through Midtown and eventually morphing into Peachtree Road as it enters Buckhead.
Along its path, Peachtree Street has become a living museum of Atlanta’s history and progress. It’s not just a street; it’s a narrative etched in architecture and landmarks. From towering skyscrapers like 191 Peachtree Tower, Georgia-Pacific Tower, Westin Peachtree Plaza, and SunTrust Plaza, to cultural institutions such as the Atlanta campus of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and The Woodruff Arts Center, Peachtree Street is a showcase of Atlanta’s ambition and artistic spirit. Oglethorpe University, another notable landmark, resides on Peachtree Road, further extending the historical and educational significance of the Peachtree corridor.
Peachtree Street also holds a prominent place in popular culture, largely thanks to Margaret Mitchell’s iconic novel, “Gone With the Wind.” Mitchell, a lifelong Atlanta resident, tragically passed away in 1949 after being struck by a speeding car while crossing Peachtree Street. While her former apartment building at the corner of 10th and Peachtree Street is currently closed for public viewing, its exterior serves as a poignant reminder of her connection to this famous street. The Margaret Mitchell House, part of the Atlanta History Center’s Midtown campus, stands as a testament to her literary legacy. For those seeking a deeper dive, the Atlanta History Center’s “Atlanta in 50 Objects” exhibition offers further insights into Peachtree Street’s rich history.
Beyond its architectural and literary significance, Peachtree Street is also Atlanta’s stage for celebration and community events. It serves as the route for numerous parades, most famously the annual AJC Peachtree Road Race, a beloved tradition. Furthermore, Peachtree Street frequently hosts the Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the Children’s Christmas Parade, and the Dragon Con Parade, drawing crowds and energy to the city’s heart. Triumphant moments in Atlanta’s history, such as the centennial celebration of Coca-Cola and the Atlanta Braves’ World Series victories in 1995 and 2021, have also spilled onto Peachtree Street in joyous parades. Adding to its cultural tapestry, the Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade, the largest Pride festival in the Southeast, culminates its parade route onto Peachtree Street each October, further cementing its role as a central artery of Atlanta’s civic life.
Navigating Peachtree Street: From Downtown to Buckhead
Peachtree Street is more than just a single road; it’s a family of streets, a fact that often amuses and sometimes confuses visitors. Locals joke that any turn in Atlanta will eventually lead you to a street bearing the “Peachtree” name. While this might be a slight exaggeration, it reflects the prevalence of “Peachtree” in Atlanta’s street names. In reality, there are over 70 streets in Atlanta incorporating some variation of “Peachtree” into their names.
Runners participating in the AJC Peachtree Road Race, receiving t-shirts at the finish line
The most famous of these, and often what people refer to when they say “Peachtree Street Atlanta,” is the stretch that begins in Downtown Atlanta at Five Points. From there, it runs north through Midtown, becoming Peachtree Road as it continues into Buckhead. This primary Peachtree Street is approximately 6.2 miles long, a distance famously marked by the annual AJC Peachtree Road Race. This 10K race, the world’s largest, attracts around 60,000 participants from across the globe, running the iconic route from Lenox Square to Piedmont Park, largely along Peachtree Street and Peachtree Road.
Exploring Peachtree Street: Must-See Attractions by District
Peachtree Street is not just a route; it’s a destination in itself, brimming with attractions and points of interest across Atlanta’s key districts.
Downtown Atlanta: Peachtree Street Highlights
Beginning in Downtown Atlanta, Peachtree Street offers a range of experiences. Peachtree Center, easily accessible via MARTA, is a hub for dining, shopping, and services, particularly convenient for travelers and business visitors. The Hub at Peachtree Center provides a one-stop destination for food, essentials, and services like salons.
Woodruff Park, a six-acre green space located on Peachtree Street, serves as the geographical heart of Atlanta. This urban oasis offers a respite from the city bustle, perfect for relaxation, picnics, or enjoying the free Wi-Fi. Visitors can engage with the GameCart, offering outdoor games, or simply soak in the Atlanta atmosphere.
People relaxing and enjoying the green space and playground in Woodruff Park, Downtown Atlanta
Peachtree Street’s downtown stretch also intersects with Auburn Avenue, a historically significant street in the Civil Rights movement. Nearby, you’ll find The Apex Museum and attractions related to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Martin Luther King National Historical Park. Centennial Olympic Park and other major Downtown attractions are also easily accessible from Peachtree Street.
Midtown Atlanta: Cultural and Architectural Gems
As Peachtree Street transitions into Midtown, it becomes a cultural corridor, home to some of Atlanta’s most iconic landmarks. Bank of America Plaza, Atlanta’s tallest skyscraper, dominates the skyline. The Fox Theatre, a historic and opulent theater, hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and film festivals.
Inside view of The Hub at Peachtree Center with modern art and seating areas
The Margaret Mitchell House is located in Midtown, preserving the legacy of the author of “Gone With the Wind.” Across the street, the Federal Reserve Bank offers a museum showcasing the history of money. The Woodruff Arts Center in Midtown is a cornerstone of Atlanta’s fine arts scene, encompassing the High Museum of Art, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and Alliance Theatre. Nearby, Piedmont Park, one of Atlanta’s premier green spaces, offers over 200 acres for recreation and hosts numerous festivals and events.
A wide view of Piedmont Park in Midtown Atlanta, showing green spaces and trees
Buckhead Atlanta: Peachtree Road and Beyond
As Peachtree Road enters Buckhead, it continues to be a hub of activity. Lenox Square in Buckhead, easily accessible from Peachtree Road, is a premier shopping destination. Oglethorpe University is also situated on Peachtree Road in Buckhead, adding another educational landmark to the Peachtree corridor.
Savoring Peachtree Street: Dining Delights
Given its central location and extensive length, Peachtree Street and Peachtree Road are lined with a diverse array of dining options. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Explore the best restaurants on Peachtree Street in Atlanta to discover a culinary journey along this iconic Atlanta street.
A charcuterie board at White Oak Kitchen & Cocktails, showcasing food and drinks
Peachtree Street Atlanta is more than just a street; it’s the city’s story etched in asphalt and architecture. From its historical roots to its modern vibrancy, exploring Peachtree Street offers an essential Atlanta experience, inviting visitors and locals alike to discover the heart of this dynamic Southern metropolis.
