Peachtree Street stands as one of Atlanta’s most famous and historically significant thoroughfares. If you’re planning a visit to Atlanta, chances are you’ll find yourself navigating this iconic street. From its rich history dating back to the 1800s to the countless attractions and landmarks that line its path, Peachtree Street offers a deep dive into the heart of Atlanta. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Atlanta’s famous Peachtree streets, ensuring you don’t miss a beat while exploring this vibrant city.
The Enduring Fame of Peachtree Street
Peachtree Street at Night in Atlanta
Peachtree Street’s fame is deeply rooted in Atlanta’s history. Its origins trace back to Muscogee Indian trails, which were repurposed in the 1800s as a route for soldiers traveling between Fort Peachtree and Fort Daniel. Today, Peachtree Street begins in downtown Atlanta at Little Five Points and stretches northward through Midtown and into Buckhead, eventually transitioning into Peachtree Road. This continuous path connects some of Atlanta’s most dynamic districts.
Along Peachtree Street, you’ll encounter an impressive array of architectural marvels and significant landmarks. The street is punctuated by towering skyscrapers like 191 Peachtree Tower, Georgia-Pacific Tower, Westin Peachtree Plaza, and SunTrust Plaza. Cultural and educational institutions also call Peachtree home, including the Atlanta campus of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and The Woodruff Arts Center. Further north on Peachtree Road, you’ll find the esteemed Oglethorpe University.
Peachtree Street also holds a prominent place in pop culture, largely thanks to Margaret Mitchell’s celebrated novel, “Gone With the Wind.” Mitchell’s connection to Peachtree Street is poignant; she tragically died in 1949 while crossing it as a pedestrian. Though her former apartment at the corner of 10th and Peachtree Street is currently closed for public viewing, its exterior remains a landmark. The Margaret Mitchell House is part of the Atlanta History Center’s Midtown campus, and for a deeper understanding of Peachtree Street’s significance, the “Atlanta in 50 Objects” exhibition at the Atlanta History Center is highly recommended.
Furthermore, Peachtree Street is a central artery for many of Atlanta’s most celebrated parades and events. It serves as the route for the annual AJC Peachtree Road Race, a beloved 10K event. It also hosts the vibrant Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the enchanting Children’s Christmas Parade, and the imaginative Dragon Con Parade. Triumphant celebrations, such as those for the Coca-Cola Co.’s 100th anniversary and the Atlanta Braves’ World Series victories in 1995 and 2021, have also paraded down Peachtree Street, cementing its role in the city’s collective memory.
Another significant event gracing Peachtree Street is the Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade, the Southeast’s largest Pride celebration. Held each October, the parade begins at the Civic Center MARTA Station, merging onto Peachtree Street from Ralph McGill Boulevard and continuing north towards Piedmont Park, marking the parade’s official end.
The Mileage of Atlanta’s Peachtree Street
Runners in the Peachtree Road Race
The AJC Peachtree Road Race, a world-renowned 10K, perfectly illustrates the length of Peachtree Street. The race route, stretching 6.2 miles from Lenox Square to Piedmont Park, showcases the iconic street’s substantial span. This race, drawing approximately 60,000 participants globally, underscores Peachtree Street’s importance in Atlanta’s landscape.
The Proliferation of Peachtree Streets in Atlanta
It’s a common joke among Atlantans that any turn in the city will lead you to a street bearing the “Peachtree” name. This jest holds a kernel of truth: there are indeed 71 streets in Atlanta that incorporate some variation of “Peachtree” in their names. This abundance can be both charming and occasionally confusing for newcomers.
Exploring Peachtree Street: Downtown Atlanta Highlights
Beginning in the heart of downtown Atlanta at Five Points, Peachtree Street is brimming with attractions and destinations.
Peachtree Center: A Downtown Hub
The Hub at Peachtree Center in Atlanta
Peachtree Center is a pivotal point on Peachtree Street, easily accessible via MARTA. Serving as a one-stop destination, The Hub at Peachtree Center caters to the needs of travelers, business professionals, and event attendees in Downtown Atlanta. Here, you can find diverse dining options, essential services like salons and barbershops, and convenient shopping for everyday necessities.
Woodruff Park: Atlanta’s Green Heart
Woodruff Park in Downtown Atlanta
Woodruff Park, a six-acre green oasis located directly on Peachtree Street, marks Atlanta’s geographical center. This vibrant park hosts numerous events and provides a welcoming space for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy games from the GameCart, utilize free Wi-Fi, have a picnic, or simply bask in the urban sunshine.
Peachtree Street’s intersection with Auburn Avenue places you near significant cultural and historical landmarks. Auburn Avenue is home to The Apex Museum, the Municipal Market, and attractions related to Martin Luther King Jr. Atlanta’s pivotal role in the civil rights movement is palpable here, with the Dr. Martin Luther King National Historical Park within easy walking distance. Furthermore, Centennial Olympic Park and other major Downtown attractions are conveniently located near Peachtree Street, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city.
Midtown Atlanta: Cultural and Architectural Gems on Peachtree Street
Piedmont Park in Midtown Atlanta
As Peachtree Street extends north into Midtown Atlanta, it becomes a corridor of premier attractions. Peachtree Street NE in Midtown is home to:
- Bank of America Plaza: Dominating the Atlanta skyline, this 55-story skyscraper is Atlanta’s tallest building, reaching 1,023 feet.
- Fox Theatre: A breathtaking historic venue, the Fox Theatre originally opened in 1929 as a movie palace. Known as the “Fabulous Fox,” it now hosts Broadway shows, the Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival, concerts, and is available for private events.
- Margaret Mitchell House: Located at the corner of 10th and Peachtree streets, this is where Margaret Mitchell penned her masterpiece, “Gone With the Wind.”
- Federal Reserve Bank: Across from the Margaret Mitchell House, the Federal Reserve Bank offers a public museum showcasing the history of money, rare coins, and engaging interactive exhibits.
- Woodruff Arts Center: A cornerstone of Atlanta’s fine arts scene, the Woodruff Arts Center encompasses the High Museum of Art, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and the Alliance Theatre. The center itself features outdoor art installations and inviting green spaces.
- Piedmont Park: Just a short distance from Peachtree Street in Midtown, Piedmont Park offers over 200 acres of green space ideal for sports, recreation, walking, and running. It is also a hub for special events and festivals throughout the year.
Peachtree Road then intersects with Peachtree Circle in the Ansley Park neighborhood. The Atlanta campus of the Savannah College of Art and Design also resides on Peachtree Road, further enriching the cultural landscape.
Buckhead Atlanta: Peachtree Road and Upscale Destinations
Lenox Square Mall in Buckhead Atlanta
In Buckhead, Peachtree Road is synonymous with upscale shopping and dining experiences. Lenox Square, a premier shopping destination, is located off Peachtree Road, attracting visitors with its luxury retail offerings.
Dining on Peachtree Street: A Culinary Journey
White Oak Kitchen & Cocktails Restaurant in Atlanta
Given its extensive history and geographical reach, Peachtree Street boasts an impressive array of restaurants. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, Peachtree Street caters to every palate. Exploring the culinary scene along Peachtree Street is a must for any visitor. Discover a diverse selection of flavors and atmospheres at the numerous restaurants that line this iconic Atlanta street.
Peachtree Street is more than just a road; it’s a thread weaving through the historical, cultural, and contemporary fabric of Atlanta. Whether you’re interested in history, arts, dining, or simply experiencing the vibrant energy of the city, Peachtree Street is your essential guide to Atlanta.
