If there's one thing that defines Old Fourth Ward today, it's the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail. This 3-mile stretch of paved, multi-use trail is the beating heart of Atlanta's outdoor culture — and it runs right through O4W's front yard.
Whether you're a runner logging morning miles, a family looking for a Saturday stroll, or a visitor trying to see the best of Atlanta on foot, the BeltLine from O4W is where you want to be.
What Is the BeltLine?
The Atlanta BeltLine is a massive urban redevelopment project that's converting 22 miles of former railroad tracks into a loop of trails, parks, and transit connecting 45 neighborhoods. The Eastside Trail — the most popular and most complete section — runs from Piedmont Park in the south through Old Fourth Ward and up to Ponce City Market.
It's not just a trail. It's a corridor of public art, food vendors, community gathering spaces, and some of the best people-watching in the Southeast. On any given weekend, you'll see joggers, cyclists, families with strollers, dogs in bandanas, and street performers all sharing the same path.
Where to Get On the Trail
Ponce City Market
The most popular starting point. Grab a coffee at Spiller Park, then head north or south on the trail.
Accessible parking at Ponce City Market garage
Krog Street Tunnel
Enter from the east side through the famous tunnel covered in street art. Connects Inman Park to O4W.
Street parking on Krog Street
Freedom Parkway
A quieter northern access point with views of the Old Fourth Ward Skatepark and Historic Fourth Ward Park.
Street parking along Freedom Parkway
Auburn Avenue
Enter near the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site for a trail experience steeped in history.
Street parking and nearby lots
Food & Drink Along the Way
One of the best things about the BeltLine from O4W is that you're never more than a few minutes from a great bite to eat. Here are the stops I never skip:
Coffee
Spiller Park Coffee
Best pour-over on the trail
Food Hall
Ponce City Market
30+ vendors for every craving
Rooftop Bar
The Roof at Ponce City Market
Cocktails with skyline views
Public Art You Shouldn't Miss
The BeltLine is essentially an open-air art gallery. As you walk or ride through O4W, keep an eye out for the large-scale murals and installations that line the trail. The art changes regularly, but some highlights include the colorful murals near Krog Street, the sculptural installations between Ponce City Market and Freedom Parkway, and the ever-evolving graffiti walls near the skatepark.
Insider Tips
Go early on weekends. The BeltLine gets crowded after 10 AM, especially the stretch near Ponce City Market. If you want a peaceful walk, aim for 7-9 AM.
Bring water. There are water fountains along the trail, but they're not always working. Atlanta summers are no joke.
Weekday evenings are magical. The trail is quieter, the light is golden, and you'll feel like you have the whole neighborhood to yourself.
Combine with a Ponce City Market visit. Park at Ponce City Market, walk the trail north or south, then return for lunch or dinner. It's the perfect O4W loop.
About the Author
Tommy Williams
Tom Will Sell Atlanta · Old Fourth Ward Expert
Tommy knows O4W block by block. When he's not helping clients find their perfect home, he's exploring the neighborhood's newest restaurants, trails, and hidden gems.