East Point is one of the most interesting cities on Atlanta's southside -- a historic community with a walkable downtown, direct MARTA access, and a growing collection of attractions that draw visitors from across the metro area. From the only velodrome in Georgia to a restored historic civic block, from outdoor amphitheater concerts to farmers markets and festivals, East Point has more going on than many people realize.
Located just south of Atlanta's city limits in the 30344 ZIP code, East Point has been investing in its downtown and community amenities for years, and the results are visible. The city's historic core is walkable and charming, the parks are well-maintained, and the events calendar is full throughout the year. Here is your guide to the best things to do in East Point.
The Dick Lane Velodrome: Georgia's Only Velodrome
The Dick Lane Velodrome in Sumner Park is one of East Point's most unique attractions -- a 400-meter outdoor cycling track that was built as a training site for the 1996 Olympic Games. It is the only velodrome in Georgia and one of only a handful in the southeastern United States.
The velodrome hosts regular races, training sessions, and community events throughout the year. It is open to cyclists of all skill levels, and the East Point track has become a gathering place for Atlanta's cycling community. Even if you are not a cyclist, it is worth visiting just to see the steeply banked track and the energy of the racers. 3200 Washington Rd · dicklanevelodrome.com
Sumner Park itself is a community gathering space with plenty of green space, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The park is a popular spot for families on weekends.
East Point Historic Civic Block
The East Point Historic Civic Block is the heart of the city's downtown. This historic district includes the City Hall, the City Auditorium, the New Deal-era Library, and Victory Park -- all built between the 1920s and 1930s in a cohesive civic design that is rare for a city of East Point's size.
The East Point Amphitheater in Victory Park hosts concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year. During the summer, the amphitheater is the site of the city's concert series, movie nights, and cultural festivals. It is a beautiful outdoor venue with a sloping lawn that makes for a relaxed concert experience.
Victory Park itself is a green oasis in the middle of downtown East Point, with walking paths, benches, and a memorial to the city's veterans. It is a pleasant place for a lunch break or an afternoon stroll.
Main Street: Shopping, Dining and Nightlife
East Point's Main Street is the city's primary commercial corridor, and it has seen a wave of revitalization in recent years. The street is lined with historic storefronts that house a mix of restaurants, bars, shops, and services.
The dining scene on Main Street includes Krush Atlanta at 3183 Main Street, a modern restaurant and bar that has become a gathering place for the community. Smashing Eats ATL serves creative comfort food. And several soul food and Southern cooking spots anchor the street's culinary identity.
For nightlife, the Main Street corridor has several bars and lounges that draw a lively crowd on weekends. The city's location near Hartsfield-Jackson Airport means that East Point's bars and restaurants also serve a steady stream of visitors and airport workers.
The East Point Greenway Trail
The East Point Greenway Trail is a multi-use trail that connects various parts of the city. The trail is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists, and it provides a car-free route through some of East Point's most attractive green spaces. The trail is part of the city's ongoing investment in active transportation and recreational infrastructure.
Annual Events and Festivals
East Point's events calendar is one of the city's strengths. The annual Heritage Days Festival is the city's signature event, featuring a parade, live music, food vendors, and community activities that draw thousands of visitors. The East Point Farmers Market runs seasonally and features local produce, artisan goods, and prepared foods.
Other annual events include the East Point Spring Fling, summer concert series at the Amphitheater, movie nights in Victory Park, and holiday celebrations including the Christmas tree lighting and parade. The city also hosts cultural festivals that celebrate the diversity of the community, including events highlighting African American heritage and international cultures.
Sports and Recreation
Beyond the velodrome, East Point has a strong recreational infrastructure. Sumner Park has sports fields, playgrounds, and the velodrome. Summerhill Park and other neighborhood parks provide additional green space. The city's recreation department organizes youth sports leagues, fitness programs, and community events throughout the year.
The nearby Camp Creek Marketplace area offers additional entertainment options including shopping, dining, and a movie theater, just a short drive from downtown East Point.
Why This Matters for Investors
East Point's attractions tell a story of a city that is investing in itself. The Historic Civic Block, the velodrome, the Amphitheater, the Greenway Trail, and the active events calendar are all signals of a community with strong civic leadership and a clear vision for its future.
For investors, East Point offers a combination that is increasingly rare in the Atlanta area: a walkable downtown with historic character, direct MARTA rail access to the airport and the city, and prices that are significantly lower than intown neighborhoods. The city's amenities make it attractive to a broad range of residents -- from young professionals who want transit access to families who want parks and community events to retirees who want a walkable downtown.
Properties within walking distance of Main Street, the MARTA station, and the Historic Civic Block are particularly well-positioned to benefit from East Point's continued growth.
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