LGBTQ Neighborhoods
Explore Atlanta’s diverse intown hot spots
Part of what makes Atlanta so special is that LGBTQ life is not restricted to a single neighborhood, but is spread through the metro area. While Midtown continues to the be the center of gay life in Atlanta and among the most renowned “gayborhoods” in the South, LGBTQ clubs, stores and nightlife can be found in all Atlanta neighborhoods from redeveloped areas like West Midtown and East Atlanta to nearby suburbs like Decatur and East Point.
DOWNTOWN
While the Downtown culture is centered around tourism at world-renowned attractions and events at large-scale conference venues and arenas, art galleries thrive in nearby Castleberry Hill. The area is emerging as Atlanta’s next gayborhood, as young professional members of the LGBTQ community flock to the area to become homeowners.
MIDTOWN
Atlanta’s original gayborhood, Midtown is the core of LGBTQ life in Atlanta. The intersection of 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue is considered the starting point for many LGBTQ visitors to the city. Not only is Midtown the cultural hub of Atlanta, it is also the home for gay nightlife in Atlanta and showcases just how diverse Atlanta’s LGBTQ community is.
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WESTSIDE
West Midtown is one of Atlanta’s freshest neighborhoods, with its revitalization highlighted by Atlantic Station — a true place to live, work, play. Just down the road at the Westside Provisions District, you’ll find the trendy shops along with decadent dining options.
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ANSLEY MALL/CHESHIRE BRIDGE
Ansley Mall and Cheshire Bridge Road are beacons for LGBTQ party goers as an abundance of of nightlife and entertainment options have sprung up. Technically located in Midtown, the Ansley Square shopping complex is a virtual gay courtyard featuring gay bars and shops.
BUCKHEAD
Known as Atlanta’s wealthiest neighborhood, Buckhead’s claim to fame is its legendary shopping anchored by the upscale Phipps Plaza and neighboring Lenox Square Mall. It is also home to Atlanta’s first and only gay sports bar, Woofs, which draws crowds for poker nights and viewing parties.
GRANT PARK AND CABBAGETOWN
Cabbagetown’s industrial roots are represented in the businesses and restaurants that line Memorial Drive in Grant Park, the city’s largest historic district. Gay and lesbian-owned restaurants and shops can be found in both Cabbagetown and Grant Park, and gay-popular eateries such as Agave and Tin Lizzy’s are always full of fun.
INMAN PARK
Inman Park features Victorian homes, trendy restaurants and green space. The neighborhood is known for hosting popular annual festivals that draw crowds for live music, arts and parades.
LITTLE FIVE POINTS
Little Five Points is known as a hippie ‘hood, and is home to notable record stores and thriving indie music and theater scenes.
EAST ATLANTA
A mix of eclectic stores, restaurants, charming houses, duplexes and nightlife options create a vintage vibe in East Atlanta Village, an area known for its alternative sensibilities. The area is also home to My Sister’s Room, the only lesbian bar in Atlanta. Just down the street is Mary’s, an offbeat gay bar that features legendary karaoke.
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DECATUR
Considered the most politically progressive area in Georgia, Decatur is perfect for visiting and still feeling at home. And according to U.S. Census data, it’s consistently among the top 10 cities with the highest percentage of same-sex couples. As the hometown of the Indigo Girls, Decatur has long been a popular destination for lesbians.
OLD FOURTH WARD
The trendy bars, restaurants and boutiques on Edgewood Avenue in Old Fourth Ward bring new life to this historic neighborhood. New restaurants and nightlife options have brought more excitement to Edgewood and hot spots continue to pop up.
VIRGINIA-HIGHLAND
Acclaimed for its diverse and unique shopping, the walkable streets of Virginia-Highland are alive with charming cafes, trendy night spots and innovative cuisine at progressive restaurants and bistros. The annual Summerfest held each June is also among Atlanta’s most popular neighborhood festivals.
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