Little Five Points in Atlanta, GA, is the city's counterculture epicenter, and the neighborhood is a refreshing contrast to traditional tourist destinations. It is unique in its unapologetically alternative atmosphere, where artistic expression flows freely through colorful street murals, independent shops, and an eclectic mix of residents and visitors. This bohemian enclave celebrates individuality, making it a perfect addition to your list of things to do in Atlanta when you want to experience the city's creative pulse beyond mainstream attractions.
Art, Culture, and Live Entertainment
Little Five Points' artistic energy manifests itself in galleries, theaters, street art, and performances. This vibrant neighborhood, located just east of downtown, earned its name from the convergence of five streets. An incubator for alternative arts, it's Atlanta's version of San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury district.
Must-Visit Art Galleries and Street Murals
The walls of Little Five Points tell their own stories through colorful murals that transform the neighborhood into an open-air gallery. The skull mural adorning The Vortex restaurant is perhaps the most photographed artwork, but don't miss the constantly evolving street art throughout the district. For traditional gallery experiences, Aurora Coffee regularly features rotating exhibitions from local artists, while nearby Waller's Coffee Shop combines art displays with fantastic brews. Take time to wander the side streets where hidden artistic gems await discovery, including commissioned murals depicting Atlanta's musical heritage and counterculture icons.
Iconic Theaters and Live Music Venues
Variety Playhouse in Little Five Points hosts popular musical acts from across the country and around the world in a renovated 1940s cinema. This venue has great sound quality.
For unique theater experiences, visit 7 Stages Theatre, which pushes traditional boundaries. Horizon Theatre Company focuses on modern Southern plays and often premieres works by local playwrights.
Star Community Bar features indie rock performances and includes the Elvis Vault, a small area dedicated to memorabilia of the King himself.
Indie Craft Experience
The creative spirit extends to handmade goods through pop-up markets and craft shops throughout Little Five Points. Craftsmen and artisans showcase their works at recurring events like the Little 5 Fest, where you can find everything from handmade jewelry to custom apparel. The Crystal Blue shop offers metaphysical items, including locally crafted talismans and crystals, while local boutiques stock items from independent designers.
Street Performances
Spontaneous entertainment appears regularly at Findley Plaza, the neighborhood's central gathering space. Street musicians, poets, hula-hoopers, and impromptu dance performances create a festival-like atmosphere on weekends. Buskers range from acoustic guitarists to experimental electronic artists, reflecting the neighborhood's diverse musical tastes.
Shopping in Little Five Points
Shopping experiences in Atlanta's Little Five Points revolve around vintage treasures, independent retailers, and one-of-a-kind finds that you won't encounter in shopping malls. Junkman's Daughter, an alternative superstore, has supplied counterculture enthusiasts with everything from punk fashion to novelty gifts since 1982. For vinyl enthusiasts, Criminal Records and Wax n' Facts offer carefully curated collections of new and used records spanning all genres, plus comic books and collectibles.
Fashion explorers will appreciate Rag-O-Rama and The Clothing Warehouse for their vintage and second-hand selections that range from 1950s classics to 1990s grunge. Wish Atlanta Boutique caters to streetwear aficionados with limited-edition sneakers and contemporary urban fashion. Specialty shops like Psycho Sisters focus on costume elements and theatrical wear, making them particularly popular before Halloween and the neighborhood's famous parade.
Where To Eat and Drink
Little Five Points satisfies hunger and thirst with establishments as creative as the neighborhood itself.
Must-Try Cafés and Quirky Eateries
The Vortex is Little Five Points' culinary landmark, identifiable by its massive skull entrance. Beyond the theatrical exterior, they serve award-winning burgers in generous portions with irreverent service. For pizza lovers, Savage Pizza combines hand-tossed crusts with comic book décor. Fox Brothers BBQ's Little Five Points location brings its famous Texas-style brisket and Southern sides to the neighborhood. Vegetarians and vegans find plenty of options at Sevananda Natural Foods Market's hot bar or the plant-based menu at Niramish vegetarian restaurant.
Notable Bars and Late-Night Spots
Little Five Points thrives after dark with diverse nightlife venues. Porter Beer Bar impresses craft beer enthusiasts with hundreds of selections and knowledgeable staff in a cozy brick-walled space. The Euclid Avenue Yacht Club, despite its name, is a down-to-earth dive bar serving strong drinks and local character in equal measure. Live music fans gravitate toward Star Community Bar's basement for punk and indie performances or Aisle 5 for a broader range of genres.
Getting Around Little Five Points and Nearby Attractions
Navigating Little Five Points requires some planning, as its popularity can make it challenging to find parking during peak times.
Public Transit and Parking Tips
The neighborhood connects to Atlanta's MARTA system, with Inman Park/Reynoldstown and Edgewood/Candler Park stations within walking distance. MARTA bus routes 6 and 102 stop directly in Little Five Points, providing connections to downtown hotels and attractions. For drivers, paid lots behind The Vortex and near Moreland Avenue offer the most reliable parking, though rates increase during special events. Street parking exists but fills quickly, especially on weekends. Rideshare services provide convenient access without parking concerns and are readily available when departing.
Walkable Routes and Nearby Green Spaces
Little Five Points is very walkable, as most attractions are concentrated within a few blocks. From the skull-adorned Vortex at the central intersection, you can easily reach all major shops and venues on foot. For a pleasant extension of your visit, the nearby Freedom Park Trail offers a peaceful tree-lined path connecting to the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and the Atlanta BeltLine's Eastside Trail.
Candler Park, just east of Little Five Points, provides green space for relaxation with playgrounds and a golf course. Consider combining Little Five Points with the adjacent Inman Park neighborhood, known for its beautiful Victorian homes and the popular Krog Street Market food hall just a 15-minute walk away.
Make the Most of Your Atlanta Adventure With CityPASS® Tickets
For the complete Atlanta experience, consider staying centrally at one of many Atlanta hotels that provide easy access to both downtown attractions and eclectic neighborhoods like Little Five Points. The best time to visit Atlanta to enjoy both indoor attractions and outdoor neighborhood exploration is during spring and fall, when comfortable temperatures enhance walking tours of areas like Little Five Points.
After exploring the alternative vibes of Little Five Points, check out the rest of Atlanta's top cultural attractions. Atlanta CityPASS® tickets provide the perfect complement to your neighborhood adventures, offering significant savings on Atlanta's top destinations like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and Zoo Atlanta. Simply purchase your Atlanta CityPASS® tickets online to save up to on combined admission to the city's must-see attractions.
Lodging in Atlanta
To get the most out of your stay in Atlanta, we recommend finding lodging near Atlanta's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Header Image Daniel Lobo