West Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and scenic beauty of West, Atlanta with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, food scene, accommodation options, and nearby destinations to plan your perfect trip.


Introduction to West

West, located in Metro Atlanta, Georgia, is a culturally diverse and historically significant area that offers a blend of modern city life and natural beauty. The home of many famous musicians, including Kanye West, West has a lot to offer to both locals and tourists alike.

List of Places to Visit in West

If you’re planning to visit West, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Here are some of the must-visit places in West that should be on your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Birthplace - Explore the childhood home and church of Martin Luther King Jr., one of the most prominent leaders of the African American civil rights movement.
  • Auburn Avenue Research Library - Discover the rich history and culture of African Americans at the largest library in the Southeastern United States.
  • Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum - Learn about the life and presidency of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States.

Natural Attractions of West: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Atlanta Beltline Trail - Take a walk, jog, or bike ride on the Atlanta Beltline, a 22-mile trail that loops around the city. It also features art installations, murals, and sculptures.
  • Cascade Springs Nature Preserve - Explore the tranquil forest, creeks, and rare plant species at Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, located in the heart of the city.
  • Westview Cemetery - Visit the beautifully landscaped cemetery, spanning over 600 acres, featuring the graves of many notable Atlanta citizens.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West

If you love outdoor adventures, West has many hiking and biking trails for you. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Cascade Springs Nature Preserve Trail - A 1.8-mile trail featuring winding paths, wooden footbridges, and beautiful views of the preserve.
  • West End Trail - A 2.4-mile trail that connects several neighborhoods of Atlanta and features art installations, sculptures, and murals.
  • Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail - A 2.25-mile trail that connects Piedmont Park, Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, and Virginia Highland. It also features local restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Best Things to Do in West: Activities and Tours

Apart from natural beauty and cultural landmarks, West also offers a variety of fun and exciting activities for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in West:

  • Atlanta Movie Tours - A guided tour of famous filming locations in Atlanta, including The Walking Dead, Stranger Things, and many others.
  • Secret Food Tours Atlanta - A culinary tour of West that explores the diverse food scene of the area.
  • World of Coca-Cola - A museum that showcases the history and innovation of Coca-Cola, one of the world’s most popular beverages.

Week-Long Itinerary for West

If you have a week to explore West, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and take a walk on the Atlanta Beltline Trail.
2 Visit the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, followed by a visit to Cascade Springs Nature Preserve.
3 Go on a guided tour of Atlanta’s famous filming locations, including The Walking Dead, Vampire Diaries, and Stranger Things.
4 Take a Secret Food Tour of Atlanta and taste the delicious local cuisine.
5 Take a bike ride on the West End Trail and explore several neighborhoods of Atlanta.
6 Visit the World of Coca-Cola, followed by a trip to the Oakland Cemetery.
7 Take a day trip to nearby destinations like Stone Mountain or Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Food and Drink Scene of West

West offers a diverse food scene with a wide variety of cuisines and local specialties. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken - Atlanta is known for its fried chicken, and West has some of the best places to try it, such as Busy Bee Cafe and Gladys Knight’s Chicken & Waffles.
  • Pimento Cheese - A Southern delicacy made of cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. Try it at West Egg Café or Mary Mac’s Tea Room.
  • Chaat - An Indian street food dish that combines crispy fried dough with spiced potatoes, chickpeas, and chutneys. Try it at Chai Pani or Bhojanic.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea - A Southern staple, sweet tea is a refreshing and flavorful drink made with black tea and sugar syrup. Try it at Thumbs Up Diner or West Egg Café.
  • Georgia Peach Cobbler beer - A local beer made by Monday Night Brewing, inspired by the classic dessert.

Where to Stay in West: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

West offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in West include:

  • The Westin Atlanta Buckhead - A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Buckhead, with spacious rooms and excellent amenities.
  • Hyatt House Atlanta Downtown - A contemporary hotel located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, with comfortable rooms and excellent views.
  • Atlanta Marriott Marquis - A modern hotel located in the center of the city, with a rooftop lounge and pool.
  • HI Atlanta Hostel - A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of West, with clean rooms and excellent amenities.

What to Buy in West: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

West has many unique shops and boutiques that offer local products and souvenirs. Here are some of the best places to shop:

  • West End Mall - A shopping mall with over 70 stores and several restaurants, featuring local and international brands.
  • Bizzy B’s Bookstore - A bookstore and gift shop specializing in African American literature and culture.
  • The Spindle ATL - A clothing and accessories boutique that features local designers and artists.

Local Culture and Customs of West

West has a rich and diverse culture with a mix of African American, Hispanic, and other ethnic communities. Here are some customs and practices to keep in mind while visiting West:

  • Respect cultural differences - West has a mix of cultures and customs, so it’s important to be respectful of different practices and traditions.
  • Be mindful of language - Some terms or slangs may be offensive to some communities, so it’s important to be mindful of the language used while interacting with locals.
  • Be open to new experiences - West offers a lot of unique experiences, be it food, music, or art. Keep an open mind and embrace different experiences.

Best Time to Visit West

The best time to visit West is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor activities. Summers can get hot and humid, while winters can be chilly. Visiting during fall also offers the added bonus of beautiful foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of West

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting West:

Do:

  • Explore the local cuisine - West offers a variety of unique foods and drinks, so be sure to try something new.
  • Be respectful of cultural landmarks - West has several cultural landmarks that hold significant historical value. Be respectful while visiting and engaging with the local communities.
  • Plan ahead - Some attractions or activities require reservations beforehand, so be sure to plan ahead.

Don’t:

  • Litter - Respect the natural beauty of West and dispose of garbage properly.
  • Wander into unfamiliar neighborhoods at night - While there are several safe neighborhoods in West, it’s best to stick to well-lit and tourist-friendly areas after dark.
  • Engage in unhealthy activities - Atlanta has a history of drug use, so it’s important to not engage in unhealthy activities.

Safety and Health

West is a relatively safe area, though it’s important to take necessary precautions while exploring the area. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in West

  • Stay in well-lit areas at night - As with any city, it’s best to stick to well-lit areas after dark.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings - Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings while exploring the area.
  • Avoid confrontations - It’s best to avoid confrontations with strangers, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Health in West

  • Stay hydrated - Atlanta can get hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated while exploring the area.
  • Protect yourself from the sun - Be sure to wear sunscreen and protective gear while engaging in outdoor activities.
  • Be mindful of air quality - Atlanta can have poor air quality, so it’s important to be mindful of respiratory problems.

Getting to West: Transportation Options and Logistics

West is easily accessible by several transportation options, including:

Airports Near West

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport - Located about 12 miles south of West, it’s the busiest airport in the world.

Bus Stations Near West

  • Atlanta Greyhound Station - Located about 5 miles east of West, it offers several bus routes throughout the city.

Other Options

  • MARTA - Atlanta’s public transit system, with several bus and rail routes throughout the city.
  • Ride-sharing services - Services like Uber and Lyft are available throughout the city.

How to Get Around in West

While walking and biking is a great way to explore West, there are several other transportation options as well. Here are some ways to get around West:

  • MARTA - Atlanta’s public transit system, with several bus and rail routes throughout the city.
  • Ride-sharing services - Services like Uber and Lyft are available throughout the city.
  • Biking and Scooter Rentals - Several companies offer bike and scooter rentals throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from West: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore nearby destinations, here are some recommended places to visit:

  • Stone Mountain Park - Featuring a 5-mile loop and various outdoor attractions, it’s located about 17 miles east of West.
  • Chattanooga, Tennessee - A charming city located about 2 hours north of Atlanta, with various outdoor attractions, including Lookout Mountain and Ruby Falls.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities, West has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide has covered all the essential information you need to plan your perfect trip to West. With its diverse attractions, accommodating hotels, and unique experiences, West is a must-visit destination.