• women's soccer league training site in Marietta

    National Women’s Soccer League Secures Prime Training Ground Site in Marietta

    3 Min Read

    In a major step forward for women’s professional soccer in the region, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) Atlanta has finalized an agreement with the City of Marietta to acquire land for a dedicated, world-class training facility.

    The announcement marks an exciting milestone for the expansion franchise, owned by Arthur Blank’s AMB Sports and Entertainment (AMBSE), as it builds toward its debut season in 2028.

    The deal involves AMBSE purchasing a nearly 33-acre property along Franklin Gateway in Marietta.

    This strategic site, located just half a mile from the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground (home to MLS side Atlanta United), positions the new NWSL club to benefit from proximity to established elite soccer infrastructure while establishing its own independent headquarters.

    As part of the agreement, the City of Marietta will acquire a separate 10-acre parcel currently owned by AMBSE, creating a mutually beneficial land exchange.

    Marietta city leaders unanimously approved the transaction, valued at approximately $21 million, during a recent council session.

    Construction on the state-of-the-art facility is set to begin immediately, with completion targeted ahead of the club’s inaugural 2028 campaign. Plans include an approximately 38,000-square-foot headquarters building, four full-size soccer fields, and two half-size pitches.

    The overall investment in the project is expected to exceed $100 million, delivering significant economic benefits to the Marietta area through jobs, development, and community impact.

    Arthur Blank, owner and chairman of AMBSE, emphasized the importance of this development in creating a top-tier organization.

    “When we announced NWSL Atlanta 2028, we made a commitment to provide the necessary resources to create a world-class organization on and off the pitch, including the development of a training ground dedicated to our newest club and staff,” Blank stated. “Securing this property in Marietta is a critical first step as we begin building the foundation of NWSL Atlanta 2028.”

    The training ground will complement the team’s primary home matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where capacity will be adjusted to around 28,000 for NWSL games.

    The facility underscores Atlanta’s growing investment in women’s soccer, joining the Falcons (NFL) and Atlanta United (MLS) under the AMBSE umbrella.

    Local officials expressed enthusiasm about the partnership and its potential to elevate the community.

    This agreement follows Marietta’s proactive efforts to attract the franchise, including the city’s earlier purchase of the Franklin Gateway land (previously eyed for an IKEA development) to position itself as an ideal location.

    With groundbreaking work now on the horizon, NWSL Atlanta 2028 continues to take shape as a flagship addition to the National Women’s Soccer League, promising high-caliber facilities and a strong foundation for success on and off the field. Fans can look forward to more updates as the club progresses toward its 2028 launch.

    Metro Downtown Atlanta’s development landscape has undergone significant transformation in recent years, driven by large-scale mixed-use projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a focus on revitalizing the city’s historic core. These changes reflect a broader effort to make Downtown more vibrant, walkable, and economically robust, particularly in preparation for events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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  • Flavors of New York - Atlanta edition

    Flavors of New York – ATL Edition: Bringing the Big Apple to Atlanta

    3 Min Read

    Where my New York people at? Atlantans are getting an opportunity to experience a true taste of New York City without ever leaving the South.

    On Saturday, March 28, 2026, the city is hosting Flavors of New York – ATL Edition, a vibrant one-day festival that transforms Princeton Lakes into a celebration of all five boroughs: the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Harlem (representing Manhattan’s iconic energy), and Staten Island.

    Organized by York Promotions, this event promises to deliver the unmistakable music, food, culture, and street energy that define NYC—right here in Atlanta.

    Whether you’re a New York native missing home, an ATL local curious about the hype, or simply someone who loves good food and great vibes, this festival is designed to feel like a classic New York block party under Georgia sunshine.

    What to Expect at Flavors of New York – ATL Edition

    The lineup blends iconic New York elements with local Atlanta flair:

    • Live DJs and Music — Expect sets spinning classic New York hip-hop, R&B, and the sounds that echo through the boroughs, keeping the energy high from start to finish.
    • Iconic Eats & Local Vendors — Savor signature New York street food alongside offerings from local Atlanta vendors. Think classic bites that transport you straight to the streets of the city.
    • Drinks, Cocktails & Games — Sip on refreshing cocktails, enjoy other beverages, and join in fun games to keep the good times rolling.
    • Unmatched Vibes — The atmosphere is all about community and borough pride. Attendees are encouraged to rep their borough—wear your Bronx gear, Brooklyn colors, Queens style, Harlem flair, or Staten Island pride—and soak in the block-party energy.

    The festival runs from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to eat, dance, connect, and enjoy the full experience.

    Event Details

    • Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026
    • Time: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
    • Location: Princeton Lakes (behind Camp Creek Marketplace), Atlanta, GA (full address often listed as 3800 Princeton Lakes Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30331 in promotions)
    • Tickets: Early bird tickets are available for just $10—a steal for a full day of entertainment. Tickets and RSVPs can be secured at www.yorkpromotions.com (check the site or linked Eventbrite page for the latest availability, as promotions note tickets are moving fast).

    This isn’t just another festival—it’s a cultural bridge bringing New York flavor to the heart of Atlanta. Pull up with your crew, rep your borough loud and proud, and get ready for a day filled with music, food, drinks, games, and that unmistakable NYC energy.

    Don’t sleep on this one—grab your tickets early and join the movement turning Atlanta into the 5 Boroughs for a day.

    For more details and to secure your spot, visit www.yorkpromotions.com or check the official Eventbrite listing for “FLAVORS OF NEW YORK – THE 5 BOROUGHS on the Lake.”

    See you at Princeton Lakes—New York is touching down in ATL.

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  • Tyler Perry and Marlo Hampton

    Tyler Perry, Marlo Hampton Share Kiss in Steamy Pics

    3 Min Read

    🚨 ATL TEA ALERT: Peachtree Shade Files 🚨
    March 20, 2026

    Tyler Perry + Marlo Hampton? Honey, the A is BUZZING and we are HERE for this plot twist!

    Y’all, grab your mimosas and pull up a chair because the city’s most powerful mogul and our favorite RHOA firecracker might just be writing their own love story — and it’s giving full-on billionaire romance novel!

    Sources close to the scene are whispering that Tyler Perry and Marlo Hampton have been getting very cozy lately, and last night’s viral pics have the entire timeline in a chokehold.

    The photo circulating (you know the one — Tyler in that denim button-up looking dapper, Marlo glowing in leather pants with a bouquet that could pay somebody’s rent) shows the two locked in what can only be described as a moment.

    One frame has him lifting her like she’s the prize at the end of a Madea movie, lips locked and everything. Atlanta, we see you! 👀✨

    Word on the curb (and from that gospel brunch that had Kirk Franklin, T.I., Tiny, and half the Black elite in the building) is these two have been running in the same circles for years. Mutual friends, same events, same “I see you, king/queen” energy.

    But are the pics real? There’s a lot of buzz that the photos are AI. One source says that FreddyO, the photographer, snapped the innocent pics but some fake ones surfaced hours later.

    Here’s the tea:

    One thing for sure is that Marlo, never one to bite her tongue, has joked on camera before about how she’d “absolutely” bag a billionaire like Tyler Perry. Well sis, the universe heard you loud and clear! Insiders tell AtlantaFi.com the two have been in the same circles more than once.

    Tyler, who’s been notoriously private since his split with Gelila, hasn’t been this publicly smiley with anyone in years. And Marlo? She’s glowing different.

    The woman who’s been serving looks, shade, and business on RHOA is suddenly out here looking like she’s got a secret — and honey, we think his name is Tyler.

    The internet is already divided:

    • Team “Go Marlo!” cheering the bag and the Black love
    • Team “AI or PR stunt?” side-eyeing the pics harder than a shady reunion
    • And the real ones just screaming “ATL power couple loading…”

    Whether it’s a full-blown romance, a soft launch, or the most expensive friendship in Georgia history… one thing’s for sure: if Tyler Perry and Marlo Hampton are indeed turning up the heat, the weddings, the cameos, the joint empire, and the future RHOA storylines write themselves.

    We’re camping outside the studio and the mansion gates, y’all.

    Drop your hottest takes below — are we shipping #TyLo or is this just Sunday brunch tea that boiled over?

    Stay locked on Peachtree Shade… because in the A, when two legends link up? We don’t spill the tea.
    We serve the whole damn pitcher.

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  • Fawn Weaver

    Judge: Uncle Nearest’s Bankruptcy Filing Was Unauthorized

    3 Min Read

    A federal judge has dismissed an unauthorized bankruptcy petition filed by Fawn Weaver, the founder and sidelined CEO of Uncle Nearest, the Tennessee-based whiskey brand she launched in 2017.

    On March 19, 2026, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Suzanne Bauknight ruled from the bench in Knoxville that Weaver lacked the authority to submit Chapter 11 filings on behalf of Uncle Nearest and its related entities (including Nearest Green Distillery and Uncle Nearest Real Estate Holdings).

    Judge Rejects Uncle Nearest Bankruptcy Filing

    The company has been under court-appointed receivership since last year, with receiver Phillip Young holding exclusive control while a major debt lawsuit proceeds.

    The receivership stems from a lawsuit by primary lender Farm Credit Mid-America, which claims Uncle Nearest owes more than $100 million (approximately $99 million in unsecured debt per Young’s reports).

    Judge Charles Atchley’s order limited Weaver’s role to marketing and managing the Uncle Nearest brand—actions that did not include filing for bankruptcy without Young’s permission or board approval (the board having been dissolved under the receivership).

    Bauknight emphasized that Tennessee law also prohibits corporations from filing bankruptcy without board authorization, which was impossible here. She described the filing as outside the scope of Weaver’s permitted duties, effectively violating the district court’s receivership order.

    Weaver’s petition, filed earlier in the week, listed about $13.4 million in unsecured debt across 264 creditors—a figure significantly lower than the debt reported under the receivership.

    Her attorney argued the move aimed to stabilize the company’s value and sales, while Young’s counsel called it a “Hail Mary” attempt to circumvent the receivership and regain control.

    Following the ruling, attorneys for both sides declined to comment. Young’s team has sought sanctions against Weaver, requesting $75,000 for the alleged violation of court orders.

    Separately, Weaver filed a lawsuit against Farm Credit Mid-America in New York on March 13, accusing the lender of defamation and other wrongdoing. The suit disputes several claims by Farm Credit, including:

    • Alleged commingling of $20 million through transfers with Grant Sidney (Weaver asserts this was a properly documented, legitimate loan).
    • Claims that roughly $21 million in whiskey barrels went missing (Weaver says inventory and warehouse records confirm the barrels remained in storage).
    • Accusations that loan funds were misused to purchase a Martha’s Vineyard home (Weaver states Farm Credit was aware of the property purchase).

    One of Weaver’s attorneys described the defamation claims as needing accountability when contradicted by records already held by the lender.

    The receivership remains in place under Phillip Young, with the bankruptcy attempt blocked and legal battles ongoing between Weaver, the company, and its major creditor.

    Read more:

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  • Buckhead walks

    buckheadWALKS Event Returns in April

    2 Min Read

    Buckhead’s favorite month-long walking adventure is back! buckheadWALKS! returns from April 1 to April 30, 2026, inviting residents, employees, and fitness enthusiasts across the neighborhood to lace up their shoes and get moving.

    This free challenge, organized by Livable Buckhead, transforms everyday steps into an exciting competition for prizes. It’s one of many great activities to do in Buckhead.

    buckheadWALKS Returns for Spring Activities

    Participants can track their steps individually or form teams to climb the leaderboard using the Wellable platform.

    Beyond daily walking, earn extra points by joining weekly activities such as scavenger hunts, guided walking tours, Thursday lunchtime strolls, and special experiences like bridge tours on the newest sections of PATH400.

    “These events are a great opportunity for people to enjoy our incredible greenspaces, connect with neighbors and embrace a more active lifestyle,” said Denise Starling, executive director of Livable Buckhead. “This year’s Social Ride is particularly exciting since it will give everyone a firsthand look at the beautiful new section of PATH400.”

    While buckheadWALKS! focuses on foot-powered exploration, the broader Livable Buckhead programming—including the popular Social Ride on PATH400—highlights the area’s growing network of trails and bike paths. (The Social Ride itself is scheduled separately, with a recent event held in late March 2026.)

    Prizes up for grabs include a luxurious two-night stay at the Nobu Hotel or InterContinental Buckhead, gift cards to favorite local restaurants, and additional rewards to celebrate your commitment to health and community.

    Now in its 9th year, buckheadWALKS! continues to promote wellness by encouraging participants to discover Buckhead’s parks, pathways, and neighborhoods while building healthier habits and stronger connections.

    The program is sponsored by Tre Vele, Nobu Atlanta, Buckhead Theater, Lenox Mall, and Zakia.

    Ready to join? Register now through the Wellable app via Livable Buckhead’s website at livablebuckhead.com/walk. Whether you’re walking solo, with coworkers, or rallying your family, every step counts toward a more activities to do in Buckhead!

    When you’re done eating, if you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.

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  • Cobb Foodie Week

    Cobb Foodie Week 2026: When & Where To Eat

    3 Min Read

    Cobb Foodie Week is returning in 2026 with an exciting twist: it’s shifting to summer dates for the first time, running from June 20–27.

    Hosted by Cobb Travel & Tourism, this week-long celebration spotlights the vibrant and diverse dining scene in what many call Atlanta’s Sweet Spot—Cobb County.

    Cobb Foodie Week: What To Know

    The move to June aligns the event with one of the area’s peak tourism seasons and adds a global flair. It coincides with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, drawing international visitors who can pair their match-day excitement with unforgettable meals right here in Cobb.

    Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler exploring metro Atlanta, this is the perfect opportunity to discover (or rediscover) the county’s top eateries while enjoying special savings.

    During Cobb Foodie Week, food enthusiasts can unlock exclusive digital coupons and meal deals at dozens of participating restaurants countywide.

    The offerings span a wide range—from authentic international flavors like Mexican, Asian fusion, Indian, and Mediterranean to classic Southern comfort food, upscale American fare, seafood spots, and hidden-gem casual dining.

    Expect discounts on entrees, prix-fixe menus (multi-course meals at set prices), special bundles, and more. It’s a delicious way to support local restaurants, try new places, and save money without any hassle.

    Best of all? Participation is completely free—no app download required, no tickets to buy. Simply head to cobbfoodieweek.com to sign up for your Meal Deals Pass.

    Once registered, you’ll get instant access to the digital coupons and full list of participating spots. Redeem them directly at restaurants during the event week for instant savings.

    Past editions of Cobb Foodie Week (which previously ran in the fall) have drawn huge crowds and set participation records, proving how much locals and visitors love celebrating the area’s culinary talent. With the 2026 summer timing and World Cup buzz, this year’s event promises to be bigger and more flavorful than ever.

    Mark your calendars for June 20–27, 2026, grab your Meal Deals Pass at cobbfoodieweek.com, and get ready to eat your way through Cobb County.

    Whether you’re craving a quick bite, a family dinner, or a special night out, Cobb Foodie Week has something to satisfy every palate.

    For the latest updates, participating restaurants, and deal details, visit travelcobb.org or cobbfoodieweek.com. Bon appétit, Cobb!

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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  • Uber Rivian

    Rivian, Uber Announce Autonomous Robotaxis

    4 Min Read

    In a major announcement Thursday, Rivian and Uber revealed a new collaboration with Uber.

    The two companies are teaming up to accelerate autonomous vehicle development, with Uber committing up to $1.25 billion in investment and plans to deploy as many as 50,000 fully autonomous Rivian R2 robotaxis exclusively on its platform.

    The deal, championed by Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe, marks a significant step forward for both companies in the race toward safe, scalable Level 4 autonomy.

    Uber or its fleet partners will initially purchase 10,000 R2 robotaxis, with an option for an additional 40,000 vehicles beginning in 2030. Funding from Uber is milestone-based and tied to autonomy performance targets, with an initial $300 million committed upon signing (subject to regulatory approval).

    Deployments will begin in San Francisco and Miami in 2028 before expanding to a total of 25 cities across the United States, Canada, and Europe by the end of 2031.

    The robotaxis will be available exclusively through the Uber app, bringing adventure-ready electric vehicles to shared mobility on a massive scale.

    Advanced Technology Powers the Vision

    The R2 robotaxis will feature Rivian’s third-generation autonomy platform, which includes a powerful multi-modal sensor suite: 11 cameras delivering 65 megapixels total resolution, five radars, and one LiDAR. Computation comes from dual in-house RAP1 chips (providing up to 1,600 TOPS of AI performance), enabling rapid processing of real-world data.

    Rivian’s growing consumer fleet creates a robust “data flywheel” that will continuously improve the system. Scaringe emphasized this in his X post: “The combination of Rivian’s rapidly growing data flywheel, our in-house RAP1 inference platform (800 TOPS), and our multi-modal perception stack provides a powerful foundation to scale autonomy quickly and responsibly over the next couple of years.”

    This partnership accelerates Rivian’s path to Level 4 autonomy not just for shared fleets but also for personally owned vehicles, aligning with the company’s goal of building one of the safest autonomous platforms in the world.

    Executive Voices on the Deal

    Scaringe expressed clear enthusiasm: “I’m excited to announce a partnership with Uber. As part of this, Uber plans to invest up to $1.25 billion in Rivian and deploy up to 50,000 R2 robotaxis.

    This partnership accelerates our path to Level 4 autonomy and supports our goal of building one of the safest autonomous platforms in the world—across both shared and personally owned vehicles.”

    Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi highlighted the strategic fit: “We’re big believers in Rivian’s approach—designing the vehicle, compute platform, and software stack together, while maintaining end-to-end control of scaled manufacturing and supply in the U.S.

    That vertical integration, combined with data from their growing consumer vehicle base and experience managing the complexities of commercial fleets, gives us conviction to set these ambitious but achievable targets.

    What It Means for the Future of Mobility

    The R2—Rivian’s more accessible electric adventure SUV, slated for customer deliveries starting late 2026—brings the brand’s signature capability, performance, and sustainability to a broader audience.

    With competitive pricing and strong range estimates, the platform is well-suited for both personal ownership and high-volume robotaxi operations.

    For Rivian, the deal delivers critical capital and commercial validation as it ramps production. For Uber, it secures a dedicated fleet of purpose-built electric autonomous vehicles to expand its mobility network amid rising competition in the robotaxi space.

    The announcement, accompanied by striking promotional imagery of an illuminated R2 robotaxi against a vibrant nighttime city skyline branded “Uber × RIVIAN,” has already sparked positive market reaction, with Rivian shares rising sharply in trading.

    This partnership represents more than just vehicles and investment—it’s a shared commitment to responsible, data-driven autonomy that keeps the spirit of adventure alive while making transportation safer, greener, and more accessible for millions

    As Scaringe and the Rivian team often say, it’s another step toward keeping the world adventurous forever.

    Stay tuned as the two companies work toward these 2028 milestones and beyond. The future of robotaxis is arriving faster than ever—and it’s coming with Rivian’s signature rugged style.

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  • Viral ‘Nasty Azz Cheeseburger’ Cart Removed from Atlanta DoorDash

    3 Min Read

    Atlanta, GA — A homeless entrepreneur’s unlikely burger business in Atlanta has been yanked from DoorDash after customers bombarded the platform with reports over unsanitary conditions — and the whole saga is captured in a now-viral social media video.

    The operation, cheekily named “Nasty Azz Cheeseburger,” somehow landed a listing on the delivery app despite running out of what multiple eyewitness accounts and earlier clips describe as a shopping-cart setup on Atlanta streets.

    Viral ‘Nasty Azz Cheeseburger’ Deleted From DoorDash After Food-Safety Complaints

    The video shows the makeshift “restaurant” in action: a street-level cart operation complete with the man’s own “special sauce,” basic grilling setup, and branding that somehow passed initial platform checks long enough to generate orders — and a respectable 3.8-star rating before the backlash hit.

    DoorDash has since removed or marked the listing as “temporarily closed,” according to users who tried to order and the timing of the removal matching the surge in complaints.

    No official statement has been issued by the company, but the move came after “countless users” flagged hygiene and safety issues tied to the openly improvised street-cart conditions.

    The clip has ignited a firestorm of reactions online. Some viewers are cheering the hustle: “Can’t knock someone’s grind,” one commenter wrote, noting the man had clean clothes and was clearly trying to make legal money.

    Others pointed out the honesty in the name itself — “If you order from a place called Nasty Azz Cheeseburger, what did you expect?” — while a wave of horrified responses joked about ghost kitchens gone wrong and compared the setup to a scene from an old In Living Color skit.

    Earlier videos and posts from the past few days had already made the story a meme magnet, with users sharing images of dasher reaction faces and Cat-in-the-Hat-style contraptions to mock the pickup locations. One social media user quipped, “This is exactly why I avoid the ‘try something new’ section on DoorDash.”

    The saga highlights the wild west of gig-economy food delivery, where unconventional vendors can briefly slip through the cracks before public scrutiny — and health concerns — catch up. Whether the operator will rebrand, relocate, or find another avenue remains to be seen, but for now, Atlanta’s most candidly named cheeseburger joint is off the menu.

    Would you have risked the “Nasty Azz”? The internet is split — but DoorDash just voted no.

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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  • Morehouse cheerleaders

    Howard to Host Morehouse for 2026 Homecoming — First in 29 Years

    2 Min Read

    lATLANTA — Attention, Morehouse Maroon Tigers, Spelman Sisters, and Howard Bison alumni: clear your calendars and start booking those flights right now.

    Howard University has officially announced that it will host Morehouse College as the featured opponent for its 2026 Homecoming football game on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

    Historic HBCU Showdown: Howard University to Host Morehouse for 2026 Homecoming

    This is no ordinary matchup — it’s an extremely rare HBCU classic that hasn’t happened on Howard’s homecoming weekend since October 18, 1997.

    That’s right. Twenty-nine years.

    For Atlanta’s HBCU community, this one hits different.

    Morehouse and Spelman alumni have built a tradition of traveling together for big games, and this trip to the nation’s capital is already shaping up to be one of the biggest reunions of the decade.

    Howard’s homecoming is legendary — think packed stands at Greene Stadium, tailgates on the Yard, and that unmistakable energy only an HBCU can deliver. Now add the Maroon Tigers rolling up from Atlanta, and the atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric.

    Morehouse head coach and athletic director have yet to comment publicly on the announcement, but sources close to the program say the team is already circling this date. For the Bison, it’s a chance to showcase their resurgence in the MEAC against one of the top programs in the SIAC.

    Quick Travel Note for Atlanta Alumni:

    •  Game time and ticket information will be released by Howard in the coming months.

    •  Hotels near campus and in downtown D.C. will fill up fast — especially with Spelman and Morehouse crews rolling deep.

    •  Start planning those group rates and family reunions now.

    This is more than just a football game. It’s a full-circle moment for two historic institutions that rarely share the same field during homecoming season. The last time it happened, flip phones were still a thing and “No Diggity” was topping the charts.

    Mark it down: October 17, 2026 — Howard University vs. Morehouse College.

    Bison fans, Maroon Tigers, and Blue & White faithful… the countdown starts today.

    Who’s going? Drop your plans in the comments — Atlanta to D.C. caravan forming already.

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  • First Look: Atlanta Beltline Southside Trail (PICS)

    Atlanta BeltLine Arboretum Earns Title of World’s Longest Linear Arboretum

    3 Min Read

    In a major milestone for urban green space and ecological innovation, the Atlanta BeltLine Arboretum has been officially recognized as the world’s longest linear arboretum.

    Spanning 12.44 miles of completed trail, this living botanical collection transforms the city’s historic rail corridors into a vibrant, accessible showcase of nature right in the heart of Atlanta.

    Beltline Has the World’s Longest Arboretum

    The announcement from Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. highlights how the arboretum redefines urban redevelopment by seamlessly blending infrastructure, public trails, and biodiversity.

    Accredited at Level II by ArbNet—an international network of over 900 arboreta—the designation celebrates two decades of dedicated work planting and stewarding trees, shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers along the BeltLine corridor.What sets this apart as the longest linear arboretum is its continuous, linear design along the multi-use trails, featuring more than 647 unique tree and woody shrub species and cultivars across 106 genera.

    Thanks to a long-standing partnership with Trees Atlanta, over 700,000 native plants have been installed, creating an ecological corridor that supports local wildlife, improves air quality, and provides essential shade for the millions of people who use the BeltLine each year.

    “This achievement reflects 20 years of intentional design and collaboration,” said Clyde Higgs, President & CEO of Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. “The trees along our trails offer shade, clean our air, and create an urban oasis where people can connect with nature—spotting birds, butterflies, and other species drawn to this habitat. As we mark our 20th anniversary and gear up to welcome visitors for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, we’re proud to connect more than 45 neighborhoods not just with paths, but with a thriving ecological corridor of native Georgia plants.”

    Greg Levine, Executive Director of Trees Atlanta, added: “Trees are iconic to Atlanta’s identity, and Georgia boasts incredible plant diversity. The BeltLine Arboretum is a vital part of our urban forest, demonstrating how greenspaces enhance health, wildlife, and the environment for everyone.”

    Currently covering about 60 acres along nearly 13 miles of trail (with 12.44 miles officially counted for the designation), the arboretum is set to expand significantly. By summer 2026—just in time for Atlanta’s role hosting FIFA World Cup 26™ matches—more than 16.7 miles of mainline trail will be open.

    The full 22-mile loop is targeted for completion by 2030, linking to over 400 acres of parks and 33 miles of connected greenways.This free, gateless public garden adds another world-class distinction to Atlanta’s resume, alongside the world’s busiest airport and the largest aquarium in the United States. It further cements the city’s reputation as a forward-thinking destination that prioritizes sustainability and quality of life.

    Residents and visitors can explore the arboretum anytime along the BeltLine trails. For a deeper experience, Trees Atlanta offers free guided walking tours highlighting the botanical features, city views, and ecological benefits.

    Final Word

    As Atlanta continues to grow greener and more connected, the BeltLine Arboretum stands as a shining example of how thoughtful urban planning can create lasting environmental and community impact. Stay tuned for more openings and plantings in the months ahead!

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