As the holiday season winds down this Atlanta weekend and the new year approaches, the Atlanta BeltLine remains the city’s premier spot for outdoor fun, community vibes, and post-Christmas relaxation.
This weekend — Saturday, December 27, and Sunday, December 28 — offers perfect conditions for enjoying the 22+ miles of multi-use trails, public art installations, and bustling neighborhoods connected by this urban gem.
Weather Outlook: Unseasonably Mild for Late December
Expect pleasantly warm temperatures this weekend, with highs reaching the upper 60s to low 70s (°F) both days under partly sunny to mostly cloudy skies. Lows will hover in the mid-50s to low 60s overnight.
While there’s a slight chance of passing showers (especially Sunday afternoon), conditions should be ideal for walking, biking, or simply soaking in the sights. Dress in layers, but leave the heavy coats at home — Atlanta’s December has delivered a mild surprise!
Top Activities for the Weekend
1. Stroll or Roll the Trails – Eastside, Westside, and Beyond
The BeltLine is always free and open 24/7, making it the ultimate low-key weekend activity.
- Eastside Trail (Ponce City Market to Krog Street Tunnel): This remains the most popular section, buzzing with people enjoying the mild weather. Grab coffee at a spot like Muchacho or brunch at West Egg Cafe, then walk off the calories amid stunning street art and holiday leftover lights still twinkling in some areas.
- Westside Trail: Quieter and more scenic, perfect for a peaceful jog or bike ride past the booming Lee + White district. Check out breweries like Monday Night Garage for a casual pint.
Pro tip: Rent a bike or scooter through one of the many stations along the path — it’s an easy way to cover more ground without the post-holiday food coma.
2. Capture the Season with Photography
Nature and urban enthusiasts, take note: A special Atlanta Nature Photography Meetup is scheduled for Saturday morning (starting around 9:00 AM near the Dockside Visitor Center area). Join fellow photographers for a guided walk capturing the BeltLine’s winter scenery — think golden light on public murals, lingering holiday decorations, and the serene beauty of Piedmont Park connections. All skill levels welcome; check Eventbrite for last-minute details and registration.
3. Guided Tours and Art Exploration
While official Atlanta BeltLine Inc. events are light this post-Christmas weekend (with the next big one being the New Year’s Bike Ride on Jan. 1), independent operators are running street art and BeltLine walking tours throughout both days. These 2–3 hour experiences (often including a happy hour stop) highlight the Eastside’s world-class murals, hidden gems, and the history of Atlanta’s transformative loop. Prices start around $45 — book ahead via platforms like Fever or local tour groups.
4. Eat, Drink, and People-Watch
The BeltLine’s food scene shines year-round, but especially on mild winter weekends:
- Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market offer heated patios and seasonal specials — think hot cocoa, craft coffee, and hearty bowls.
- Nearby spots like BrewDog Atlanta and New Realm Brewing often host casual pop-ups or live music in the afternoons.
- For something cozy, grab fireside drinks at one of the many rooftop or patio venues overlooking the trails.
5. Relax and Reflect
With no major organized races or crawls this specific weekend (the big holiday events wrapped up earlier in December), it’s an ideal time for a slower pace:
- Walk the loop with friends or family while chatting about 2025 goals.
- Spot the remaining Art on the BeltLine installations — the Southeast’s largest public art showcase.
- Bring your dog for a leashed stroll; many sections are pet-friendly, and the open spaces are great for burning off extra holiday energy.
Why the BeltLine This Weekend?
After the hustle of Christmas, the BeltLine provides the perfect blend of activity and tranquility. Whether you’re local or visiting, it’s a reminder of what makes Atlanta special: connected neighborhoods, beautiful green spaces, and endless ways to enjoy the city on foot (or wheels).
Bundle up lightly, bring water and sunscreen (yes, really — those UV rays are sneaky), and head out to experience the BeltLine at its winter best. Have a fantastic weekend, Atlanta!
As the year wraps (almost), reflect on the BeltLine’s magic with a sunset jog or bike ride. The paths will be buzzing with families, joggers, and holiday strollers, all under strings of lights that make every mile feel like a postcard.
Why the BeltLine Shines This Holiday Season
The Atlanta BeltLine isn’t just a trail — it’s the heartbeat of our city’s community spirit, connecting neighborhoods with 17 miles of green space that’s seen over 1.5 million visitors this year alone. December amps up the joy with these events, blending fitness, family, and frolic while supporting local causes like climate advocacy and animal welfare.
Weather forecast? Mostly sunny with highs in the low 50s — bundle up, but leave room for that ugly sweater.For the latest updates, check beltline.org/events.
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