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The Atlanta BeltLine is buzzing with early summer energy in June 2026. Expect warm days, lush greenery, blooming trails, vibrant public art, and a mix of free recurring fitness classes, guided tours, casual strolls, and major FIFA World Cup 2026 activations.
With the Eastside Trail bustling with walkers, cyclists, joggers, and families, plus connections to parks, markets, and neighborhoods, this period offers free outdoor recreation, wellness sessions, art appreciation, and low-key vibes—perfect ahead of bigger FIFA World Cup 2026 preparations ramping up.
Atlanta BeltLine Weekend Activities (June 2026)
The Atlanta BeltLine—with its 22+ miles of trails, public art, parks, and neighborhood links—thrives in the warm June weather. Expect ideal conditions for trail use, ongoing free/low-cost fitness options, guided experiences, and standout events like Atlanta BeltLine Fest.
The Atlanta BeltLine continues as one of Atlanta’s most dynamic destinations, with its 22+ miles of trails, public art, parks, and neighborhood links fully alive in the warming weather.
Expect mild-to-warm days ideal for trail use, with recurring free/low-cost fitness options and guided experiences. Major festivals remain lighter until June’s Atlanta BeltLine Fest kicks in, making now great for relaxed exploration, people-watching, and local spots.
Pro tips: Bring water, sunscreen, and bug repellent for greener sections. Check beltline.org/events for the latest, as free fitness classes (500+ annually) run regularly.
Friday Evenings: Wind Down with Trail Exploration
Ease into the weekend with an evening stroll, bike ride, or jog on illuminated sections of the Eastside Trail (Ponce City Market to Krog Street Tunnel) or the calmer Westside Trail. Public art shines against the foliage at dusk—great for photos.
- Nearby vibes: Pittsburgh Yards (Southside Trail) or Historic Fourth Ward areas may feature casual pop-ups or gatherings.
- Fitness: Look for evening sessions like R&B Pilates, run clubs, or similar (patterns often extend into weekends).
- Guided options: Food & Street Art Tours sometimes have Friday availability; check operators near Krog or Ponce City Market. exploregeorgia.org
Saturday & Sunday: Peak Activity, Fitness, and CommunityWeekends peak with families, pets, and visitors. Rent bikes/scooters at trail stations or enjoy a leisurely walk. Mornings suit active vibes; afternoons bring markets, vendors, and relaxation.
Fitness & Wellness Highlights (recurring and free/low-cost):
- Self-Ease Yoga, Forever Fit, Magic Movement, Kilometer Kids, and more at Pittsburgh Yards, Grant Park, or similar spots. Check daily schedules on beltline.org. beltline.org
- Photography meetups, nature walks, or skate sessions (e.g., Trail Skate 101).
Guided Tours & Specials:
- Food & Street Art Tour — Typically Saturdays (e.g., May 16, 23, 30) around 11:30 AM–2:00 PM from Krog Street Market area. Enjoy tastings, murals, history, and local bites (~$95). exploregeorgia.org
- Tree/Arboretum tours or insider walking tours highlighting art and ecology.
- Big Tigger’s Beltline BikeFest (if aligning near early May dates): Group rides, kid activities, and celeb rides on the Westside. beltline.org
1. Sunday Wind-Down
Appreciate the ever-changing public art installations—Atlanta’s open-air gallery. Pet-friendly sections welcome dogs on leash.Top Activities for the Weekend1. Stroll or Roll the TrailsThe BeltLine is free and open 24/7.
- Eastside Trail: Busiest and most vibrant—coffee at Muchacho, brunch nearby, then art and skyline views.
- Westside Trail: Quieter, scenic past Lee + White and breweries like Monday Night Garage.
- Pro tip: Bike/scooter rentals make it easy to cover ground.
2. Eat, Drink, and People-Watch
- Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market: Patios, seasonal menus, and views.
- Nearby breweries and pop-ups for live music or casual bites.
- Rooftop or trail-adjacent patios for relaxed vibes.
3. Relax and Reflect
- Family walks, dog strolls, or chats with friends.
- Spot Art on the BeltLine installations.
- Low-key photography or nature appreciation amid spring/summer blooms.
June 2026 Events – FIFA World Cup Energy Builds
June shifts into high gear with Atlanta BeltLine Fest, a multi-weekend celebration tied to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ (matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium).
What To Expect:
- Atlanta BeltLine Fest at Pittsburgh Yards (Southside Trail, starting around mid-June, e.g., weekends like June 13–July 15 window, with key dates such as June 20–21): Vendor marketplace, food trucks, live music/DJ sets, soccer clinics, kids’ activities, cultural activations, field games, and World Cup watch parties. Free and family-friendly.
- Continued Food & Street Art Tours (multiple June dates).
- Ongoing free fitness classes, walking tours, and pop-ups across the trails.
- Neighborhood tie-ins like Virginia-Highland Summerfest (early June) and Juneteenth events, with BeltLine connections.
The trails will feature more live performances, markets, and “watch-party vibes” during match days—ideal for global visitors and locals.
Why the BeltLine This Season?
It’s Atlanta’s community heartbeat—connecting neighborhoods with green space, art, and energy while drawing millions yearly. Late May offers perfect shoulder-season balance before June’s World Cup festivities.
Bundle up lightly for evenings if needed, stay hydrated, and enjoy! For real-time updates, visit beltline.org/events. Have a great May/June, Atlanta! More from AtlantaFi.com: Check related guides on outdoor activities, moving to Georgia, or neighborhood festivals.
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Where them fans at? Southern soul fans in the Atlanta area are gearing up for a high-energy celebration of rhythm, blues, and feel-good grooves. The ATL Southern Soul Music Fest is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the scenic Wolf Creek Amphitheater in South Fulton, Georgia (just outside Atlanta).
ATL Southern Soul Music Fest: Event Details and Lineup
The event promises a full afternoon and evening of live performances from some of the biggest names in contemporary Southern soul and blues. Headliners and featured artists include:
- King George — The rising star known for smooth, nostalgic vocals and hits like “Keep On Rollin’,” “Too Long,” and “Girl You Got It.” His party-centric R&B tracks with old-school flair have made him a fan favorite.
- Sir Charles Jones
- 803 Fresh
- Tonio Armani
- Nephew Jones
- Money Train
Additional performers include Mike Clark Jr., Uncle Daddy, Charmeka Joquelle, and more.
Gates open at 3:00 PM, with the show starting at 5:00 PM and running until approximately 8:00 PM. It’s a BYOB event with free parking, making it easy and affordable for attendees to settle in for the day.
The Venue: Wolf Creek Amphitheater
Wolf Creek Amphitheater is a premier outdoor venue located on a picturesque 435-acre wooded site in South Fulton at 3025 Merk Road, Atlanta, GA 30349 (often listed in College Park or South Fulton areas).
It features reserved seating, table seating, and spacious lawn areas, with a capacity of approximately 5,420 guests. Its convenient location near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Camp Creek Marketplace makes it accessible for locals and out-of-town visitors alike.
The amphitheater has become a hub for diverse live music, festivals, and community events since its reopening, offering a relaxed, open-air atmosphere perfect for soul music under the Georgia sky.
Tickets and How to Attend
Tickets are on sale now through VarietyEnt.net and platforms like Etix, with options ranging from General Admission to reserved seating, table seats, Platinum VIP, and Skybox VIP suites. Prices start around $45 (plus fees) for pre-sale GA, though they may increase closer to the event.
For the latest updates, full lineup announcements, or ticket purchases, visit the official Wolf Creek Amphitheater site or Variety Entertainment’s page.
Why You Should Go
Southern soul music continues to thrive with its blend of blues, R&B, gospel influences, and relatable storytelling. This festival delivers a perfect mix of established legends and rising talents for an unforgettable day of live music, good vibes, and community. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or new to its infectious grooves, the ATL Southern Soul Music Fest is shaping up to be one of the must-attend events of the summer in Atlanta.
Don’t miss your chance to experience Southern soul at its finest—grab your tickets, bring your cooler, and get ready for a soul-stirring Saturday night!
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ATLANTA, Ga. — Georgia drivers will soon pay more at the pump after Governor Brian Kemp decided not to extend the state’s temporary suspension of the gas tax.The suspension, which provided relief on the state’s 33-cent-per-gallon tax on gasoline and 37-cent-per-gallon tax on diesel, will officially expire at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday night.
The taxes are expected to phase back in over the next few days.The move comes after the governor renewed the suspension to help families manage fuel costs during the Memorial Day weekend. With oil prices now holding relatively steady, the administration has chosen to let the relief expire while maintaining flexibility for future needs.In a statement, a spokesperson for Governor Kemp said:
“After renewing the suspension of the state gas tax to help hardworking Georgians get through the Memorial Day weekend with further relief, and with oil prices now holding relatively steady, the gas tax suspension will expire at 11:59pm tomorrow while the state also keeps a financial eye toward any unexpected needs in the future.”
The temporary waiver had offered Georgia motorists noticeable savings during a busy summer travel season. Its end means the full state fuel taxes will once again be added to the price of every gallon purchased in the state.Motorists are advised to fill up before midnight Tuesday where possible to take advantage of the final hours of the lower tax rate.
Tips to Save Gas and Stretch Your Dollars
With prices rising again, here are some practical ways Georgia drivers can reduce fuel consumption:
- Drive smarter: Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control on highways.
- Keep tires properly inflated: Underinflated tires can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 3%. Check pressure monthly.
- Lighten the load: Remove unnecessary heavy items from your trunk — every extra 100 pounds can decrease efficiency by about 1%.
- Combine trips and carpool: Fewer short trips mean less idling and cold starts, which burn extra fuel.
- Maintain your vehicle: Replace dirty air filters, keep up with oil changes, and get regular tune-ups to ensure optimal engine performance.
- Use AC wisely: At lower speeds, open windows instead of running the air conditioner; at highway speeds, close windows and use AC.
Motorists are advised to fill up before midnight Tuesday where possible to take advantage of the final hours of the lower tax rate. The state will continue to monitor energy markets and economic conditions moving forward.
The state will continue to monitor energy markets and economic conditions moving forward. For more details on the policy change, visit the official announcement here.
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In the latest episode of her podcast Humble Brag with co-host Crystal Kung Minkoff, former Real Housewives of Atlanta star and current “Friend of” Cynthia Bailey dropped exciting updates on the future of the long-running Bravo series.
Cynthia Bailey Confirms RHOA Season 18 Casting Underway
The revelation has fans buzzing as the show rides a wave of renewed energy in Season 17.
Quick Turnaround for Reunion
Bailey revealed that filming for the Season 17 reunion is scheduled to begin in just two weeks. This relatively quick post-filming timeline underscores Bravo’s confidence in the current season, which premiered on April 5, 2026, and has delivered plenty of drama through group trips, feuds, and fresh dynamics among the cast.
Season 17 features returning peach holders Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, Drew Sidora, Kelli Ferrell, Shamea Morton, and Angela Oakley, with newcomers like K. Michelle and Pinky Cole adding to the mix. Cynthia has been actively involved as a “Friend of,” appearing in episodes and stirring up her own moments, including pool house drama and calling out group tensions.
Casting for Season 18 Already in Motion
More significantly, Cynthia confirmed that casting for Season 18 is actively progressing. Bravo is reportedly scouting new talent while evaluating returns and potential status changes for the current lineup. This early start is typical for the franchise but signals that network executives are already planning ahead amid strong viewer interest.
Fan reactions are divided. Some want the current core cast—bolstered by Porsha and Phaedra’s returns—to stay intact and “marinate” for another season, while others are calling for big names like Kenya Moore, Nene Leakes, Kandi Burruss, or Shereé Whitfield to shake things up. Speculation is rampant about full-time upgrades, demotions, or “Friend of” roles for figures like Cynthia herself.
Cynthia’s Role and PerspectiveCynthia, a veteran of the series who has returned in a supporting capacity after previous full-time runs and breaks, shared insights into the current season’s filming experiences. She discussed watching dynamics unfold (including tensions involving Pinky, Angela, Kelli, and Shamea) and positioned herself as someone “not off limits” who can both give and receive “smoke” in the group.
Her podcast appearance comes as she balances reality TV with other ventures, including modeling, acting, and personal life updates. Co-hosting Humble Brag has given her a platform to reflect candidly on Housewives life while teasing what’s next.
What This Means for RHOA Fans
The confirmation points to a potentially transitional Season 18. With the reunion filming so soon, viewers can expect fireworks that will heavily influence casting decisions. Will Bravo double down on the revitalized energy from Porsha and Phaedra’s returns, or will legacy stars make comebacks? Early casting activity suggests the network is leaving doors open.
As one of the most iconic Housewives franchises, RHOA continues to evolve. Stay tuned—reunion episodes are likely to deliver the drama needed to set the stage for whatever comes in Season 18. Peaches, get ready!
This article is based on Cynthia Bailey’s statements on the Humble Brag podcast, as shared across social media and fan accounts on June 1, 2026.
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The Atlanta Fringe Festival is a vibrant, artist-driven multidisciplinary event that brings together theatre, dance, comedy, storytelling, puppetry, burlesque, magic, and more for two wild weeks each year in Atlanta, Georgia.
Now in its 14th edition (2026), it has grown into one of the city’s most exciting cultural happenings, emphasizing accessibility for creators and audiences alike. The Fringe Festival is one of Atlanta’s best festivals.
Origins and InspirationThe festival draws direct inspiration from the legendary Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which began in 1947 as an unjuried alternative to the official arts program. Like its Scottish counterpart, Atlanta Fringe prioritizes bold, original, and uncensored work from artists of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Atlanta Fringe Festival: Dates, Times, Info
A small group of Atlanta theatre lovers conceived the idea in 2010. The first festival debuted in 2012 with a handful of performances. Since then, it has expanded significantly while staying true to its grassroots roots. Produced by Twinhead Theatre, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the event operates with a dedicated volunteer committee and focuses on an artist-first model. en.wikipedia.org +1How Atlanta Fringe WorksUnlike juried festivals, Atlanta Fringe uses a lottery-based selection process. Artists submit during an open period (typically December–January), and selected participants pay low fees. In return, they receive:
- Guaranteed four performances plus one technical rehearsal in fully equipped venues.
- 100% of box office revenue (minus minimal fees).
- Professional photos of their shows.
- Opportunities for audience-voted awards, Critic’s Choice, and Producer’s Choice prizes. atlantafringe.org
This open-access approach lowers barriers, especially for emerging and underrepresented voices, fostering a diverse lineup of local, national, and occasional international talent.The 2026 Festival: May 27 – June 7The 14th annual edition runs for a full two weeks, featuring 51 artist groups across roughly 8 venues in vibrant East Atlanta neighborhoods like Little Five Points (L5P), East Atlanta Village, and nearby areas. Expect over 245 live acts and hundreds of individual performances.
Highlights include:
- Mainstage Shows — A mix of 27 Atlanta-based productions and 18+ touring acts from across the U.S. and one from Scotland. Genres span everything from intimate dramas to high-energy dance and improv. encoremagazine.com
- Free Preview Party (May 27 at 7 Stages) — Every artist gets two minutes to tease their show, plus special guests. Free but RSVP recommended.
- Five/5ths of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (June 1) — Five different groups each tackle a segment of the classic film in their own wild style.
- Atlanta Street Fringe — Free outdoor busking, music, dance, and comedy throughout L5P and East Atlanta Village.
- Kids Fringe — Family-friendly activities and performances on select weekends.
- Fringe Audio — A free podcasting component featuring original audio dramas and stories.
- Closing Party & Awards (June 7) — Celebration, cash prizes, and wrap-up festivities.
Venues include 7 Stages, Metropolitan Studios, The Supermarket, Dynamic El Dorado, and others—all within a compact, walkable/drivable cluster packed with food, drinks, and shopping options.
Atlanta Fringe Festival: Why It Matters
Atlanta Fringe creates space for experimental, boundary-pushing work that might not find a home in more traditional venues. It builds community by connecting artists with enthusiastic audiences in an atmosphere of joy and collaboration. Past participants often return, and the festival has paid out significant sums to artists, technicians, and staff over the years while drawing thousands of attendees.
Executive Director and co-founder Diana Brown, along with the core team (including Production Director Nadia Morgan and others), keeps the event running with passion and practicality—from securing venues to handling everything in between.Plan Your VisitTickets are available via the official site (atlantafringe.org), with options for single shows or multi-show passes. Pro tips from the organizers:
- Arrive early—shows start on time.
- Expect Atlanta heat and traffic; dress comfortably and budget extra travel time.
- Take advantage of nearby eats and festival badges for discounts. atlantafringe.org
Whether you’re a longtime theatre fan, curious newcomer, or visiting from out of town, the Atlanta Fringe Festival delivers an unforgettable dose of creativity and fun. It’s proof that independent arts thrive when given room to be weird, wonderful, and wildly entertaining.For the full schedule, artist lineup, and tickets, visit atlantafringe.org. See you in the audience!
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ATLANTA — Food lovers and soccer fans, get ready: Walton Street in downtown Atlanta will transform into a massive pedestrian-only food truck paradise during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Showcase Atlanta and the Food Truck Association of Georgia (FTAG) officially unveiled “Global Grub Alley” on Thursday, promising a vibrant corridor of up to 30 Atlanta-area food trucks for every match day — plus the day before each one.
Atlanta Introduces Global Grub Alley for World Cup
The quarter-mile stretch of Walton Street between Centennial Olympic Park Drive and Broad Street will close to vehicle traffic, creating a walkable feast zone right next to the action. The block from Walton and Cone to Broad will be fully pedestrian-only. Trucks will serve from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each activation day, with no ticket required to join the fun.
Atlanta is set to host eight matches during the tournament, meaning 16 full days of Global Grub Alley spread across June and July 2026. The corridor sits just one block from Centennial Olympic Park, home to the official FIFA Fan Festival, making it a natural stop for fans heading to or from Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
“Atlanta food trucks have been asking for this kind of moment for years,” said Kelsey Maynor, Director of Small Business Engagement for Showcase Atlanta. “The World Cup is one of the largest sporting events the city has ever hosted… Global Grub Alley puts our small business owners and our food culture on the street, next to the biggest stage in the world. You will not need a ticket to be a part of it. You will just need to be hungry.”
The initiative is part of Showcase Atlanta’s broader effort to ensure major events like the World Cup and the 2028 Super Bowl create lasting opportunities for local small businesses.Montrella Rhodes, Administrator of FTAG, emphasized the long-term impact: “This is the kind of opportunity that pays off for years after the final match. A truck on Walton Street in front of a global audience is a truck whose phone keeps ringing in 2027 and 2028.”
Applications are now open for food truck vendors. FTAG members get priority, but spaces are available for others who meet permitting requirements. A full lineup will be released closer to match dates and can be viewed on Street Food Finder.
Local operator Sherman Gartrell of Wing Kingh Food Truck shared his excitement: “Events like this create a powerful platform for food truck owners to showcase their brand, connect with new customers from all over the world… We’re proud to be part of such an exciting event.”
Global Grub Alley: What to Know If You Go
- Location: Walton Street between Centennial Olympic Park Drive and Broad Street
- Hours: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. on match days and pre-match days
- Cost: Free to attend (pay for food and drinks at the trucks)
- Accessibility: Street-level access with portable restrooms
- Transit: Short walk from MARTA’s GWCC/CNN Center and Five Points stations
This activation highlights Atlanta’s growing food truck scene and its commitment to spotlighting local flavors for the world stage. As the city gears up for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Global Grub Alley promises to deliver an unforgettable mix of international soccer energy and hometown hospitality.
atlantaga.govStay tuned to Atlanta Local News for updates on the vendor lineup and exact match dates as they’re confirmed by FIFA.
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On the eve of the first World Cup match in Atlanta, there’s going to be an event happening at Zoo Atlanta that you may not wnat to miss.
The World Block Party presented will take place on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., offering an evening of culture, music, interactive fun, and wildlife exploration just before Atlanta’s first World Cup match.
World Block Party Taking Place at Zoo Atlanta
guests can connect with culture, learn, play, and explore with festivities designed for people of all ages. Zoo Atlanta will offer extended hours at Splash Fountain, rides, and the petting zoo, along with Ask-a-Keeper opportunities at a variety of animal habitats around the Zoo.
Don’t miss a host of special activities throughout the event:
- Test your skills with an inflatable soccer challenge.
- Catch a “Birds of the World” flighted presentation in the World of Wild Theater presented by Georgia Natural Gas.
- Watch live chalk art as created by Atlanta locals Fawne DeRosia and Heather Cap.
- Enjoy dance performances from Hawaii and New Zealand by Mahealani’s Polynesian Entertainment.
- Hear music from Mexico from Mariachi Búhos de Oro.
- Find The Joy of Jump Rope with Double Dutch Aerobics.
World Block Party is free for Zoo Atlanta Members; $19.95 for non-Member adults; and $14.95 for non-Member children. Children under 3 are always free. Get tickets here at zooatlanta.org.
Zoo Atlanta is the ideal family destination for exploring the wonders of wildlife from around the world and connecting with conservation, before and during the matches. Visit zooatlanta.org to plan your itinerary.
WHEN: Sunday, June 14, 2026, 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Zoo Atlanta: 800 Cherokee Avenue, S.E.; Atlanta GA 30315
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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ATLANTA – The peaches are bruised, the alliances are fractured, and Sunday night’s episode of The Real Housewives of Atlanta promises to deliver the kind of drama that keeps Atlanta talking all week long.Fresh off what sources are calling an absolute blow-up in the previous episode, the ladies are still reeling in “Picking Up the Peaches.”
Drew Sidora steps into fixer mode, determined to steady the group and safeguard her professional reputation—but early previews suggest keeping the peace might be easier said than done.
RHOA Season 17, Episode 9: ‘Picking Up the Peaches’ –Fallout Looms as Drew Tries to Hold It Together
Expect lingering tension from the Dallas getaway and that chaotic sound bath session. Sneak peeks show Shamea Morton clapping back hard, telling cameras that Angela Oakley is “just mad for no damn reason.” Angela, meanwhile, wants to know why her name keeps coming up in everyone’s mouth.
Cynthia Bailey pops in to catch up on all the chaos she may have missed, getting the full tea from Angela and Pinky Cole about Phaedra Parks’ wild night. Surrogacy updates, side-eye galore, and more shade than a Georgia pine forest are also on the menu.
The mid-season trailer already teased major clashes involving Porsha Williams, K. Michelle, Drew, and more—this episode looks like it’s where the second half of the season really ignites.
What We’re Watching For:
- Can Drew actually pull the group back together, or will her efforts backfire spectacularly?
- More heat between Shamea and Angela—how long until it boils over?
- Porsha navigating her personal life while the group drama swirls.
- Classic RHOA moments of confessionals, glam, and unfiltered Atlanta realness.
If the first eight episodes of Season 17 have been any indication, “Picking Up the Peaches” is set to serve high fashion, higher emotions, and the kind of unforgettable one-liners that make RHOA a Sunday staple.
Tune in tonight at 8/7c on Bravo. Don’t forget to set your DVR and prepare your group chat—Atlanta’s finest are bringing the heat.Stay locked in with Atlanta News Network for full recaps, cast reactions, and all the post-episode buzz tomorrow.
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The Atlanta Beltline is set to become significantly more accessible with the launch of ATL Spoke, Atlanta’s first autonomous public transit service.
On June 5, the Atlanta Beltline, in partnership with Beep, the Georgia Transportation Efficiency Authority (GTEA — formerly the Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority), the City of Atlanta, and MARTA, will debut this groundbreaking pilot project — the first of its kind in the city.
ATL Spoke Launches in Atlanta: Connecting Southwest Atlanta
The ATL Spoke pilot is designed to improve connectivity in Southwest Atlanta by offering free daily rides between MARTA’s West End Station and the Beltline’s Southwest Trail near Lee + White (home to Grady Health Clinic, restaurants, entertainment venues, and more).
The route will expand in late summer to include the Atlanta University Center, timed perfectly for the start of the new school year. This high-frequency “last mile” connection will give residents, students, and visitors an easy, innovative link to the Beltline while offering a preview of Atlanta’s future of mobility.
“The ATL Spoke pilot is, first and foremost, a learning project,” said Joe Iacobucci, Vice President of Transit Innovation at Atlanta Beltline, Inc. “It is designed to test the technology, the use of autonomous operations on a higher-capacity transit vehicle, and the service provider under real-world operating conditions in Southwest Atlanta.”
“Beyond demonstrating the technology, the pilot will help us gauge customer perception and determine whether this kind of service is valued for reaching the Beltline — and if first/last mile autonomous shuttle connections between MARTA rail and a Beltline activity center appeal to both local residents and visitors.”
ATL Spoke: Rider-Friendly Features
- Fully ADA accessible vehicles ensure the service is welcoming for riders of all abilities, including those who may have difficulty walking or biking longer distances.
- Each shuttle includes advanced safety technology and a trained onboard attendant to assist passengers, answer questions, and ensure a safe, smooth experience.
Service Details
- Schedule: Runs 7 days a week from noon to 10:00 p.m. (10 hours daily), with shuttles arriving every 12–15 minutes.
- FIFA World Cup 26™ game days: Extended to 16 hours (8:00 a.m. – midnight).
- Holidays: Operates year-round except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
- Cost: Completely free for the entire 12-month pilot.
Soft Launch
Operations testing and a soft launch begin May 31, giving the community an early opportunity to experience the shuttles ahead of the official June 5 debut. During this period, the team will test continuous operations, gather rider feedback, and evaluate performance in a live environment.
Funding
The pilot is supported by a $1.75 million award from the Transit Trust Fund Program through the Georgia Transportation Efficiency Authority, with local matching funds provided by Atlanta Beltline Tax Allocation District funds.
ATL Spoke represents an exciting step forward in making the Beltline more connected, sustainable, and accessible for everyone.
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Atlanta, GA – Beltline users, rejoice. The City of Atlanta has begun installing modern, high-tech public restrooms along the popular trail system as part of a broader partnership with Throne Labs to expand bathroom access across the city.
Four of the initial smart restroom units—known as Thrones—have already been placed along the Beltline Trail. Locations include areas near Piedmont Park, Lowery — Bedford Pine, Allene Avenue, and the Historic Ward Skatepark.
New Smart Restrooms Arrive on the Atlanta Beltline, Easing a Long-Standing Need for Public Facilities
City officials plan for additional units in parks and high-traffic areas, with reports indicating up to 10–12 Thrones deployed citywide in this initial rollout.
Innovative, Self-Contained Design
Throne Labs specializes in solar-powered, self-contained public restrooms that require no water or sewage connections, making them ideal for urban trails and parks like the Beltline. Each unit features advanced technology, including more than 21 sensors, running water, real-time cleanliness monitoring, and automatic cleaning systems between uses.
The restrooms emphasize accessibility and inclusivity, with designs welcoming to all users, including transgender and gender nonconforming individuals. Usage is typically limited to about 10 minutes per visit to ensure availability for others.
Throne Bathrooms: Easy Access for Everyone
Accessing a Throne is straightforward and designed with multiple options:
- Scan the QR code on the unit
- Send a text message
- Use the free Throne Bathroom Network app (available for iOS and Android), which shows real-time locations, cleanliness ratings, and allows one-tap door opening
- Tap a phoneless access card for those without a smartphone
The units are free to use, supporting the Beltline’s role as a welcoming public space for walkers, runners, cyclists, and families.
Addressing a Citywide Need
The initiative responds to frequent complaints from residents and visitors about limited public restroom access, particularly during longer outings on the Beltline or in parks. Many have shared stories of cutting workouts short or facing difficulties due to the lack of facilities.
“This is a game-changer for the Beltline,” one local runner told reporters. “We’ve needed this for years.”
City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation officials, along with Throne Labs representatives, celebrated the launch with a ribbon-cutting event in late May 2026. Throne Labs has indicated openness to expanding the network based on usage and community feedback.
The Beltline, already one of Atlanta’s premier attractions drawing millions of visitors annually, stands to benefit significantly from improved infrastructure. These smart restrooms represent a forward-thinking step toward making the city more livable and visitor-friendly.
Have you spotted a Throne on the Beltline yet? Share your experience in the comments below. As more units come online, we’ll continue to update this story with additional locations and user feedback.
Stay connected with Atlanta’s local news for more updates on city improvements and Beltline developments.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
