If you know Atlanta’s core, you may be well familiar with Old Fourth Ward (O4W to locals), one of the city’s most dynamic and walkable neighborhoods.

This historic area east of downtown blends rich civil rights heritage with booming modern energy, thanks to the Atlanta BeltLine, innovative eateries, and a nightlife scene that ranges from chill rooftop cocktails to eclectic dive bars.

Check the Cool Things in Old Fourth Ward

Whether you’re here for a weekend adventure or a night out on the town, O4W delivers culture, food, and fun in equal measure.

Here are the top things to do right now in early 2026:

1. Stroll (or Bike) the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail

The BeltLine is the heartbeat of O4W, and the Eastside Trail section running through the neighborhood is perfect for people-watching, street art spotting, and casual exercise

Start at Historic Fourth Ward Park (with its splash pad, dog park, and skyline views), grab a coffee, and wander south toward Ponce City Market or north toward Inman Park. In warmer months, pop-up events, food trucks, and live music often appear along the path.

2. Explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta is free.

No visit to O4W is complete without paying respects to Atlanta’s civil rights legacy. Tour Dr. King’s birth home, the Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the powerful exhibits at the visitor center. It’s a moving, inspiring experience that grounds the neighborhood’s vibrant present in its profound history.

3. Hit Up Ponce City Market for Food, Drinks, and Shopping

Ponce City Market at night -best things to do in Atlanta at night

This massive food hall and retail destination is a must-visit anchor for the neighborhood.

Grab inventive eats from dozens of vendors (think everything from Southern comfort to global street food), sip cocktails at rooftop spots like The Roof or Umbrella Bar, and browse local boutiques. On weekends, it buzzes with events, markets, and live entertainment.

Read our guide on the best food on the Beltline.

4. Catch Sunset Views and Cocktails at Rooftop Bars

Ponce City Market rooftop in Midtown Atlnata

O4W’s rooftop game is strong in 2026. Head to Moonlight or the rooftop lounge at FORTH Atlanta for skyline panoramas paired with craft cocktails.

Newer spots like Burle’s Bar (in the Victorian development) offer plant-filled vibes and creative drinks—perfect for golden hour or late-night hangs.

5. Dive into the Neighborhood’s Eclectic Nightlife Scene

things to do this weekend in Atlanta, Georgia.

From sophisticated speakeasies to legendary dives, O4W nightlife caters to every mood:

  • Joystick Gamebar — Retro arcade games, creative cocktails, and rotating pop-up kitchen bites for a fun, nostalgic night.
  • Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium (aka “Church”) — A quirky dive bar with campy religious art, ping pong, and strong drinks.
  • Ranger Station and Little Spirit — Top-rated for craft cocktails and chill vibes.
  • Ladybird — A BeltLine-facing outdoor bar ideal for casual beers and people-watching.
  • Nearby Edgewood Avenue spots blend into the scene for bar-hopping, with everything from hidden gems to dance parties.

Pro tip: Many venues connect via the BeltLine, so you can stroll between them while enjoying murals and fresh air.

6. Grab a Meal at Standout Restaurants

where to eat in downtown Atlanta after the Beyonce concert
Photo credit: Playhouse Media

Food is a highlight here. Try chef-driven spots like Marcus Bar & Grille (inventive comfort food from Marcus Samuelsson), Buena Vida Tapas Bar (Southern Spain-inspired small plates with a lively patio), or newer arrivals like Sargent from Lucian Books and Wine. For casual vibes, hit up Bully Boy or explore the constant wave of pop-ups and food halls.

7. Skate, Relax, or People-Watch at Historic Fourth Ward Park & Skate Park

60 FREE things to do in Atlanta (For Visitors And Tourists)
PHoto credit: Youtube

This greenspace is a local favorite for chilling on the lawn, playing at the playground, or catching air at the skate park. On sunny days, it’s packed with picnickers, joggers, and dogs—classic O4W energy.

O4W continues to evolve, with new openings like Close Company Atlanta (lemon pepper pockets and affordable cocktails) and upcoming projects tied to major events keeping the neighborhood fresh.

Final Word

Whether you’re into history, food, art, or after-dark adventures, the Old Fourth Ward captures Atlanta’s creative spirit like nowhere else.

What’s your favorite O4W spot? Drop it in the comments—we’re always updating our guide to the city’s best nights out! 🥂✨

AtlantaFi.com is your go-to source for the latest on pop-ups, bars, events, and everything that makes the city pulse after dark.