The Atlanta Botanical Garden is set to embark on a significant expansion project that will add approximately eight acres to its existing facilities.

This expansion, projected to cost around $150 million, has been in the planning stages for nine years and is finally slated to break ground in late Fall 2025.

The development aims to enhance the Garden’s offerings and features.

Key Details of the Expansion:

Location: The new expansion will extend north along Piedmont Avenue, integrating with the Atlanta BeltLine, which is a major urban redevelopment initiative in the city.

Design and Features: The expansion will include new display gardens, water features, a visitor center, orangerie, café, and a beer garden. The project is being designed by the landscape architecture firm Hoerr Schaudt.

Completion Timeline: The newly developed area is expected to open its doors to the public by 2026.

Goals: The expansion aims to increase pedestrian connectivity and accessibility to the gardens, enriching visitor experiences and further beautifying the urban landscape.
This strategic expansion is expected to solidify the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s status as a pivotal urban oasis, enhancing cultural and recreational offerings in the area.

The Garden has continued to grow and evolve, hosting special exhibits and events, such as the Greenhouse and Orchid Center, which opened in recent years. It has become an important cultural institution in Atlanta, attracting visitors worldwide and offering various programs focused on education, conservation, and research.

Like a true garden, the Atlanta Botanical Garden has had its share of growth spurts through the years.

Significant Expansions:

2000: The Fuqua Conservatory and Tropical Rainforest were inaugurated, showcasing diverse plant species and creating an environment for tropical and subtropical plants.

2002: The Garden opened the Canopy Walk, which allows visitors to walk through the treetops, offering a unique perspective on the plant life.

Recent Developments:

2010: The Garden celebrated its 30th anniversary and continued to expand its educational programs and community outreach.

2013: The Edible Garden was introduced, emphasizing sustainable gardening practices and the importance of locally grown food.

Explore Your Atlanta

Atlanta has just what you need, not just today but every weekend. From exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene to taking in a beautiful park greenspace or even checking out the hidden gems, Atlanta has some of everything.

First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are.

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• Here are the REALLY FUN things to do in Atlanta
• Read our Atlanta Weekend Guide
• Where To Eat in West Midtown Atlanta
• Feeling adventurous? Here are some outdoorsy things to do in ATL

Unlike coffee, hot chocolate has an untold number of young fans that love the delicious taste.

Atlanta has plenty of cozy spots where you can enjoy a rich, decadent cup of hot chocolate, whether you’re in the mood for something classic or a little more inventive. Here are some of the best places in Atlanta to grab a cup of hot chocolate:

Xocolatl Chocolate

99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

Vibe: Known for its wide selection of chocolates and desserts, Xocolatl Chocolate offers a variety of hot chocolate options. They serve a rich and creamy hot chocolate, with a variety of toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and chocolate shavings.

Why Go: Perfect for chocolate lovers who want to explore other decadent options like truffles, cakes, and fondue in addition to hot chocolate.

Cafe Intermezzo

100 Avalon Blvd, Alpharetta, GA 30009

Vibe: This European-style cafe has a cozy atmosphere with an extensive dessert menu, including rich and creamy hot chocolate. They offer traditional and spiced versions, and the atmosphere is perfect for relaxing or chatting with friends.

Why Go: Known for its beautiful ambiance and expansive drink menu, Cafe Intermezzo is ideal for a sit-down experience.

Voga Italian Gelato

299 North Highland Avenue Northeast G, Atlanta, GA 30307

Here’s what one reviewer says about Voga. “Yes, they have hot chocolate. Also, this is the best gelato I’ve ever had! The texture was dense, creamy, and silky. I will come back every time I visit!! Also the ducks outside were cute and friendly!”

Alon’s Bakery & Market

1394 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 (and in Dunwoody)

Vibe: This charming bakery and cafe offers delicious hot chocolate, often served with a few extra treats on the side like a chocolate croissant. The cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for sipping something warm.

Why Go: Known for both its bakery and drink selections, Alon’s is a great place for those who want a more refined experience, with a selection of gourmet pastries and chocolates.

Cafexito Mexican Coffee Shop

900 Murphy Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30310

One reviewer says: “I visited this coffee shop for the first time since they moved from Sylvan Road to Murphy Ave. in West End Atlanta. They’re now inside of Create ATL, an eclectic, create co-working space for creative businesses in Atlanta. It’s a very cool and cozy atmosphere for lounging, relaxing, and catching up on work. Whether you’re looking for a good cup of coffee in the area or want to check out a dope event space, this location is certainly worth the visit. While you’re there, grab a warm pastry and check out some of the interesting books on display. I love cold brewed coffee with a splash of oat milk, and this place did not disappoint. The barista was kind enough to offer any needed adjustments to my drink, but it was perfect the first time. Thank you! I’ll see you guys soon for sure.”

Why Go: Perfect for those who want something a little different, combining coffee and hot chocolate into a fun, seasonal indulgence.

French Broad Chocolate at Ponce City Market

675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Suite N 146, Atlanta, GA 30308

One reviewer says: “A little taste of Asheville in Atlanta. This brand new hidden gem at Ponce City Market behind Honeysuckle Gelato/Cake Culture is not to be missed. It will be the best hot chocolate you’ve ever tasted in your life. The brownies are decadent and well worth the price. You can tell a lot of love and high quality ingredients go into everything they make. Try it now before everyone finds out about it! The lines for this place in Asheville are always out the door.”

Why Go: If you’re looking for a more convenient, customizable hot chocolate fix, French Broad Chocolate is a great option.

Dancing Goats

650 North Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

One reviewer says: “Loved the aesthetic and their hot chocolate was pretty good too!”

Little Tart Bakeshop

• 99 Krog St., SE Atlanta, Ga
• 437 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

Vibe: A charming bakery in the heart of Atlanta, Little Tart offers both rich hot chocolate and a selection of delicious, handmade pastries. It’s a great stop for a sweet treat in a cozy setting.

Why Go: Perfect for combining your hot chocolate with a fresh pastry in a cute, welcoming atmosphere.

Final Sip

Whether you’re looking for a decadent, artisanal cup of hot chocolate or a more casual, cozy spot to relax with a warm drink, these Atlanta cafes and bakeries offer a variety of options to satisfy your sweet tooth during the colder months!

Coffee, anyone? Atlanta’s Black Coffee Guide is perfect for those who want culture with their cup.

One of the largest municipal projects in Buckhead has gotten the green light and may begin construction sooner rather than later. Spearheaded by the Buckhead Community Improvement District (CID), the Lenox Boardwalk project would transform the area for pedestrians and motorists alike.

The boardwalk is part of a three-part project that includes major changes to the thoroughfares around Lenox Square mall encompassing Peachtree and Lenox roads.

This article will tell you all you need to know about the Lenox Boardwalk project.

What Is the Lenox Boardwalk?

The Lenox Boardwalk an urban linear park that aesthetically connects surrounding businesses and landmarks around the Lenox MARTA Station.

The next section of the project provides a showcase of the upscale shopping district around Phipps Boulevard and Peachtree Road. You can expect major facelifts around the area’s sidewalks, ramps and staircases.

The final piece of the puzzle is an elevated pedestrian and bicycle bridge connecting Lenox, Peachtree roads along with Phipps Boulevard.

The bridge will also be an entry and exit way onto HUB404, a half-mile greenspace planned for 400 in Buckhead that will sit above the highway.

The Lenox Boardwalk project in Atlanta is an urban development initiative aimed at transforming the area surrounding Lenox Square, one of the city’s premier shopping destinations. The project focuses on creating a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly environment that integrates retail, dining, and recreational spaces. Key features of the Lenox Boardwalk project include:

1. Enhanced Walkability

The design prioritizes pedestrian access, making it easier for visitors to navigate the area and enjoy outdoor spaces.

2. Public Spaces

The project plans to include parks, green spaces, and gathering areas to foster community interaction and promote leisure activities.

3. Commercial Development

There is an emphasis on attracting new businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues to the area, enhancing the overall appeal of Lenox Square.

4. Transportation Improvements

The project aims to improve transportation links, potentially incorporating options for public transit, bike lanes, and enhanced vehicle access. The Lenox Boardwalk project reflects broader trends in urban development, focusing on sustainability, community engagement, and creating a lively urban environment. As the project progresses, it is expected to significantly impact the surrounding community and contribute to Atlanta’s urban landscape.

When Will the Lenox Boardwalk Be Built?

Construction on the Lenox Boardwalk as well as surrounding projects will begin at different stages in 2025.

The Buckhead CID was recently awarded $10 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program to help fund the boardwalk and HUB404 projects.

This plans are part of the Lenox Road Complete Safe Street project, which when completed will create a 1.25-mile pedestrian-friendly corridor between the Lenox MARTA station and Piedmont Road.
Immerse Yourself In Your Atlanta

Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• Awesome Atlanta Food Specials You Don’t Know About
• Check Out These Hidden Gems In Atlanta
• Cool Places and Things for Couples To Do In Atlanta

The Beltline. The Gulch. Atlanta real estate projects have a thing for one-word terms. Now comes The Stitch.

The project recently received $157 million in federal funding, with promises of more to come. But what do you know about The Stitch?

In this article, we’ll tell you about The Stitch and when it’s going to be built.

What Is The Stitch?

The Stitch is a proposed infrastructure project in Atlanta designed to create a “cap” over the I-75/I-85 Downtown Connector highway, essentially building a deck or platform over the roadway.

Early plans approved by Urban Land Institute’s advisory services panel called for a vast green space atop the interstate.

This would reconnect parts of the city that were divided by the highway and create new green spaces, parks, and development opportunities. The project aims to stitch together the neighborhoods of Midtown and Downtown, improving walkability and creating more public space.

It’s seen as part of a broader effort to promote urban revitalization, reduce traffic congestion, and provide more green space in Atlanta’s core.

When Will The Stitch Be Built?

The Stitch project in Atlanta is projected to begin construction in 2026, with an estimated completion date in 2029.

This ambitious project aims to transform urban infrastructure and create green spaces in the area.

What Projects Are Similar To The Stitch?

The Stitch project in Atlanta draws inspiration from several urban redevelopment initiatives, including:

The High Line (New York City)

An elevated linear park built on a former railway line that transformed an industrial area into a vibrant green space for public use.

Millennium Park (Chicago)

A public park that integrates art, architecture, and landscape design, enhancing urban life and promoting community engagement.

Klyde Warren Park (Dallas)

A deck park built over a freeway that provides much-needed public green space, connects neighborhoods, and hosts various community events.

Paris’s Promenade Plantée

A linear park built on an old railway viaduct, similar in concept to the High Line, emphasizing the use of historical infrastructure for modern urban needs.
These projects highlight the blend of recreation, aesthetics, and urban connectivity that The Stitch aims to achieve for Atlanta.

Final Word

The project has been in the planning stages for several years, but it’s still in the conceptual and fundraising phase as of now.

When it’s all done, The Stitch would bring new residents, jobs, and visitors downtown and include an estimated 3000+ units of affordable housing, something the city badly needs.

Georgia-Pacific is building one of the America’s largest mixed-use redevelopments and the intent to transform its iconic 51-story world headquarters into a thriving community hub.

The landmark downtown location will be reimagined into a vivid mix of residential living, modern office spaces, retail, restaurants and a landscaped central plaza for gathering.

The redevelopment comes as other large-scale companies are renewing their commitments to downtown Atlanta amid rapid change in the local real estate environment.

Georgia-Pacific announced the plans recently in a detailed press release. The proposed development, scheduled for completion in fall 2027, includes the following:

• More than 400 apartment units on the tower’s uppermost floors, among the highest in the Southeast
• +/- 125,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and entertainment space
• +/- 600,000 square feet of Class A office space anchored by Georgia-Pacific and Koch
• +/- 35,000 square feet dedicated to a large central plaza
• More than 2,100 parking spaces plus adjacent MARTA and Atlanta Streetcar transportation access
• Future multi-phase development plans include opportunities for a hotel and additional retail and residences

“If realized, this will be more than just a redevelopment; it has the potential to generate economic growth and create mutual benefit for the city, local businesses, their employees, Georgia-Pacific employees and our vibrant community,” said Christian Fischer, president and CEO of Georgia-Pacific. “The office landscape has changed, and we recognize that the adaptive reuse of our site and office tower can create greater long-term value. We are also acutely aware of the need for more residential, shopping, dining, and entertainment options in our downtown neighborhood, which is why Georgia-Pacific is excited to provide a space that will offer unmatched opportunity in Downtown Atlanta.”

Georgia-Pacific has assembled a team of industry-leading experts to bring this project to life, including an in-house, mixed-use development team responsible for leading both the redevelopment efforts and the go-to-market strategy and capitalization of the project. External partners include Rule Joy Trammell + Rubio, architect of record; Healy Weatherholtz, retail broker; Kimley-Horn, civil engineering; Studio Saint, interior design; Brasfield & Gorrie, preconstruction; and Transwestern, consulting and property management.

Georgia-Pacific’s all-in commitment to a community hub space follows a recent trend among Atlanta businesses. Athlete’s Foot in Midtown Atlanta recently opened a store with areas specifically designed as a community hub.

“A thoughtful mixed-use project of this scale on Peachtree promises to launch a long-awaited renaissance for our city’s most important main street business district,” said Clark Dean of Transwestern’s Transaction Sciences Group, who has consulted on this transformational project since its inception.

The ambitious undertaking will blend modern design with the building’s historic presence, revitalizing this prestigious downtown address as the cultural heart of Atlanta.

“This transformative redevelopment is a significant step in moving Atlanta forward, turning an important block in the heart of the city into a vibrant and welcoming destination that breathes new life into downtown. This project aligns with many of our important ‘Moving Atlanta Forward’ initiatives, including expanding much needed housing options and fostering economic revitalization that supports local businesses,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. “With redesigned public spaces, new retail and restaurants, as well as easy access to public transit, we are creating a unique downtown neighborhood that will bring fresh energy to our city. This development will draw residents, visitors, and businesses alike, reinforcing our vision of a safe, inclusive, and thriving downtown—one that is family-friendly and nurtures new talent. It’s about building a better Atlanta for everyone—today and for the future.”

This project also promises to be a boon for surrounding businesses by creating a welcoming neighborhood with easy access to amenities and entertainment for companies and their employees seeking to work in the downtown area.

“Georgia-Pacific’s initial plans for a transformative redevelopment of this scale in the heart of Atlanta align perfectly with our vision to reimagine Downtown,” said Katie Kirkpatrick, president & CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber. “A catalyst for economic growth, this project will add momentum to others already underway and contribute to a world-class experience and vibrant neighborhood for years to come.”

Final Word

The Georgia-Pacific Center has been an architectural landmark since its completion in 1982. Notable for its iconic stair-like design made of pink granite, it occupies the historic site of DeGive’s Grand Opera House, later the Loew’s Grand Theatre, where “Gone with the Wind” premiered in 1939. With its distinctive design and historical significance, this project will pay homage to Atlanta’s rich cultural past while shaping its dynamic future.

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• Check Out These Hidden Gems In Atlanta
• Cool Places and Things for Couples To Do In Atlanta
• Awesome Atlanta Food Specials You Don’t Know About