Category: Recreation

In a move that’s rippling through Midtown’s bustling streets, the beloved Publix supermarket at Atlantic Station is set to shutter its doors for good on December 27, 2025.

The store has been open for nearly two decades of serving shoppers fresh subs, local produce, and that signature Publix smile.

The announcement, which caught many longtime customers and employees off guard, marks the end of an era for the vibrant mixed-use development that’s become a cornerstone of urban Atlanta living.

The 30,312-square-foot store, which opened in 2005 alongside the launch of Atlantic Station itself, has long been a go-to spot for residents in the district’s thousands of apartments, office workers along 17th Street, and visitors drawn to the area’s shops, dining, and green spaces.

Why Is the Publix at Atlantic Station Closing?

But Publix cited a “number of factors” in its decision to close, including the store’s compact footprint and challenging parking layout—issues that have long frustrated regulars navigating the multilevel garage and pedestrian-friendly design.

“We’ve been privileged to serve the Midtown community at the Publix at Atlantic Station for almost two decades,” a Publix spokesperson said in a statement. “While it is always a difficult decision to make, we have decided to close this store on December 27, 2025.”

Employees at the store were notified Monday morning, with Publix emphasizing its commitment to its workforce amid the changes.

“”In our 95-year history, Publix has never had a layoff,” the statement continued. “We will offer associates at the Atlantic Station location positions at neighboring stores if they so desire.”

For many staffers, that means potential transfers to nearby locations like the larger Publix at The Plaza Midtown (just 1.5 miles away at 950 W. Peachtree St. NW) or the Howell Mill Village store (2.5 miles distant).

Shoppers, however, face a more immediate inconvenience, with five other Publix outlets within a two-mile radius but none as conveniently embedded in the Atlantic Station ecosystem.

The closure comes at a time of flux for the grocery sector in metro Atlanta, where rivals like Kroger have shuttered underperforming stores earlier this year in areas like Lindbergh, Brookhaven, and Decatur.

Publix itself is closing another small-format location at Shallowford Exchange in Chamblee around the same time, signaling a broader strategy to consolidate in favor of bigger, more efficient spaces.

What’s Next for Atlantic Station?

Atlantic Station’s tight-knit layout, while innovative for walkability, may simply no longer align with the modern grocery model’s demands for expansive aisles and ample parking.

For the community, the loss stings. “This Publix was more than a store—it was a daily ritual,” said longtime resident Jonelle Dennis, who lives in a nearby condo and relies on it for quick runs to grab ingredients for her family’s empanadas. “The parking’s a nightmare sometimes, sure, but it’s right here. Now we’ll have to trek across Midtown or settle for the Target.”

Indeed, the on-site Target will remain open, offering some grocery basics, while a CVS pharmacy inside provides prescription services.

Broader options include a Whole Foods on 14th Street and a recently opened Lidl on Northside Drive, but the convenience factor for Atlantic Station denizens is undeniably diminished.

Atlantic Station Management (ASM) is framing the departure optimistically, viewing it as a chance to refresh the district’s retail mix.

“The retail industry is cyclical, and Atlantic Station continues to adapt in ways that strengthen our position as a leading mixed-use destination,” ASM said in a statement. “With the planned closure of Publix on Dec. 27, 2025, we have an opportunity to reimagine the space and consider concepts that will add new options and value to the surrounding community. Plans for the space will be shared as details are finalized.”

The development isn’t standing still: Recent openings have already brought the expanded Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United Team Store, the interactive Art Station ATL, and the budget-friendly MINISO.

Looking ahead, a second outpost of the iconic Busy Bee Cafe is slated for 2026, with more announcements expected early next year.

Speculation among locals and bloggers is rife—could a Trader Joe’s or another fresh-concept grocer fill the void? For now, though, the focus is on wrapping up strong before the holidays.

Final Word

As Atlanta evolves, so does its neighborhoods. The Publix closure underscores the challenges of blending urban density with everyday needs, but it also highlights Atlantic Station’s resilience.

Shoppers are encouraged to stock up on those holiday hams and bakery treats while they can—December 27 will be the last call for this Midtown mainstay.

AtlantaFi.com is your source for hyper-local coverage of the stories shaping our city. Have a tip? Email us at cj@atlantafi.com.

In Georgia’s largest city, we often jest with the question: Is Atlanta full? It’s a valid question considering the metro area’s growth spurts in recent years. But just how “full” is metro Atlanta?

In this article, we’ll take a look at recent demographic shifts of Atlanta and the surrounding region.

In an era of rapid urbanization, migration shifts, and economic transformation, understanding population dynamics is crucial for planning sustainable growth, equitable resource allocation, and fostering inclusive communities.

This article dives into the latest data on Atlanta’s population, explores its growth trajectory, and contextualizes it within Georgia’s broader landscape by highlighting the state’s fastest-growing counties.

Atlanta’s Current Population: A Snapshot

As of 2025, the City of Atlanta is home to an estimated 525,088 residents. This marks a steady increase from the 2020 Census count of 499,998, reflecting a cumulative growth of approximately 5.05% over five years.

The city’s annual growth rate stands at about 0.96%, driven by a mix of domestic in-migration, international newcomers, and natural increase (births minus deaths).

While Atlanta’s core population remains diverse—boasting a majority-Black demographic, growing Hispanic and Asian communities, and a youthful median age of around 33—this figure represents the incorporated city limits, which span just 136 square miles.It’s worth noting the distinction between the city proper and the broader metropolitan area.

The Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), encompassing 29 counties, boasts a much larger populace of over 6.4 million as of mid-2024, with projections pushing toward 6.3 million by year’s end.

This metro growth, fueled by suburban expansion and job opportunities in tech, film, and logistics, underscores Atlanta’s role as the economic engine of the Southeast.

Growth Trends: Resilience Amid Challenges

Atlanta’s population story is one of resilience. Post-2020, the city rebounded from pandemic-era outflows, adding thousands of residents annually. Key drivers include:

• Economic Pull: With Fortune 500 headquarters like Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines, plus booming sectors like fintech and entertainment, Atlanta attracts young professionals.
• Affordability and Culture: Compared to coastal giants like New York or Los Angeles, Atlanta offers a lower cost of living paired with world-class amenities, from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport to the BeltLine trail system.
• Diversity and Inclusion: International migration contributed nearly 135,000 new residents to the metro area between 2020 and 2024, enriching Atlanta’s cultural fabric. axios.com

However, challenges persist. Housing affordability pressures, infrastructure strains, and equitable access to services highlight the need for data-driven policies.

Our institute’s models project continued modest growth, with the city potentially reaching 540,000 by 2030 if current trends hold.

Georgia’s Booming Counties: A Regional Perspective

Atlanta doesn’t grow in isolation—its expansion ripples across Georgia, spurring development in exurban and rural counties.

Drawing from the latest estimates, which track changes from 2020 to 2025, several counties have seen explosive growth rates, often exceeding 20%.

These areas, many on the fringes of metro Atlanta or near Savannah, are transforming from sleepy locales into bustling suburbs, thanks to remote work, affordable land, and improved connectivity.

Below is a table of Georgia’s top 10 fastest-growing counties by percentage increase over this period. This data illuminates how population shifts are reshaping the state’s geography, with implications for Atlanta’s commuter patterns, water resources, and economic partnerships.

Notably, counties like Dawson and Jackson, north of Atlanta, exemplify “exurban” flight—residents seeking space while staying connected to urban jobs. Meanwhile, coastal-adjacent Bryan and Long counties reflect Savannah’s spillover.

These trends signal opportunities for regional collaboration but also underscore the urgency of coordinated planning to manage sprawl.

Looking Ahead: Sustainable Growth for All

Atlanta’s population of 525,088 is more than a number—it’s a testament to our city’s enduring appeal and evolving identity.

As we monitor these patterns, our work at the Atlanta Population Studies Institute emphasizes inclusive growth: ensuring that newcomers and long-time residents alike benefit from expanded transit, green spaces, and affordable housing. With Georgia’s counties surging ahead, the Peach State stands at a crossroads.

Will we harness this momentum for shared prosperity?For more insights, explore our interactive dashboards or contact us at populationstudies@atlantaga.gov. Together, we’re building the Atlanta of tomorrow—one resident at a time.

Final Word

Population growth aside, the city is full of activities. First, to find all the cool things happening in Atlanta this weekend, all you have to do is take a look at downtown area. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown Atlanta often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• Here are the REALLY FUN things to do in Atlanta
• Check out these FREE events in Atlanta
• Feeling adventurous? Here are some outdoorsy things to do in ATL

Atlanta’s vibrant scene isn’t just about music festivals and Southern cuisine—it’s also home to some fantastic spots where you can channel your inner bowler, grab a drink, and make memories with friends or family.

Here Are Atlanta’s Top Bowling Alleys

Whether you’re a strike-chasing pro or just looking for a fun night out, our city has a lane (or 20) for you.

We’ve rounded up the top five bowling alleys based on local favorites, reviews, and that unmistakable ATL charm. Grab your shoes—these spots are ready for your roll.

1. The Painted Pin

737 Miami Cir NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | 404-814-8736

Tucked in the heart of Buckhead’s Miami Circle, The Painted Pin is the upscale sibling you never knew you needed in your bowling lineup.

This boutique venue boasts 20 full-service lanes in an industrial warehouse setting, complete with bocce courts, a speakeasy-style bar, and craft cocktails that pair perfectly with your game

It’s ideal for date nights in Atlanta or corporate happy hours, with a menu featuring gourmet bites like truffle fries and pisco sours. Pro tip: Book ahead on weekends—it’s a hot ticket.

2. The Painted Duck

976 Brady Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | 404-352-0048

For a twist on traditional ten-pin, head to The Painted Duck in West Midtown’s Stockyards district. 4 This gaming parlor specializes in duckpin bowling (smaller balls, shorter pins—think precision over power), alongside Belgian feather bowling, cornhole, and a killer cocktail list. The vibe is dark, trendy, and speakeasy-esque, with eye-catching murals and shareable plates like duck fat fries. It’s adults-only after 8 p.m., making it prime for a stylish girls’ night or guys’ getaway.

3. Midtown Bowl

1936 Piedmont Cir NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | 470-291-5585

If retro vibes and no-frills fun are your jam, Midtown Bowl is Atlanta’s classic gem. 8 With 32 lanes, a dive-bar energy, and a pro shop for gear upgrades, this family-run spot has been striking out crowds since the ’60s.

Expect affordable pricing, a solid bar menu (hello, cheap beers and nachos), and an unpretentious crowd. It’s perfect for league nights or casual family outings—skill level optional, good times guaranteed.

4. Lucky Strike Atlantic Station

261 19th St NW Suite 1150, Atlanta, GA 30363 | 470-520-7550

Midtown’s Atlantic Station is buzzing, and Lucky Strike is at the center of the action. 1 Recently rebranded from Bowlero, this multi-level entertainment hub offers cosmic bowling under blacklights, an expansive arcade, billiards, and a sports bar with skyline views. Family-friendly by day and lively by night, it’s got everything from kids’ parties to late-night leagues. Don’t miss the gourmet pizzas and craft brews while you’re at it.

5. Main Event Atlanta

3101 Cobb Pkwy SE Suite 104, Atlanta, GA 30339 | 770-955-0717

Out in Cumberland, Main Event is the all-in-one entertainment powerhouse for groups of any size. 26 Featuring 24 state-of-the-art lanes, gravity ropes, laser tag, and over 100 arcade games, it’s more than just bowling—it’s a full-blown adventure.
Great for birthdays or team-building, with unlimited play passes and a menu loaded with burgers, wings, and desserts. Arrive early for peak hours; the energy here is contagious.

Dust off those shoes and hit the lanes—your next high score awaits. Got a favorite we missed? Drop it in the comments below!

Final Word

Whether you’re gutter-balling with buddies or aiming for that perfect 300, Atlanta’s bowling alleys deliver strikes on fun, flavor, and atmosphere.

As the city lights up with yet another special event this weekend, remember: Safe driving is the real treat. For more tips on navigating safely around the city, read our Atlanta Traffic Guide.

More from AtlantaFi.com:

• How Long Does It Take To Drive Around I-285?
• Moving To Georgia: Everything You Need to Know
• Feeling adventurous? Here are some outdoorsy things to do in ATL

AtlantaFi.com is your source for the stories shaping our city.

Chick-fil-A, the Atlanta-born fast-food giant synonymous with chicken nuggets and polite service, is branching out from its fried favorites into the bustling world of quick-serve coffee shops.

The chain’s latest venture, a cozy concept called Daybright, quietly opened its doors this week at 4326 Jimmy Lee Smith Parkway in suburban Hiram, outside Atlanta.

Chick-fil-A Debuts Daybright Coffee Shop

Tucked into a strip mall off the busy highway, the 1,200-square-foot spot marks Chick-fil-A’s first foray into the caffeinated side of quick bites.

Love your cup of Joe? Read our guide on the best places to get coffee in Atlanta.

Patrons arriving for the soft launch on Wednesday were greeted with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm donuts, a far cry from the sizzling waffle fries of the parent brand.

What’s On the Menu at Daybright?

The menu leans heavily into breakfast and beverage territory: a lineup of iced and hot coffee drinks, seven varieties of house-made donuts, breakfast sandwiches, pressed juices, and smoothies designed for on-the-go sips.

The concept comes from Red Wagon Ventures, a subsidiary of Chick-fil-A.

True to its roots, Daybright diverges from the chicken-centric empire in one key way: poultry takes a backseat.

The only nod to the flagship’s star ingredient is a single English muffin sandwich stuffed with creamy chicken salad. Otherwise, it’s all about the coffee, smoothies and baked goods, with an emphasis on quality sourcing.

According to the Daybright website, the shop partners with Thrive Farmers, a nonprofit that connects directly with coffee-farming families.

The beans are then roasted fresh by a local Atlanta-area roaster, ensuring a farm-to-cup journey that’s as ethically grounded as it is flavorful.

Donut enthusiasts will find plenty to celebrate. The seven options include classics with a twist: chocolate-glazed, blueberry-filled, banana nut, lemon poppyseed, vanilla cream, honey almond, and white raspberry.

Priced from $2.50 to $3.50 each, they’re baked daily and meant to pair perfectly with a latte or cold brew.

Of course, no Chick-fil-A offshoot would be complete without that signature touch: Daybright will close every Sunday, honoring the company’s long-standing tradition of rest and family time. Hours for the Hiram location run 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

The launch comes amid a national surge in hybrid coffee-quick-service spots, with chains like Starbucks experimenting with drive-thrus and local roasters adding grab-and-go meals.

For Chick-fil-A, which operates more than 2,800 locations worldwide (including over 200 in Georgia alone), Daybright represents a low-stakes test in a market where Atlanta’s coffee scene is as vibrant as its traffic.

This isn’t the only innovation from the Peachtree City headquarters this week.

In a separate push toward convenience, Chick-fil-A unveiled its first automated vending machine in Augusta, Ga., at the Augusta Mall. The 24/7 unit — closed Sundays, naturally — dispenses grab-and-go staples like chicken wraps, fruit cups, and waffle potato chips for those late-night cravings or early-morning rushes.

It’s a small-scale experiment, but one that hints at the chain’s appetite for tech-driven accessibility.

As Daybright brews up buzz in Hiram, locals are already lining up. “I came for the coffee, but those donuts? Game-changer,” said Hiram resident Maria Gonzalez, 34, nursing a vanilla cream pastry and iced latte on opening day.

Whether this spells the start of a full-blown Daybright chain remains to be seen, but for now, it’s a fresh perk for Paulding County’s caffeine crowd.

For more on Daybright’s menu and locations, visit daybright.com.

Final Word

Chick-fil-A continues to expand its footprint in metro Atlanta, with ongoing construction on new outlets in Cobb and Gwinnett counties.

Summerhill is one of Atlanta’s most dynamic neighborhoods and one of the best places to eat on the southside. The street’s walkable, trendy vibe, enhanced by vibrant murals and restored brick storefronts, draws food enthusiasts and supports a burgeoning dining scene.

More Food Coverage:

Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

• Where To Eat In West Midtown
• Where To Eat In Atlanta
• Best Restaurants On The Atlanta Beltline Right Now

As the leaves turn crimson and the air grows crisp, horror fans across the South are buzzing about the latest stab at terror: the first trailer for Scream 7. Dropped Oct. 30, by Paramount Pictures, the pulse-pounding preview marks a homecoming of sorts for the iconic slasher franchise, which wrapped principal photography right here in metro Atlanta just months ago.

Scream 7 Trailer Released

Watch the trailer here:

With Ghostface’s mask once again haunting familiar Georgia backdrops, the film cements the city’s status as a go-to hub for major Hollywood productions.

The trailer, unveiled on the eve of Halloween, clocks in at just over two minutes but packs enough meta twists and knife-edge suspense to have locals and cinephiles alike double-checking their locks.

Directed by franchise co-creator Kevin Williamson—stepping behind the camera for the first time in the series—it promises a return to the roots of Scream‘s clever horror while spotlighting legacy star Neve Campbell’s Sidney Prescott in a deeply personal showdown.

A Plot That Cuts Close to Home: Family Under Siege

At its core, Scream 7 flips the script on Sidney’s hard-won peace. After surviving six films’ worth of masked mayhem, the final girl has retreated to the quiet town of Pine Grove, building a life with her husband (played by Community‘s Joel McHale) and their two children.

But as the official synopsis teases, “a new Ghostface killer emerges,” shattering that fragile normalcy when Sidney’s teenage daughter, Tatum (Isabel May of 1883), becomes the killer’s prime target. 15 18

The footage hints at high-stakes family drama amid the bloodshed: Sidney’s “darkest fears are realized” as she races to protect her loved ones, teaming up with the ever-tenacious Gale Weathers (Courteney Cox) for a no-holds-barred hunt. “Let’s unmask this fucker,” Gale quips in one trailer highlight, echoing the franchise’s signature blend of wit and gore.

Subtle nods abound, including voice cameos from seemingly deceased favorites like David Arquette’s Dewey Riley, sparking fan theories about resurrections or red herrings—classic Scream misdirection.

Newcomers like Michelle Randolph meet grisly ends (or do they?), while returning survivors such as Jasmin Savoy Brown and Mason Gooding as the Meeks-Martin twins add layers to the whodunit. Casting surprises include Matthew Lillard (Stu Macher) and Scott Foley (Roman Bridger), whose “dead” characters fuel speculation about time-bending twists or dream sequences.

And with a high school production of a fairy-tale play in the mix, expect plenty of self-referential jabs at horror tropes.

Williamson has teased toning down the gore from recent entries, honoring Campbell’s desire for Sidney to finally get her “happy ending”—or at least a fighting chance at one. 11 “Sidney has been through so much torment,” he shared in a recent interview. “To give her anything less is sacrilegious.”

Atlanta’s Star Turn: From Soundstages to Suburban Nightmares

What makes this Scream extra special for us Atlantans? The film was shot almost entirely in our backyard, transforming quiet neighborhoods into slasher central.

Principal photography kicked off January 7, 2025, under the working title Scar Tissue, and wrapped March 12 at Lionsgate Sound Stages in College Park, Great Point Studios in Douglasville, and on-location spots in Marietta. 30 31 32 33 34

Fans spotted crew setups in Marietta’s leafy suburbs—doubling as Pine Grove—and Douglasville’s studios hosted interior kills, including a balcony plunge at Stu Macher’s infamous house. It’s not Williamson’s first Georgia rodeo; he filmed Scream 2‘s Windsor College exteriors here back in the ’90s.

The shoot injected millions into the local economy, employing hundreds from Georgia’s booming film workforce and spotlighting the state’s tax incentives that keep blockbusters rolling in.

This isn’t just any production—it’s a milestone for Atlanta, which has hosted everything from Marvel epics to zombie apocalypses.

As Scream 7 joins the ranks of films like The Walking Dead and Black Panther, it reminds us why the Peach State is Hollywood’s worst-kept secret.

Theatrical Slashes and Streaming Stabs: When to Watch

Mark your calendars, scream queens and kings: Scream 7 slices into theaters nationwide on February 27, 2026.

Tickets go on sale closer to the date, but early buzz suggests premium screenings with Ghostface giveaways.

For streaming, Paramount+ will likely host the film post-theatrical run, following the pattern of previous entries (all six prior Scream films are currently available there for marathon prep). 2

No exact VOD or streaming debut has been announced yet, but based on Scream VI‘s timeline, expect it on Paramount+ around late summer 2026—perfect for a second-spooky-season scare.

Fan Frenzy and Franchise Fallout

The trailer’s timing couldn’t be spookier, arriving amid renewed chatter about the series’ rocky road.

Departures of Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega in 2023—tied to creative shifts and controversy—left fans divided, with some calling for boycotts over the handling of Barrera’s firing.
Yet Campbell’s triumphant return, coupled with Cox’s gale-force presence, has reignited excitement. “It’s Sidney’s story again,” one Atlanta fan posted on social media. “About damn time.”

As Williamson honors the late Wes Craven’s vision, Scream 7 feels like a love letter to survivors—on screen and off.

Whether you’re a Woodsboro veteran or a first-time victim, this one’s poised to carve a bloody mark on 2026.

Stay tuned to Atlanta Film Beat for more on local shoots, red-carpet sightings, and the next big thing terrorizing (or thrilling) our screens. What’s your favorite Scream kill? Sound off in the comments—and remember: Don’t answer that phone.

With more than 900 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.

There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.

AtlantaFi.com is your source for Peach State cinema news, from Trilith to Tyler Perry Studios.

See Atlanta Casting Calls And Auditions Available Right Now

Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls

 Read More From AtlantaFi.com:

•  Here Are The Movies That Are Filming In Atlanta
• 5 Easy Steps To Becoming An Extra
• How To Rent Your Home To A Film Company