One of my favorite places to walk around, by myself or with company, in Atlanta (Pre-COVID) is Little Five Points. The place is as unique as its name, which it received because of the five intersection points at the center of the neighborhood. It’s home to a quirky, vintage, and diverse crowd of crystal shops, coffee shops, bars, restaurants, thrift stores, theaters, and small businesses. This area has thrived for over four decades and is a staple to those who live on the Eastside like myself.
One of my favorite things about L5P is the colorful murals, graffiti, and artwork that sets the district’s tone. These murals can be hidden and tucked into alleyways or on the walls of shops and restaurants. One of the more popular murals of L5P’s was recently done in 2019 of the Atlanta rap duo Outkast, and one of my favorite murals in Little 5 is the mugshot of Rep. John Lewis of his “good trouble” work. Here is a link to some of the street art done in Little Five and where you can see them if you ever visit! https://streetartmap.org/atlanta-street-art-maps/little-five-points-street-art-map/
One of my favorite shops in Little Five Points is a metaphysical shop called Crystal Blue. It’s been around for thirty years and sells just about anything that will bring enlightenment to your life. It was where I bought my first crystal and began to educate myself about different spiritualities. It is an open place with good energy and a must-visit if you’re in the area.
I have yet to eat at every restaurant in Little Five, but ever since I turned 21, I have been itching to go to The Vortex. It is a 21+ restaurant/bar, so as a recent legal drinker, I have not yet been inside. However, the outside is unforgettable! In order to enter, you walk through the mouth of a huge skull & crossbones statue. It’s an interesting crowd, so I’m not sure if it’s my cup of tea, but it’s definitely an experience I want to have!
Little Five has many different smoke shops, clothing stores, and shops with interesting trinkets. Junkman’s Daughter is my favorite store to wander aimlessly. They have been a part of Little Five Points for three decades and are integral to the interesting dynamic of L5P. Even the clothing and shoe stores in Little Five have a distinctive vibe to them. The Clothing Warehouse, a vintage clothing store, and Rag-o-Rama, a thrift shop, are my favorite places to splurge a bit on my style.
If you’re ever in Atlanta or on the Eastside, definitely stop by Little Five and wander around the different shops!!