As a destination distinctly defined by its diversity, the ATL Airport District is the proud home to dozens of Black-owned businesses, from upbeat brunch locales and Southern barbecue joints to fitness studios and wellness spas. In honor of Black History Month, we’ve put together a quick guide of our Black-owned establishments that we encourage you to support all year long. We’re also rounding up the special events that celebrate Black excellence in the District, and spotlighting a few nearby landmarks and cultural attractions for an added dose of history this February.
We Love Our Black-Owned Businesses
When dining in the District, there is no shortage of Black-owned restaurants to choose from, with each establishment boasting its own local flavor and inspired cuisine. If brunching were a sport, the District would win the gold with options like The Breakfast Boys, Buttermilk Biscuit, and The Real Milk & Honey. The Southside also boasts bangin' barbecue hotspots like Tom, Dick, and Hank, Pit Boss and This Is It! Southern Kitchen & Bar-B-Q.
There are plenty of options for those looking to grab a quick bite. Look no further than Wrap-a-Lot, Taco Pete and Zubi’s Taco Kitchen, each serving up a variety of satisfying menu items for those on the go. Date night? Indulge in the intimate ambiance at The Corner Grille, Nouveau, Aye Tea Elle , or Party of 5, where charm and elegance come together to create memorable dining experiences.
Venture down to Union City to enjoy made-from-scratch pizza with a touch of Haitian flavor at 1804 Pizza Bar. Or head to J.R. Crickets, a lively sports bar specializing in beer, Buffalo-style chicken wings and other casual eats. This list barely scratches the surface of the Black-owned restaurants in the District, so be sure to check out our more comprehensive list spanning College Park, Hapeville, and Union City here.
Because moderation is key, balance out your dining adventures in the District with a visit to one of our Black-owned wellness spots. For a high-energy workout, head to Cycle Gang for a dynamic group cycling session, or opt for a mindful movement experience with a pilates or yoga class at LatJohns Pilates and Wellness. In College Park, The Wellness Spot is a locally owned spa and health club offering massage therapy and other rejuvenating experiences. For the little ones, Kids Gym USA is the nation’s first pre-school gymnastics program with activities for all ages.
Black History Month Event Calendar
In addition to supporting our local businesses, we invite you to join us in celebrating the vibrant tapestry of Black culture and heritage in the District with various events to commemorate Black History Month:
Sunday, February 2
The City of College Park is hosting its 4th annual Black History Month Program, "The Sankofa Experience" at the Georgia International Convention Center from 2 to 4 pm on Sunday, February 2nd. The event will include several musical performances, an awards ceremony and a keynote address by Dr. La’Neice Littleton. Two-time Emmy award-winning reporter La’Tasha Givens will host the event. Event admission and parking are complimentary.
Saturday, February 8
Come celebrate Black History Month at the Gateway Center Arena as the College Park Skyhawks take on the Wisconsin Herd on Saturday, February 8 at 3 pm. The first 500 fans will receive a free commemorative t-shirt!
Sunday, February 16
The Academy Theatre is hosting an incredible lineup of performances in conjunction with the City of Hapeville for their annual Hapeville Celebrates Black History event. The afternoon will include a play about the heroic Tuskegee Airmen, improv comedy, a jazz trio and a performance by the award-winning dance, percussion, and vocal ensemble, Giwayen Mata. Check the event listing for details!
Friday, February 21
LOVB Atlanta is hosting a celebration of Black women in volleyball when they take on LOVB Madison at the Gateway Center Arena. Get your tickets and be part of this special evening!
Historic Landmarks and Attractions Nearby
With the District situated just south of Downtown Atlanta, you can easily embark on a journey through Black history with several notable landmarks and attractions just a quick MARTA ride away.
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park covers about 35 acres and includes several sites related to the life and work of the legendary civil rights leader, including his birth home which is closed until November 2025 due to renovations. Nearby, The King Center exhibits MLK related photos and artifacts, plus rooms on Gandhi and Rosa Parks. With services open to the public, you can attend Ebenezer Baptist Church.
A mile south sits the historic Oakland Cemetery, which is Atlanta’s oldest public park and the final resting place for many civil rights leaders and activists. Tours through the towering and picturesque oak and magnolia trees are available to the public and highly recommended given the chance.
Head a few miles east to check out The National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the APEX Museum, which offers a variety of exhibits detailing history presented from the Black perspective, and the national historic landmark, the Herndon Home.
To stay updated about District happenings and events, sign up to have new posts from The Holler sent right to your inbox. For more travel inspiration, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
