Dating the City - The Beltline
I love to go for walks. Being outside is everything to me. I do my best thinking on walks. Give me a leisurely stroll with a playlist full of slow jams or an uptempo strut at a brisk pace and I’m happy.
One of my favorite places to go for walks is the Beltline. The Beltline goes on for miles throughout Atlanta and it is still being expanded. When things were at their worst on the J O B, I’d hop in my car and head straight for the section of the trail that passes many of my favorite places. I’d park near Woody’s Cheesesteaks across from Piedmont Park (a fave) and get my walk on.
The trail winds across the pedestrian bridge over Ralph McGill Blvd and past the back entrance of Ponce City Market (another fave). If you veer to the left you can visit the King of Pops walk-up window (another fave). If you continue to the right you’ll pass Krog Street Market ( yet another fave) and into the Inman Park neighborhood (where I loved to go imaginary house shopping). In between those landmarks you’ll pass all sorts of restaurants, bars, businesses and co-working spaces scattered along the route.
I’d walk for hours and just breathe completely engrossed in the moment. On many an evening, I’d be so lost in thought I’d look up and realize I’d have to hustle to get back to my car before it was pitch black outside. I’d head home drenched in sweat, sometimes mosquito bitten but always relaxed and inspired. Those long walks helped to keep me sane and saved me the from the repercussions of going on an edge snatching rampage. (I don’t know what the jail sentence is for such a crime, but I wouldn't do well in jail.)
Things are much different now, I’m no longer stuck in an unhealthy work environment. I’m in a much better situation now but my love of the Beltline hasn’t changed. Walks along the Beltline are for sheer pleasure. I make it a point to get out there as often as possible. I love it so much that I don’t mind sharing my safe haven with tons of other people when I visit during peak times of 12 noon or just after 5pm. The best times for me are midmorning or later in the evening, it’s a lot easier to get lost in thought when you aren’t dodging speeding bicycle and scooter riders.
The Beltline is one of the many places I’ve dated in Atlanta. Atlanta is turning out to be a far better suitor than any flesh and blood guy I’ve encountered, but that my friends is an entire string of posts for another time.
Until next time.
