Cascade Heights

The historic Cascade Heights neighborhood is rich with history and is home to the city’s second most dense tree canopy.

Notable Black leaders have called Cascade Heights home, including longtime Morehouse College President Benjamin E. Mays, baseball legend Hank Aaron and Atlanta Daily World founder C.A. Scott. Today, Atlanta’s former mayor Shirley Franklin lives in the area. Grab a copy of “My Neighbors are Giants,” a book by Sheila Chandler-Stephens, and read about the iconic figures from the area.

Find 600 acres of green spaces between Cascade Springs Nature Preserve and three golf courses surrounding the area.

Want to go?

• Location: Approximately 6 miles southwest from Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta
• Getting there: Driving a car to the area is going to be your best bet to drive through the scenic area. There is plenty of free street parking in the walkable business district with places to grab a bite to eat or hang out.

Things to do

Cascade Heights Nature Preserve

Enjoy The City in the Forest at this 125-acre park. There’s a waterfall, artesian springs and a variety of plant and animal species. This is a dog-friendly park so bring your furry friend and even a picnic basket to spend the whole day here.

Restaurants to enjoy

The Beautiful

This is where you come when you’re in the need for some good old-fashioned Southern soul food. The restaurant was founded on religious beliefs, giving love, consideration and concern for customers, as well as in the preparation of food. Oxtail, fried catfish and beef short ribs are just a few of the classic menu items to try.

Cafe Bartique

Experience the cozy atmosphere at this Black, female-owned coffee shop. True Atlanta natives will appreciate menu items such as the Morehouse Macchiato, The Atlanta Dream (a combination of espresso and Nutella), The Outkast breakfast sandwich and Knuck if U Cluck, a rotisserie chicken sandwich. There even is patio seating, perfect for enjoying the neighborhood vibes.

(Photo courtesy of @cafebartique)

Oreatha’s at the Point

Oreatha’s at the Point is one of the many Southern food restaurants in Atlanta by chef Deborah VanTrece. She is one of the South’s most recognized culinary personalities who uses the influence of the African diaspora and Black food heritage on contemporary American cuisine through her dishes.

Oreatha’s at the Point is named after Deborah’s mother, and the restaurant aims to celebrate hard-working moms everywhere.

Come for brunch to enjoy chicks in a Southern quilt, Caribbean salmon croquette, or lamb and eggs. Enjoy a meal at dinner by feasting on oxtail lasagna, grilled lamb chop or Thai-seasoned catfish and grits.

Big Daddy’s Cafe

South Atlanta has much more Southern food to enjoy at Big Daddy’s Cafe. Try dishes with fresh spices and herbs infused with a touch of Caribbean flavor. The intimate space seats about 30 inside making it feel like home. Go for the meat loaf or tilapia, and pair with classic Southern sides like collard greens, candied yams, creamed corn and more.

Barrio

There’s more than just Southern food in this neighborhood. Barrio is a Mexican-soul restaurant and lounge serving birria tacos, barrio ramen, a rice bowl and more. Try it all with the trio platter of guac, queso and salsa.

(Photo courtesy of @barrioatl)

While you’re in the area, see what else is going on in South Atlanta or check out other neighborhoods ready for your arrival.