Nestled in the vibrant Old Fourth Ward neighborhood of Atlanta, along the iconic Ponce de Leon Avenue, stands Ponce City Market: The Complete Guide. This landmark destination is more than just a shopping center; it’s a testament to urban revitalization, a hub of culinary innovation, and a celebration of community. Housed within the meticulously restored Sears, Roebuck & Company building, Ponce City Market breathes new life into a historic structure, offering a diverse range of experiences for locals and tourists alike.
A Destination Defined:
- Address: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA
- Contact: +1 404-900-7900
Adjacent to the popular Beltline Eastside Trail and across from Historic Fourth Ward Park, Ponce City Market boasts a prime location that encourages exploration and connection. Within its walls, visitors discover a sprawling food hall, a curated collection of retail shops, a rooftop amusement park, modern office spaces, and stylish residential apartments. Whether you’re seeking a quick caffeine fix, a leisurely shopping spree, a delectable culinary adventure, or an evening of entertainment with breathtaking city views, Ponce City Market offers something for everyone.
A Journey Through Time: History and Background
The story of Ponce City Market is deeply intertwined with the history of Atlanta. Originally built in 1926 by Sears, Roebuck and Co., the building occupied a site that once housed an amusement park and natural springs. This massive structure, spanning over 2 million square feet, served as a retail store, warehouse, and regional office for the company.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building is a historical gem that echoes a bygone era. For over half a century, it stood as a pillar of commerce, employing thousands and serving as a vital distribution center for the Southeast. However, as retail landscapes shifted, the store and warehouse eventually closed in 1979, followed by the regional office in 1987.
In 1990, the City of Atlanta purchased the building and repurposed it into "City Hall East," providing office space for city, state, and federal employees. The lower level even housed an art gallery, adding a cultural dimension to the space.
The next chapter in the building’s history began in 2011 when Jamestown, a real estate investment and management company renowned for its adaptive reuse projects, acquired the property. Jamestown is also the developer of New York City’s famed Chelsea Market and Atlanta’s own Westside Provisions District. Jamestown embarked on an ambitious renovation project, transforming the historic structure into the vibrant mixed-use destination we know today as Ponce City Market. The revitalization breathed new life into the historic building, transforming it into a dynamic hub for the city and its residents. In 2014, Ponce City Market officially opened its doors, ushering in a new era of commerce, community, and culture.
A Gastronomic Paradise: Where to Eat at Ponce City Market
The heart of Ponce City Market lies in its Central Food Hall, the Southeast’s largest culinary destination. Here, a diverse array of food stalls and restaurants offer a global culinary journey, catering to every palate and craving.
Morning Delights:
- Spiller Park: Kickstart your day with a visit to Hugh Acheson’s baseball-themed coffee shop, Spiller Park. Enjoy expertly brewed coffee paired with delectable toasts, including the popular avocado toast with egg.
- Root Baking Co.: Indulge in freshly baked pastries, croissants, and toasts at Root Baking Co., a local favorite known for its artisanal breads and baked goods.
- Pancake Social: Restaurateur Anne Quatrano’s Pancake Social offers a delightful all-day breakfast experience. Savor sweet and savory pancakes, nourishing grain bowls, flavorful sandwiches, and refreshing juices.
Quick Bites:
- Botiwalla: Experience the vibrant flavors of Indian street food at Botiwalla, the sister restaurant of Chai Pani. Sample flavorful lamb burgers, savory tikka rolls, and other authentic Indian snacks.
- El Super Pan: Transport your taste buds to Latin America with sandwiches from Top Chef alum Hector Santiago’s El Super Pan. Don’t miss the "Cubano Mixto," a classic Cuban sandwich featuring roasted pork, ham, salami, pickles, yellow mustard, and Swiss cheese on Cuban bread.
- Ton Ton: Slurp your way to happiness at Ton Ton, a ramen shop serving authentic Japanese noodle soups with rich broths and flavorful toppings.
- H&F Burger: Sink your teeth into one of Atlanta’s best burgers at H&F Burger, a popular spot known for its juicy patties, creative toppings, and freshly baked buns.
Sit-Down Dining:
- Minero: Enjoy casual Mexican fare with a Southern twist at Sean Brock’s Atlanta outpost of Minero. Savor tacos, enchiladas, and other Mexican classics in a vibrant setting.
- City Winery: Combine dinner and entertainment at City Winery, a unique venue offering live music performances, wine tastings, and a full-service restaurant.
- 9 Mile Station: Ascend to the rooftop beer garden, 9 Mile Station, for snacks, local brews, and breathtaking skyline views. This is a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring Ponce City Market.
Beyond the Plate: Things to Do at Ponce City Market
Ponce City Market offers more than just culinary delights. It’s a destination for entertainment, shopping, and wellness, catering to a diverse range of interests.
Skyline Park:
Experience the magic of Skyline Park, Ponce City Market’s rooftop amusement park. Enjoy classic boardwalk games like ring toss and Skee-Ball, challenge your friends to a round of miniature golf, or take a thrilling ride down the three-story slide. The park offers fun for the whole family, with stunning city views as a backdrop.
Retail Therapy:
- Citizen Supply: Discover unique clothing, jewelry, accessories, and home goods from over 200 local and international artisans and vendors at Citizen Supply.
- Modern Mystic Shop: Explore crystals, tarot cards, candles, and other mystical items at the Modern Mystic Shop, a haven for those seeking spiritual guidance and self-discovery.
- Coco & Mischa: Shop for socially and sustainably conscious vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and other ethically sourced goods at Coco & Mischa.
- National Retailers: Find familiar favorites like Anthropologie, Madewell, lululemon, West Elm, and Sephora within Ponce City Market’s retail spaces.
Wellness and Fitness:
- CorePower Yoga: Find your inner zen and work up a sweat at CorePower Yoga, offering a variety of yoga classes for all levels.
- Forum Athletic Club: Stay active and healthy at the Forum Athletic Club, a fitness center offering spin, TRX, cardio conditioning, and other fitness classes.
Planning Your Visit to Ponce City Market
Hours of Operation:
- Food Hall and Retail Shops: Monday-Saturday 10 AM to 9 PM, Sunday 12 PM to 6 PM
- Skyline Park: Hours vary; check the website for the latest schedule.
Getting There:
- Beltline: The most scenic way to reach Ponce City Market is via the Beltline Eastside Trail, offering a pleasant walk or bike ride.
- Car: Valet and self-parking options are available. For self-parking, download the ParkMobile app or use the pay-by-foot kiosk.
- MARTA: While the closest MARTA station (North Avenue) is 1.5 miles away, you can catch the #2 (Ponce de Leon Ave) or #102 (Moreland/Candler Park) bus.
Beyond Ponce City Market: Exploring the Neighborhood
Nearby Attractions:
- Hotel Clermont: Experience the charm of the historic Hotel Clermont, featuring the Tiny Lou’s French-American brasserie and a rooftop lounge with city views.
- 8ARM: Enjoy cocktails in a retrofitted shipping container at 8ARM, or venture inside to discover Ink, an intimate bar within a bar.
- Old Fourth Ward Park: Stroll south on the Beltline to visit Old Fourth Ward Park, featuring a playground, splash pad, lake, and skatepark.
- Piedmont Park: Head north on the Beltline to reach Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s largest park, offering green spaces, walking trails, and recreational activities.
- Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum: Delve into history at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, located southwest of Ponce City Market.
- Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park: Explore the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. at the King Center and Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park.
Ponce City Market is more than just a building; it’s a vibrant ecosystem where history, culture, and community converge. Whether you’re seeking culinary adventures, retail therapy, or a unique entertainment experience, Ponce City Market promises an unforgettable journey. Ponce City Market is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Atlanta.
