Ponce City Market

Whether you are studying in Atlanta at one of the big universities, or visiting the city over a weekend while studying in the Southeast, you are sure to want to visit PCM. Ponce City Market first opened a few years ago, but the novelty behind this creative, community space still holds Atlanta locals in awe. A very walk-able area, connected directly to the Beltline, PCM houses office space, living options, great restaurants and cafes, shopping, and a fun area for celebration at the rooftop. They even have bike rentals, so that you can hop on your contraption and head down the Beltline to other Atlanta highlights, like Piedmont Park and the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. 

With all of these options, where do I (an Atlanta local) head first at Ponce City Market? What do I do when I stop by for an evening of fun and relaxation? Here is the breakdown of an average visit for me:

1. First, I check out if any special events are going on. On Tuesdays, from 4-8pm, Ponce City Market hosts a small local farmers' market with fresh vegetables, handmade soaps, yummy kale chips, and chef demonstrations. On my most recent visit, they even had live music at the farmers' market. I loved walking around and talking to the vendors, viewing what they have grown and made, and choosing small things to take home with me. I was especially happy to find a baker who was selling vegan chocolate cookies, and a friendly soapmaker who makes vegan soaps with essential oils. 
2. After checking out the farmers' market or other special events going on at the Market, I head down to the Food Hall. The one place that I have to stop by on every trip is the King of Pops' counter. King of Pops is a very special popsicle company in Atlanta, and their specialty flavors and use of natural ingredients make them an iconic symbol of the creativity and foodie-personality of Atlanta. My favorite pop flavors include Watermelon Mojito, Blueberry Lemonade, and Key Lime Pie. You can also have your pops dipped in chocolate and topped with nuts or other toppings at their PCM counter (which we took full advantage of...chocolate on chocolate? What a wonderful idea!).
3. With my delicious pop finished and my sticky hands washed off, I head to the many shops that fill Ponce City Market. My favorites are Posman Books, Archer Paper Goods, Anthropologie, and Williams Sonoma. I don't often buy a lot, because I'm on a tight budget, but I enjoy window-shopping and looking at all the cute things in these stores. I love that many of these stores have Atlanta merchandise, including beautifully-printed postcards that really capture the spirit of the city. I love sending Atlanta postcards to my friends in other cities or countries. 
4. Once I'm done with wandering around PCM, I'm off to the Beltline. This strip of pavement winds around Atlanta and provides a safe place to walk, ride your bicycle, or rollerblade around the city. The Beltline connects PCM to Piedmont Park, giving you a great place to enjoy green nature while still in the middle of the bustling city. I like taking a blanket and relaxing (while people-watching, of course) on a grassy hill in the park. 

Even if you are studying hard at university, it is important to take a break and enjoy both the joys of living in a city and the relaxing space of nature. Ponce City Market and the adjoining Beltline give you the opportunity to imagine, get your creative juices flowing, and relax away from the other distractions of life. The Market is also a wonderful place to spend time with friends and make new ones! 

I hope that you have a wonderful time visiting my home city, and that you fully enjoy the spirit and character of Atlanta. Make sure to get a few laughs in while you are at it!