The El Camino Travel Guide to Atlanta
Written by Kayla Doris
In the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains lies Georgia’s tree-adorned ‘city in the forest’—Atlanta. Home of hip-hop, ‘Hollywood’, and a rich history, it’s not hard to see why some refer to it as the capital of the South. After all, it’s a business and cultural center that boasts a booming television and film industry, a vibrant music scene, museums and galleries galore, and a rapidly-growing population. The city is also known as a hub for Black history and culture. In the 1970s, it became known as the ‘Black mecca of the South’ due to the achievements of its African-American politicians, leaders, entrepreneurs, and students. Though racial disparities remain and gentrification is changing many historically Black neighborhoods, there’s no denying the Black influence here, from the soul food to the nightlife, and the numerous historical landmarks highlighting the city's role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Whether you’re here for the history or just here for the vibes, you’ll find something suited to you in Atlanta. We’ve worked with local residents and friends of ECT, consultant, Tarik Small, VP of CuraLeaf, Lauren Linder, architect and designer, Michael Matty, and real estate executive, Nick Monette, plus ECT Clubhouse member Marisa M., and ECT cofounder, Justin Bridges, to curate a list of local favorites for eating, drinking, and sightseeing your way through the city.
Eat
Spend an evening soaking up the atmosphere at Southern European restaurant Lyla Lila in Midtown. “This is one of my favorite restaurants to sit at the horseshoe-style bar and eat alone while people-watching and making up stories about first dates,” says Justin. “The hushed lighting sets the perfect tone for anonymity as well as striking up a convo with a stranger. The menu and the cocktails are equally impressive. It's one of the more expensive choices, so it's a nice option for treating yourself or splitting some items with a friend or group.”
Also included in the guide:
A vintage-style European brasserie that does all the classics really well
A gorgeous wine bar/bookstore/restaurant that serves “fantastic French cuisine”
A Vietnamese/Southern restaurant that serves mouthwatering brunch
Source: Hotel Clermont
Shop
Shop colorful accessories, handbags, and wallets at the Glad & Young studio in Ponce City Market. Recommended by Tarik Small, the female-run design studio celebrates ‘fun-loving goods’, selling punchy purses, patterned jewelry, and computer totes that also conveniently hold three bottles of wine. Everything is handmade and designed to last a lifetime. Don’t miss their bold travel accessories which include patterned luggage tags, travel journals, and metallic passport covers.
Also included in the guide:
“Really dope women-owned wine shops” to stock up on vino
A chic standalone store full of designer fashion, accessories, fragrances, jewelry, and home accessories
A gourmet food store where Justin loves picking up unique food-related gifts
Join the ECT Clubhouse—our digital community of well-traveled experts and women—to access the full guide. Get a two-week free trial to get inside and start exploring right away.
Source: Lyla Lila
Stay
Check into Hotel Clermont for a cozy, colorful stay in the Poncey-Highland neighborhood. The rooms have everything you need—large beds, an en-suite bathroom, a work desk, and views of the city. Throughout the hotel, there’s a vintage feel that’s been offset with punches of pink, patterned wallpaper, and kitschy cushions. For food and drink options you’ll be spoiled with choices with an on-site cafe and lobby bar downstairs, a French-American brasserie, and a rooftop bar.
Also included in the guide:
A boutique hotel with a modern midcentury aesthetic, featuring vintage furniture, pastel-colored stained glass, tiled floors, and an eclectic art collection.
A historical home that was built by a leading African-American architect
A guesthouse company that offers numerous stylish rental houses throughout the city with a full concierge service
Source: Glad & Young Studio