Historic Fourth Ward Park

Natural Charm in the City

Tucked away in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward neighborhood lies a 17-acre urban retreat that perfectly balances natural beauty with city convenience. Historic Fourth Ward Park, which opened in 2011 as part of the Atlanta BeltLine project, offers a refreshing escape from the urban environment while still providing nice views of the Atlanta skyline.

At the heart of the park sits a 2-acre lake that's more than just visually appealing. This water feature doubles as a stormwater detention basin, capable of holding up to 5 million gallons of water to help prevent flooding in surrounding neighborhoods. If you're lucky, you'll spot some of the park's permanent residents - turtles, ducks, and fish - going about their day in and around the lake.

Paths and Play Spaces

A 0.25-mile walking trail encircles the lake, good for a leisurely stroll or a quick workout. Paths throughout the park connect you to all the different areas and provide views of Atlanta's urban landscape.

Need a spot for your next community gathering? The park's amphitheater seats up to 500 people and has become a popular venue for everything from concerts to local events. Over the years, it's hosted numerous festivals celebrating food, wine, jazz, and art that have become neighborhood favorites.

For families with kids, the playground offers multiple play structures with slides, climbing equipment, and swings suitable for different age groups. The cushioned surface keeps little ones safer when they inevitably take a tumble, but on scorching Atlanta summer days, you might wish for a bit more shade.

During the warmer months (May through October), the splash pad becomes the coolest spot in the park - literally. Kids can run through spraying water features for a refreshing break from the Georgia heat.

Getting Active

Just across the BeltLine from the main park area, the skate park draws everyone from curious beginners to skilled enthusiasts. With bowls of various depths and features designed for different skill levels, it's become a favorite for skateboarders, roller skaters, and BMX riders looking to practice their moves.

Not the extreme sports type? The park's open grassy areas provide perfect spots for a casual picnic, a good book, or just soaking up some sunshine. You'll find plenty of benches and shaded areas when you need a moment to sit and recharge.

Green Innovation

Beyond its good looks, this park boasts some impressive environmental credentials. Energy-efficient LED lighting illuminates evening visits, while an underground cistern collects water for keeping the landscaping lush without wasting resources.

The designers thoughtfully incorporated native plants and trees across the park, supporting local ecosystems while creating a space that requires less maintenance. The multi-level design doesn't just look interesting - it makes smart use of every inch of space.

Getting There and Around

One of the park's biggest perks is its direct connection to the Atlanta BeltLine, making it a breeze to access on foot or by bike. Its location across from Ponce City Market lets you easily combine some shopping or dining with your park visit.

When nature calls, you'll appreciate the clean restrooms near the playground - a must-have when spending a few hours exploring. While parking can sometimes be tight, many people simply access the park via the BeltLine or walk over from nearby neighborhoods.

Beyond a Park

Historic Fourth Ward Park combines practical urban planning solutions like stormwater management with public recreational space.

Since its opening, the park has become an important part of the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood, contributing to development in the surrounding area.