Of all the things that draw people to the bright lights of Atlanta, retail therapy is high on the list. From the funky fashions of Little Five Points to the luxe labels and sparkling gems of Buckhead, the city is a paradise of shopping choices. Whether you’re looking for the perfect accessory, a unique souvenir, or an extravagant gift, Georgia’s capital will have it in stock – and in more than one color.
Downtown
The fast paced commercial epicenter of Atlanta, eclectic and comprehensive shopping is to be expected in Downtown. Must-visit retail hubs include The Mall at Peachtree Center, a sprawling multi-level utopia of familiar brands and labels, and the one of a kind Underground Atlanta. A popular destination for tourists and locals alike, here you’ll discover six historical blocks of subterranean shopping. A fruitful souvenir hunting ground, its array of street performers, artists and street vendors all add to its exciting atmosphere.
Midtown
Work, live and play are Midtown’s watch words. The simmering financial and residential district has something to appeal to every shopper, particularly the young urban professional. Browsing hotspots include The Midtown Mile, a 14 block stretch of glossy skyscrapers and large commercial buildings, where you’ll find everything from big brand branches to trendy independent boutiques. The happening thoroughfare is also home to a superb dining scene, with some tempting places to lunch whilst you assess your latest shopping haul.
Buckhead
If fabulous is your buzzword and designer labels are your sustenance, then saunter north to the fashionably affluent neighborhood of Buckhead. Echoing with the click-clacks of the literally well-heeled, both Lenox Square Mall and Phipps Plaza are encrusted with a glittering collection of prestigious designer boutiques and fine jewelry retailers. Amid this who’s who of the fashion world, you’ll find every big name designer. The bane of many a credit card limit, Buckhead offers the best luxury shopping experience you’ll find in the South.
Decatur
With its small town vibe and historic charm, Decatur’s atmosphere couldn’t be further removed from the luminous streets of busy Downtown. Whilst you won’t find a multi-level mall or a high rise retail thoroughfare here, the area certainly isn’t short on great shopping. With cool boutiques to please even the pickiest of hipsters, clothing stores come in good style. For those with a passion for the past, you’ll find Decatur in good supply of vintage clothes and antiques, while bookstores are plentiful too.
Little Five Points
East of downtown, Little Five Points is the bohemian melting pot of the city’s fun loving subcultures. Colorful and cool, the shopping here is as eccentric as the people. Whether you’re in the market for some rock ‘n’ roll rags, retro raiment or even just a quirky gift, you’ll most certainly find it here. It’s not all about gothic garb and underground haute couture however; L5P is also home to a handful of brand names and familiar retailers, for those with more mainstream tastes
