Center Hill
Center Hill is a historic neighborhood in Atlanta’s Westside, known for its tight-knit community, residential character, and proximity to key areas of development in the city. While it remains primarily a residential enclave, recent revitalization efforts and its closeness to larger redevelopment projects in the Westside area are drawing increased interest from residents and investors alike.
A Bit of History
Center Hill was developed in the early to mid-20th century as part of Atlanta’s expanding residential areas. It was primarily composed of modest single-family homes, with residents working in various industries throughout the city. Like many neighborhoods in Atlanta’s Westside, Center Hill experienced economic challenges and decline in the latter half of the 20th century. However, it has retained its core sense of community and is now experiencing gradual revitalization. The neighborhood is characterized by its tree-lined streets, classic brick homes, and convenient access to other parts of Atlanta.
What Attracts People to Center Hill
- Access to Green Spaces: Nearby parks like Center Hill Park and the larger Westside Reservoir Park offer residents green spaces for recreation, relaxation, and outdoor activities.
- Affordability and Historic Homes:
Center Hill offers more affordable housing options than other parts of Atlanta, with a mix of historic single-family homes, bungalows, and cottages. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time homebuyers, families, and investors looking for properties in an area with potential for growth.
- Proximity to Major Developments: Center Hill is located near key redevelopment areas, including the Atlanta BeltLine’s Westside Trail, Westside Reservoir Park, and the burgeoning West Midtown area. Its location provides residents easy access to recreational spaces, dining, shopping, and employment opportunities.
- Strong Community Bonds: The neighborhood has a deep-rooted sense of community, with residents often participating in neighborhood associations and local events. This camaraderie contributes to the area’s close-knit atmosphere.
Places to Eat
While Center Hill is more residential and does not have a large dining scene, it is near several neighborhoods with a growing number of food options. Some nearby spots include:
- Bankhead Seafood (Historic Westside): This longstanding seafood spot has been revived. It serves classic Southern seafood dishes like fried fish, shrimp, and sides.
- Lean Draft House (West End): Located not far from Center Hill, this relaxed eatery features local craft beers and a variety of tacos and burgers.
- Local Soul Food and Southern Cuisine: Center Hill’s surrounding areas have several small, locally-owned eateries offering classic Southern comfort food, often serving as beloved community staples.
- Slutty Vegan (Westview): A short drive away, this popular vegan fast-food spot offers indulgent plant-based burgers, fries, and shakes.
Things to Do
- Access the Atlanta BeltLine: The Westside Trail of the BeltLine is nearby, providing a scenic route for walking, biking, jogging, and connecting to other vibrant neighborhoods and public art installations.
- Check Out West Midtown: A short drive will take you to West Midtown, an area known for its trendy shops, galleries, breweries, and dining options. Developments like The Works offer a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment, making it a great destination for a day out.
- Community Engagement: Center Hill has an active neighborhood association that hosts community events, clean-ups, and meetings, fostering engagement and a sense of pride among residents.
- Explore Westside Reservoir Park: This park is just a short drive away and is one of Atlanta’s newest and largest green spaces. It offers trails, stunning reservoir views, and an expansive meadow, perfect for picnicking, jogging, and exploring nature.
- Visit Center Hill Park: The neighborhood’s main green space, Center Hill Park, features sports fields, a playground, and walking paths, providing residents with a spot for outdoor activities and community events.
While Center Hill may not have the bustling commercial or entertainment scenes of other Atlanta neighborhoods, its charm lies in its residential character, strong community bonds, affordability, and convenient access to Atlanta’s expanding Westside developments. It provides a peaceful, close-knit environment with the benefits of nearby urban amenities and natural spaces.