Atl Freedom Path

Navigate Atlanta's Heritage Route

"Maps capture the essence of humanity's greatest achievements, transforming visions into tangible journeys across time and space." — Gilbert H. Grosvenor

This comprehensive route planner helps visitors explore Atlanta's significant civil rights locations using various transportation methods. The interactive tool displays multiple pathway options based on whether you're traveling by foot, bicycle, or vehicle, and indicates the number of historic destinations you wish to experience. The resource also pinpoints dining establishments and additional places of interest along the way. For the most immersive experience, consider traveling between sites on foot or by bicycle. Practical advice for accessing and utilizing the route appears below.

Interactive route map showing Atlanta's civil rights landmarks and connecting pathways

Select the image above to launch the full interactive map in a new browser window

This heritage route experience was developed to help visitors discover Atlanta's remarkable history of social progress and cultural transformation. Access complimentary educational resources and guided audio experiences through regular updates delivered to your inbox.

Digital guide featuring Atlanta's historic civil rights sites

Planning Your Journey

Access the route map linked above while reviewing these travel recommendations:

  • The complete route spans approximately seven miles when traveled by foot or bicycle, extending to nine miles if driving.
  • The heritage pathway divides into two distinct segments: Eastern and Western corridors.
  • The eastern corridor begins at The Carter Center and concludes at Liberty Plaza, covering three miles. This segment offers the best pedestrian and cycling experience, as the initial two miles follow the Stone Mountain Trail, a dedicated multi-use path extending from the Carter Center to the MLK Historical Park. The final mile continues westward along Auburn Avenue, then southward on Courtland Street before reaching Liberty Plaza.
  • The western corridor extends from Liberty Plaza to Rodney Cook, Sr. Park, approximately four miles in distance. This section presents more challenges for pedestrians and cyclists due to the absence of dedicated pathways. The route traverses westward through South Downtown and Castleberry Hill neighborhoods via Mitchell and Peters Streets, requiring navigation through numerous busy intersections.
  • Consider using ride-sharing services for the 1.7-mile distance between Liberty Plaza and Atlanta University Center.
  • From the university district to Rodney Cook, Sr. Park measures approximately 1.4 miles, passing through Clark Atlanta University and the Vine City neighborhood.
  • IMPORTANT: Rodney Cook Sr Park remains under development and currently exists only as an active construction zone, which is not accessible to pedestrians.
  • Until the park's anticipated completion, visitors should arrange transportation directly from the university district to the Center for Civil and Human Rights.
  • The distance from Rodney Cook Sr. Park to the Center for Civil and Human Rights measures approximately one mile along Joseph E. Boone Boulevard, which becomes Ivan Allen Boulevard after crossing Northside Drive. This final segment lacks pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, making ride-sharing the recommended option.

Accessing the Heritage Route

For visitors staying in downtown accommodations, multiple convenient access points are available:

Walking Options

Public Transit

  • Board the Atlanta Streetcar to reach the Martin Luther King Jr. Historical Park (review current fares). From this location, the Carter Center, Jimmy Carter Presidential Library, and Freedom Park are within easy walking distance. This 1.7-mile section follows the Stone Mountain Trail, a designated cycling and walking corridor.

For Local Residents

  • Cycling or walking directly to any heritage site represents the most environmentally conscious choice
  • MARTA rail service to Inman Park station provides a scenic one-mile walk to the Carter Center
  • MARTA's Georgia State station sits just two blocks from the Georgia State Capitol and Liberty Plaza
  • The Peachtree Center station offers an eight-tenths mile walk to the International Center for Civil and Human Rights
  • Ride-sharing services provide direct access to any location on the route
  • Personal vehicles can park at the four locations listed in the parking section below

Parking Information

Four heritage locations offer abundant parking facilities:

Sites with Ample Parking

Limited Street Parking Locations

  • Freedom Park
  • Sweet Auburn Historic District
  • Georgia State Capitol
  • Liberty Plaza
  • Atlanta University Center
  • Rodney Cook Sr. Park