In the Neighborhood: Westside Atlanta

Shirley Clarke Franklin Park / John Becker

Industrial 20th-century warehouses, factories and former meatpacking plants have been transformed into the neighborhood’s restaurants and shops, giving the Westside a distinctive feel.

Let the kids run wild at Shirley Clarke Franklin Park (formerly known as Westside Park), Atlanta’s largest greenspace. With awesome skyline views, the former quarry has been transformed into a park with trails, meadows, sculptures, pavilions and playgrounds. The park is located adjacent to the Beltline’s Westside Trail. If you’re looking for a smaller outdoor space, try Huff Linear Green, which features bocce ball courts, and is a great place to unwind for some Sunday afternoon fun.

Sample flavors from around the world at Chattahoochee Food Works. From sweet treats to sushi and empanadas to barbecue, the 31-vendor, 26,000-square-foot food hall definitely has something for everyone. There’s plenty of seating, including outdoors if the kids want to play. Plus, the space hosts a Farmers’ Market every Sunday from noon-4 p.m.

Play, eat and shop at IKEA. Try some Swedish favorites in the bistro and then explore the store. Smaland — the play space — is open from 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. on the weekends, so keep that in mind when planning your arrival time. After your visit, stop at nearby Atlantic Station to walk  around or visit the Museum of Illusions.

Before 5 p.m. on the weekends, The Painted Duck is open for family fun. Mom and dad will appreciate the upscale feel and menu while kids will enjoy the smaller, lighter balls used for this version of bowling. For even more fun, the space features other games like shuffleboard and snookball. If mini golf is more your speed, try Puttshack. The indoor course features fun lighting and your ball keeps score for itself. Go during the day, since this location is 21+ only on Friday and Saturday evenings. There is a small kids’ menu at both spaces, so your family can enjoy the full experience wherever you play.

If you love classic Mexican fare, check out Nuevo Laredo Cantina. It’s been a neighborhood favorite since it opened in 1992. The affordable menu has a wide variety of options, including a kids’ menu and desserts. They open Tuesdays-Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at noon, so come early because they do get busy.

-Tali Benjamin