Atlanta, Georgia is home to intriguing cultural history and rich, developmental days of yore. But much of the history that surrounds this wonderful city lies underground. What’s commonly called the “City Beneath the Streets” is an underground city in Georgia with an impressive amount of antiquity right underneath your feet. Right before the Civil War began, Atlanta became a sprawling metropolis in the South. This made it an ideal haven for Confederates, but also a treacherous target for the Union army.

In the late 1800s, Atlanta began rebuilding itself by incorporating new buildings, banks, and railways. Eventually, the population in Atlanta doubled, creating a need for a much better infrastructure. This new construction took place in the 1920s, and merchants began to move their operations to the second floor of their buildings, turning the original ground floors’ storefronts into basements for storage and service.

By the end of the 1920s, the street level had been raised by one and a half stories. For the next 40 years, Atlanta continued to grow, but now at the “new” street level. Hence, this left the underground city in Georgia, a 12-acre area both abandoned and forgotten. Years later, the city decided to restore it – dubbing it Underground Atlanta – and opened it up to the public.

We think it’s truly amazing how so much history is below our feet every day in Atlanta. It’s strange to know that what went on underground during the war is now a cultural hot spot and tourist destination. However, lately, many visitors are saying that Underground Atlanta can be a wasteland at times—creepy with its emptiness and darkness.

But, don’t just take our word for it. Take a look at what this underground city in Georgia looks like today and see for yourself:

The city under Atlanta is in the commercial Five Points neighborhood.
Flickr Richard Cawood
In the 1960s, original brickwork (such as what you see in this photo) was rediscovered and survived intact.
Flickr Frank Kehren
A constitutional amendment was passed in Georgia naming Underground Atlanta a historic site.
Flickr Wally Gobetz
On April 8, 1969, "Underground Atlanta" officially opened with new restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and music venues installed in the old individual storefronts of these former Atlanta underground tunnels.
Flickr Russell Limprecht

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During one of the most profitable years for this city under Atlanta, $17 million was generated from attracting patrons and other revenue streams.
Flickr Rachel Knickmeyer
However, throughout the year, this underground city in Georgia has consistently struggled to attract consistent visitors.
Flickr Kristen
The Atlanta underground tunnels that were once a forgotten part of the city are now a place for shopping and nightlife.
Flickr faungg's photos
However, this underground city in Georgia has become a conundrum that leaves tourists befuddled and struggles to attract locals.
Flickr Wally Gobetz

What do you think of Underground Atlanta? It does seem to add to the creepiness factor that it’s so dark and desolate. But what is truly amazing is the rich history behind it and the fact that the walls hold stories of the Civil War and years of rebuilding.

Have you visited this underground city in Georgia? If so, what were your impressions? Let us know in the comments below.

If you’d like to explore some more, take a look at these underground places in Georgia. I also suggest taking a look at Airbnb Experiences for more unique ways to spend some time when you’re in The Peach State.

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More to Explore

Underground City In Georgia

Marla S. | October 06, 2023

Aside from the Atlanta underground tunnels, what are some other underground places in Georgia?

Here are some other underground places in Georgia:

  • Frogtown Winery in Dahlonega: There's a winery beneath the surface of this unique destination that spans nearly 60 acres.
  • Ocmulgee National Monument in Macon: This underground Earth Lodge is over 1000 years old and is a historic representation of the Southeastern Native American culture.
  • Ellison's Cave in LaFayette: This 12-foot cave is also the 12th deepest in the country.
  • Underground Bunker 13 in Southeast Georgia: You'll find this unique site that includes a movie theater and is over 3000 square feet is one of a kind.

 

If you'd like to learn about more unique destinations, take a look at this underwater city in Georgia as well. When you're hungry, head on over to Alligator Soul in Savannah for an underground dining experience too.

What are some fun and historical facts about Georgia?

In addition to learning about the city under Atlanta, here are some fun and historical facts about Georgia:

  • When Georgia was founded, alcohol was prohibited by James Oglethorpe.
  • Before becoming the president of the United States, Jimmy Carter was a peanut farmer, nuclear physics teacher, and naval officer on a submarine.
  • You'll find the world's largest sculpture of historical leaders from the Civil War on Stone Mountain.
  • Atlanta is the 5th capital of Georgia.

 

If you'd like to learn more, I suggest taking a look at these weird Georgia laws as well.

 

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