Pacific Ave, West End Historic District

This triangular neighborhood south of I-20, east of the North/South MARTA line and north of White St. is rising to its potential like cream from milk, thanks to the steady churning of its pioneering residents. The majority of the credit for the West End's rapid gentrification (which, in this case, has more positive connotations than negative – the presence of Clark Atlanta University ensures that the area’s historically black population retains its cultural and residential foothold) is due to average-income, salt-of-the-earth types who wanted nothing more than to buy a 1930’s fixer-upper on a quiet street and invite their neighbors over for a few beers on the front porch.

Such beginnings have – so far – made for an impressively unpretentious ascension into the ranks of intown cool. Students, artists, writers, musicians, enterprising white-collar types and other folk who pride themselves on social consciousness (local politicians not excluded) make up the majority of residents. The Wren’s Nest – former home of writer Joel Chandler Harris (“Uncle Remus” himself) and self-appointed bastion of the African-American storytelling tradition – serves as a fitting “town square,” where residents and visitors alike gather for historic and cultural events effusing a decidedly local spirit.

Owing to the nature of its borderlands, the area does experience a typically urban level of crime. In answer, and in true West Ender style, the neighborhood association (WEND) took matters into their own hands by creating The West End Security Group, a contingent of off-duty police officers they pay to patrol the community. So you can feel quite safe when this review inspires you to experience West End for yourself.

I recommend West Fest, a three-day festival of neighborhood music, art and culture held in the spring – that is, if you can wait that long. Cheers!