2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market

Imagine combining a hearty lunch, a stroll through vibrant street art, and a quick dive into Atlanta’s past—all wrapped into just two hours. That’s exactly what this guided tour of Ponce City Market offers. If you’re craving an authentic taste of Atlanta’s local flavor while getting a glimpse of its history and street art scene, this tour might just be your best bet.

We’re impressed by the friendly guides, generous tastings, and the opportunity to walk the Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail—all for one reasonable price. The only thing to consider? It’s a fairly active tour, so comfortable walking shoes and an appetite are a must. Perfect for foodies, culture lovers, or anyone wanting a well-rounded, affordable experience in Atlanta.

Key Points

• Enjoy a guided walk through the historic Ponce City Market, a landmark built in 1923.
• Savor large, delicious samples from award-winning local restaurants.
• Walk along the Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail and see some of the city’s best street art.
• The tour includes all food tastings and one craft beer, offering great value.
• It’s a small-group experience, making it personal and engaging.
• Suitable for most travelers, but dress comfortably and plan to walk.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This two-hour adventure offers a balanced mix of food, history, and street art, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of Atlanta beyond the typical sightseeing. The tour is operated by Food Tours Atlanta and boasts a flawless 5.0 rating from over 150 reviews, with 99% recommending it. Such high praise suggests it consistently delivers a satisfying experience.

What’s particularly appealing is the inclusion of all the tastings and a craft beer—meaning you’ll leave with a full belly and a good sense of local flavors. The small group size (up to 12 travelers) ensures a friendly, personalized atmosphere, where questions are encouraged and the pace is manageable.

The Heart of the Tour: Ponce City Market

Your journey begins inside Ponce City Market itself, housed in a striking, enormous brick building that dates back to 1923. This was once the Sears and Roebuck, a giant of commerce in the Southeast. Today, it’s a buzzing hub of culinary delights and local shops, offering a perfect microcosm of Atlanta’s modern, eclectic vibe.

As we’ve seen from reviews, guides like Janice and David excel at weaving the history of the building into the experience. One guest noted, “Janice did an excellent job of explaining the history of Ponce City,” making the visit informative without feeling like a lecture. The building’s scale and architecture are impressive—being the largest brick structure in the Southeast—and you’ll appreciate its historical significance as you explore.

The curated selection of restaurants inside the market ensures that your tastings won’t be generic. Participants rave about the large, delicious samples—enough to feel like a hearty lunch—crafted by some of Atlanta’s top chefs. Because all food and drink are included, it’s a cost-effective way to sample the city’s vibrant culinary scene.

Tasting Highlights: Food, Flavors, and Local Celebrity Chefs

The tour features five stops for tastings, providing a well-rounded sampler of Atlanta’s culinary diversity. Guests frequently comment on the generous portions and high quality of the food. One reviewer said, “The samples are large, and they are all delicious,” emphasizing that this isn’t just a nibble, but a satisfying experience.

Along With food, the tour includes a local craft beer tasting—appealing to those who enjoy a drink with their bites. This pairing enhances the cultural experience and gives you a taste of Atlanta’s craft beer scene.

What makes this section especially enjoyable is the storytelling. Guides share anecdotes about the restaurants, chefs, and the evolution of the area, enriching the tasting experience. It’s not just about eating, but understanding the people and history behind each bite.

Walking the Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail

After filling up on delicious samples, you’ll step outside for a 30-minute walk along the Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail. This stretch is famed for its colorful street art, which transforms the urban landscape into a living outdoor gallery.

According to reviews, guides like David do a great job of pointing out notable murals and sharing stories about the artists. The street art scene is one of Atlanta’s most dynamic cultural features, and walking past murals from some of the city’s best talents makes for an engaging visual experience.

The trail itself is accessible and scenic, offering a quick respite from the bustling market indoors. It’s a chance to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and appreciate Atlanta’s creative spirit.

What’s Included and What To Keep in Mind

For $95, the tour is a solid value considering the included tastings, beer, and guided experience. The ticket covers all the stops, plus admission to the Beltline walk, so there are no hidden costs or surprises.

While most travelers find the pace comfortable, it’s worth noting that some reviews mentioned wishing for a bit more walking. The overall activity level is moderate, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair amount of strolling.

Booking in advance is recommended—on average, guests reserve their spots about 26 days ahead—so plan accordingly.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Arrive at Ponce City Market a few minutes early to meet your guide and settle in.
• Dress comfortably and wear shoes suitable for walking.
• Since the tour is in all weather conditions, bring an umbrella or sun protection, depending on the forecast.
• If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, notify the organizers at least 24 hours in advance to accommodate your needs.
• Minimum drinking age is 21, so bring your ID if you plan to partake in the craft beer.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

One common theme in reviews is the tour guide’s quality. From descriptions like “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “fun,” it’s clear that guides make or break the experience. Guests consistently praise guides like David for their professionalism and ability to balance historical storytelling with engaging conversation.

The small-group format enhances this personal connection, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience. It’s clear that the tour isn’t just about tasting but about connecting with Atlanta’s culture and history through a friendly, guided walk.

The Overall Value

Given that a typical tour costs $95 and includes five substantial tastings, a craft beer, a guided walk, and all admissions, the value is quite high. You’re not only sampling Atlanta but also learning about its architecture, its streets, and its vibrant street art scene—all within two hours.

This is a practical choice for travelers who want a compact, enriching experience without the hassle of planning multiple activities. It caters well to food lovers, art enthusiasts, history buffs, and those new to Atlanta.

This experience is ideal for visitors who love good food and want to explore Atlanta’s local scene in a relaxed, friendly environment. It’s perfect for those who enjoy walking and informal storytelling. It’s also a great fit for travelers who appreciate small-group tours where the guide’s insights make the experience richer.

If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded introduction to Atlanta’s culinary and street art culture, this tour hits the mark. It’s also suitable for couples, families, or solo travelers eager to meet others with similar interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 26 days ahead since the tour is popular and spots fill quickly.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and wear walking shoes, as the tour involves a fair amount of strolling.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so come prepared with an umbrella or sun protection as needed.

Are there vegetarian or other dietary options?
If you have food allergies or preferences, notify the organizers at least 24 hours before the tour to accommodate your needs.

How much food is included?
There are five tasting stops that add up to a hearty lunch, plus a craft beer. Most guests find it quite filling.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Can minors join the tour?
Yes, but the minimum drinking age is 21, so alcohol is only for adults with valid ID.

Is there a guide provided?
Absolutely. Guides like Janice and David are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.

How long is the walk along the Beltline?
The walk is approximately 30 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy street art and stretch your legs.

Is it a good introduction to Atlanta for new visitors?
Yes, this tour offers a taste of Atlanta’s history, food culture, and street art—all in one compact experience.

Final Thoughts

This 2-hour Food, History, and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market stands out as an engaging way to experience Atlanta. With a blend of delicious tastings, insightful storytelling, and a walk through vibrant street art, it offers a practical yet authentic slice of the city. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, combined with the generous food portions, make it an excellent choice for anyone wanting a memorable, compact introduction to Atlanta’s culinary and cultural scene.

Whether you’re a first-timer eager to get your bearings or a local looking to rediscover your city’s hidden gems, this tour balances education, entertainment, and indulgence. Just remember to come hungry, ready to walk, and prepared for a lively, friendly environment.

This tour is best suited for those who value local flavors, enjoy small-group experiences, and want an active, engaging way to explore Atlanta’s vibrant Ponce City Market and its surroundings.