That Atlanta played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement

The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was born here, preached here, and lived in Vine City on Sunset Avenue (and was arrested outside the former downtown Rich’s store). A young John Lewis ate his first meal in Atlanta at Paschal’s, which he said “helped to fortify” him and other civil rights foot soldiers “to go out and do battle.” We have statues and plaques honoring civil rights figures, organizations, and moments in history. But of all the monuments and landmarks around the city recognizing Atlanta’s prominent role in the Civil Rights Movement, the “I Have a Dream” World Peace Rose Garden at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is one of our favorites. Originally planted in 1992, the starburst-shaped garden is tucked off of Auburn Avenue away from Edgewood’s rowdy nightlife scene, and offers a fragrant oasis for a moment of quiet.