Nature, family time and shopping: Your neighborhood guide to Sylvan Hills

Atlanta is known to many as the “city in the forest,” and Sylvan Hills in Southwest Atlanta, with its verdant avenues and even its name, supports that moniker. The term sylvan stems from sylva, a Latin word that means woodland or forest. This area became a distinct neighborhood in the 1920s, and its western side is home to lots of pre-World War II homes built in the bungalow or cottage style. To the east, homes often date to the 1950s or ‘60s. A commercial district now supports retail establishments and businesses in the northern part of the neighborhood.

What can I do for fun in Sylvan Hills?

Sylvan Hills Arboretum: Sylvan Hills harbors a tree museum of sorts. A partnership with Trees Atlanta has enabled the placement of granite markers throughout the neighborhood, denoting the various species that inhabit the region. Take a stroll around Sylvan Hills, see how many different types of trees you recognize and learn about new ones in the process.

Perkerson Park: Over 50 acres of green space yield wide-ranging opportunities. Think trails for walking and running, fields for baseball and softball, tennis courts and a course for disc golf. You’ll get your steps in or sharpen your skills. And there’s a splash pad and outdoor grills that work great for family gatherings!

Metro Mart USA - Atlanta Flea Market: Love fashion, jewelry, books, makeup and great food? This huge market puts over 100 individually owned shops in one place and makes essentials and whimsy easily accessible. You’ll find daily deals and tons of bargains in this 100,000-square-foot facility.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Sylvan Hills?

JJ Fish & Chicken

Delight in the crispy crunch of fried chicken wings or try the savory catfish or shrimp. Put some slaw and fries on the side, and you’ve got yourself an irresistible meal. And you’ll need it after getting your steps in on the avenues of Sylvan Hills!

Location: JJ Fish & Chicken; Hours: Monday to Thursday - 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday - 10 a.m. to midnight, Sunday - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Website: jjfishchickenga.com

Metro Mart USA food court

Shopped till you dropped? The food court at Metro Mart USA has you covered. Take a break and grab a chicken wrap, fresh pretzel, ice cream or pizza slice.

Location: Metro Mart USA - Atlanta Flea Market; Hours: opens at 11 a.m. each day the market is open; Website: metromartusa.website/food-court

Life Bistro

This from-scratch kitchen produces vegan soul food that is bound to nourish you in multiple ways. For lunch, consider starting with the fire-grilled mushroom shawarma or the black bean chilaquiles. A main dish of quinoa stir-fry or seafood rasta pasta. A variety of handhelds, such as the vegan Philly or the plant-based burger, are also sure to fill you up.

Location: Life Bistro; Hours: Monday to Thursday - noon to 9 p.m., Friday - noon to 10 p.m., Saturday - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday - 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: lifebistroatl.com

Rosie’s Cafe

Nothing hits the spot like a great cup of coffee. Pair that with breakfast and lunch offerings from this neighborhood café, and you’re set. Try the corned beef hash or shrimp and grits for a hearty breakfast or the chicken salad sandwich for lunch. A full coffee menu is available for those who want to recharge or try new drinks.

Location: Rosie’s Cafe; Hours: Monday to Sunday - 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Website: rosiescoffeecafe.com