Pop culture relevance, outdoor doings and great eats: Your city guide to Bankhead

Bankhead: It’s a portion of West Atlanta that has found a solid place in pop culture through rap music references. But what’s actually available in the area, and how did it come to be?

Bankhead takes its name from the historic transcontinental Bankhead Highway, portions of which still exist. The road name, in turn, stemmed from the name of John Hollis Bankhead, an Alabama congressman. In the late 1990s, the Georgia Department of Transportation changed the name of the road to Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway.

As part of its pop culture contributions, the area yielded the “Bankhead Bounce,” a song with an accompanying dance that young people went wild over in the 1990s. Michael Jackson even performed the dance at the MTV Video Music Awards in 1995. Bankhead also produced rapper T.I. who went on to international notoriety.

Today, the area embodies a community feel: Locally owned businesses, neighbors who know one another. In addition to its history, the area offers great local eating options and outdoor recreation.

What can I do for fun in Bankhead?

The Village Skatepark ATL: This nonprofit recreation center, housed in a repurposed warehouse, allows for creative expression through movement and seeks to strengthen a sense of community. Lessons are available to improve your skills on the bike, skateboard, in-line skates or scooter. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 3 to 11 p.m.

Maddox Park: Named for former Atlanta mayor Robert Maddox, this park encompasses just over 50 acres. It includes a pool and basketball courts and hosts festivals and events throughout the year — think farmers markets and the annual Soil Festival.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Bankhead?

Bankhead Wingz

Think bold tastes with some heat. Grab a Philly cheesesteak sandwich or a basket of hot wings, and accompany them with piping hot fries. An array of hot dogs and hamburgers are crowd pleasers, too. This is hearty food designed to fill you up for lunch or dinner.

Location: Bankhead Wingz; Hours: Tuesday-Thursday - 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday - 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., Sunday - 1-8 p.m.; Website: bankhead-wingz.foodjoyy.com/

U.S. Deli

This American-style eatery brings the wings — and the seafood! Get your fill with orders from six to 100 pieces. Burger offerings range from beef to chicken to fish, and sides include crispy fries, onion rings and fried okra. Or try the make-your-own seafood bowl with shrimp, crawfish or black mussels. From spicy to savory, this menu will send you away satisfied!

Location: U.S. Deli; Hours: Monday-Thursday - 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Website: www.usdeliatlanta.com/

The Soul Good Fine Food

Breakfast, lunch or dinner: If you’re looking for a hearty meal, this local restaurant has you covered! Start your day with shrimp and grits and try the porkchop sandwich or chicken tenders for lunch and the salmon, beef tips or meatloaf with for dinner. Downhome sides like collard greens sweet corn and green beans round out the afternoon and evening meal options.

Location: The Soul Good Fine Food; Hours: Monday to Thursday - 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday - 6 a.m.-midnight; Saturday - 24 hours; Sunday - midnight to 9 p.m.; Website: www.soulgoodfinefood.com/