Goat Farm Arts Center Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Atlanta Historic Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: Atlanta’s Creative Landmark

Nestled in Atlanta’s West Midtown, the Goat Farm Arts Center is an iconic destination that fuses the city’s industrial past with its thriving contemporary arts scene. Established in the late 19th century as the Van Winkle Gin and Machinery Works, the Goat Farm has evolved from a global cotton machinery producer to a dynamic campus for over 450 artists, performers, and cultural innovators. Its preserved red-brick buildings and weathered industrial charm make it one of Atlanta’s most distinctive historical and creative sites (The Atlanta 100, Wikipedia).

The center’s ongoing redevelopment exemplifies adaptive reuse, seamlessly integrating new residential units, artist studios, and cultural institutions—most notably, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA GA)—with the site’s historic footprint (Niles Bolton Associates, ArtsATL). This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and everything you need to plan a memorable visit to one of Atlanta’s premier historic arts destinations.

Table of Contents

  1. History and Evolution
  2. Facilities and Offerings
  3. Visiting Information
  4. Special Events & Community Engagement
  5. Recent Developments
  6. Nearby Attractions
  7. Photographic Highlights
  8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  9. Plan Your Visit
  10. Awards and Recognition
  11. Summary and Visitor Tips
  12. References and Official Links

History and Evolution

Origins & Industrial Heritage

Constructed in 1889, the Goat Farm’s main buildings were part of Edward Van Winkle’s third Atlanta venture, quickly becoming one of the South’s largest cotton gin machinery factories. By the early 20th century, the facility supplied about half the world’s cotton gins, underlining Atlanta’s importance in global textile manufacturing (The Atlanta 100).

Wartime and Post-Industrial Era

During World War II, the complex shifted to war production, manufacturing munitions for the U.S. military (The Atlanta 100). After the war, industrial activity waned, and the site fell into disrepair. Its distinctive architecture, however, endured as a testament to Atlanta’s industrial roots (Wikipedia).

Emergence as an Arts Center

In the 2000s, new owners reimagined the Goat Farm as an arts incubator, adopting a business model where real estate supports the arts and vice versa (ArtsATL). The campus’ rustic, semi-wild state—complete with ruins and reclaimed greenery—creates a distinctive environment for creativity, collaboration, and community.


Facilities and Offerings

Artist Studios and Creative Spaces

Spanning 12 acres, the Goat Farm houses dozens of working artists in studios with high ceilings, natural light, and industrial character. The center fosters collaboration across painting, sculpture, music, dance, and multimedia arts (365 Atlanta Traveler).

Performance Venues

Multiple venues, including the main hall and Warhorse coffee shop, host dance, theater, music, and experimental performances. These spaces leverage the site’s unique architecture for immersive and innovative productions (AllEvents.in).

Film and Pop Culture

The Goat Farm’s evocative setting has attracted film and TV productions such as “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” and “The Walking Dead,” cementing its reputation as a pop culture hotspot (365 Atlanta Traveler).


Visiting Information

Visiting Hours

  • General Hours: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM. Hours may differ for events; always check the official events calendar.

Tickets and Entry

  • General Admission: Outdoor grounds and galleries are typically free.
  • Ticketed Events: Performances, workshops, and festivals may require tickets ($10–$40). Purchase online or on-site (Goat Farm Tickets).

Accessibility

  • Mobility: Most public spaces have ramps or are wheelchair accessible, though some historic areas have uneven terrain. Contact ahead for specific needs (Goat Farm Accessibility).
  • Parking: Free on-site parking; spaces may fill during large events.

Getting There

  • Address: 1200 Foster St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
  • Transit: MARTA bus routes 12 and 26. Rideshare services are popular, especially for evening events (MARTA Guide).

Food, Drink, and Amenities

  • On-Site Options: Pop-up food vendors and food trucks during major events; coffee shop open during select hours.
  • Nearby Dining: West Egg Café and Taqueria del Sol are local favorites (365 Atlanta Traveler).
  • Restrooms: Available in main buildings.

Special Events & Community Engagement

The Goat Farm hosts experimental theater, dance, music, art exhibitions, and annual festivals such as the Atlanta Fringe Festival and Night of Ideas (Eventbrite, Atlanta Fringe Festival). Workshops and educational programs cover printmaking, ceramics, and interdisciplinary arts (Goat Farm Workshops).


Recent Developments

A $250 million redevelopment is underway, adding new apartments, artist studios, MOCA GA, and public amenities while preserving the center’s industrial character (Urbanize Atlanta, Niles Bolton Associates). The project has garnered awards for excellence in architecture and urban revitalization.


Nearby Attractions

  • Westside Provisions District: Shopping, dining, and galleries
  • Atlanta BeltLine: Urban trail with public art
  • Westside Park: Atlanta’s largest green space
  • Terminal West / King Plow Arts Center: Additional music and arts venues (The Tourist Checklist)

Photographic Highlights

  • Historic red-brick buildings and arched windows
  • Warhorse coffee shop and communal courtyards
  • Outdoor art installations and performance spaces
  • Nature-reclaimed structures and gardens

Optimize images with descriptive alt text such as “Goat Farm Arts Center historic brick buildings” or “Atlanta arts venue industrial architecture.”


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Generally Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM, with variations for events.

Q: Are tickets required?
A: General admission is free; events and workshops may require tickets ($10–$40).

Q: Is the center accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Most public areas are accessible; inquire in advance for specific accommodations.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, free on-site parking.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Leashed pets are welcome on the grounds; service animals are permitted.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Personal photography is allowed; ask permission before photographing artists or studios.

Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Yes, occasionally—advance booking recommended.


Plan Your Visit

  1. Check Hours and Events: Visit the official website for the latest schedules.
  2. Purchase Tickets: For performances and workshops, buy tickets in advance.
  3. Review Accessibility Info: If needed, contact the center for specific accommodations.
  4. Explore Nearby Sites: Pair your visit with a trip to Westside Provisions or the Atlanta BeltLine.
  5. Engage with Artists: Attend open studios, workshops, or festivals for a deeper experience.

Awards and Recognition

The Goat Farm has received:

  • AIA Georgia 2025 Design Award of Excellence
  • AIA Atlanta 2024 Honor Award for Residential & Hospitality Design
  • NAHB 2024 Best in American Living Award (Gold)
  • Atlanta Business Chronicle 2025 Best in Atlanta Real Estate (Rehab/Revitalization)
  • CSI Southeast Region 2025 Craftsmanship Award
    (Niles Bolton Associates)

Summary and Visitor Tips

The Goat Farm Arts Center is a model for blending industrial heritage with creative placemaking. With its ongoing redevelopment bringing new life and opportunities, the center remains a vital force in Atlanta’s cultural and economic landscape (The Atlanta 100, Urbanize Atlanta). Plan your visit to take advantage of flexible hours, diverse programming, and the chance to support local artists by purchasing unique artwork directly from studios.

For updates, follow the Goat Farm Arts Center’s official channels or download the Audiala app to access curated guides and event calendars.



Visit The Most Interesting Places In Atlanta

1105 West Peachtree
1105 West Peachtree
1180 Peachtree
1180 Peachtree
999 Peachtree
999 Peachtree
Academy Of Medicine
Academy Of Medicine
|
  All Saints' Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
| All Saints' Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
Alliance Theatre
Alliance Theatre
Americasmart
Americasmart
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Antico Pizza
Antico Pizza
Antioch Baptist Church North
Antioch Baptist Church North
Apex Museum
Apex Museum
Atlanta Biltmore Hotel And Biltmore Apartments
Atlanta Biltmore Hotel And Biltmore Apartments
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Atlanta City Hall
Atlanta City Hall
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum
Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum
Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium
Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium
Atlanta History Center
Atlanta History Center
Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Atlanta Silverbacks Park
Atlanta Silverbacks Park
Atlanta Symphony Hall
Atlanta Symphony Hall
Atlanta Union Station
Atlanta Union Station
B. Mifflin Hood Brick Company Building
B. Mifflin Hood Brick Company Building
Bank Of America Plaza
Bank Of America Plaza
Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus
Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus
Bass Furniture Building
Bass Furniture Building
Besharat Museum Gallery
Besharat Museum Gallery
Big Bethel Ame Church
Big Bethel Ame Church
Bobby Dodd Stadium
Bobby Dodd Stadium
Brookwood Hills
Brookwood Hills
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
Carnegie Building
Carnegie Building
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Cathedral Of Christ The King
Cathedral Of Christ The King
Center For Puppetry Arts
Center For Puppetry Arts
Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University
Cnn Center
Cnn Center
College Football Hall Of Fame
College Football Hall Of Fame
Consulate-General Of Japan, Atlanta
Consulate-General Of Japan, Atlanta
Crum & Forster Building
Crum & Forster Building
Delta Flight Museum
Delta Flight Museum
Donna And Marvin Schwartz Center For Performing Arts
Donna And Marvin Schwartz Center For Performing Arts
Dramatech
Dramatech
Edward C. Peters House
Edward C. Peters House
Elbert P. Tuttle United States Court Of Appeals Building
Elbert P. Tuttle United States Court Of Appeals Building
Emory University
Emory University
Emory University Hospital Midtown
Emory University Hospital Midtown
Fairlie-Poplar
Fairlie-Poplar
Federal Reserve Bank Of Atlanta
Federal Reserve Bank Of Atlanta
Fernbank Forest
Fernbank Forest
Ferst Center For The Arts
Ferst Center For The Arts
Fire Station No. 11
Fire Station No. 11
First Church Of Christ, Scientist
First Church Of Christ, Scientist
First Congregational Church
First Congregational Church
First Presbyterian Church Of Atlanta
First Presbyterian Church Of Atlanta
Flatiron Building
Flatiron Building
Food Processing Technology Building
Food Processing Technology Building
Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
Fox Theatre
Fox Theatre
French Consulate General, Atlanta
French Consulate General, Atlanta
Garden Hills
Garden Hills
Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Dome
Georgia Dome
|
  Georgia Governor'S Mansion
| Georgia Governor'S Mansion
Georgia Institute Of Technology College Of Architecture
Georgia Institute Of Technology College Of Architecture
Georgia Institute Of Technology Historic District
Georgia Institute Of Technology Historic District
Georgia Mental Health Institute
Georgia Mental Health Institute
Georgia State Capitol
Georgia State Capitol
Georgia State University
Georgia State University
Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center
Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center
Georgia World Congress Center
Georgia World Congress Center
Glenn Building
Glenn Building
Glg Grand
Glg Grand
Goat Farm Arts Center
Goat Farm Arts Center
Grace United Methodist Church (Atlanta)
Grace United Methodist Church (Atlanta)
Grady Memorial Hospital
Grady Memorial Hospital
Grant Park
Grant Park
Gravity Research Foundation Monument
Gravity Research Foundation Monument
Healey Building
Healey Building
Herndon Home
Herndon Home
High Museum Of Art
High Museum Of Art
Historic Fourth Ward Park
Historic Fourth Ward Park
Homage To King
Homage To King
Hope Moving Forward
Hope Moving Forward
Hotel Ansley
Hotel Ansley
Hotel Aragon
Hotel Aragon
Hotel Indigo Atlanta Midtown
Hotel Indigo Atlanta Midtown
Hurt Park
Hurt Park
Hyatt Regency Atlanta
Hyatt Regency Atlanta
|
  Imagine It! The Children'S Museum Of Atlanta
| Imagine It! The Children'S Museum Of Atlanta
J. Mack Robinson College Of Business Administration Building
J. Mack Robinson College Of Business Administration Building
Jimmy Carter Library And Museum
Jimmy Carter Library And Museum
King Center For Nonviolent Social Change
King Center For Nonviolent Social Change
King Plow Arts Center
King Plow Arts Center
Krog Street Tunnel
Krog Street Tunnel
Lanier University
Lanier University
|
  Loew'S Grand Theatre
| Loew'S Grand Theatre
Majestic Hotel
Majestic Hotel
Margaret Mitchell House & Museum
Margaret Mitchell House & Museum
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
M.C. Kiser Company Building
M.C. Kiser Company Building
Mccamish Pavilion
Mccamish Pavilion
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Michael C. Carlos Museum
Michael C. Carlos Museum
Millennium Gate
Millennium Gate
Morningside Nature Preserve
Morningside Nature Preserve
Murder Kroger
Murder Kroger
Museum Of Contemporary Art Of Georgia
Museum Of Contemporary Art Of Georgia
Museum Of Design Atlanta
Museum Of Design Atlanta
National Center For Civil And Human Rights
National Center For Civil And Human Rights
Oakland Cemetery
Oakland Cemetery
Olympia Building
Olympia Building
Omega Chapter Of The Chi Phi Fraternity
Omega Chapter Of The Chi Phi Fraternity
Omni Coliseum
Omni Coliseum
Peachtree Station
Peachtree Station
Pemberton Place
Pemberton Place
Phipps Plaza
Phipps Plaza
Plaza Theatre
Plaza Theatre
Ponce City Market
Ponce City Market
Prince Hall
Prince Hall
Promenade Ii
Promenade Ii
Regal Tara Cinemas
Regal Tara Cinemas
Regions Plaza
Regions Plaza
Rhodes Hall
Rhodes Hall
Rialto Center For The Arts
Rialto Center For The Arts
Robert C. Williams Paper Museum
Robert C. Williams Paper Museum
Roxy Theatre
Roxy Theatre
Rufus M. Rose House
Rufus M. Rose House
Russ Chandler Stadium
Russ Chandler Stadium
|
  Saint Joseph'S Hospital
| Saint Joseph'S Hospital
Saint Philip Ame Church
Saint Philip Ame Church
Shrine Of The Immaculate Conception
Shrine Of The Immaculate Conception
Six Flags Over Georgia
Six Flags Over Georgia
Spelman College
Spelman College
|
  St. Luke'S Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
| St. Luke'S Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
St. Mark Methodist Church (Atlanta, Georgia)
St. Mark Methodist Church (Atlanta, Georgia)
Statue Of Eugene Talmadge
Statue Of Eugene Talmadge
Statue Of Jimmy Carter
Statue Of Jimmy Carter
Statue Of Martin Luther King Jr.
Statue Of Martin Luther King Jr.
Swan House
Swan House
Sweet Auburn
Sweet Auburn
Taipei Economic And Cultural Office In Atlanta
Taipei Economic And Cultural Office In Atlanta
Terminal Station
Terminal Station
The Masquerade
The Masquerade
The Tabernacle
The Tabernacle
The Temple
The Temple
Trap Music Museum
Trap Music Museum
Turner Field
Turner Field
United States Penitentiary, Atlanta
United States Penitentiary, Atlanta
Utoy Cemetery
Utoy Cemetery
Variety Playhouse
Variety Playhouse
W. D. Grant Building
W. D. Grant Building
Washington Hall
Washington Hall
Westview Cemetery
Westview Cemetery
William Breman Jewish Heritage & Holocaust Museum
William Breman Jewish Heritage & Holocaust Museum
William-Oliver Building
William-Oliver Building
Winecoff Hotel
Winecoff Hotel
Woodlands Garden
Woodlands Garden
Woodruff Arts Center
Woodruff Arts Center
World Of Coca-Cola
World Of Coca-Cola