Decatur Atlanta Travel Guide

Tucked just six miles east of downtown Atlanta, Decatur blends Southern character with modern energy. With its walkable downtown, spirited neighborhoods, and vibrant dining scene, it delivers a refreshing mix of old and new for visitors seeking culture, comfort, and exploration.

Whether you’re after a relaxing weekend, historical sightseeing, or a foodie escape, Decatur offers a welcoming atmosphere with easy access to metro Atlanta’s highlights. From tree-lined streets to arts festivals and lively local haunts, Decatur makes an unforgettable base for any type of traveler.

Best Places to Visit

Discover some of the most loved spots in Decatur for history, nature, and culture.

• Decatur Square: This central hub buzzes with local restaurants, shops, and historic buildings that define the city’s character.
• DeKalb History Center Museum: Located in a former courthouse, this museum features exhibits that spotlight Decatur’s storied past.
• Woodlands Garden: A peaceful green retreat offering native plants, walking paths, and seasonal blooms across six lush acres.
• Winnona Park: A residential neighborhood with early 20th-century homes and quiet, leafy streets perfect for afternoon strolls.
• Kirkwood Urban Forest: A small forest preserve with scenic trails and towering trees, ideal for peaceful walks and birdwatching.
• Oakhurst Market: A go-to for fresh local foods, baked goods, and curated ingredients supporting area farmers and producers.
• Agnes Scott College: A historic women’s college with a beautiful campus worth exploring for its architecture and cultural events.
• Decatur Arts Festival: Held annually in May, this event showcases art, music, and live performances throughout downtown.

Things To Do

Decatur offers memorable activities for history lovers, foodies, and families alike.

• Explore the Historic District: Walk through streets lined with preserved architecture, inviting boutiques, and charming cafes.
• Unwind at Glenlake Park: This community park offers wide lawns, playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities.
• Shop at Local Boutiques: Peruse unique finds and handmade items in Decatur’s collection of indie shops and vintage stores.
• Attend a Live Music Show: Discover emerging talent and established acts at intimate music venues scattered throughout the city.
• Stroll Through Farmers Markets: Pick up seasonal produce, flowers, and artisan treats from one of the city’s weekly outdoor markets.
• Catch an Art Exhibit: Visit rotating exhibitions at local galleries or pop-ups highlighting regional and international artists.
• Join a Festival: From book fairs to beer festivals, Decatur’s calendar brims with engaging events throughout the year.
• Experience the Nightlife: Grab a craft cocktail or local beer at neighborhood bars and lounges with a lively crowd.

Where To Stay

Decatur has accommodations for every taste, from classic comfort to boutique charm.

• Downtown Decatur: Central, walkable area near restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions.
• Oakhurst: A neighborhood with local flavor, cozy homes, and easy access to shops and dining.
• Winnona Park: Peaceful and residential, great for quiet stays close to green spaces.
• Emory Village: A lively district near Emory University, filled with shops, eateries, and student energy.
• Midway Woods: A quiet retreat ideal for families or long-term stays in vacation rentals.
• Great Lakes Neighborhood: Known for its tree-lined streets and charming bungalows.
• Candler Park (nearby): Offers a residential vibe just a few minutes’ drive from Decatur’s core.
• North Decatur: A great area for access to larger chain hotels and shopping centers.

Best Accommodations

These top picks offer comfort, convenience, and character in and around Decatur.

• Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Decatur Downtown/Emory: A centrally located hotel with modern amenities and business-friendly features.
• Emory Conference Center Hotel: Nestled in forested grounds with a spa, golf access, and upscale amenities.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta Decatur/Emory: Popular for its spacious suites, free breakfast, and walkability to Decatur Square.
• The Decatur Hotel: A contemporary option with convenient access to MARTA and local dining spots.
• The Boutique B&B: A personalized stay with home-cooked breakfasts, garden views, and intimate touches.

Scenic Road Trips

Take a break from the city with these nearby drives worth the miles.

• Stone Mountain Park: Just 20 minutes away, this massive granite monolith and park features trails, a cable car, and historic sites.
• Chattahoochee River Drive: A peaceful escape filled with riverside parks, perfect for picnics and afternoon walks.
• North Georgia Mountains via GA-400: A two-hour drive leads to scenic hills, wineries, and charming towns like Dahlonega and Helen.
• Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area: Less than an hour away, this destination offers quiet trails and striking landscapes.
• Lake Lanier: Under 60 minutes from Decatur, this recreational lake boasts beaches, marinas, and summer water activities.

Best Beaches

While inland, Decatur is within reach of beach destinations ideal for day trips or weekend getaways.

• Tybee Island: A relaxed Atlantic beach about four hours away with historic sites and family-friendly sand and surf.
• Jekyll Island: A quieter coastal island with bike trails, historical ruins, and a peaceful shoreline five hours from Decatur.
• St. Simons Island: A coastal escape featuring long beaches, seafood spots, and laid-back energy.
• Lake Lanier: The closest “beach” option, offering freshwater shores, boating, and family attractions.
• Callaway Gardens Robin Lake Beach: A landscaped lakeside beach with white sand, located two hours south of Decatur.

Must-Visit Mountains

Get your hiking boots ready for these mountain adventures just a short drive from the city.

• Stone Mountain: Climb or ride to the summit of Georgia’s famous granite mountain for sweeping views and attractions.
• Arabia Mountain: Unique rock outcrops and biodiverse trails make this a scenic stop for hikers and photographers.
• Pine Mountain: Located within F.D. Roosevelt State Park, this forested retreat features over 40 miles of trails and campgrounds.
• Kennesaw Mountain: A Civil War battlefield site with panoramic ridge trails and a museum less than an hour west.
• Yonah Mountain: A more challenging hike near Helen, Georgia, offering rewarding views and rock climbing routes.

Must-Try Restaurants

Decatur’s food scene is bursting with creative flavors and welcoming settings.

• Leon’s Full Service: A gastropub with elevated comfort food and one of the city’s best cocktail menus.
• Kimball House: A stylish restaurant known for fresh oysters, seasonal ingredients, and refined Southern cuisine.
• Sapori di Napoli: Serving wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas and handmade pasta in a cozy Italian setting.
• The Iberian Pig: Spanish-inspired tapas and charcuterie paired with rich wines in a warm, rustic dining room.
• Revolution Doughnuts: A cult-favorite bakery serving inventive flavors like orange cardamom and vegan vanilla bean.

Best Theme Parks

Families and thrill-seekers will find plenty of fun within driving distance.

• Six Flags Over Georgia: A massive amusement park filled with high-speed roller coasters and family-friendly attractions.
• Stone Mountain Park: Besides hiking, this spot offers seasonal laser shows, mini golf, and a cable car ride.
• Netherworld Haunted House: Open in fall, this immersive haunt is famous for elaborate sets and spine-chilling thrills.
• Fun Spot America Atlanta: A smaller amusement park with go-karts, arcade games, and rides for all ages.
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park: An indoor attraction great for kids with bounce zones, obstacle courses, and aerial challenges.

Best Time To Visit

Mild weather and festive energy define the best times to explore Decatur.

• Spring (March–May): Perfect weather for outdoor festivals and blooming gardens.
• Fall (September–November): Crisp air and a full calendar of music, food, and cultural events.
• Late Fall: Ideal for travelers looking to avoid crowds and save on accommodations.
• Summer (June–August): Lively but hot, with temperatures often hitting the 90s.
• Winter (December–February): Quiet and cool, with occasional snow and lower prices.

Transportation Tips

Decatur is accessible and easy to navigate with multiple transportation options.

• MARTA Blue Line: Connects Decatur directly to downtown Atlanta and other neighborhoods.
• Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are widely available for short hops and airport runs.
• Biking: Several streets have bike lanes, and trails are accessible for recreational rides.
• Walking: The downtown area is compact and pedestrian-friendly.
• Car Rentals: Ideal for road trips or visiting places outside MARTA’s reach.
• Parking: Limited in busy areas, so check availability or use public garages.
• Shuttles and Taxis: Available near hotels and major landmarks.
• Scooters: Electric scooters can occasionally be rented in nearby Atlanta zones.

Things To Know

A few helpful details can enhance your visit to Decatur.

• Events Calendar: Local festivals and free events happen almost weekly.
• Walkability: Decatur’s downtown is great for exploring on foot.
• Public Art: Murals and sculptures line the streets, many created by local artists.
• Community Vibe: Residents are friendly, and the city often hosts cultural markets and concerts.
• Weather Shifts: Spring and fall can swing from chilly mornings to warm afternoons.

What to Pack

Weather changes and walkable streets require thoughtful packing.

• Layered Clothing: In spring and fall, mornings can be cool while afternoons warm up.
• Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Necessary in summer months or on longer walking tours.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll likely explore on foot, so good shoes are essential for sidewalks and parks.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while walking through neighborhoods or hiking trails.
• Umbrella or Raincoat: Sudden showers can happen year-round, especially in summer.
• Warm Jacket: Winters are mild but still call for a medium-weight coat or fleece.
• Insect Repellent: Especially useful if you’re visiting green spaces or attending evening events outdoors.
• Backpack or Tote: Helpful for market visits, day trips, or carrying essentials on city walks.

Facts & Info

• Country: United States
• Capital: Atlanta (state capital of Georgia)
• Largest Metropolitan Areas: Atlanta metro area
• Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
• Currency: US Dollar (USD)
• Population: Approx. 25,000 in Decatur; over 6 million in Atlanta metro
• Airports: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• Universities: Emory University, Agnes Scott College
• Religion: Predominantly Christian, with diverse religious communities

Estimated Costs

• 3-Star Hotel Room: $120–$150 per night
• 1 Bedroom Apartment Rental: $1,400–$1,800 per month
• Rental Car: $50–$70 per day
• Public Transit Ticket: $2.50 per ride (MARTA)
• Take Out Meal for Two: $25–$40
• Sit Down Dinner for Two: $60–$100
• Draft Beer: $6–$8

FAQs

1. Is Decatur walkable for visitors without a car?
Yes, the downtown area is compact, with most shops, restaurants, and attractions easily reachable on foot.

2. How far is Decatur from downtown Atlanta?
It’s about six miles east and can be reached in 15–20 minutes by car or MARTA train.

3. Are there family-friendly things to do in Decatur?
Absolutely. Parks, family festivals, and nearby attractions like Stone Mountain make it great for kids.

4. What’s the nightlife like in Decatur?
From craft cocktail bars to relaxed pubs, Decatur offers a low-key but vibrant nightlife scene.

5. Is Decatur safe for tourists?
Yes, it’s considered one of the safer neighborhoods in metro Atlanta with a friendly, active community.