From Wikitravel

Decatur is in the southeastern United States in the state of Georgia and DeKalb County. Decatur is located east of midtown Atlanta and west of Stone Mountain. This article focuses primarily on the City of Decatur, the most tourist friendly and safe area within the city, including both Downtown and the nearby Oakhurst business district. It also references the historic Druid Hills neighborhood to the west, Emory University to the northwest, the Indian community to the northeast, the historic planned community of Avondale Estates to the southeast and Atlanta's eclectic Candler Park/Lake Claire neighborhood to the southwest.

[edit] Understand

Decatur is the county seat of DeKalb County. Originally called Dawson's Camp, the historic city was founded in 1823 - before neighboring Atlanta. It has beautiful homes and dozens of places of worship. Centered on the historic Decatur Courthouse, Decatur has become a hot destination for young people who want hip bars, great restaurants, and walkable neighborhoods, as well as for families who are drawn to the excellent independent school district. In addition to the single-family homes in old neighborhoods surrounding the central business district, in recent years there have been several mid-rise condominium developments in the downtown area, breathing new life into the downtown community.

While it may appear to be a typical southern city, Decatur marches to the beat of a different drummer. It declined to become a railroad transportation hub for the southeast in the 19th Century, resulting in the founding of Atlanta to its west. Both delegates from DeKalb County voted against secession in 1861. Decatur is one of the few parts of the sprawling Atlanta area that blends a small-town feel with an open-minded, freewheeling, artsy sensibility. Creative Loafing voted Decatur "Best Suburb" (critic's and reader's pick) in its 2007 ratings.

Decatur remains notable for its diversity. Founded by Scotch/Irish/English immigrants, the city remains majority Caucasian, but there is also a substantial African-American population, a lesbian community and recent Ethiopian immigrants. North of the city is a Greek-American community, and northeast of the city (around Church St., Scott Blvd./Lawrenceville Hwy. and DeKalb Industrial Blvd.) is a thriving Indian community with restaurants and retail outlets.

Decatur is also notable for its location. Atlanta and Decatur are Georgia's only county seats inside the "Perimeter" interstate (I-285) that encircles the metro area. Atlanta is an international city with corporate headquarters, world class convention facilities and a fast pace, while Decatur has retained a small city feel and a slightly slower pace. Decatur is surrounded by the city of Atlanta on its south and west sides. It is closer to Atlanta's business, retail and cultural destinations than many Atlanta neighborhoods, and is easily mistaken for an intown neighborhood of Atlanta.

[edit] Climate

Decatur experiences hot and humid summers, with temperatures frequently above 90°F/32°C. It is close enough to the north Georgia mountains that the city is cooler than other parts of Georgia, but the "heat island effect" of metro Atlanta can cause the temperature inside the perimeter (ITP) to be higher than outlying areas (OTP). Shorts, short-sleeve shirts and sandals/flip-flops are commonly worn during the summer in non-work settings to stay cool. The best time to visit the city is in the spring and fall, when the temperature is very pleasant. A jacket is generally all that is required. During the summer and fall, the city is impacted by hurricanes from both the Atlanta and Gulf coasts. However, the hurricanes are generally downgraded to tropical storms by the time they hit the metro area. Winters are comparatively mild; ice storms occasionally hit the city, but snowstorms are very rare. Check the forecast from NOAA [1], but visitors typically need no more than a heavy-weight, lined jacket in the winter (rather than a winter coat).

[edit] Read

• Clarke, Caroline McKinney. The Story of Decatur, 1823-1899, DeKalb Historical Society (1996).
• Gay, Mary. Life in Dixie During the War, Mercer University Press (2001). A first person account of the Civil War in Georgia - including Decatur - by a Decatur resident living in the city during the war.
• Mason, Herman, Jr. African-American Life in DeKalb County, GA, 1823-1970 (Images of America), Arcadia Publishing (1998).
• Price, Vivian. Historic DeKalb County: An Illustrated History (Georgia Heritage Series), Historical Publishing Network (2007). Available from The DeKalb History Center and area bookstores in late 2007. A coffee table book covering 184 years of DeKalb County’s history.

[edit] Tourism

• DeKalb Convention & Tourist Board, 1957 Lakeside Parkway, Ste. 510, Tucker, +1 770 492-5000 [2].

[edit] Get in

[edit] By plane

• Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (IATA: ATL) [3], in neighboring Atlanta is the primary airport in the metropolitan area for commercial carriers. MARTA's Airport Station (S7) is at the airport, as are car rental companies, limousines and taxis. Decatur is directly accessible by MARTA from the airport, with one transfer at MARTA's Five Points Station in downtown Atlanta.
• DeKalb Peachtree Airport (IATA: PDK) [4], 2000 Airport Rd. (Clairmont Road), is the nearest airport for those arriving by chartered plane. However, MARTA bus service and taxis are the only access from this airport to Decatur; there is no MARTA rail access.

[edit] By train

• MARTA [5]: Downtown Decatur is on the east-west Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) rail line to the Decatur Station (also called E6). The station is directly behind the Courthouse, is actually under Decatur Square and has two access points. Exit east (Church Street) for the pedestrian and taxi entrance to the station, and exit west (Commerce) to transfer to MARTA buses. The city of Decatur includes two additional MARTA rail stations: East Lake (E5) and Avondale (E7). Avondale Station is located at the southern end of the Decatur Heights neighborhood, and not the city of Avondale Estates. During peak hours there is a 10 minutes train frequency, while normally the period between trains is every 15 minutes. It takes 13 minutes to the Five Points Station in the middle of Atlanta. There are connecting MARTA buses to neighborhoods within the city of Decatur, as well as north Decatur and south Decatur. NOTE: Bicycles are permitted on MARTA trains, but MARTA's website requests patrons not to board a full train.
• Amtrak [6] has a depot at 1688 Peachtree St. in Atlanta's Brookwood Hills neighborhood. Take a MARTA bus from the depot in Brookwood Hills to Marta's Arts Center Station. NOTE: Brookwood Hills is an upscale, comparatively safe neighborhood.

[edit] By bus

• Greyhound [7]: Decatur no longer has a bus terminal. The nearest interstate bus terminal is Greyhound's Atlanta terminal at 232 Forsyth St., +1 404 584-1731 or +1 800 231-2222. This terminal is located in a marginal area at the southern edge of downtown Atlanta. However, Greyhound patrons can conveniently access MARTA's rail system at the adjacent Garnett Station (S1), and travel to Decatur after making one transfer at MARTA's Five Points Station.

[edit] By car

Decatur is accessible from Atlanta via Ponce de Leon Ave. (pronounced "Ponce d'Leon"), as well as the "Perimeter" interstate (I-285) via several exits. However, parking is limited in the downtown Decatur area.

[edit] By bike

Decatur is also accessible via the PATH walk/bike trail. The trail runs from Atlanta to Stone Mountain through the city of Decatur. It was voted "Best All-Purpose Path" (critic's pick) by Creative Loafing magazine in 2007.

[edit] Talk

American "English" is the primary language spoken in Decatur. The "southern" dialect has historically been spoken - more specifically the "Georgia drawl" – but this has been diluted by the influx of new residents in recent decades. Buford Highway (north of Decatur) is linguistically the most diverse commercial district in the metro area.

[edit] Get around

Decatur is highly walkable, though visits to the Farmer's Market will require a private car, taxi or a ride on the MARTA bus that runs from Decatur Station toward Clarkston. MARTA buses leave from each of the three Decatur rail stations to various points in the county.

• Taxis are available in Decatur - they include:
  • Decatur Best Taxi Service, +1 404 377-0340.
  • Decatur Yellow Cab, +1 404 371-0776.
  • DeKalb Taxi, +1 404 371-4535.
• Car rental companies are located in Decatur, primarily near the auto dealers NE of the city. They include:
  • Enterprise, 2742 N Decatur Rd, +1 404 299-3245 or +1 800 261-7331 .
  • Enterprise, 1695 Church St, +1 404 294-1706 or +1 800 261-7331.
  • Hertz, 1486 Scott Blvd, +1 404 270-9812 or +1 800 654-3131 .
• Decatur participates in Flexcar [8], a national program where environmentally-friendly cars are located throughout the downtown area that members may rent by the hour. If you are a member from one of the 16+ other participating cities, this may be an option. Decatur locations are on the municipal website. [9]:

[edit][add listing] See

• Your Dekalb Farmers Market, 3000 Ponce De Leon Ave., +1 404 377-6400, [10]. A must see. Listed as one of the top ten tourist attractions for Atlanta. Opened in 1986, the market is 140,000 square feet, employs people from around the world (their name tags tell their country of origin) and has nearly any type of meat, vegetable, fruit, spice, or otherwise edible item you could imagine. There is a cafeteria with low prices and wonderful international fare. Open 7 days a week. Voted "Best farmer's market" (reader's pick) and "Best excuse to throw a dinner party" (critic's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007. This is an international market, as opposed to a local farmer's market.
• Decatur Walking Tours. The city of Decatur and the Decatur Development Authority have six digital walking tours of the city - phone +1 404 371-8386 or email info@decaturga.com for more information. Printed brochures are available at the Decatur Recreation Center, 231 Sycamore St., +1 404 377-0494; the Downtown Development Authority, +1 404 370-4100; and some local shops (i.e., One Step at a Time in Oakhurst).
• The DeKalb History Center, Decatur Courthouse, 101 East Court Square, maintains a small museum of DeKalb County history [[11]. Step outside on the north side of the courthouse to view the "seated statues" and the south side to view the C.S.A. obelisk. Walk down to Adair Park on West Trinity Place to see the History Center's historic complex of three antebellum structures.
• The Decatur Cemetery, on Commerce Drive about two blocks northeast of the square, is one of the oldest operating cemeteries in Georgia. Check out the Civil War graves (to your left at you enter), sit in the pleasant gazebo, or take a stroll around the lake. Look out for the ducks, which are aggressive. Also check out the circa 1880 Fraser Building, at the Church Street entrance to the cemetery.
• Agnes Scott College, 141 E. College Ave., a private college for women, is located 3/4 mile south of Decatur Square. Agnes Scott frequently hosts lectures, concerts, and other cultural events. A walk around the beautiful campus, which was featured in Scream 2, is also a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Nearby Columbia Theological Seminary on Columbia Avenue also has a beautiful campus.
  • Bradley Observatory, 141 E. College Ave., (404) 471-6266, [12], Agnes Scott College. Visit the observatory (and planetarium) at Agnes Scott College during one of their "Amature Astronomy" open houses.
  • MAK Historic District (McDonough, Adams, Kings Highway), Decatur's oldest historic district is located immediately west of Agnes Scott College. Some of the oldest homes (on Adams Street) were developed from 1905 to 1912. Television show October Road and Hollywood movie Stomp the Yard were filmed on location in the MAK Historic District.
• Emory University is located northwest of the city. Check out the excellent Michael C. Carlos Museum, 571 South Kilgo Cir., +1 404 727-4282 [13]. Also walk around the English Renaissance Lullwater House and nearby Candler Lake (formerly Lullwater Lake). The Lullwater House, located at 1463 Clifton Rd. on Emory's campus, is the official residence of Emory University's president and is not open to the public. However, the tree-lined loop road around the house and the adjacent paths around Candler Lake are open to students and campus visitors.
• The Fernbank Natural History Museum, 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, + 1 404 929-6300, [14], is located immediately west of the city. Also visit the museum's IMAX theatre, and hike through the adjacent 65-acre Fernbank Nature Preserve[15].
• The historic Druid Hills neighborhood is located west of the city. This upper-class neighborhood's southern boundary is Fairview Rd., and it's northern boundary is the east-west rail line that runs through Emory University; the Fulton County line is its approximate western boundary and the rail line west of Parkwood Rd. is its eastern boundary. Druid Hills includes several mansions owned by the Candler family of Coca- Cola fame, historic churches, a picturesque country club and provided the setting for the movie Driving Miss Daisy.
  • The Atlanta Preservation Center, 327 Saint Paul Ave., Atlanta, +1 404 688-3353 [16], offers walking tours of the Druid Hills neighborhood.
  • Check out some of the historic mansions built by the Candler family. Walk by Walter Candler's circa 1925 Lullwater House on Clifton Rd. (private residence), visit the circa 1917 Callanwolde Fine Arts Center at 980 Briarcliff Rd. [17] (built by Charles Howard Candler), attend the circa 1916 St. John Chrysostom Melkite Church at 1428 Ponce de Leon Ave. [18] (built for Lucy Candler in the style of a Roman villa - the peristyle court is now the sanctuary) and drive by the circa 1920 Asa Candler Mansion (closed) at the Emory Briarcliff campus, 1256 Briarcliff Rd.
  • In addition to the tree-lined estate homes in this affluent neighborhood is historic Olmsted Linear Park[19]. The park consists of 50 acres broken up into six segments along Ponce de Leon Ave. The neighborhood and park were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Sr. in the 1890s. The park is being restored based on Olmsted's original plans.

[edit][add listing] Do

[edit] Festivals

Decatur events [20] and festivals are scheduled through-out the year. Phone +1 404 371-9583 for information.

• AJC Decatur Book Festival - book sales, readings by authors (books and poetry), lectures and other activities. One of Decatur's major festivals - held in late summer each year. Voted "Best Book Event" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007.
• Decatur Arts Festival - Annual event held in late spring by the Decatur Arts Alliance that has arts and crafts exhibits. One of Decatur's major festivals - Ponce de Leon Avenue is closed for this event.
• Great Decatur Beer Festival - A maximum of 5,000 people may sample hundreds of local, national and international beers for a set admission fee. One of Decatur's major festivals - held in downtown Decatur in October of each year.
• Beach Party - One of Decatur's major annual events - held in midsummer. Ponce de Leon Avenue is closed and sand is dumped on it. Food and drink vendors, as well as a bandstand, supplement the building of sandcastles.
• Wine Tasting Festival - A maximum of 1,500 people may sample over a hundred wines from around the world. One of Decatur's major festivals - held in downtown Decatur in late fall of each year.

[edit] Music venues

• Listen to a hot local act at neighborhood institution Eddie's Attic [21],directly south of the square. Bands usually play an all-ages and an adults-only show. Eddie's Attic is located at 515 N. McDonough (on the second floor of the former Belk's Department Store). Voted "Best Acoustics Music Club" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007, and recommended by Southern Living in 2002.
• Java Monkey, on Church Street directly east of the square, has live music or an open mic every night of the week. (Sit outside for the music.)
• Maddy's Rib & Blues Joint - blues music at a good barbecue joint adjacent to Suburban Plaza on Scott Blvd. (Sit inside for the music.)
• The Angel and Taco Mac [22] both on W. Ponce de Leon Ave., west of the square, host trivia nights during the week. Taco Mac, which has multiple locations, was voted "Best Sports Bar" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007.
• Kavarna located in Oakhurst at 707 East Lake Drive, [23] [24] features "Best Place to Hear Music for Free" (critic's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007 for its Atlanta Song Writer's Series, every Saturday at 8:00 PM.

[edit] Theatre/performing arts

• AMC North DeKalb Mall 16 Theatres, 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy., +1 404 816-4262 [25]. The nearest movie complex is located approximately one mile north of the city. The theatres are clean, but are located in a struggling mall.
• OnStage Atlanta, Suburban Plaza, 2597 North Decatur Rd., +1 404 897-1802 [26]. 36 years old/Atlanta's 3rd longest running theatre.
• PushPush Theater, East Decatur Station, 121 New St. (at College Ave.), +1 404 377-6332 [27]. Known for pushing boundaries, this live theater has almost 300 events a year and recently started the "New Street Art House".
• Donna and Marvin Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts, +1 404 727-5050,[28]. Emory University, multi-use performing arts center. The building was designed by Michael Graves.
• Regal Cinemas Hollywood 24, 3265 Northeast Expy., +1 770 936-8235 [29]. The nearest stadium-seat movie theatre is located on I-85's south access road between Shallowford Road and Chamblee-Tucker Road.
• Theatre Decatur, (formerly Neighborhood Playhouse), 430 West Trinity Place, +1 404 373-3904 [30]. Local, live performances.

[edit] Galleries/arts & crafts

• Alexia Gallery, 335 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., +1 404 373-1969 [31]. Jewelry and hand painted crafts.
• Beacon Hill Art Center, 410 W. Trinity Place, +1 404 377-2929 [32]. Community art center and home of Beacon Dance troupe.
• By Hand South, 112 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., +1 404 378-0118 [33]. Contemporary American craft gallery. Recommended by Southern Living (9/2002).
• boswellGallery, 153 Ponce de Leon Place, +1 404 377-4778 [34]. Small art gallery focusing on local artists in downtown Decatur.
• Dalton Gallery, 141 E. College Ave., +1 404 471-5361 [35]. Gallery at Agnes Scott College.
• Foundation One Gallery, 637-B East College Ave, +1 404 806-0925 [36]. design and art gallery in East Decatur Station. Voted "Best underground art space" Creative Loafing in 2007.
• Jill Celeste Gallery [37], 321 W. Hill St., Suite 7B.
• Junor Gallery, 114 E. Ponce de Leon Ave, +1 404 377-2255 or 496-4267 [38]. Painting, photography, sculpture and works on paper in a range of styles.
• Mingei World Arts, 427 Church Street,+1 404-371-0101 [39]. Antiques, folk art, jewelry, and fine craft from the world over.
• Predicate Gallery, 121 Church St., +1 404 370-6050. Studio and meeting space.
• Sycamore Place Gallery & Studios, 120 Sycamore Place, +1 404 377-7747. Twelve artist studios and gallery space.
• Temple Gallery, 108 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., +1 404 371-8826 [40].
• The Seen Gallery, 321 W. Hill Street, +1 404 377-0733 [41]. Oakhurst gallery with painting, pottery, photography, jewelry, textiles, etchings, woodworking, and hand blown glass in seven rooms.
• Vinson Gallery, 119 E. Court Square, +1 404 370-1720 [42]. Contemporary fine art gallery (specializing in British and American artists)

[edit] Recreation

• Bike/Run/Walk: The tree-lined streets can make for a great run or bike ride, but be advised that central and northern metro Atlanta has steep, hilly terrain.
  • The city of Decatur has a website on bike routes and bike parking in the area [43].
  • Bicycle South, 2098 N. Decatur Rd. (at Clairmont Rd.), +1 404 636-4444, [44] has a webpage that lists area bike rides offered by Atlanta's Southern Bicycle League [45]. Bicycle South does not rent bikes, but it sells and repairs bikes - a good resource if your need a repair during a visit.
• Golf:
  • Candler Park Golf Course, 585 Candler Park Drive, +1 404 371-1260 [46]. The closest 9-hole public golf course to Decatur.
  • The Charlie Yates Golf Course at East Lake, 2575 Alston Dr., +1 404 373-4655 [47], is a par 58, mid-length municipal course. The closest 18-hole public course to Decatur.
  • Grand Slam Golf and Baseball, (formerly Hidden Valley Golf and Baseball), 3352 North Druid Hills Rd., +1 404 636-0406[48]. The closest public golf driving range to Decatur.
• Other:
  • Suburban Lanes, 2919 North Decatur Rd. (lower level of Suburban Plaza), +1 404 373-2514 [49]. Decatur's only bowling alley.
  • Tree Climbers International, 290 Arizona Ave., southwest of Decatur, +1 404 377-3150 [50]. Offers tree climbing classes for those who love trees, as well as beginner group climbing events, including birthday parties and church, scouting, and school outings. Climb in the "Founder's Grove", where some of the trees have names!

[edit] Learn

[edit] Higher education

• Agnes Scott College [51], 141 E. College Ave, is an independent national liberal arts college for women affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA). It has approximately 900 students, and is located south of downtown Decatur.
• Art Institute of Atlanta - Decatur [52], 1 West Court Square (Decatur Square). The Art Institute of Atlanta (6600 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Sandy Springs) has opened a satellite campus in downtown Decatur.
• Columbia Theological Seminary [53], 701 S. Columbia Dr. Columbia is a seminary affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA). It is located south of downtown Decatur.
• DeVry University [54], 250 North Arcadia Ave. Private, for-profit university with over 20 campuses nationwide that offer Associate's to Master's level courses in business administration and professional studies.
• Emory University [55], 201 Dowman Dr., located northwest of downtown Decatur. Emory is one of America's top universities, and is home to nine major academic divisions. The University also includes a graduate school of arts and sciences; professional schools of medicine, theology, law, nursing, public health, and business. It was founded by the Methodist Church in 1836.

[edit][add listing] Buy

The city of Decatur does not have a shopping mall or a large retail shopping center. However, Decatur is not short on trendy boutiques. Most are located on or around Ponce de Leon.

[edit] Bookstores

Decatur may have more used bookstores than any other community in metro Atlanta. Bookstores selling new books are also listed.

• Book Nook, 3073 North Druid Hills Rd., +1 404 633-1343. Large used bookstore which also has comic books, rock-related literature, CD's, LP's, DVD's, VHS and cassettes. Book Nook first opened in 1973. Located in north Decatur, but worth the drive.
• Books Again, 225 N. McDonough St., +1 404 377-1444, [56]. Voted "Best Old-School Bookstore" by Creative Loafing in 2007.
• Eagle Eye Book Shop, 2076 North Decatur Rd., +1 404 486-0307, [57]. Over 50,000 books - advertised as Decatur's largest.
• Indie Coffee & Books. See listing below under coffee.
• Little Shop of Stories, 515 N. McDonough St., +1 404 373-6300 [58]. children's & young adult books; shares space with Jake's Ice Cream, +1 404 377-9300 [59].
• Wordsmiths Books, 141 E. Trinity Place, +1 404 378-7166 [60]. 3,000 sf bookstore with coffee shop. Located downtown.

[edit] Clothing

Decatur has an eclectic mix of small clothing and accessory stores, from classic casual to artsy and eclectic.

• Boogaloos [61], 246 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., +1 404 373-3237. Men's and women's clothing store. Better Homes & Gardens recommended (11/07).
• Carpe le Scarpe, 415 Church St., +1 404 373-1049. Functional but funky small shoe store.
• Classy Fashion, 410-A Church St., +1 404 373-3937.
• Dresscodes [62], 201 W. Ponce de Leon Ave. #117, +1 404 373-2894.
• Eviva [63], 335-C W.Ponce de Leon Ave., +1 404 370-7606. Shoe boutique. Better Homes & Gardens recommended (11/07).
• Fabutique, 335-D W. Ponce de Leon Ave., +1 404 377-6363.
• Kaleidoscope Boutique, 252 W Ponce de Leon Ave., +1 404 378-1214. Small women's clothing store with sleek city fashions. Recommended by Southern Living (9/2002).
• Lily Moon, 308 Ponce De Leon Pl., +1 404 373-9864. Part vintage and part new clothing store.
• One Step at a Time [64], 652 East Lake Dr., +1 404 377-1030. Run/Walk shoe store.
• Peggy's Boutique, 308 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., +1 404 370-9888. Women's clothing.
• Squash Blossom, 427 Church St., +1 404 373-1864. Women's clothing store featuring natural fibers (i.e., comfortable linens). Recommended by Southern Living (9/2002).
• Two Stix, 411 Church St., +1 404 687-0285.
• WHIT'S END-A, 431 W. Ponce de Leon Ave. #2, +1 404 377-3310, [65] Casual Store for affordable men's clothing, gifts and accessories. Gifts, and accessories for everyone, some kids, and unisex clothing.

[edit] General

Decatur has pharmacies, jewelry stores and other retail establishments located throughout the city, but the following are notable:

• Hoopla [66], 414 Church St., +1 404 371-9485. Fun stuff for kids.
• Mingei World Arts, 427 Church Street,+1 404-371-0101 [67]. Antiques, folk art, jewelry, and fine craft from the world over.
• Natural Body Spa and Shop [68], 225 E. Ponce De Leon Ave., +1 404 370-1330. Sells pleasantly-scented organic products, and gives massages. Has received "Best Of" and "Top Ten" from Atlanta Magazine and Creative Loafing.
• Stella Bella [69] ($$) 225 E Ponce de Leon Ave. Cosmetic boutique with custom-blended mineral cosmetic and bath and body treatments.

[edit] Malls & shopping centers

There are two small malls northeast of Decatur (North DeKalb and Northlake), but neither are tourist destinations. There is also a new urban shopping center (Edgewood Retail District) southwest of the city, and unique shops along Highland Avenue west of Decatur. The nearest upscale shopping malls are Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza, which are close to the DeKalb County line in neighboring Atlanta (northwest of Decatur).

• Highland Avenue, Virginia-Highlands (neighborhood), Atlanta. Highland Avenue has several small, unique, upscale retail shops (north of Ponce de Leon Ave. & south of Rock Springs) in a trendy residential neighborhood west of Decatur.
• Moreland Avenue (south of Ponce de Leon Ave.):
  • Check out funky Little Five Points (Moreland Ave. and Euclid Ave.), a retail and restaurant cluster known for tattoos and piercings. This counter-culture landmark is a throw-back to the 1960's with some vintage shops, and is comparatively safe.
• Lenox Square [70], 3393 Peachtree St. (at Lenox), Atlanta. Includes Macy*s, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Cartier, Louis Vuitton and Crate & Barrel. Voted "Best mall" and "Best place to spot celebrities" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007. . more casual than Phipps. Accessible from Decatur by car or MARTA's Lenox Station (N7).
• Phipps Plaza [71], 3500 Peachtree St. (at Lenox), Atlanta. Includes Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany's, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Barney's Co-op and Versace, as well as AMC Theatres. Voted "Best Shopping Destination for Chloe, Marc Jacobs and Zac Posen" (critic's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007. . . more upscale than Lenox. Accessible from Decatur by car or MARTA's Lenox Station (N7).

[edit] Music

The music shops in Decatur have a good selection of used and new albums and CD's.

• Book Nook, 3073 North Druid Hills Rd., +1 404 633-1342. See other listing.
• Decatur CD [72] , 356 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., +1 404 371-9090. Bright blue store stocks alternative and rock music. Decatur CD was voted "Best Used CD's" in metro Atlanta by Creative Loafing magazine in 2007.
• Vibes Music and More, 145 Sycamore St. # B, +1 404 373-5099.
• Wuxtry Records [73], 1.5 miles north of downtown Decatur (intersection of N. Decatur and Clairmont Rds), +1 404 329-0020. The best and oldest record shop, specializing in all types of music with great depth in jazz, classic and alternative rock, international music and alt country /bluegrass.

[edit][add listing] Eat

Decatur is known for its outstanding locally-owned restaurants, and patrons drive in from all over metro Atlanta; the national chains are not prevalent here. There are numerous restaurants primarily clustered in the downtown area, Oakhurst and north of Decatur. (Pubs and taverns are listed under "Drink".) There are additional sandwich shops, pasta restaurants and local chain pizza joints that have great food, but are not listed below.

[edit] Downtown (Ponce/Decatur Square)

The restaurants are located on or near picturesque Ponce De Leon Avenue and around the Decatur (courthouse) Square. Here are some of the better restaurants:

• Cafe Alsace, [74] - excellent small French restaurant with limited outdoor seating - one of Decatur's finest restaurants, with prices to match. Voted "Best French" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007 and Southern Living in 2002, but this is an Alsatian restaurant (French with German influence).
• Cafe Lilly, [75] - excellent American/Eclectic/Mediterranean cuisine. One of Decatur's finest restaurants, with prices to match.
• Crescent Moon, [76] — a funky-yet-traditional retro-style diner on W. Ponce; serves good breakfasts and lunches. Has traditional breakfast menu, but also has whole wheat and tofu items. Local favorite and affordable, but also popular with tourists. Along with The Flying Biscuit, one of the two best breakfast spots in the area; wifi.
• Eurasia Bistro, [77] - excellent Thai-fusion (Asian, French, Pacific Rim) menu. One of Decatur's finest restaurants, with prices to match.
• Ruby Tuesdays, [78]. One of downtown Decatur's few national chain restaurants - located in the heart of Decatur on Ponce de Leon. Excellent burgers.
• Sage on Sycamore, [79]. Broad based contemporary cuisine in casually elegant, loft-style atmosphere overlooking the square. A good choice for great food, but not too funky or exotic. Great location for people-watching, and more affordable than Cafe Lilly, Watershed, Eurasia Bistro and Cafe Alsace.
• Taqueria del Sol, [80]. Upscale southwestern/Mexican. Great salsa, nice pulled-pork enchiladas; lunch and dinner. Line can be long, but it moves along and the food is worth the wait. Unusual outdoor seating area. Voted "Best place for a cheap date" by Creative Loafing in 2007.
• Ted's Montana Grill, [81]. An Atlanta chain restaurant in the popular Artisan building - includes limited outdoor seating on Ponce de Leon.
• Watershed, [82]. Decatur's best-known restaurant, one of its finest restaurants, reviewed nationally and as pricey as might be expected. Freshly prepared regional ("New Southern") cuisine. Voted "Best restaurant to take a visitor" (critic's pick) and "Best fried chicken" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007, and recommended by Southern Living in 2005. Chef Kevin Peacock was named 2007 "Best Chef in the Southeast" by the James Beard Foundation.

[edit] SW of Decatur Square

• The Flying Biscuit, (Candler Park), 1655 McLendon Ave. (at Clifton Rd.), [83]. Along with Crescent Moon, one of the two best breakfast spots in the area. Voted "Best Biscuits", "Best breakfast, "Best grits" and "Best Sunday brunch" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007. This place takes breakfast so seriously it has a custom apple butter topping for its outstanding biscuits.

[edit] SE of Decatur Square

The restaurants are clustered north and south of the railroad tracks. The north side centers on Decatur's old train depot and old ice house, both renovated for adaptive reuse. The south side includes two developments - the larger East Decatur Station at East College Avenue & New Street, which houses restaurants, a pub, coffee house, live theatre, salon and church - and the smaller development at 313 East College Avenue, which contains a tavern and furniture store.

• Depeaux [84]. Decatur's only Cajun & Creole cuisine - located in the old train depot - great ambiance, but higher than average prices.
• Feast, [85]. New American with a mediterranean twist; charming and cozy decor, affordable and eclectic wine list, and a garden inspired outdoor patio.
• Carpe Diem, [86]. American/Eclectic/International at the Ice House Lofts. Sister restaurant to Apres Diem in midtown Atlanta.

[edit] Oakhurst

The restaurants are located in historic buildings surrounded by the eclectic Oakhurst residential neighborhood.

• Billy Goat's Cantina, 653 East Lake Dr., + 1 404 687-0007. Oakhurst restaurant - dishes from Oaxaca, Veracruz, Baja and the Yucatan with Ameri-Mex..
• Mezcalito's Cantina, [87]. Mexican.
• Steinbeck's Oyster Bar, [88]. In Historic Oakhurst, Steinbecks is an intimate bar with a great patio. One of the few, and best places for casual seafood meals and an excellent beer selection!
• Wahoo Grill, [89], 1042 West College Ave., + 1 404 373-3331. Eclectic menu that focuses on seafood with a southern twist. (Wahoo is on College Avenue, north of Historic Oakhurst's retail cluster near MARTA's East Lake Station.)

[edit] N of Decatur Square

The restaurants are located in strip shopping centers clustered near the intersection of Clairmont Rd. & N. Decatur Rd.

• Benedetti's Italian Restaurant, 2064 North Decatur Rd. Italian restaurant.
• Bhojanic, [90], 1363 Clairmont Rd. Fusion/home-style Indian restaurant (known for north Indian dishes).
• Mexico City Gourmet, [91]. Very good mexican restaurant.
• Mediterranean Grill, 2126 North Decatur Rd., [92]. Greek/Mediterranean food. Voted "Best middle-eastern" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007.
• The Golden Buddha, [93]. Very good Chinese restaurant (with Japanese & Sushi) on Clairmont Rd. south of North Druid Hills Rd.
• Willy's Mexicana Grill, 2074 N. Decatur Rd., [94]. Voted "Best Mexican" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007.

Ice Cream, Bakery, Chocolate . . . Paolo's Gelato [95], 1025 Virginia Ave. (at Highland Ave.), +1 404 607-0055. Italian ice cream - favorite of locals in nearby Virginia-Highlands. Reviewed by Bon Appétit, Food Network, Condé Nest Traveler, Delta's Sky, . . . The Chocolate Bar, [96], 201 W Ponce de Leon Ave. A chocolate and wine bar (along with coffee and champagne) in the heart of Decatur; chef's resume includes the Ritz Carlton & Seegers. Voted "Best restaurant for a first date" (critic's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007. Alon's Bakery & Market, 1394 N. Highland Ave. (at University), +1 404 872-6000 [97]. Fantastic bakery & deli in nearby Morningside. Voted "Best bakery" (reader's pick) & "Best sandwiches/ subs" (critic's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007. Teuscher Chocolates of Switzerland, 1393 North Highland Ave. (at University), +1 404 885-1010 [98]. One of the few U.S. locations for the 70 year old Swiss confectioner. Reviewed by the New York Times and Bon Appétit.

[edit] NE of Decatur Square

While several of the restaurants are excellent, most are located in older strip shopping centers near automobile dealerships and along highways.

• Choppati, Scott Village Shopping Center, 1707 Church St. (intersection with Lawrenceville Hwy.). Vegetarian Indian restaurant.
• (Inchin's) Bamboo Garden[99], Scott Village Shopping Center, 1707 Church St. (intersection with Lawrenceville Hwy.). Chinese/Indian fusion restaurant (Chinese food as prepared in India). AJC rating: 3 of 5 stars.
• Istanbul Cafe[100], 1850 Lawrenceville Hwy. (intersection with DeKalb Industrial Way). Mediterranean, Turkish & Pizza.
• Maddy's Rib & Blues Joint, near Suburban Shopping Center. Great barbecue & blues at Scott Blvd. and North Decatur Rd. with limited outdoor seating. This restaurant is closer to downtown than the other NE Decatur restaurants.
• Madras Saravana Bhavan[101], North DeKalb Square, 2179 Lawrenceville Hwy. (intersection with North Druid Hills Rd.). Indian vegetarian restaurant. One of Decatur's finest restaurants, although it is north of the city limits. Voted "Best Indian" (critic's and reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007.
• Udipi Cafe, 1850 Lawrenceville Hwy. (intersection with DeKalb Industrial Way). South Indian vegetarian restaurant.
• Zyka The Taste, 1677 Scott Blvd. [102]. If you can get beyond the unusual use of styrofoam cups and plates, this is a very good sit-down Indian restaurant.

[edit][add listing] Drink

[edit] Pubs & bars

• The Angel. English-style pub serving food and drink on west Ponce de Leon; wifi. Includes a large outdoor seating area, but the interior "pub" complete with fireplace is great in the winter.
• Brick Store Pub, 125 East Court Square, +1 404 687-0990, [103]. Recognized as one of Atlanta's best pubs in terms of craft beer selection, Brick Store Pub features 17 international beers on tap (including some that are native to Atlanta), and 65 bottled beers (also international). The pub also features a "Belgian bar" that includes 8 rotating Belgian beers on tap, and 120 Belgian and Belgian "style" beers in the bottle. Voted "Best Beer Selection" (critic's and reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007, and recommended by Southern Living in 2002. Very popular - packed on weekends - with a popular food menu also.
• The Corner Pub, [104]. A pub at East Decatur Station which relocated from Oakhurst.
• Kavarna [105], 707-A East Lake Dr., Oakhurst's newest wine, coffee and food establishment that opened in 2007. The food is light (salads, hummus, cheese, etc.), but is beautifully presented and is designed to go with their wine and beer list.
• Melton's App & Tap, on Scott Blvd. and North Decatur Rd. near Suburban Shopping Center. This neighborhood pub, serving food and drink (15 beers on tap), has a mix of locals and Emory students.
• Palate, 321 W. Hill St., [106]. A wine bar in Oakhurst that also serves a limited but good menu. Thursdays are live jazz nights.
• Trackside Tavern [107], 313 East College Ave. Local pub complete with darts (they sponsor a local darts team!), juke box and pool tables, located across the railroad tracks from the old depot and next to Victory Vintage Furniture.
• Twain's Billiards and Tap, corner of Church St. and Trinity Pl., [108]. Has a solid beer selection and quality pool tables; wifi; the first Sunday of every month, the Atlanta Corned Beef Society serves corned beef and pastrami. Voted "Best pool hall" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007, and recommended by Southern Living in 2002.

[edit] Coffee Houses

• Chocolate' - North Decatur & Clairemont; one of the better coffee houses with good indoor seating, but outdoor seating overlooks a strip center parking lot; wifi.
• Indie Coffee & Books, [109], 340 Ponce De Leon Ave., +1 404-378-7110; coffee house and bookstore; wifi.
• Inman Perk, [110]. Emory Village on North Decatur Rd. (near Emory University and Glenn Memorial Methodist Church); new Decatur location of Atlanta's Inman Park neighborhood coffee house - great outdoor seating area elevated above the street.
• Java Monkey, [111]. Across Church St. from Decatur Square; one of the better coffee houses and very popular. It also serves meals, and has a large outdoor seating area; wifi. See listing above.
• Dancing Goats. Decatur's newest coffee house - slick retro design on W. Ponce de Leon Ave. across from The Angel.
• Mocha Match Coffee Bar, [112], East Decatur Station, 627 East College Ave., +1 404 377-7788; wifi.
• Starbucks, Decatur Square, [113]. The national chain has prime corner location on Decatur Square with outdoor seating; wifi (charge). Voted "Best coffeehouse" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007.

[edit] Contact

• Local Calls: Decatur residents and businesses have historically been assigned area code 404, which is the traditional area code for ITP (inside the perimeter) addresses. However, area codes throughout metro Atlanta are now 404, 770 or 678. All 10 digits of the phone number are required when making local calls. NOTE: Some signs and advertisements abbreviate by only listing the first number of the area code (ie, "6" instead of 678), which can be confusing to visitors and new residents.
  • Directory Assistance: dial 411.
  • Emergency Assistance: dial 911.
• U.S. Post Office: Decatur's main post office is located downtown at 520 West Ponce De Leon Ave. Although addresses throughout central DeKalb County may list a "Decatur, GA" address, 30030 is the zip code for the city of Decatur.
• Georgia is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET).

[edit] Stay safe

[edit] Police

• The Decatur Police Department protects the city of Decatur [114]. The department headquarters is at 420 W. Trinity Place in downtown Decatur. The non-emergency number is +1 404 373-6551, but call 911 in an emergency. Decatur police also have a precinct in Oakhurst at 707-C East Lake Dr.
• Outside of the city of Decatur in unincorporated DeKalb County, the DeKalb County Police Department [115] has jurisdiction. The main department's non-emergency number is +1 404 294-2000, but call 911 in an emergency.

[edit] Areas to avoid

• Metro Atlanta has over 5 million residents; visitors are advised to exercise caution throughout the metropolitan area. Downtown Decatur and the historic Oakhurst business district have indoor and outdoor activities during the day and late into the evening. The small town feel - outdoor cafes, residents window-shopping on Ponce de Leon, well-lit public spaces and affluent surroundings - make Decatur feel more secure to visitors. However, visitors are advised to exercise the same prudence they would when traveling to any other large metropolitan area.
• Visitors to Decatur should avoid neighborhoods immediately east and south of Memorial Drive. The primary DeKalb County jail and DeKalb County's new Juvenile Justice Center are located east of Memorial Drive (near I-285). MARTA's Kensington Station (E8), which is west of Memorial Drive, is within walking distance of these facilities. Areas immediately east and south of Memorial Drive, as well as the Kensington MARTA station, are not tourist-oriented and are best avoided. NOTE: MARTA has police patrolling their rail stations.

[edit] Precautions

• Mosquitoes are a significant problem in summer and early fall in metro Atlanta. Bring along mosquito-repellant, particularly if you are going into a wooded or low-lying area.
• Sunscreen, along with baseball caps and hats, are recommended for summer travel to metro Atlanta.

[edit] Cope

[edit] Consulates

More than fifty nations have a consulate in metro Atlanta. A complete list can be found at georgia.org [116].

[edit] Hospitals

There are four medical centers near Decatur. Emergency care for the general public is available at three of them. While 911 can be dialed in Decatur for an emergency, the following list includes the main switchboard phone number for each medical center:

• Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston (Emory Campus), 1405 Clifton Rd. NE, +1 404 785-6000. One of the leading children's hospitals in the United States.
• DeKalb Medical Center (North), 2701 North Decatur Rd., +1 404 501-1000. A respected hospital that has recently expanded. DeKalb also has a satellite location in downtown Decatur (Decatur Hospital), but its full-service facility is on North Decatur Road. NOTE: 1.2 miles north of MARTA's Avondale Station (E7).
• Emory University Hospital (Emory Campus), 1364 Clifton Rd. NE, +1 404 712-2000. A nationally-respected teaching hospital, and one of several Emory-run hospitals in metro Atlanta.

[edit] Medical & dental walk-in clinics

This is a partial list of walk-in clinics for non-life-threatening conditions:

• Primary Care Center [117], 2891 N. Decatur Rd. Suite C, +1 404 298-0008. Private medical clinic located near DeKalb Medical Center (North).
• Toco Hills Urgent Care, 1276 McConnell Dr. Suite A (off Clairmont Rd. in north Decatur), +1 404 325-2100. NOTE: This private medical clinic is not located in the Toco Hills Shopping Center.
• Atlanta Emergency Dental Center, 4060 Lavista Rd., +1 770 934-0770. This private 24 hour dental emergency clinic is located 7 miles from Decatur Square, near Northlake Mall. (Located at the intersection of Lavista Rd. & Briarcliff Rd.).

[edit] Emergency vet clinic

While local vets may work your pet in during office hours, the following clinics are open evenings, nights and weekends:

• Animal Emergency Clinic of Decatur, 308 E. Howard Ave. (across from the old Train Depot), Decatur, GA. +1 404 371-9774, [118]. A new emergency vet clinic that opened 11/2/07 and shares space with The Village Vets of Decatur.

[edit] Internet access

• FedEx Kinko's, 2088 N. Decatur Rd. # A, +1 404 321-3990. Provides computers for internet access (with charge), as well as fax machines and copying services. This is a 24-hour location used extensively by Emory students.
• Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore St., +1 404 370-3070. At the top of the curved stair on the second floor are computers with free internet access. Visitors are allowed to use the terminals for a short period of time, even if they do not have a library card - check with the staff member at the desk.
• Wi-Fi:
  • Decatur Wi-Fi Access Program (WCG): Decatur began offering free wifi access to residents, students and visitors in October of 2007. The initial coverage area includes one square mile centered on Decatur Square, but the program is scheduled to expanded to over four square miles by July, 2008 [119].
  • In addition to coffee houses and restaurants listed elsewhere, free wifi is also available at Krystal and McDonalds fast food restaurants.

[edit] Media

• Print: Decatur does not have a daily newspaper, but the following publications are available in the city:
  • Atlanta Journal-Constitution[120], daily, the largest local newspaper by circulation in metropolitan Atlanta, with a section tailored to DeKalb County. Available at virtually all newsstands and retail outlets.
  • Atlanta Magazine[121], monthly, mainstream magazine on where to go, what to eat and getaways in the metro area. Most issues have several articles helpful to tourists. Available at magazine stands.
  • Creative Loafing[122], weekly, non-mainstream newspaper focusing on local culture, events and entertainment. The annual "Best of Atlanta" issue is an excellent resource for tourists and locals, alike.
  • Decatur Living, a local magazine (similar to Southern Living) mailed free to Decatur residents.
  • DeKalb Neighbor[123], county newspaper covering local events, delivered free to DeKalb residents.
  • Emory Wheel[124], twice weekly, Emory University's student newspaper.
  • The Profile, Agnes Scott College's student newspaper.
  • New York Times, daily, available at Publix grocery stores and selected retail outlets.
  • USA Today, M-F, available at newsstands and selected retail outlets.
  • Multiple local free specialty periodicals are available throughout the metro area.

[edit][add listing] Sleep

[edit] Decatur

• Decatur Inn & Suites, 921 Church St., +1 404 378-3125, +1 404 (404) 378-3765 - an economy motel (some rooms have kitchens) located a few blocks northeast of Decatur Square.
• Garden House Bed & Breakfast, 135 Garden Lane, +1 404 377-3057, [125]. In the Clairemont/Great Lakes neighborhood north of Decatur Square.
• Holiday Inn Select Conference Center, 130 Clairemont Ave., +1 404 371-0204, [126]. The best hotel in downtown Decatur; one block from Decatur Square and near MARTA's Decatur Station. Also has an indoor pool.
• Super 8 Motel, 917 Church St., +1 404 378-3765, [127]. An economy motel located a few blocks northeast of Decatur Square.
• Sycamore House Bed & Breakfast, Innkeepers: Ren and Judy Manning, 624 Sycamore St., +1 404 378 0685, [128]. $110-$125. This is in the center of Decatur a few blocks from MARTA"s Decatur Station.

[edit] Near Decatur

• Emory Conference Center Hotel, 1615 Clifton Rd., north of Decatur on the Emory University campus, +1 404 712-6000, [129]. Good hotel, but not within walking distance of Decatur Square.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, 2183 N. Decatur Rd., +1 404 320-0888, [130]. Located 1.5 miles north of Decatur Square in a cluster of nondescript strip shopping centers that include several good restaurants.
• Laurel Hill Bed & Breakfast, 1992 McLendon Ave., +1 404 377-3217, [131]. Technically in the Lake Claire/Candler Park neighborhood of Atlanta, but closer to Decatur's Oakhurst neighborhood and downtown Decatur Square than midtown Atlanta.
• University Inn at Emory, 1767 N. Decatur Rd., in the Druid Hills neighborhood adjoining Emory University, +1 800 654-8591, [132]. Within walking distance of Emory University and Emory Village restaurants, but not within walking distance of Decatur Square.

[edit] Rough it

There are no campsites within the City of Decatur. The nearest public campground is conveniently located off Stone Mountain Freeway, 12 miles east of Decatur Square:

• Stone Mountain Family Campground, Stone Mountain Park, +1 770 498-5710 or +1 800 385-9807. 441 wooded campsites and other amenities.[133]

[edit] Get out

[edit] Small town

Visit other small towns in north Georgia:

• Dahlonega. Take 400 north and visit a genuine 19th Century gold mining town.
• Helen, Georgia[134]. Take I-85 north and visit an alpine village with 200+ shops. Festivals are held through the year, but the Oktoberfest is the best known. Charming, but in a Gatlinburg/Disneyworld sort of way.
• Athens. Head east to the home of the University of Georgia. The college town of Athens is nicknamed the "Liverpool of the South" for its contributions to rock, country and bluegrass music.

[edit] Huge city

Attend a major league sporting event in metro Atlanta:

• MLB Atlanta Braves [135], Turner Field, 755 Hank Aaron Dr., Atlanta. (Requires MARTA rail/bus transfer).
• NFL Atlanta Falcons [136], Georgia Dome, Georgia Dome Dr., Atlanta. MARTA's Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Station (W1).
• NBA Atlanta Hawks [137], Phillips Arena, 1 Phillips Arena Dr., Atlanta. MARTA's Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Station (W1).
• USL Atlanta Silverbacks [138], DeKalb Memorial Stadium, 3189 Memorial College Ave., Clarkston.
• NHL Atlanta Thrashers [139], Phillips Arena, 1 Phillips Arena Dr., Atlanta. MARTA's Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Station (W1).

Also visit:

• Georgia Aquarium [140]. The largest indoor aquarium in the world - don't miss the whale sharks! Reservations are recommended. Located in downtown Atlanta near Olympic Centennial Park, CNN headquarters and the new Coca-Cola Museum. MARTA's Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Station (W1). Voted "Best tourist spot" (critic's and reader's pick) and "Best new thing about Atlanta" (reader's pick) in Creative Loafing in 2007.
• High Museum [141], Peachtree St. & 16th St., midtown Atlanta, MARTA's Arts Center station (N5). Atlanta's finest museum. In addition to the permanent collection, don't miss the rotating, multi-year exhibit in partnership with the Louvre. Reservations are available. Voted "Best museum" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007.

[edit] Outdoors

• Stone Mountain Park, U.S. Highway 78 East, Exit 8, Stone Mountain, +1 770 498-5690 or +1 800 401-2407. A granite-domed state park of 3,200 acres with trails, lake, golf course, railroad, laser show and other family activities. A large granite carving of Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis and Stonewall Jackson on the side of the dome is used as the screen of the laser show. The park is open to the public, and is east of Decatur. Voted "Best OTP (outside the perimeter) park", "Best place to mountain bike" and "Best local place to commune with nature" (reader's pick) by Creative Loafing in 2007.
• Six Flags Over Georgia, 275 Riverside Pky. (off I-20 W of Atlanta), Austell, +1 [142]. Theme park with rides.
• Six Flags White Water Atlanta, 250 Cobb Pky. North (off I-75 NW of Atlanta), Marietta, +1 770 948-9290 [143]. Metro Atlanta's largest water park.

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