Decatur is cool—the Indigo Girls started here—and it’s even cooler when you’ve got kids. This Atlanta neighborhood has a vibe like any other, and plenty to do for families from exploring nearly 30 city parks to shopping local in one of the cutest and most eclectic downtown squares in Georgia. Keep reading for our five favorite things to do in Decatur, below.
Explore Decatur Square
Old Courthouse Square is the neighborhood's living room, hosting summer concerts, winter bonfire and marshmallow roasts and a year-long calendar of festivals and events. The large, open plaza in Downtown Decatur has a kid-friendly fog fountain, benches, and public art. The Square is the historic heart of the downtown and is centered around the old DeKalb County courthouse. This 15-block walkable district includes dozens of unique retailers and local and national restaurants. The Decatur Beach Party, Arts Festival, and Tour of Homes, as well as the Heritage Festival, Decatur Craft Beer Festival, and AJC Decatur Book Festival are held here throughout the year.
Don't Miss: Stop by Victory Sandwich Bar.for $5 killer sandwiches and to-go adult beverages, which you can enjoy window shopping or watching the kids run around the pavillion.
Doughs, glazes and fillings at Revolution Donuts are natural, trans-fat free, and made by people instead of machines with real ingredients, organic flour, and with plenty of options for vegans. And they're delicious. Oh—and there's coffee.
Browse Bestselling Children's Books at Little Shop of Stories
Little Shop of Stories is an eclectic and award-winning independent book store with an incredible selection of well-curated children's books, knowledgeable employees, and weekly story times—which are currently Tues. & Thurs. at 11 on Facebook. Little Shop also offers book clubs for kids and summer camps.
Head to The Decatur Toy Park and ride bikes, play in the pretend play kitchen and climb structures—without bringing a thing. This unusual (and awesome) playground has a fenced-in play area filled with toys (lots and lots of donated plastic cars, slides and more) and playground equipment.
First Christian Church, 133 Nelson Ferry Rd. Decatur 404-378-3621 Online:decaturdisciples.org
Stroll the Dekalb Farmers Market
Explore the Dekalb Farmers Market, one of Atlanta's largest and oldest, and fill your bags with fresh, locally-sourced and supplied fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods. You'll also find a robust selection of international options and an incredible bakery.