Nestled just six miles east of downtown Atlanta, Decatur is a charming city that perfectly blends Southern history, vibrant culture, and an award-winning culinary scene. With its picturesque square, tree-lined streets, and strong sense of community, it's no wonder Southern Living named it one of the South's Best Small Towns. But beyond its well-known attractions, Decatur holds fascinating secrets and surprises that even locals might not know about.
Decatur was named in honor of Commodore Stephen Decatur, one of the most celebrated American naval heroes of his time. After leading daring raids against Barbary pirates off the coast of Africa, Decatur returned home a hero in 1805. The city was officially incorporated on December 10, 1823, making it one of the oldest municipalities in the Atlanta metropolitan area. That same year, the Decatur Cemetery was established—now the oldest-known publicly owned burial ground in metro Atlanta. Expanded many times over the years, the cemetery comprises 58 acres with more than 20,000 gravesites, including a 7.5-acre "Old Cemetery" section containing nineteenth-century burials and the historic African American section.
One of Decatur's most remarkable geographic features is often overlooked: the Eastern Continental Divide bisects the city along the CSX (formerly Georgia Railroad) trackage right of way. This means that raindrops falling on one side of the city will eventually flow to the Gulf of Mexico, while those on the other side flow to the Atlantic Ocean! Beyond geography, Decatur has also left its mark on American dining—the restaurant chain Huddle House was founded here in the mid-1960s. What started as a single location in this charming Georgia city has grown into a beloved chain with hundreds of locations across the country.
Education has long been a cornerstone of Decatur's identity. Agnes Scott College became the first accredited college or university in Georgia in 1907. Founded in 1889 as the Decatur Female Academy in a prosperous residential neighborhood near the railroad, the college has had a lasting impact on the community and continues to be a vital part of Decatur's cultural landscape.
Perhaps the most fascinating piece of Decatur's history is one of Georgia's greatest "what if" moments. In the 1840s, the Western and Atlantic Railroad proposed making Decatur a major stop on its new line. According to popular legend, Decatur residents rejected the proposal because they didn't want the noise, smoke, dirt, and confusion that came with a railroad. The railroad moved seven miles west to a small settlement called Terminus—which became Marthasville, and eventually, Atlanta. While historians suggest topography may have played a bigger role in the decision than citizen preference, the story endures as a reminder of how one decision changed the trajectory of two cities forever. Had Decatur accepted the railroad, it might be the major metropolitan hub today instead of Atlanta!
Come to Decatur in October for the Decatur Book Festival, one of the largest independent book festivals in the country. This free event brings together authors, readers, and book lovers for a celebration of literature on the historic Decatur Square.
Try your hand at the ancient art of glassblowing at Decatur Glassblowing. This hands-on experience allows you to create your own glass art while learning from skilled artisans. It's a unique activity perfect for date nights or special occasions.
Listen to live music nearly every night at Eddie's Attic, one of the most renowned music venues in the Southeast. This intimate listening room has hosted countless musicians over the years, including famous artists before they made it big.
Visit the Decatur Farmers Market, where you can find an extensive selection of fresh produce, meats and seafood. Beyond food, you'll also discover locally made artisanal crafts, handmade soaps, candles, and pottery—perfect for unique gifts or souvenirs.
Enjoy a year-round calendar of festivals including the Decatur Arts Festival in May, Pan African Festival in August, and Decatur Wine Festival in November. Each festival brings the community together with music, art, food, and celebration, showcasing Decatur's diverse and vibrant culture.
Chai Pani is recommended by the Atlanta MICHELIN Guide and serves vibrant Indian street food. From crispy okra fries to their famous sev puri and butter chicken bowls, chef Meherwan Irani (a James Beard Award winner) brings the authentic flavors of Mumbai's streets to Decatur. The colorful, hip atmosphere makes it perfect for casual dining with friends or family.
The Deer and The Dove is another Michelin-recommended restaurant in Decatur. Chef Terry Koval specializes in rustic meat dishes cooked over a wood-burning hearth, featuring seasonal vegetables, beef and pork from local farms, and adventurous game meat entrees like crispy rabbit legs and duck sausage. This is destination dining at its finest.
Kimball House is recommended by Michelin and known for serving some of the freshest oysters in the city. Located in a former train station built in 1891, this stylish eatery and raw bar offers farm-to-table dishes with a French twist. Don't miss their signature martinis and impeccable cocktail program.
The White Bull is Michelin-recommended and features farm-forward Italian cuisine. Chef Pat Pascarella mills his own grain for house-made bread and pasta, and utilizes only Georgia-grown products including local cheeses, honey, meats, vegetables, and fish. Their Apertivo hour from 4-6pm daily is a local favorite.
The Brick Store Pub has a solid standing as one of the best beer bars in America. This neighborhood pub offers an impressive Belgian beer selection along with classic pub fare in a rustic, friendly atmosphere. With multiple levels and a legendary beer cellar, it's been a Decatur institution for years and attracts beer enthusiasts from all over.
Whether you're a history buff, foodie, festival-goer, or just looking for a charming place to explore, Historic Decatur offers something special. Its walkable downtown, accessible via MARTA, makes it easy to spend a full day (or weekend) discovering all this "greater" city has to offer. From its rich history dating back to 1823 to its modern, award-winning dining scene, Decatur proves that small towns can pack a big punch.
Come discover why locals say "Decatur—where it's greater!" You might just find yourself wanting to return again and again.
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