Nestled just five miles northeast of downtown Atlanta, Historic Druid Hills stands as one of the South's most enchanting neighborhoods, where century-old oaks arch over winding streets and architectural masterpieces tell stories of Atlanta's golden age. While most visitors know it as home to Emory University and the CDC, this Frederick Law Olmsted-designed community harbors fascinating secrets that even longtime Atlantans don't know.
The neighborhood's name comes from an unexpected source: developer Joel Hurt chose "Druid Hills" because it reminded him of Druid Hill Park in Baltimore. The name perfectly suited the rolling topography and Olmsted's vision, connecting to ancient Celtic druids who worshipped in sacred groves among hilltops.
What many don't realize is that Druid Hills was one of Frederick Law Olmsted's very last commissions before his death in 1903. When the project resumed after financial setbacks from the Panic of 1893, it was actually completed by the Olmsted Brothers, making it a unique collaboration spanning generations of America's premier landscape architects.
Druid Hills holds the distinction of being Atlanta's second major suburb, following Inman Park. As one of Olmsted's major works, it had tremendous influence on future suburban development across the country.
While most know about Asa Candler's involvement, few realize that in 1908, the entire development company was sold to the Coca-Cola president, who built his mansion at 1428 Ponce de Leon Avenue. Multiple Candler family estates throughout the neighborhood became cultural landmarks – Charles Howard Candler's Gothic-Tudor mansion is now Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, while another Candler mansion became St. John's Chrysostom Melkite Church.
Olmsted's 1893 plan featured something revolutionary: six linked public parks along Ponce de Leon Parkway that "reimagined the traditional village green into a linear, two-mile-long scenographic experience." This innovative design separated vehicular traffic from pleasure traffic, creating America's first true linear park system.
In August 1915, a 13-year-old Bobby Jones won his first club championship at Druid Hills Golf Club, beginning his legendary career that would culminate in golf's only Grand Slam. The club's course was designed by H.H. Barker, winner of the Irish Open in 1906.
Few know that Congressman John Lewis, the civil rights icon and organizer of the Selma to Montgomery march, lived in Druid Hills and was instrumental in the 1980s protests that saved the neighborhood's parks from freeway destruction.
In the 1980s, plans to build a freeway through the heart of Druid Hills for Carter Library access would have destroyed Olmsted's parks. Residents like Sally Harbaugh organized massive protests, and activists even chained themselves to trees. Their successful fight resulted in a consent decree in 1991 that permanently protected the neighborhood.
Explore all six connected parks along Ponce de Leon Avenue: Springdale, Virgilee, Oak Grove, Shadyside, Dellwood, and Deepdene. Each features unique topography, winding trails, and lush landscapes that showcase Olmsted's genius for integrating nature into urban environments.
Take a self-guided tour starting at Miss Daisy's actual house at 822 Lullwater Road NE, then visit The Temple at 1589 Peachtree Street NE (the synagogue from the film), and finish at what was once Rag-o-Rama at 1111 Euclid Avenue NE in Little Five Points, which played the Piggly Wiggly store.
This quiet, lush trail system on Emory's campus features tumbling waterfalls, forest vegetation, the historic Lullwater House mansion, and an old octagonal powerhouse. It's one of Atlanta's best-kept secrets for peaceful walks and bird watching.
Visit the free David J. Sencer CDC Museum at 1600 Clifton Road, operated in partnership with the Smithsonian. Learn about disease mysteries, high-tech science, and public health history at the headquarters of America's premier health protection agency.
Tour this magnificent 1920 Gothic-Tudor mansion built for Charles Howard Candler, featuring lush Italian-style gardens. Take art classes, attend performances, or simply admire the architecture of this National Register property that hosts artist markets and cultural events.Outstanding Dining Destinations.
Today, Druid Hills stands as one of Atlanta's most affluent neighborhoods with a mean household income exceeding $238,500, ranking as the ninth most affluent in the city. But its true value lies in its role as a living museum of American suburban design, a testament to the power of thoughtful city planning, and a community that successfully fought to preserve its historic character for future generations.
From its soaring canopy of mature hardwoods to its architectural integrity, Druid Hills remains a unique "intown treasure" that demonstrates how Frederick Law Olmsted's vision of integrating nature into urban environments can create lasting beauty and community.
Whether you're drawn by its Hollywood connections, architectural marvels, culinary scene, or simply the peaceful respite it offers from Atlanta's urban energy, Historic Druid Hills rewards every visitor with discoveries that illuminate both Atlanta's past and its aspirations for the future.
A thorough grasp of residential real estate marketing tactics, a keen knowledge of the Atlanta market, superior listening skills and attention to detail, make him the model Realtor® advisor. Contact Shawn today!
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