Decatur, Georgia

Like many cities in the south, Decatur, Georgia, combines a temperate climate and bustling economy with a local history tied inextricably to America's formative years.

Founded in 1823, and named after the 19th century naval hero, Stephen Decatur, the city prides itself as offering a small town atmosphere within a large metropolitan area. Indeed, with downtown Atlanta a mere six miles (10 kilometers) away, its population of 18,147 residents swells during the workday. (And as local history has it, Decatur might have been the site of the larger metropolis, had not the citizens turned down an offer by the Western and Atlantic railroad for a major stop, or terminus, in the 1830s.)

Indeed, those interested in exploring the rich history of the Decatur and the DeKalb County area, however, can visit the DeKalb History Center housed in the city's historic Courthouse. Or they might simply want to take a stroll through one of the many city streets that have been designated local historic districts. And for the curious, there's always the city's historic cemetery.

Decatur's industry is based on a combination of small and large businesses, and on the fact that both Emory University and Agnes Scott College call the city home. The Columbia Theological Seminary can also be found in Decatur, and there are numerous other colleges nearby.

Decatur has a number of small, tree-lined parks for anyone who just wants to wind down after a hard day's work and enjoy a quiet evening outside. And of particular interest to the younger set is the newly-designed Skate Park at McKoy Park. The walking trail in Waddell Nature Park is also nearby and is the perfect place, as they say, to "enjoy a trillium."

The city comes together throughout the year for a number of festivals that highlight local art and food, and whose proceeds often go right back into the community. A warm night from May to September might be spent "in the square" listening to one of the many Blue Sky Concerts. Or you might want to check out the artist's market at the annual Decatur Arts Festival and Garden Tour. October brings with it a second chance to do the same with the Oakhurst Arts and Music Festival, and not be forgotten is the Great Decatur Beer Tasting Festival, also held in October.

The Theatre Decatur (formerly the Neighborhood Playhouse) has been in operation for over 25 years, and provides a regular complement of theater for those who want to take in a show. And the PushPush Theater is another popular venue.

And sports fans can take heart in the fact that although Decatur doesn't have any of its own professional sport's teams, Atlanta with it many franchises is nearby.

So come and enjoy the history and art – and more – on offer in Decatur!

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