Much to my surprise, Decatur turned out to be one of my favorite Atlanta neighborhoods for strolling, shopping, browsing, and lunch! (And I almost didn’t go!)

To be honest, I thought Decatur sounded too “small-town” to fit in with Lipstick Getaways’ “Big City Fun” niche. But since it was so easy to get there by MARTA (subway), I decided I should at least check it out for all of you. And wow, I’m so glad I did!

I love this city’s slogan, which truly says it all:
Decatur, Your Mallternative for Dining, Shopping, and Services

Here’s what makes Decatur such an appealing Atlanta destination:

• Easy to get there by the MARTA (subway) — maybe 30 minutes from downtown.
• Plenty of interesting shops, a few galleries, several good restaurants, some independent coffee shops.
• It’s a pretty, friendly, genuine (not touristy) little neighborhood … and totally walkable!
• You can pleasantly cover the whole thing in a few hours; or, you could also while away the day there!

What you need to know:

• Getting there by MARTA (subway):

  • From the Little Five Points station, take the Eastbound train (the one to “Indian Creek”) and get off at Decatur (the 6th stop).
    I got a little turned around when I exited the station at Decatur, but everyone is friendly — just ask someone which way to “Ponce” (Ponce de Leon, the main drag). It’s only a block or two away.
  • If you are coming from Buckhead, Midtown, or Peachtree Center, you’ll first need to take the MARTA south to Little Five Points station, and transfer there. Then, same as above — Eastbound train to Decatur. Don’t worry, it’s really easy – just get off the train at Little Five Points, and look for the signs to direct you upstairs to “Eastbound” — you’ll be right at the correct track.
  • And if you’re coming from one of the zillion conventions and meetings at the Georgia World Congress Center, just use that W1 MARTA station, and take the Eastbound train (’Indian Creek”) from there.

• Where are the shops and restaurants?

  • The main drag (and it looks like a classic Main Street) is along a 5-block stretch of W. Ponce de Leon Ave, a few blocks either side of the town square (complete with the Old Courthouse).
  • A couple side streets (running off Ponce) are worth checking out too, especially Church Street and E. Court Square.
  • Pick up an easy-to-use map and guide at the first shop you come to.

• What kind of shops will I find?

  A lovely variety of womens, kids, and mens’ apparel, shoes, gifts, art and craft galleries; also several salons and day spas. The general vibe is casual and upscale-but-affordable.

  Some favorites include By Hand South Fine Craft Gallery (all American-made crafts), Heliotrope (fun gifts, accessories, home decor, bath& body, baby stuff, etc. etc. etc.!), Kaleidscope Boutique (apparel and handbags), Squash Blossom (mother/daughter owned women’s boutique with cute, affordable, casual clothes, something for everyone, lots of natural fabrics), and Fabu Face Spa and Boutique (winner of “best facial in Atlanta” by Allure Magazine, Atlanta Magazine, and Citysearch!). If you want to pick up a little something for your favorite guy, Whit’s End offers men’s casual clothing, gifts, and accessories.

• For a complete guide to Decatur shopping, dining, and services, click here.

• And what about lunch?

  Decatur boasts several excellent choices for lunch, dinner, a snack, or coffee. I had a yummy, creative sandwich at the lovely Watershed; other local favorites include Cafe Lily (Mediterranean bistro fare), Cafe Alsace (casual French; I overheard some other visitors raving about their lunch there), and Taqueria del Sol (for “amazing,” tacos, enchiladas, and other Mexican delights). You’ll also find several independent coffee shops; and if you are there after 5:30, check out The Chocolate Bar, for the decadent indulgence in all things chocolate, plus wine pairings (then please let us know how it was!)

So if you’re in Atlanta, the weather is fine, and you want to spend an easy, delightful few hours shopping and strolling in a real neighborhood (not a mall) — Decatur should be at the top of your list!

And please share your feedback, comments, and favorite finds. Just use the “Leave a Reply” box below, or email me, carol@lipstickgetaways.com.

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