DeKalb County - 43 Attractions You Must Visit

This is a unique and beautiful combination of natural habitats and cultural history. Designated as a heritage area in 2006, the region encompasses 38,000 acres and boasts 11 miles of hiking trails, three lakes, an abundance of native flora and fauna, and dozens of archaeological sites. On top of this stand out features like geological feature "the Rock" that was sacred to Creek Indians as well as Civil War-era workings at Bark Camp Creek that still remain partially intact.

Ashford Park is a vibrant neighborhood located conveniently close to the bustling city of Atlanta, Ashford Park stands out for its culture, diversity and beautiful surroundings. With great amenities such as lakeside trails, parks and sports fields, there is no shortage of activities for residents and visitors alike. Shopping and dining experiences are plentiful too! As a thriving community, cultural and musical events take place regularly at the local amphitheatre.

The Atlanta History Center houses some of the area's most remarkable artifacts, documents and visual representations of early American history. Visitors can embark on a journey through time from the 1700s to today as they explore the 33-acre complex, which includes six permanent exhibitions plus rotating special exhibits. From a recreated 1860s rural town to notable civil war battle displays and interactive audio-visual exhibits.

Atlanta Silverbacks Park is located in DeKalb County and boasts some of the best soccer fields and entertainment complexes in the state. Home to NASL team Atlanta Silverbacks, this 35-acre complex boasts 5 full-size outdoor fields, 6 mini fields and a 10,000 seat stadium with concession stands and media centers. With a pro shop providing special deals on officially licensed merchandise and a bar area for enjoying a cold one after the game, their soccer park has something for everyone.

Atlanta White House is a gorgeous estate built-in 1906 on 8 acres of land, this stately home features majestic columns that reach up to four stories high and an impressive portico at the entrance. Visitors are impressed by its detailed woodwork, original staircase and exquisite courtyard area with a pool surrounded by charming gardens of fruit trees and flowering shrubs. Inside, there are fourteen bedrooms, each decorated according to its own unique design.

Blackburn Park is a sight to behold and a great choice for outdoor fun. At just 25 acres, the park packs an incredible amount of recreation options into its confines. There are two athletic fields, three playgrounds, a lake, picnic tables and pavilions, and plenty of green space with picturesque trees. The lake is home to fish, turtles and ducks that kids love to watch, while the pavilions provide shaded areas with seating to take a break from the lively activities.

This is a historical site with a fascinating past. Built in 1922 for Asa G. Candler Jr., President of the Coca-Cola Company, the mansion was modeled after an estate located in Birmingham, England. During World War II it was transferred to the Navy and used as a training facility before being purchased by Emory University and made into a Psychiatric Hospital afterward. After closing its doors in 1997, the mansion was left abandoned until being recently renovated into its original state.

Brookhaven Park, is an amazing place! It has 44 acres of active and passive park space that includes a 3.2-mile nature trail, two playgrounds for children ages 2 to 12, four regulation size tennis courts, two lighted softball fields, four volleyball courts, a stage area and more than one mile of wooded trails. For those who love the outdoors and outdoor activities, Brookhaven Park is the perfect destination with its natural beauty that offers hours of enjoyment and relaxation.

Brownwood Park is a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It has a variety of amenities including a stocked lake with fishing opportunities, 4 pavilions, multiple walking paths, and a large playground area for kids to enjoy. Picnic tables are available throughout the park allowing visitors to take advantage of the surrounding nature. A large soccer field provides ample space for organized sports activities or open playtime.

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center is a place for anyone interested in the arts to explore and grow. The Center offers courses and programs covering the fine arts from pottery, painting and drawing to theatre, music and dance classes. As a frequent participant in the annual Irish Festival it also promotes culture by bringing that tradition to life with interactive exhibits. Callanwolde is home to artists-in-residence who offer weekly workshops free of charge.

The Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve features 165 acres of diverse land with a lake, ponds, and wetlands. This nature reserve is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, such as birds, trees, and aquatic life. Additionally, the preserve offers hiking trails throughout the surrounding wooded area, as well as educational programs for those wishing to learn more about the ecology of the South. Covered pavilions are available for picnics or field trips during pleasant weather.

David J. Sencer CDC Museum is an interactive museum dedicated to the history of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Visitors can learn about technological tools used to fight outbreaks and explore the role of scientists in protecting public health. At this unique museum, you can wander through a simulated laboratory environment, view intriguing artifacts and informative displays, or explore physical science experiments.

Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve, located in Dekalb county, is a popular spot for outdoor recreation and exploration. The great diversity of wildlife and plants found in the preserve provide visitors with an incredible experience. Across its over 400 acres of undeveloped land, the preserve features streams and creeks, valleys and ridges, two granite monadnocks, stunning views of the Atlanta skyline, a 12-mile multi-use trail system, plenty of picnic areas and more!

Dearborn Park is a cherished and beloved park. Often referred to as the “jewel of DeKalb County”, Dearborn Park is a beautiful and serene place that nature enthusiasts of all types can come to appreciate. This sprawling forest offers plenty of picturesque trails for hikers and plenty of vegetation perfect for birdwatching. For those wanting to spend time closer to home, there are multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, and a pavilion for family gatherings or photoshoots.

Decatur Square is DeKalb County's premier entertainment and dining destination. The Square, bustling with restaurants, bars and shops, is filled with people strolling its walkways, sampling some of the area’s best cuisines or checking out its latest boutique. It also has a multi-million dollar sculpture created by artist Gilbert Lebatard called “Gateway to Decatur Square” that stands proudly as a center piece for the area as well as many public food trucks to provide a variety of cuisine.

Deepdene Park is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with friends and family. With plenty of picnicking opportunities, you can have a wonderful meal with the people most important to you. There is a volleyball court where you can challenge your competitors to an intense match. Kids can explore their creative sides at the playgrounds or visit one of the trails for some nature appreciation.

Dresden Park is a 212 acre public park consists of woodlands, wetlands, meadows and riparian areas, giving guests the opportunity to experience a variety of ecosystems. Some of the attractions at Dresden Park include walking trails, picnic shelters and pavilions, playing fields and a fully stocked pond with a fishing pier. Additionally, each spring Dresden Park hosts educational programming including seminars on bird watching and natural history.

Druid Hills Golf Club, built in 1908 by Donald J. Ross using his unique design principles, the course is one of the oldest and most beautiful courses in the nation. With lush fairways and exquisitely manicured greens amid trees lined with Spanish moss, it's easy to see why players visit year after year. The club has hosted numerous tournaments over its long history, including the PGA tour event in 1947 and 1948, which was won by superstar golfers like Ben Hogan and Sam Snead.

The Dunwoody Nature Center is a fascinating spot for an educational day trip. it offers activities for the whole family. The nature center boasts an interactive environmental education area, as well as a variety of trails winding through the 55-acre facility. There's also a lake and bird watching areas! The center occasionally hosts events and activities like classes, campouts and even field trips all focused on giving visitors a better understanding of our local environment.

East Lake Golf Club, is an iconic destination for golf enthusiasts from all over the United States. Established in 1904 by Bobby Jones, East Lake Golf Club has been home to several tournaments and championships, including the TOUR Championship and the Walker Cup. Along with its history of excellence on the green, this top-tier golf club also hosts a variety of family-friendly activities such as demonstrations, clinics and special events.