Cherished by locals and praised by visitors, Decatur Square isn’t just a downtown—it’s a lifestyle. With a rich history and eclectic mix of shopping, dining and entertainment, there is always something fun happening at the Decatur Square.
A Brief History of Decatur Square
Decatur Square has long been the civic and social center of the city—literally built around the courthouse. In 1822, the Georgia General Assembly designated this site for the DeKalb County courthouse, and the current neoclassical courthouse building was completed in 1918. Today, the Historic DeKalb County Courthouse is home to the DeKalb History Center and serves as a favorite venue for weddings, community gatherings, and special events.
From its earliest days, the Square shaped how Decatur developed. Businesses, civic institutions, and homes clustered around the courthouse, and the city grew outward from this central point. More than two centuries later, the Square has evolved into a vibrant, mixed-use destination with around 1.5 million square feet of commercial space, dozens of unique local retailers, and more than 45 local and national restaurants.
Festivals, farmers' markets, art walks, and outdoor concerts regularly fill the plaza with energy, carrying on a tradition of gathering that dates back generations. Today, Decatur Square remains both the symbolic and literal heart of the city—a place where history, culture, and community come together.
Housing Styles Near Decatur Square
Homes near Decatur Square reflect the area’s long history and thoughtful development. Buyers will find charming early 1900s Craftsman and bungalow homes with deep front porches and original architectural details in neighborhoods like Historic Decatur, The MAK district, Winnona Park and Oakhurst. Renovated mid-century ranch and split-level homes are also common, often updated with open floor plans and modern kitchens. Townhomes and boutique condos offer low-maintenance living within walking distance of the Square, appealing to downsizers and busy professionals. In recent years, custom and luxury new builds have added contemporary design and high-end finishes to established streets, creating a blend of classic Decatur character and modern living options.
Home Prices and Market Snapshot
Homes near Decatur Square typically command a premium because of walkability, lifestyle amenities, and access to City Schools of Decatur. Condos and townhomes start in the mid-to-high $400Ks and can reach $1M or more for luxury units with premium finishes and prime locations. Single-family homes range from the $700Ks to $1.5M, with custom new construction and historic renovations pushing even higher in the most desirable pockets. Properties within walking distance of the Square are especially competitive and tend to hold long-term value due to strong demand from families, professionals, and downsizers.
Walkable Shops, Coffee & Everyday Conveniences
One of the biggest perks of living near Decatur Square is having local favorites right outside your door. Residents love:
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Dancing Goats Coffee Bar – A local staple for lattes, cold brew, and people-watching on the patio.
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Odd Bird Gifts & Homegrown Decatur – Fun local boutiques for gifts, home décor, and Atlanta-made goods.
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Wild Oats & Billy Goats – A whimsical and colorful art gallery and artisan gift boutique offering paintings, sculpture, pottery, jewelry and more from regional artists.
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Little Shop of Stories – A must-visit, award-winning children’s bookstore that feels like stepping into a storybook.
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Squash Blossom Boutique – An industrial-chic space for modern women's designs & accessories made by local artists.
Residents also enjoy easy access to grocery stores, salons, fitness studios, and the Decatur MARTA station—all within a short walk or bike ride. Check out Visit Decatur for more recommendations.
Restaurants, Bars & Local Attractions
Decatur Square is a dining destination for all of Metro Atlanta. Insider favorites include:
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Kimball House – Once a railroad station, this sleek eatery & raw bar serves farm-to-table entrees with French flair.
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Leon’s Full Service – Inspired modern eatery in an ex-gas station offers New American fare & cocktails, plus a bocce court.
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The Iberian Pig – Modern Spanish tapas and cocktails in a lively setting.
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Brick Store Pub – A legendary craft beer pub with an upstairs Belgian bar.
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No. 246 – Italian-inspired dishes with seasonal ingredients and a bustling bar scene.
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Deer & The Dove – An upmarket restaurant dishing up seasonal plates of venison and trout alongside cocktails and wine.
For culture and history lovers, nearby highlights include:
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DeKalb History Center – Browse exhibits on local history and rotating events at the Historic Courthouse.
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Decatur Arts Alliance – Enjoy public art, galleries, and art walks throughout downtown.
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Agnes Scott College – A private, women’s liberal arts college just blocks away, with lectures, events, and performances open to the public.
Parks, Green Space & Outdoor Fun
Despite its urban feel, Decatur offers plenty of green space near the Square:
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Decatur Square Plaza – The central gathering place for festivals like the Decatur Book Festival, Arts Festival, and live music events year-round.
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Glenlake Park – A local favorite with a pool, playgrounds, tennis courts, and walking trails.
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Adair Park & Oakhurst Park – Neighborhood parks perfect for families and dog owners.
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Legacy Park – This 77-acre park, formerly the United Methodist Children’s Home, has soccer fields, a track, artist studios and more.
Biking and walking paths connect many neighborhoods, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city.
Thinking About Buying Near Decatur Square?
At Golley Realty, we specialize in Decatur and Intown Atlanta neighborhoods and know the micro-markets around the Square inside and out. Whether you’re looking for historic charm, a modern townhome, or a luxury new build, we can help you find the perfect fit.
Contact Golley Realty today to explore homes near Decatur Square and experience why this vibrant downtown continues to be one of Metro Atlanta’s most desirable places to live. Or start searching on our website.
