Outdoor Activities for a Summer Time Sweat

July 15, 2025 by Leave a comment

Get Outside and Get Moving in Decatur This Summer

There’s no substitute for being outdoors. Fresh air, sunshine, and a breeze through the trees can do wonders—especially after time indoors. This summer, let nature be your gym and Decatur’s parks your playground.

From Glenlake Park to Legacy Park, Decatur offers plenty of outdoor spaces to support your fitness goals while connecting with nature. Whether you’re looking for a high-energy workout or a relaxed afternoon, there are plenty of options:

Biking
Hop on a bike and explore Decatur’s network of bike-friendly streets and trails. Even at a casual pace, cycling helps boost cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and improve mobility. Be sure to wear bright clothing and use bike lights for safety—especially if you’re riding near busy intersections.

Gardening
Scott Park’s community garden is more than just a space to grow veggies—it’s a wellness hub. Digging, weeding, and watering not only build strength and flexibility but can also boost mood and vitamin D exposure.

Nature Hikes
Join the City’s Urban Naturalist for a guided nature walk or hike around Legacy Park. Walking among native plants and wildlife offers physical benefits and a major mental reset. Don’t forget to check out upcoming hikes on our social channels @decaturparksandrec

Swimming
Cool off with a swim at Glenlake, Ebster, or McKoy Pool. Swimming offers a full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, and heart health—plus, it’s the perfect escape from the Georgia heat.

And speaking of heat… stay hydrated!
Summer temps in Decatur can rise quickly, so always bring a reusable water bottle. Drink water before, during, and after activity—even if you don’t feel thirsty. Your body will thank you!

Ready to get moving? Explore all the summer programming and outdoor spaces Decatur Parks & Recreation has to offer at decaturga.com/parksrec. Let’s make this summer one of play, movement, and community connection.

Filed under Aquatics, Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Healthy Monday, Legacy Park, Monday Campaigns Tagged with , , , ,

How to Stay Active for a Healthy Heart

February 3, 2025 by Leave a comment

A number of factors affect your heart health, with physical activity being one of the most important. Your heart is a muscle, and just like your biceps and quadriceps, it too benefits from a weekly workout. Because when your heart doesn’t get the care and attention it requires, problems can develop.

So how much exercise do you need to help your heart thrive? Not much!

The American Heart Association recommends that adults get around 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Some examples of moderate intensity workouts include fast-paced walking, water aerobics, dancing, gardening (it can make you happier, too), tennis (doubles), or biking. High-intensity aerobics, such as running, swimming laps, and hiking, are also beneficial, but make sure to consult with your physician before incorporating these exercises into your physical-activity routine.

Decatur Parks and Recreation offers fun, social ways to stay active while meeting your fitness goals. Check out these upcoming programs:

Wednesday Walks – Take a 2-3 mile walk with your neighbors around Decatur every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Meet outside the Decatur Recreation Center and enjoy the fresh air!

Water Aerobics – Stay active in the pool! Dynamo Swim Club offers water aerobics classes at the Oakhurst indoor pool.

REBEL Groove Dance Fitness – A full-body, interval-based workout that combines dance and cardio in a fun, no-rules atmosphere. Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Oakhurst Recreation Center.

Scott Park Garden Club – Gardening is great for your heart and mind! Join this organic community garden in Scott Park and enjoy greenspace therapy while staying active. Plots available for $75/year.

Beginner Tennis Clinics – Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your skills, this clinic covers forehands, backhands, serves, and more. Held Sundays at 12 p.m. at Glenlake Tennis Center.

Bikes & Brews – Enjoy a 6-mile, casual-paced bike ride around the city on the third Friday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Ride starts at Guild + Journeyman (115 Clairemont Ave). Helmets required.

Another important point to remember is that you don’t have to be “exercising” to stay active. Small adjustments to your day-to-day life, like sitting less or taking a few extra laps around the house, can contribute positively to your heart health. A great way to do this is to “habit stack,” or incorporate extra movement into your normal routine. Waiting for the coffee to brew? Walk up and down the stairs, do a quick set of squats, or get in a quick stretch.

This Monday, set a goal of getting in 30 minutes of physical activity, and try to keep it up for the rest of the week. If you don’t reach the 150-minute mark, don’t sweat it. You can always refresh your intensions the following Monday. Your heart will thank you.

Filed under Adult Sports, Aquatics, Bike Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Exercise, Healthy Monday, Monday Campaigns, Oakhurst Recreation Center, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , ,

Celebrating Parks & Recreation Month: Belonging Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond

August 2, 2024 by Leave a comment

As we wrap up Parks & Recreation Month, we take a moment to reflect on the past few weeks and look ahead to the future. From July 28 to August 3, our theme is “Belonging Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond.” This final week is an opportunity to celebrate the sense of community and connection that Decatur Parks & Recreation fosters every day.

Reflecting on the Month

Throughout Parks & Recreation Month, we’ve hosted numerous events, classes, and programs that have brought our community together. It’s been a joy to see familiar faces and welcome new ones as we’ve explored the many benefits of our local parks and recreation facilities. Whether it was participating in guided hikes, attending educational workshops, or simply enjoying the green spaces, we’ve seen firsthand how parks and recreation create a sense of belonging.

Where is Our Community Going?

The future of our community looks bright, thanks in large part to the ongoing support and participation in our parks and recreation programs. With three recreation centers and a diverse range of offerings, Decatur Parks & Recreation is truly “Where You Belong.” Our goal is to continue providing spaces and opportunities for everyone to connect, grow, and thrive.

We are excited about the upcoming classes, events, and programs that will continue to bring us together. From sports leagues and fitness classes to cultural events and environmental initiatives, there’s something for everyone. We look forward to seeing you at our facilities and programs as we build a stronger, more connected community.

A Big Thank You

We want to extend a heartfelt “Thank You” to everyone who has supported Decatur Parks & Recreation during Parks & Recreation Month and throughout the year. Your involvement and enthusiasm are what make our community special. We appreciate your dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and well-being for all.

Fostering Belonging for the Future

As we look to the future, we are committed to fostering belonging through the seven dimensions of well-being in our park and recreation system:

  • Cultural: We celebrate diversity and inclusivity by offering programs that reflect our community’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Economic: Our programs and facilities provide affordable recreation opportunities that contribute to the local economy.
  • Emotional: Parks and recreation spaces offer a place for relaxation, reflection, and emotional well-being.
  • Environmental: We prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship in all our initiatives.
  • Intellectual: Educational programs and workshops promote lifelong learning and intellectual growth.
  • Physical: Our fitness classes, sports leagues, and recreational activities encourage physical health and wellness.
  • Social: Parks and recreation bring people together, fostering social connections and a strong sense of community.

Thank you for being part of Decatur Parks & Recreation. Together, we can create a future where everyone belongs, today, tomorrow, and beyond.

Filed under Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Glenlake Pool, Glenlake Tennis Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center, Teens Tagged with ,

Week 3: Being an Advocate for Belonging

July 18, 2024 by Leave a comment

How Fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Builds Community for All

At Decatur Parks and Recreation, our mission is to provide inclusive spaces and opportunities for all Decatur residents. This week, as part of Parks and Recreation Month, we are shining a spotlight on our initiatives and programs that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community.

Our goal is to bring together diverse cultures, languages, and identities, ensuring that everyone feels seen, reflected, and welcomed in our programs. Some of our inclusive initiatives include:

  • Functional Aerobics: This class is designed for those with mobility or balance challenges, allowing seniors to stay active and healthy in a supportive environment.
  • Wheelchair Basketball: In collaboration with the Atlanta VA Medical Center’s recreational therapy program, we offer wheelchair basketball for adults with physical disabilities, ensuring that fitness activities are accessible to all, regardless of mobility limitations.

We are proud to be part of the 92% of parks agencies in the US that offer Staff Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) education and resources. This ensures that our professionals have the necessary tools to support everyone in the City of Decatur.

In addition to our staff training, we provide diverse community-based educational opportunities, offering safe spaces for all to learn and discuss various important topics. Examples include:

  • Free Monthly Meetings: Covering topics such as financial management, burial planning, children’s finances, and LGBTQ+ family/estate planning. These meetings welcome everyone to engage in open and inclusive discussions.
  • American Sign Language (ASL) Classes: These classes aim to bridge communication gaps and promote inclusivity, ensuring that all community members can engage fully in our activities and events.

We offer enriching experiences such as:

  • The Beacon Hill Museum: Located inside Ebster Recreation Center, this museum highlights the role of the black community in Decatur’s history, providing educational opportunities for residents to learn about the city’s past. The Beacon Municipal Center’s site was once home to Decatur’s segregated African American public schools – Herring Street School, Beacon Elementary, and Trinity High School. Exhibit content was developed through close community consultation and highlights community life in the Beacon community, student life, important community leaders, and the larger historical context that impacted the community, including segregation and desegregation, and the city’s “urban renewal” projects that changed the landscape of the area.
  • Inclusive Playground at Legacy Park: This playground, suitable for all children, was developed with input from elementary children, ensuring that it meets the needs of all kids and promotes inclusivity from a young age.

We invite everyone to check out our Playbook for a complete list of inclusive programs and activities available at Decatur Parks and Rec.

Finally, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff members. Your hard work and commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces and programs are what make Decatur Parks and Recreation a vital resource for our community. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to fostering belonging and inclusion for all.

(L-R) Daijza Miller, BJ Crowder, Stacy Green, Brandon Shannon, Ty Taylor
(L-R) Gael Doyle, Kim Whatley
(L-R) Joslyn Cox, Stephen Chapital, Rashad Crowell, Dajane Martin, Dejon Pope, Jazmine Milton-Dates, Kiara Weems
(L-R) Virginia Atchison, Jabari Cole, Nia Willis, Rashawn Jackson, Lillie Johnson, Demetri Wheeler, Xaviea Cooper, Steven Maxwell, Sana Cuffey, Dezirae Cooper, Jada Jordan

Join us this week and every week in celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion as we continue to build a community where everyone belongs.

Filed under Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Glenlake Tennis Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center Tagged with

Fuel Your Workout with Music

July 15, 2024 by Leave a comment

Why Do a Workout with Music?

Music and exercise go together like peanut butter and jelly. Do you have a favorite workout playlist? It’s worth putting one together. Exercising to music has some big, scientifically-proven benefits:

  • Music can boost your mood and stamina during a workout, which could make your sweat session last longer
  • Faster-paced music can increase your performance, whether that’s your pace, the number of repetitions you complete or the distance you travel
  • Music can distract you from the physical activity, making you focus less on fatigue

How to choose songs for your playlist:

  • Select songs that you enjoy – these will boost your levels of serotonin, putting you in a good mood
  • Pick songs with a fast-paced, steady beat; you may naturally begin to synchronize your workout with the tempo, and exercise harder
  • Add music that you have an emotional connection with: Not only will the song be inspiring, but it can also transport you to another

Some tools to help:

  • fm can help you find music that matches your ideal pace on a run, walk or bike ride
  • PaceDJ organizes music you’ve already downloaded into playlists that match your pace goals

To get you started, here are the top 10 songs about an active lifestyle:

  1. Take a Walk on the Wild Side through your local park.
    Click here for a list of Decatur’s parks.
  2. Hit the Road Jack and relieve all that stress you have.
  3. These Boots Are Made for Walking up a mountain.
  4. Running Down a Dream, toward a healthier weight.
  5. Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay after a good swim.
    Click here for a list of Decatur’s pools.
  6. Life is a Highway and it’s great for biking.
    Join Guild+Journeyman for Friday & Saturday bikes rides – March through October.
  7. Born to Run, especially if it’s a Monday.
  8. Walk This Way to a healthier lifestyle.
  9. I Get Around…because I like to bike.
  10. Let’s Do the Twist, with some yoga.
    Check out all our yoga offerings at all 3 recreation centers!

Filed under Aquatics, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Healthy Monday, Monday Campaigns, Walk Decatur, Yoga Tagged with , , ,

Celebrate Parks and Recreation Month this July!

July 1, 2024 by 1 Comment

July is Parks and Recreation Month, a special time designated by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) since 1985. This month promotes the importance of parks and recreation in health, wellness, conservation, and social equity. It’s a fantastic opportunity to highlight the vital role our parks and recreation department plays in our community. This year’s theme, “Where You Belong,” celebrates how park and recreation professionals foster a sense of belonging by offering inclusive programs, essential services, and safe, accessible spaces for everyone.

During this Parks and Recreation Month, let’s unite to uplift the many reasons why parks and recreation truly embody the essence of belonging. Together, we can demonstrate why these spaces are “Where You Belong.”

Engage with Us All Month Long!

Throughout July, we will have photo frames posted in Decatur parks. Visitors can take pictures and share their moments on social media with the hashtag #whereyoubelong. The locations include:

  • McKoy Skate Park
  • Glenlake Tennis Center
  • Ebster Pool
  • Oakhurst Park Playground
  • Scott Park

We hope to see your posts with the hashtag #whereyoubelong!

Week 1: June 30-July 6

  • Kick-off – Popin’ Pools/Parks (Ally & Rec hand out popsicles)
  • July 3: 11:00am – Scott Park
  • July 3: 2:30pm – Glenlake Pool & Park

Week 2: July 7-July 13

  • “Fit” In – Clarity Fitness Pop-up Activity
  • July 10: Yoga, 10am – Decatur Square
  • July 12: Dance Fitness at 6 p.m. on Decatur Square, in conjunction with Rock the Mic: Karaoke Night

Week 4: July 21-July 27

  • A Kinship with the Land – Nature Walks and Rock Snake
  • July 23 & July 25: 10-11am – Glenlake (Campers and Community paint rocks with Kim)
  • July 23: 10-12pm – Decatur Cemetery (Meet at cemetery office)
  • July 24: 10-12pm – Legacy Park (Meet at main front building)
  • July 26: 10-12pm – Hawk Hollow, 2304 First Avenue, Atlanta 30317

On June 17th at the commissioner’s meeting, Mayor Garrett proclaimed July as National Parks and Recreation Month. Join us in celebrating Parks and Recreation Month at your favorite Decatur park, and be part of this incredible journey of community, health, and wellness!

Filed under Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Exercise, Glenlake Pool, Glenlake Tennis Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center Tagged with

Dive Into Summer: City of Decatur Pools Opening This Saturday!

May 23, 2024 by Leave a comment

Summer is fast approaching, and we’re thrilled to announce that City of Decatur pools are opening this Saturday! Whether you’re looking to cool off or enjoy some fun in the sun, our pools are the perfect spot. For unlimited access, consider getting a pool pass for the season.

Important Update

Unfortunately, due to a mechanical issue, McKoy Pool will not be opening on Memorial Day Weekend 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience and will keep you updated on the status of repairs.

Pool Admission

Our pools cater to swimmers of all ages. Below are our admission fees for different age groups. Starting in the 2024 season, we will only accept cashless forms of payment. If you do not have access to a cashless method, we will accept exact change.

AgeResident Fee (with card)Non-Resident Fee
1 and youngerFree$4
2-13$4$6
14-64$6$8
65+Free$6

Digital Resident Cards

Resident cards are going digital! To receive the resident rate, all patrons must be verified in CommunityPass as City of Decatur residents. Bring a government-issued ID and proof of residency (lease agreement, closing statement, or utility bill) to any of our four centers: Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center, or Glenlake Tennis Center. Physical resident cards will no longer be accepted.

If you’re already receiving resident rates for other activities, you’re verified in CommunityPass! Download a digital resident card to your smartphone or pick up a key FOB at any of our centers. Add the digital resident card to your smartphone wallet by signing into CommunityPass, selecting the appropriate resident card, and completing the transaction. You’ll receive a scan card via email for easy smartphone scanning.

Season Swim Passes

We offer convenient season swim passes for individuals and families. Once verified, you can purchase your season pass online through CommunityPass or at any of our centers. Passes are not available at the pool counters and are valid only at outdoor pool locations.

CategoryResident FeeNon-Resident Fee
Individual (2-13 years)$50$100
Individual (14-64 years)$75$150
Individual (65+ years)Free$100
Household (5 or fewer)$225*$450**
*Add $20 each additional member
**Add $40 each additional member

Swim Lessons

Dynamo Swim School will offer outdoor swim lessons at City of Decatur pools this summer:

  • Glenlake Pool: June 10 – 20, 9:00am – 10:00am
  • Ebster Pool: July 24 – August 11 (no class on July 4), 10:00am – 11:00am
  • McKoy Pool: July 15 – 25, 10:00am – 11:00am

Visit Dynamo Swim School’s website for registration information.

For more info on City of Decatur pools and how to get your pass, check the Aquatics page on our website. Don’t miss out on the best place to stay cool this summer!

Filed under Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Glenlake Pool Tagged with , ,

Oakhurst Indoor Pool Temporarily Closing

March 28, 2024 by Leave a comment

Please be advised that the Oakhurst indoor pool will be closed from April 1-17.

During this period, we are in the process of transitioning contractors to manage the pool’s day-to-day operations. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and sincerely appreciate your understanding. We are committed to providing you with the best possible service, and we look forward to welcoming you back to the pool on April 18.

Filed under Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Oakhurst Recreation Center Tagged with

Discover Spring with Decatur Parks & Recreation!

March 14, 2024 by Leave a comment

As the season of renewal blossoms, we’re thrilled to unveil our latest Playbook, brimming with an exciting lineup of programs, classes, and events spanning April through June. Whether you’re a child, adult, or senior, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Embrace Nature: Join us for our Earth Day Festival on April 20th, where we celebrate our planet with eco-friendly activities and educational experiences. Plus, dive into biking adventures throughout May, as we pedal our way around Decatur in honor of bike month.

Celebrate Seniors: We’re rolling out a new round of senior parties and workshops, including our much-anticipated Senior Health and Fitness Fair on May 29th. It’s the perfect opportunity to socialize, stay active, and prioritize your well-being.

Explore New Classes: Shake up your routine with our exciting new classes! From dance fitness at Oakhurst to women’s self-defense at Decatur, there’s no shortage of opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun. Don’t miss our family-friendly activities like family yoga at Ebster—perfect for bonding and relaxation.

Youthful Adventures: Spring is in full swing for our young adventurers! Sign up for soccer, baseball, or join us for the opening day parade on June 1st. Plus, don’t miss our new skateboarding classes at McKoy Park—perfect for thrill-seekers looking to master new skills.

Ready to dive into spring with Decatur Parks & Recreation? Explore all the exciting offerings in our Playbook and secure your spot by registering on CommunityPass today!

Filed under Adult Sports, Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Exercise, Glenlake Tennis Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , ,

Summer Pool Schedule Update

August 18, 2023 by 2 Comments

As the summer season winds down, we want to ensure you have every opportunity to make the most of these warm days. McKoy Pool will be closing its doors for maintenance after regular hours on Sunday, August 20.

However, the aquatic fun continues at Ebster Pool, which will remain open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 6 pm until September 4th.

Meanwhile, Glenlake Pool will be your weekday haven, open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 8 pm until September 4th. And the fun doesn’t stop there – mark your calendars for September 9th and 10th when Glenlake Pool will finish up the season from 10 am to 6 pm.

As we bid farewell to another summer, take the opportunity to enjoy the refreshing waters, bask in the sun’s warm embrace, and savor the sense of community that our pools offer. These spaces have been a source of relaxation, exercise, and shared moments, and we’re here to ensure you have the chance to create lasting memories until the very end of the season. So, gather your loved ones, pack your towels, and join us as we embrace the final lap of summer at Decatur’s pools.

Filed under Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Glenlake Pool Tagged with ,

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