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 , , , ,

Cemeteries: The Original Parks

July 7, 2025 by Leave a comment

July is Parks & Recreation Month, and here in Decatur, we’re celebrating by spotlighting an unexpected but special green space—the Historic Decatur Cemetery.

Long before manicured lawns and paved trails, 19th-century cemeteries offered what we now call parks—peaceful landscapes for strolling, reflection, and community togetherness. The city cemetery movement, inspired by Mount Auburn in Boston (est. 1831), combined scenic paths, ornamental plantings, and serene spaces—all for public enjoyment.

Decatur Cemetery: Downtown’s Largest Green Space

  • At 58 acres, it’s the largest greenspace in downtown Decatur, located just a half-mile from the Square.
  • Established in the 1820s (even pre-dating Decatur’s incorporation in 1823), it’s the oldest burial ground in metro Atlanta, now housing over 20,000 graves.
  • The Victorian-style 7.5-acre Old Section, with its curving paths and landmark monuments, reflects early “cemetery park” design.
  • Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997, offering a living classroom of local history .

Meet the Friends of Decatur Cemetery

The volunteer group Friends of Decatur Cemetery works alongside the City to preserve, maintain, and enliven this space—through tree plantings, gazebo restorations, tours, and educational outreach.

Join the Scavenger Hunt & Celebrate!

n celebration of Parks & Recreation Month, the Friends of Decatur Cemetery are hosting a fun and family-friendly scavenger hunt throughout the cemetery grounds!

Discover historic markers, unique monuments, and hidden natural gems as you explore Downtown Decatur’s largest green space. It’s the perfect way for families, friends, and history lovers to connect with nature and local heritage—all while enjoying the outdoors!

Come together in this beautiful, living park that tells the stories of Decatur’s past—while celebrating Parks & Recreation Month!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation Tagged with ,

July Is Parks & Recreation Month!

June 30, 2025 by Leave a comment

July 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of Parks & Recreation Month, a nationwide celebration led by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) since 1985. This initiative recognizes the dedicated professionals and volunteers who make our parks safe, inclusive, and thriving. Guided by the theme “Build Together, Play Together,” July is all about the power of parks to connect us, support our health, and strengthen our communities

How Decatur Is Celebrating

Decatur Parks & Recreation has planned a full slate of free events to mark the occasion—and everyone’s invited!

  • July 3: Poppin’ at the Pools – Beat the heat with free popsicles at local pools.
  • July 8: Nature Hike at Legacy Park (10 a.m.) – Explore Legacy Park guided by the City’s Urban Naturalist.
  • July 10: Legacy Park Beaver Complex Tour (10 a.m.) – Discover the fascinating world of beavers.
  • July 12: Hawk Hollow Hike (10 a.m.) – Discover one of Decatur’s hidden gems on a nature walk through Hawk Hollow.
  • July 21: Free Swim Day at Ebster Pool (1–3 p.m.) – Cool off with free pool admission from 1–3 p.m.
  • July 26: Community Day at Ebster Field (10 a.m.–2 p.m.) – Join us for games, music, food, and family fun.

All month long, Decatur Parks & Recreation will be highlighting the people, places, and programs that make our community special. Stories and updates will be shared on our social media platforms, showcasing how parks and recreation bring people together, promote well-being, and support a more connected Decatur.

Let’s Build and Play—Together

Parks and recreation bring people together in ways that few other services can. They create space for belonging, offer opportunities to grow and connect, and help shape a vibrant, inclusive Decatur.

This July, we invite you to experience all that Decatur Parks & Recreation has to offer—and to celebrate the programs, places, and people that help build the community we love.

Learn more at decaturga.com/parksrec

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation Tagged with , ,

Celebrate National Bike to Work Week in Decatur!

May 12, 2025 by Leave a comment

This week marks National Bike to Work Week, and here in Decatur, we’re proud to support a culture of active transportation, sustainability, and community well-being. Whether you’re a daily bike commuter or just curious about leaving the car at home, this is the perfect time to give cycling a spin.

Why Bike to Work?
Cycling to work isn’t just a great way to start the day—it’s a small action with big impact. Choosing to bike instead of drive helps reduce traffic congestion, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve your physical and mental health. It’s an eco-friendly commute that energizes you before your day even begins.

Join Us for Bike to Work Day – Friday, May 16
As part of the weeklong celebration, National Bike to Work Day takes place this Friday, May 16. We’re inviting all riders to stop by Decatur’s Energizer Station for a morning boost!

Location: Green space triangle where West Howard Avenue meets Atlanta Avenue (along the PATH multi-use trail)
Time: Starting at 8:00 AM
What to Expect: Refreshments, encouragement, and camaraderie from fellow riders and Decatur staff.

Whether you’re riding solo or meeting up with coworkers and neighbors, this is a chance to feel supported and inspired. We’ll be there to cheer you on and celebrate every mile you pedal.

Keep Decatur Rolling Forward
Our community’s commitment to walkability and bikeability is what makes Decatur special. Let’s continue to build on that progress—one pedal at a time.

Hop on your bike, make the switch for a day, and join a movement that’s good for you and even better for the planet.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise Tagged with , , , ,

Celebrate Bike Month in Decatur!

May 1, 2025 by Leave a comment

May is National Bike Month—a time to celebrate the many benefits of bicycling and encourage more people to give it a try. Established in 1956 by the League of American Bicyclists, Bike Month has grown into a nationwide celebration of cycling for recreation, transportation, and community connection.

Whether you’re a long-time cyclist or thinking about riding for the first time in years, Bike Month is the perfect time to hop on your bike and see where two wheels can take you.

Key Dates to Know

May 1 – Learn to Ride a Bike Day
We’re kicking off the month with a focus on new riders. Learning to ride a bike builds confidence, independence, and mobility. We’ll be sharing beginner tips and encouraging riders of all ages to get started.

May 7 – National Bike to School Day
Join students and families throughout Decatur in biking or walking to school. This event promotes safe routes, active living, and a strong sense of community. Schools will be celebrating with Walk & Rolls.

May 12–18 – National Bike Week
Throughout the week, we’ll highlight the many benefits of cycling. Follow along for resources, safety tips, and encouragement to keep riding.

May 16 – Bike to Work Day
Make your commute more enjoyable by biking to work. We’ll have an energizer station set up in the triangle between West Howard Avenue and Atlanta Avenue in the morning. Stop by for refreshments, bike safety gear, and a chance to connect with other riders.

May 16 – Bikes & Brews Ride
Meet at 6:30 p.m. in front of Guild+Journeyman (115 Clairemont Ave.) for a 6-mile evening group ride through Decatur. After the ride, we’ll cool down with a visit to a local brewery. Helmets are required and lights are strongly recommended.

Bike Safety Tips

Before you head out, take a few minutes to ensure your ride is safe:

  • Check your equipment: Make sure your tires are inflated, your brakes work properly, and your chain is in good condition.
  • Wear a helmet: Helmets are your best protection in the event of a fall or crash.
  • Be visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing and use front and rear bike lights, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Follow the rules of the road: Ride in the same direction as traffic, obey all traffic signals and signs, and use hand signals when turning.
  • Stay alert: Avoid using headphones while riding and keep an eye out for obstacles or opening car doors.

Why Bike?

Cycling improves physical and mental health, reduces traffic congestion, and is a sustainable, affordable way to get around. Decatur’s bike-friendly streets, trails, and community support make it easier than ever to ride for fun, fitness, or transportation.

Join us this May as we celebrate Bike Month, support safer streets, and encourage people of all ages to discover the joy of biking in Decatur.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Safe Routes to School Tagged with , , ,

Celebrating Earth Day the Decatur Way: Community, Conservation, and Commitment

April 23, 2025 by Leave a comment

In Decatur, Earth Day isn’t just a date on the calendar—it’s a reflection of our ongoing commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community collaboration. This year, we’re proud to highlight a variety of efforts happening across our city that demonstrate how we’re working together to protect our green spaces and nurture a healthier planet.

Pitching in at Legacy Park
Volunteers from the Atlanta Braves Foundation, Coors, and Hands On Atlanta kicked off Earth Day celebrations early with a community workday at Legacy Park. Once a home for children, this beautiful 77-acre greenspace is now home to 18 nonprofits and an evolving hub for civic engagement and environmental restoration.

On Tuesday, April 15, nearly 50 volunteers rolled up their sleeves to tackle weeding, planting, and revitalization projects throughout the park. Thanks to their hard work and generous spirit, Legacy Park is greener, cleaner, and more welcoming for all who visit and work there.

Students in Action at Hidden Cove Park
The City of Decatur’s Urban Naturalist recently led a group of Decatur High School students through a hands-on morning of environmental service at Hidden Cove Park. With shovels in hand and sleeves rolled up, these dedicated students removed invasive English ivy and planted native species to help restore the park’s natural ecosystem. Their efforts not only support local biodiversity but also build a lasting connection between youth and the natural world.

Decatur’s Sustainability Leadership Recognized
Decatur’s commitment to environmental leadership remains strong, earning the city platinum recertification in the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Green Communities program. This voluntary certification recognizes local governments that go above and beyond to reduce their environmental footprint and promote sustainability.

We’re proud of the many initiatives that helped us earn this distinction, including:

  • Requiring green building certifications for all new development
  • Supporting residential solar installations with expedited permitting
  • Creating a comprehensive stormwater master plan
  • Earning national recognition as a Bee City USA, Tree City USA, Bicycle Friendly Community, and Walk Friendly Community
  • Adopting a Clean Energy Plan to transition away from fossil fuels
  • Partnering with Agnes Scott College to develop a climate resilience plan

These efforts are more than policies—they’re part of a shared vision for a city where people and nature thrive together.

A Greener Future Starts Here
From students planting native flowers to corporate volunteers digging in the dirt, Earth Day in Decatur is about action, collaboration, and care. Whether you’re biking to school, watching birds at Legacy Park, or helping remove invasive species, every step toward sustainability contributes to a stronger, greener future.

Let’s keep the momentum going—not just on Earth Day, but every day.

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Legacy Park Tagged with ,

Step Into Spring: Celebrating Walk to Work Day & National Walking Day in Decatur

April 4, 2025 by Leave a comment

April is off to a strong and sunny start here in Decatur—and what better way to kick it off than by lacing up your sneakers and celebrating two walking holidays in the same week?

On Wednesday, April 2, communities across the country marked National Walking Day, an annual reminder from the American Heart Association about the power of walking to improve our physical and mental health. Whether it was a stroll through your neighborhood, a walk to school with your child, or laps around the track, this day encouraged everyone to take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle.

And today, Friday, April 4, we’re keeping the momentum going with Walk to Work Day—a perfect opportunity to reimagine your daily commute. Even if you don’t live within walking distance of your workplace, there are creative ways to build a walk into your morning or evening routine. Try parking a little farther away, hopping off MARTA a stop early, or starting your day with a neighborhood loop before logging in from home.

Here in Decatur, we’re proud to be a city that supports walking year-round. From our tree-lined sidewalks to our growing network of greenways and crosswalks, walking is a key part of our vision for a more connected, healthy, and people-centered community. In fact, walking aligns beautifully with our Strategic Plan 2020: Destination 2030—especially the goal of creating 10-minute neighborhoods where residents can easily walk to parks, schools, shops, and services.

So whether you walked on Wednesday, today, or plan to head out over the weekend, this is your reminder that every step counts. Walking is one of the simplest, most accessible forms of exercise—and it’s also a great way to connect with your neighbors and your surroundings.

📸 Did you celebrate Walk to Work Day or National Walking Day? Tag us in your photos or stories (@decaturparksandrec)—we’d love to share your steps!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Walk Decatur Tagged with , ,

Become a Certified League Cycling Instructor in Decatur

February 25, 2025 by Leave a comment

Decatur is looking for experienced cyclists to take their skills to the next level by becoming League Cycling Instructors (LCIs). This nationally recognized certification, offered by the League of American Bicyclists, provides the training needed to teach bike safety, lead community education programs, and support Decatur’s efforts to improve cycling accessibility.

Why Become an LCI?

As a certified instructor, you will be able to:

  • Teach bike education and safety courses for all ages
  • Lead group rides and skills clinics
  • Support local initiatives to improve biking infrastructure and awareness
  • Help Decatur achieve Gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community status

Training Details

  • Dates: April 26–28, 2024
  • Location: Decatur Recreation Center
  • Cost: $500 (full scholarships available!)
  • Eligibility: Participants must complete the Smart Cycling course before attending the LCI seminar.

This is a great opportunity to make biking safer and more accessible in Decatur while gaining valuable expertise. Space is limited, so apply soon!

Learn more and apply here.

For questions, contact Gael Doyle.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Legacy Park Tagged with , ,

Bikeability and Walkability in Decatur: A City Built for Moving

February 11, 2025 by Leave a comment

This Valentine’s season, we’re sharing the love—Decatur loves you, and we love being active! Whether you’re walking hand-in-hand through our charming streets or biking to your favorite local café, Decatur is designed to make every trip safe, scenic, and enjoyable.

With over 60 miles of tree-lined and art-filled sidewalks in just 4.7 square miles, Decatur has earned an A+ walkability score and is officially designated a “Walker’s Paradise” by WalkScore. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting, choosing to walk or bike is a great way to show love for your health, your community, and the environment.

Walk There! Decatur: It’s Closer Than You Think

Decatur’s “Walk There! Decatur” campaign encourages people to choose walking over driving whenever possible. Look for Walk There! Decatur signs along sidewalks and streets, showing estimated walking times to nearby points of interest. Each sign includes a QR code so pedestrians can get real-time walking directions on their smartphones. For those without a phone, a map is provided on the back of each sign.

Why Walk?

  • It promotes physical fitness – Show your heart some love with a little extra movement.
  • It’s a greener option – Walking helps keep Decatur beautiful and sustainable.
  • It supports local businesses – Walk to your favorite date night spot or coffee shop.
  • It enhances tourism – Visitors can easily experience all the charm Decatur has to offer.

Pedal Power: Decatur as a Bike-Friendly Community

For those who love biking, Decatur has invested in infrastructure to make cycling safe and accessible. The city features:

  • Bike lanes, sharrows, and bike boxes to improve safety on the roads.
  • Plenty of bike racks in business districts for easy parking.
  • Bike repair stations strategically placed throughout the city for quick fixes.

Thanks to these efforts, Decatur has been recognized as a Silver-Level Bicycle-Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists.

Safety Tips for Walking and Biking in Decatur

For Pedestrians:
✔ Use crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals.
✔ Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at busy intersections.
✔ Walk on sidewalks whenever possible—if none are available, walk facing traffic.
✔ Be visible at night by wearing light-colored or reflective clothing.

For Cyclists:
✔ Always wear a helmet and use lights when riding at night.
✔ Follow traffic laws—bikes are considered vehicles and must obey stop signs and signals.
✔ Ride in bike lanes when available or stay as far right as practical when sharing the road.
✔ Use hand signals to communicate with drivers and pedestrians.

For Drivers:
✔ Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing.
✔ Watch for bikes when turning, especially at intersections.
✔ Be mindful of designated bike lanes and sharrows.
✔ Avoid distractions—stay off your phone while driving.

Decatur Loves to Move!

This Valentine’s Day, show some love for your health, your city, and your community by choosing to walk or bike. Whether you’re out for a stroll with someone special, riding to meet friends, or simply enjoying the fresh air, Decatur loves being active—and we hope you do too!

For more information about biking and walking initiatives in Decatur, visit our website.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , , , , ,

Walk There! Decatur

January 27, 2025 by Leave a comment

Pedestrian Safety Tips in the City of Decatur

Walking is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the City of Decatur. With our tree-lined streets, bustling square, and vibrant neighborhoods, Decatur is committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for pedestrians. Whether you’re walking to school, commuting to work, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some essential pedestrian safety tips to help keep everyone safe on Decatur’s streets:

1. Use Designated Crosswalks

Always cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections. These areas are designed for pedestrian visibility, and drivers are more likely to yield to you. Be sure to wait for the “Walk” signal when available.

2. Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions

Keep your eyes up and avoid distractions like texting or using your phone while walking. Staying aware of your surroundings helps you notice approaching vehicles, bicycles, or other potential hazards.

3. Make Eye Contact with Drivers

Before crossing the street, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you. Never assume a driver has noticed you or will yield the right-of-way.

4. Walk on Sidewalks

Use sidewalks whenever available. If a sidewalk is not present, walk on the shoulder of the road facing traffic to increase visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.

5. Be Visible, Especially at Night

If you’re walking in low-light conditions, wear bright or reflective clothing to make yourself more visible to drivers. Carrying a flashlight or using reflective accessories can also improve safety.

6. Follow Traffic Signals and Signs

Adhere to all traffic signals and pedestrian signs. Crossing against the light or outside of designated areas increases the risk of accidents and confusion for drivers.

7. Teach Kids Pedestrian Safety Rules

Ensure children understand basic pedestrian safety rules, such as looking both ways before crossing, using crosswalks, and staying close to an adult when near traffic.

8. Advocate for Safe Streets

Decatur residents are encouraged to advocate for pedestrian-friendly policies and infrastructure improvements. Whether it’s attending community meetings or participating in walkability studies, your voice helps shape a safer city for everyone.

How Decatur Supports Pedestrian Safety

The City of Decatur has made significant investments in creating a pedestrian-friendly community. Projects like traffic-calming measures, expanded crosswalks, and pedestrian signals at key intersections make walking safer and more convenient. Additionally, educational campaigns and events like Walk to School Day promote awareness of pedestrian safety.

By working together as a community, we can ensure that the City of Decatur remains a safe, walkable, and enjoyable city for all residents and visitors. Take these tips to heart, stay mindful of your surroundings, and enjoy all that Decatur has to offer—on foot!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Safe Routes to School, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , ,

← Older posts

Newer posts →