Wrapping Up Parks & Recreation Month in Decatur: Build Together, Play Together!

August 1, 2025 by Leave a comment

Across the country, July is dedicated to celebrating the incredible impact that parks, recreation programs, and public spaces have on building strong, healthy, and connected communities. Here in Decatur, we embraced this year’s theme, “Build Together, Play Together,” with a month full of activities that brought neighbors, friends, and families together.

Throughout the month, our team worked hard to make each week meaningful and memorable. Rec and Ally handed out popsicles at camps and pools, helping everyone cool off while spreading a little extra joy. We welcomed community members to explore nature with guided hikes led by our Urban Naturalist and opened Ebster Pool for a free swim day that invited all to dive into summer fun.

Our grand finale? Community Day at Ebster! It was a true celebration of connection—with music from DJ K-Kat, inflatable games, soccer clinics, bike rides, and open play. The day brought together residents of all ages and backgrounds for an afternoon of laughter, movement, and shared experiences.

These events weren’t just about fun, they were a reminder of how parks and recreation create space for wellness, learning, and community building. Your participation and support helped make this month such a success.

Thank you to everyone who joined us. Here’s to building something even better, together.

Filed under Bike Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Ebster Recreation Center, Exercise Tagged with , , ,

Bikes & Brews: Ride Through Decatur This Friday

July 17, 2025 by Leave a comment

Looking for a fun and social way to explore Decatur on two wheels? Join us this Friday, July 18, for Bikes & Brews, our monthly group ride that brings together community members for a casual ride followed by conversation and refreshments at a local establishment.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or simply curious about Decatur’s growing bike culture, this is a great way to get involved, connect with fellow riders, and enjoy the city from a new perspective.

Event Details

Date: Friday, July 18
Time: Meet at 6:30 p.m.
Starting Location: Guild + Journeyman, 115 Clairemont Ave
Ride Length: Approximately 6 miles, at a relaxed, no-drop pace
Post-Ride Meetup: Local establishment

No registration is required. Just bring your bike, your helmet, and a sense of adventure. This event is open to adults only.

Supporting Safe and Active Transportation in Decatur

Decatur is committed to making biking a safe, accessible, and enjoyable option for residents and visitors. Our community has invested in expanding bike infrastructure—like bike lanes, shared-use paths, and improved signage—to support cyclists of all levels. Recent updates to the city’s transportation and mobility plans have emphasized safety, connectivity, and equity, helping more people feel confident choosing active transportation.

Bikes & Brews provides a welcoming space for riders to experience this network firsthand, while exploring neighborhood streets in a fun and supportive group setting.

Safety First

While this ride is casual and social, safety is our top priority. Please review the following before you join:

  • Helmets are required for all riders
  • Check your bike before arriving—ensure tires are inflated, brakes are working, and lights are charged if you’ll be riding home after dark
  • Follow the rules of the road—ride predictably, signal turns, and stay alert
  • Ride respectfully in the group and in the community

Our team will be on hand to help guide the ride and ensure everyone feels comfortable and safe throughout.

Why It Matters

Bikes & Brews isn’t just about cycling—it’s about building community. It’s an opportunity to strengthen connections, share knowledge, and advocate for safer streets for everyone. Whether you ride to work, ride for fun, or are just getting started, your participation helps shape a more active and vibrant Decatur.

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

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 , , , ,

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 , , ,

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 , , , , , ,

Biking Safety Tips for Youth: Riding Smart Starts Early!

December 23, 2024 by Leave a comment

Biking is an exciting way for kids and teens to stay active, explore their neighborhoods, and have fun with friends. But riding safely is just as important as knowing how to pedal. Check out these top tips to help youth ride smart and stay safe!

Gear Up for Safety

  • Helmet First! A helmet isn’t just cool—it’s essential. Make sure it fits snugly and is worn level on the head.
  • Bright Clothing Rocks. Neon, bright colors, or reflective gear helps others see you, especially during dawn or dusk.

Know the Rules of the Road

  • Ride in the Right Direction. Always bike with the flow of traffic, not against it.
  • Follow Traffic Signs and Signals. Just like cars, bikes need to obey stop signs, red lights, and other road signals.
  • Use Hand Signals. Show drivers and others where you’re going with clear hand signals for turning or stopping.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

  • Keep Your Head Up! Watch for cars, pedestrians, potholes, and even animals.
  • No Distractions. Save the headphones and phone scrolling for after your ride.

Stay Visible

  • Use a white front light and a red rear light if riding when it’s dark or getting dark. Reflectors on bikes and backpacks are a great addition too!

Ride Where It’s Safe

  • Stick to bike lanes, quiet streets, or trails when possible.
  • For younger riders, sidewalks can be safer, but always be mindful of pedestrians.

Check Your Bike Before You Go

  • Tires. Are they pumped up and ready to roll?
  • Brakes. Make sure they stop smoothly.
  • Chain. It should be clean and securely in place.

Buddy Up

  • Riding with a friend or group is not only more fun but safer too. You’re more visible when biking with others.

Respect Others on the Road

  • Be courteous to drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Sharing the road makes it safer for everyone.

Teaching youth these biking safety habits early helps them build confidence and independence. Whether biking to school, the park, or a friend’s house, a safe ride is always the best ride!

Let’s empower young riders to explore their world safely on two wheels. 🚴‍♂️✨

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

Bike Safety Tips for a Safe Ride

December 19, 2024 by Leave a comment

Biking is not only a great way to stay active and reduce your carbon footprint, but it’s also an enjoyable way to explore your community. Whether you’re commuting, riding to school, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, safety should always be your top priority.

Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe biking experience:

1. Wear a Helmet

A properly fitted helmet is your best defense against head injuries. It should fit snugly, sit level on your head, and cover your forehead without obstructing your vision. A helmet can make a significant difference in the event of an accident.

2. Be Visible

Make sure drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists can see you. Wear bright or reflective clothing, and equip your bike with front and rear lights, especially if you’re riding in low-light conditions or at night. Being visible helps prevent accidents.

3. Follow the Rules of the Road

Bicycles are considered vehicles, and riders are required to obey traffic laws. Ride in the same direction as traffic, stop at red lights and stop signs, and use hand signals to communicate your turns. Staying predictable and adhering to road rules helps keep everyone safe.

4. Stay Alert

Always be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for cars, pedestrians, potholes, and other potential hazards. Avoid distractions like using your phone or listening to music through headphones while riding. Staying focused allows you to react quickly to any situation.

5. Check Your Bike Before You Ride

Before hitting the road, do a quick inspection of your bike. Check the brakes to ensure they’re working properly, examine the tires for any signs of wear or low pressure, and make sure the chain is clean and in good condition.

6. Ride Predictably

Avoid sudden swerves or stops that might confuse drivers or other cyclists. Signal your intentions clearly, and ride in a straight line whenever possible. Riding predictably helps others on the road anticipate your movements.

Safety is a Shared Responsibility

By following these tips, you’re doing your part to create a safer environment for all road users. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just getting started, a little preparation and awareness can go a long way toward ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride.

Let’s work together to make our streets bike-friendly and safe for everyone. Happy riding!

For more bike safety tips or to learn about cycling programs in the City of Decatur, visit decaturga.com/biking

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise 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 , , ,

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