When you think of Atlanta, images of busy city streets and modern skyscrapers might come to mind. But tucked away just a few miles from downtown lies a neighborhood that feels like stepping back in time. Druid Hills, with its tree-lined avenues and historic mansions, offers a refreshing contrast to the energy of Atlanta's core. This article will guide you through the charm and significance of Druid Hills, from its architectural marvels to its must-visit attractions.
Discover Druid Hills: A Blend of History and Nature
Druid Hills brings thoughtful city planning and architectural beauty to Atlanta. This historic neighborhood, with its tree-lined streets and stately homes, offers a unique glimpse into Atlanta's past while providing public spaces for a serene escape from the crowds of the city center.
Why is it called Druid Hill? The name actually stems from the neighborhood's connection to nature. "Druid" refers to the ancient Celtic priests who worshiped in sacred groves, and "Hills" describes the area's gently rolling landscape.
Druid Hills's architectural and historical significance make it a worthwhile spot for adults to visit. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of American landscape architecture and creator of Boston's Emerald Necklace and New York's Central Park, Druid Hills represents one of his last major works. Olmsted's vision for Druid Hills was a picturesque suburban design that would serve as a model for future developments across America.
The neighborhood's layout showcases Olmsted's signature style, with curving streets that follow the natural contours of the land, creating a series of small parks and green spaces. This design preserves the area's natural beauty and creates a sense of community among residents.
The architecture in Druid Hills is equally impressive. The neighborhood boasts a stunning array of early 20th-century homes, ranging from stately Georgian and Tudor Revival mansions to charming Craftsman bungalows. Many of these homes were designed by renowned architects of the time, including Neel Reid, Philip Shutze, and Leila Ross Wilburn.
As you stroll through Druid Hills, you'll notice the careful preservation of these architectural gems. The Druid Hills Civic Association, established in 1938, has played a key role in maintaining the neighborhood's historic character. Their efforts led to Druid Hills being listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate its unique charm.
Must-Visit Attractions in Druid Hills
What is Druid Hills known for? Beyond its historic homes and streets, Druid Hills is home to several notable attractions that draw visitors from near and far. Whether you're planning a solo trip to Atlanta or spending a weekend exploring the city, make sure to include these Druid Hills highlights in your itinerary.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is a crown jewel of Druid Hills and a great destination for nature and science enthusiasts. This world-class museum offers an immersive journey through time, from the age of dinosaurs to present-day ecosystems.
As you explore the museum, you'll encounter awe-inspiring exhibits like "Giants of the Mesozoic," featuring towering dinosaur skeletons, and "A Walk Through Time in Georgia," which showcases the state's natural history. The museum's outdoor expansion, WildWoods and Fernbank Forest, provides a unique opportunity to explore 75 acres of mature hardwood forest right in the heart of Atlanta.
Emory University and Michael C. Carlos Museum
Emory University, founded in 1836, is a prestigious academic institution and a significant landmark in Druid Hills. The campus itself is a beautiful example of Collegiate Gothic architecture, with ivy-covered buildings and grassy quads that invite strolls.
Within the Emory campus, you'll find the Michael C. Carlos Museum, home to one of the most comprehensive collections of ancient art in the Southeast. The museum's collections span cultures from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome to the Americas, Africa, and Asia. It's a fantastic spot for history buffs and art lovers alike.
Olmsted Linear Park
No visit to Druid Hills is complete without exploring Olmsted Linear Park. This 45-acre park system, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted himself, consists of six segments that stretch along Ponce de Leon Avenue. Each segment offers its own unique character, from open meadows to wooded paths.
The string of parks is a living testament to Olmsted's vision of integrating nature into city environments. As you walk through it, you'll experience firsthand how Olmsted's design principles create a sense of expansiveness and tranquility, even in the midst of a high-energy city like Atlanta.
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
For a dose of culture and history, visit the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. This Gothic-Tudor-style mansion, built in 1920 for Charles Howard Candler of Coca-Cola fame, now serves as a community arts center.
The center offers a wide range of classes and workshops in various art forms, from pottery and painting to dance and music. Even if you're not participating in a class, the mansion and its beautifully landscaped grounds are worth exploring. The intricate architectural details and period furnishings provide a fascinating glimpse into Atlanta's Jazz Age opulence.
Experience More of Atlanta With CityPASS® Tickets
From the tree-lined streets of Druid Hills to the world-class exhibits at the Fernbank Museum, this historic neighborhood offers a unique perspective on Atlanta's past and present.
While Druid Hills offers a wealth of attractions, your Atlanta adventure doesn't have to stop there. With Atlanta CityPASS® tickets, you can extend your exploration to include some of the city's most popular attractions at significant savings.
CityPASS® tickets give you access to must-see Atlanta attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and Zoo Atlanta. It's the perfect way to complement your Druid Hills visit with more of Atlanta's top things to do.
So pack your walking shoes, bring your sense of curiosity, and prepare to be charmed by Druid Hills. And remember, your Atlanta adventure doesn't have to end here — with CityPASS® tickets, you can continue your exploration of this beautiful city, making memories that will last a lifetime.
Lodging in Atlanta
To get the most out of your stay in Atlanta, we recommend finding lodging near Atlanta's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Booking.com