Emory University, nestled in the verdant Druid Hills neighborhood of Atlanta, is renowned for its academic excellence, beautiful campus, and strong sense of community. Yet, for students, faculty, staff, and visitors, the Emory experience extends far beyond the lecture halls and libraries. Atlanta, a city of diverse neighborhoods, rich history, burgeoning culinary scenes, and abundant green spaces, offers an incredible array of activities and attractions just a stone’s throw from campus.
Whether you’re looking for a quick study break, a weekend adventure, or a taste of authentic Southern culture, this guide will navigate you through the myriad of things to do near Emory University, ensuring your time in Atlanta is as enriching outside the classroom as it is within.
I. The Immediate Vicinity: Emory Village & Druid Hills Charms
Let’s start with the absolute closest options, perfect for a quick bite or a refreshing walk without venturing far.
Emory Village: Just a short stroll from campus, Emory Village is the quintessential college town hub.
- Dining: You’ll find a relaxed mix of eateries like Slice & Pint (pizza and craft beer), Illegal Food (gourmet burgers and unique dishes), Rise-n-Dine (classic diner fare), and various cafes perfect for a coffee fix or a casual study session.
- Essentials: It also houses a CVS, a post office, and a few small boutiques, making it convenient for everyday needs.
- Atmosphere: It’s a lively spot, especially during the academic year, great for people-watching and soaking in the local student vibe.
Lullwater Preserve: An absolute gem on Emory’s campus, Lullwater Preserve is a sprawling 150-acre natural oasis.
- Outdoor Escape: This serene preserve features walking and running trails, a picturesque lake, a waterfall, and even the ruins of an old mill. It’s a perfect escape for nature lovers, offering a peaceful respite from academic pressures.
- Historic Charm: The historic Lullwater House, once the home of Emory’s president, adds a touch of architectural beauty to the natural landscape.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from various points on campus, it’s ideal for a quick nature walk between classes or a longer weekend hike.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History: Just adjacent to Emory’s campus, Fernbank offers an immersive journey through the natural world.
- Dinosaurs & Dioramas: Famous for its impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons, including the world’s largest dinosaurs, Fernbank also boasts engaging exhibits on Georgia’s natural history, cultural artifacts, and a fascinating look at the universe.
- Giant Screen Theater: The museum’s IMAX theater shows captivating nature documentaries, providing an epic visual experience.
- WildWoods & Fernbank Forest: Step outside to explore the urban forest trails, elevated walkways, and outdoor exhibits that connect visitors with the surrounding natural environment. It’s a fantastic spot for families and anyone curious about the natural sciences.
Michael C. Carlos Museum: Located right on Emory’s campus, this is one of the Southeast’s most comprehensive collections of ancient art.
- Ancient Worlds: The museum houses remarkable collections from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, the Near East, and the ancient Americas, including mummies, sarcophagi, and intricate pottery.
- Global Art: It also features significant collections of African art and works on paper from the Renaissance to the present.
- Free for Emory Community: A fantastic cultural resource that’s easily accessible and often free for Emory students, faculty, and staff.
II. Decatur Square: A Lively & Walkable Destination
Just a few minutes drive or a quick ride on the Emory Cliff Shuttle (or even a brisk walk for some), Downtown Decatur offers a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly experience.
Culinary Hotspot: Decatur is renowned for its diverse and high-quality dining scene.
- Upscale & Casual: From farm-to-table excellence at Kimball House to authentic Spanish tapas at The Iberian Pig, classic American fare at Leon’s Full Service, or delicious wood-fired pizzas at Sapori di Napoli, there’s something for every palate and budget.
- Craft Beer Scene: Don’t miss the legendary Brick Store Pub, a European-style pub with an unparalleled selection of craft beers, or Decatur Beer Board for more local brews.
- Sweet Treats: Indulge in artisanal ice cream at Butter & Cream or delectable pastries from local bakeries.
Boutique Shopping: Decatur Square is lined with independent shops offering unique gifts, books, clothing, and home goods. It’s a great place to find something truly special.
Community & Events: The square itself is a hub of activity, frequently hosting farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts, festivals, and community gatherings throughout the year. Its central fountain and ample green space make it a pleasant spot to relax and people-watch.
Agnes Scott College: Located just south of the square, this historic women’s college adds to the area’s academic and architectural charm.
III. The BeltLine & Ponce City Market: Atlanta’s Urban Playground
A slightly longer journey, but highly recommended for a full day of exploration, these interconnected destinations represent the best of Atlanta’s urban revitalization.
Ponce City Market (PCM): A monumental adaptive reuse project, PCM transformed the historic Sears, Roebuck & Co. building into a vibrant mixed-use development.
- Food Hall Extravaganza: Its central food hall is a foodie paradise, featuring dozens of vendors offering everything from gourmet burgers and sushi to ramen, tacos, and artisanal desserts. It’s perfect for groups with diverse tastes.
- Retail Therapy: Explore a wide array of boutiques, national retailers, and unique shops.
- Rooftop Fun: For an extra fee, head up to Skyline Park on the roof for carnival games, miniature golf, a bar, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlanta skyline.
- Work & Play: PCM also houses offices and residences, creating a dynamic, integrated community.
The Atlanta BeltLine (Eastside Trail): PCM sits directly on the Eastside Trail of the Atlanta BeltLine, a former railway corridor transformed into a multi-use trail connecting many of Atlanta’s intown neighborhoods.
- Walk, Run, Bike: Rent a bike or simply walk along this paved trail, soaking in the vibrant street art, public art installations, and urban scenery.
- Neighborhood Connector: The BeltLine seamlessly connects you to other exciting areas like Old Fourth Ward (home of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site), Inman Park, and Virginia-Highland.
- Patio Dining: Numerous restaurants and breweries have opened along the BeltLine, offering fantastic patios perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink outdoors.
IV. Virginia-Highland & Morningside: Quaint Charm & Culinary Delights
These charming, tree-lined neighborhoods offer a more relaxed, boutique experience, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Virginia-Highland: Known for its bungalow-style homes, independent boutiques, and lively restaurant and bar scene.
- Shopping: Discover unique clothing stores, gift shops, and art galleries.
- Dining & Nightlife: Enjoy diverse culinary options, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife with popular bars. It’s a great spot for brunch or an evening out.
Morningside: A beautiful residential area bordering Piedmont Park, Morningside offers quiet streets, stunning homes, and access to some lovely local parks and trails, including Morningside Nature Preserve. Ideal for a scenic walk or a peaceful picnic.
V. Midtown & The Arts District: Culture, Green Space & City Life
Midtown is Atlanta’s cultural heart, easily accessible from Emory via MARTA (a short ride from the Candler Park/Edgewood station or Arts Center station after taking the Cliff shuttle).
Piedmont Park: Atlanta’s answer to Central Park, this sprawling urban oasis is a must-visit.
- Recreation: Features walking/running trails, sports fields, a dog park, and a beautiful lake. It’s a hub for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Events: Hosts numerous festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year, including Music Midtown and the Atlanta Dogwood Festival.
Atlanta Botanical Garden: Adjacent to Piedmont Park, this stunning garden is a feast for the senses.
- Exotic Plants: Explore diverse collections, from tropical plants in the Fuqua Orchid Center to beautiful rose gardens, a Japanese garden, and a canopy walk among the trees.
- Chihuly & Lights: It often features impressive art installations (like Dale Chihuly’s glass sculptures) and transforms into a magical wonderland during its "Garden Lights, Holiday Nights" event in winter.
Woodruff Arts Center: Home to some of Atlanta’s premier cultural institutions.
- High Museum of Art: The leading art museum in the Southeast, boasting an impressive collection of European, American, decorative, and folk art, as well as captivating rotating exhibitions.
- Alliance Theatre: Atlanta’s leading regional theater, producing a wide range of plays and musicals.
- Atlanta Symphony Orchestra: Enjoy world-class classical music performances.
Fox Theatre: A magnificent historic movie palace turned performing arts venue, the Fox Theatre hosts Broadway shows, concerts, comedians, and more. Even if you don’t catch a show, its stunning Moorish architecture is worth admiring.
VI. Historic & Educational Gems Beyond Campus
Atlanta is a city with deep historical significance, and several key sites offer powerful educational experiences.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park: A profoundly moving and essential visit.
- Birth Home: Tour Dr. King’s birth home, Ebenezer Baptist Church (where he and his father preached), and his tomb.
- Exhibits: Explore the visitor center and the "Courage To Lead" exhibit at The King Center, learning about his life, legacy, and the Civil Rights Movement.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights: Located downtown, this powerful museum connects the American Civil Rights Movement to the global human rights struggle. Its interactive exhibits are both informative and deeply impactful.
World of Coca-Cola: A fun and unique attraction celebrating the history of Atlanta’s most famous beverage.
- Exhibits & Tastings: Explore the history of the brand, see the vault where the secret formula is kept, and most famously, taste over 100 different Coca-Cola products from around the world.
Georgia Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world, home to millions of gallons of water and thousands of animals.
- Marine Life: Marvel at whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, and countless other marine species in stunning exhibits. It’s an incredible experience for all ages.
VII. Unique Atlanta Flavors & Day Trips
Little Five Points: Atlanta’s eclectic, bohemian, and counter-culture neighborhood.
- Alternative Vibes: Known for its vintage shops, record stores, independent theaters, street art, and unique character. It’s a great place for people-watching and finding quirky treasures.
Krog Street Market: Similar to Ponce City Market but on a smaller, more intimate scale, Krog Street Market is another popular food hall located in Inman Park. It features delicious local eateries and specialty food vendors.
Stone Mountain Park (Day Trip): About a 30-minute drive from Emory, Stone Mountain is a massive quartz monzonite dome monadnock and a popular outdoor recreation area.
- Activities: Hike to the top for panoramic views, ride the scenic railroad, explore the historic village, or enjoy seasonal attractions like the laser show projected onto the mountain. It’s a great escape for a full day of outdoor fun.
Getting Around Atlanta from Emory
- Emory Cliff Shuttles: Emory’s extensive shuttle system connects various points on campus with Emory Village, local MARTA stations (like Candler Park/Edgewood and Arts Center), and other key destinations. This is your primary way to get off campus without a car.
- MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority): Atlanta’s public transportation system. From a Cliff Shuttle stop at a MARTA station, you can access Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, and the airport.
- Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are readily available and convenient for getting to places not directly served by shuttles or MARTA.
- Biking/Walking: For destinations like Emory Village, Lullwater, and parts of Druid Hills, walking or biking is a pleasant option. The BeltLine is also perfect for biking.
Conclusion
Emory University offers an exceptional academic environment, but its location in Atlanta provides an equally rich and diverse array of experiences just beyond its gates. From the immediate convenience of Emory Village to the cultural richness of Midtown, the historical significance of downtown, and the vibrant culinary scenes of Decatur and Ponce City Market, there’s always something new to discover.
Whether you’re an Emory student looking for a study break, a faculty member seeking local flavor, or a visitor exploring the area, embracing the vibrant tapestry of Atlanta’s neighborhoods will undoubtedly enhance your time near the "Woodruff Campus." So, step out, explore, and let the dynamic spirit of Atlanta become an integral part of your Emory journey.
