Most Family Friendly Walkable Part of Atlanta (Sandy Springs, Smyrna: estate, work)

[sweettea1]

We're really on the fence as to where to move. We both work in Sandy Springs, currently live in Smyrna, but are looking for a more walkable and family friendly neighborhood. As former NYers, it's really hard to be 'stuck' in your house with nowhere to walk. I know the standard answers -- VA/HI, Midtown (did that, didn't work). I love Inman Park but think it's probably too far for the commute. I probably won't find what I'm looking for in Atlanta but since this board is so great with info, I thought I'd throw it out there. Anyone absolutely LOVE their neighborhood with these criteria? If so, please share! Looking for a little 'bustle' outside...families walking to parks...cafes...coffee...any or all of the above. We had Dunwoody in mind but it's just not giving me that vibe! would love your thoughts...thanks!

[JPD]

Decatur. Candler Park. Avondale Estates.

[lastminutemom]

What about Buckhead?

Druid Hills?

Oak Grove area?

[cmtiger]

JPD is right on walkable, family friendly places... but they would be a hike to Sandy Springs.

I haven't been to Vinings in a while... is it walkable?

[sweettea1]

Yes, it is. And funny that's it's right outside my door. But it's not what we're looking for in a community and Vinings proper is really more of a singles scene for some reason. But we'll keep going...
Why can't someone make Sandy Springs more walkable!!! I'm whining...it's so frustrating tho!

[Atlantasfinest]

I don't think Inman Park is that far from Sandy Springs... I guess it's all relative, you could easily catch the Marta from the Inman Park Station or Civic Center to Sandy Springs as well. I know fro mhere in Inman Park it takes me about 25 minutes to get to Sandy Springs, but I guess it depends what time you leave. Inman Park & Old 4th Ward are great walking communities I would consider.

[sweettea1]

How is it for kids? Do you see a lot of strollers in your neighborhood? What about crime? Are packages stolen off porches (like in Midtown)? Can kids play outside in the neighborhood and moms feel safe?
After living in midtown for so long I'm very skeptical...funny that I was in NYC for 12 years...but I really want to get the info from people living in the town. So thanks in advance Atlantasfinest (and others) for your candor!!!

[xxman777]

Inman Park and Old Forth Ward are certainly walkable but I don't really consider them to be family friendly. Inman Park is more family friendly, but not one of the most in the city. I would reconsider Virginia Highlands or Morningside; lots of families, lots of kids. Very safe area, great schools, etc.

[Atlantasfinest]

Originally Posted by sweettea1

How is it for kids? Do you see a lot of strollers in your neighborhood? What about crime? Are packages stolen off porches (like in Midtown)? Can kids play outside in the neighborhood and moms feel safe?
After living in midtown for so long I'm very skeptical...funny that I was in NYC for 12 years...but I really want to get the info from people living in the town. So thanks in advance Atlantasfinest (and others) for your candor!!!

Well the great thing about Inman Park is that it's very secluded with plenty of parks, trails and other walking areas in abundance. Remember that the Freedom Parkway Trail Freedom Park - Atlanta, GA, 30301 - Citysearch runs thru Inman Park along with the Path Trail that leads to Freedom Park (The Park at the end of Freedoom Parkway Way that's close to LP5) you also have several other parks and greenspace located in the area that I see kids & adults playing In with Mom's rolling there babies in strollers. You should just come hang out over here on a Saturday and see what I'm talking about. It's definately a walking neighborhood that's links with Midtown/VAHI to the North, Edgewood & Reynoldstown/Cabbagetown directly South and Candler Park/LP5 to the East. With Downtown directly West.

Alot of people don't know this fact; but Inman Park was Atlanta's first planned community! Also the Atlanta Public Schools for the area are 1st rate in Atlanta since they pull from the VAHI & Inman Park areas. I own two lofts here and I have lived here since 2003 and it's always been a lovely oasis in the city and is only getting better. Rathbun's is located within walking distance as well as the Rathbun's new steak house that has opened with rave reviews. Also there is a Jakes Ice Cream in a quaint little village shopping area in Inman Park and that's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to restaurants and activities. There is too many positives to list here. I urge you just to come down here on Saturday to soak up the energy and vibe that is Inman Park!

[CityFan]

Originally Posted by sweettea1

Are packages stolen off porches (like in Midtown)? ...funny that I was in NYC for 12 years...

Just wondering if any theft happened in your NYC neighborhood? I thought it was a common problem in city living unless it's a fenced in big house set back from the street.