Off the beaten tracks: Your neighborhood guide to Candler Park

While neighboring Little Five Points and Decatur get most of the cultural buzz, Candler Park — located just east of Little Five — is a charming residential neighborhood with plenty of history, greenspace, and activities to enjoy.

After the Civil War, the Edgewood community was established in the early 1870′s on both sides of the train that connected Atlanta to Decatur. It began as an independent community, serviced by multiple streetcar lines and home to a mix of families. By 1908, the area was annexed into the city of Atlanta and development boomed. When Coca-Cola magnate Asa Candler donated 55 acres of park land to the City in 1922, Candler Park as a name was born, alongside the area’s new greenspace and golf course.

As in many Atlanta neighborhoods, the area was affected by white flight and encroaching destruction of I-485 and Stone Mountain Freeways through the middle of the twentieth century. But after being spared, Candler Park was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. Its charm has been preserved alongside its quirky spirit that comes from its businesses and proximity to Little Five Points. Today, Candler Park is a thriving neighborhood with a lot to offer residents and visitors from around Atlanta alike.

What can I do for fun in Candler Park?

Celebrate the turning of the seasons with the Candler Park Fall Fest. When the leaves turn red and orange, come on down to Candler Park to celebrate with a weekend of food, games, and live music. Best of all, the festival is free! If you need to celebrate before then, Candler Park frequently hosts other festivals and was home to the long-running Candler Park Music Fest until it ended in 2023.

Swing onto the Candler Park Golf Course. There’s a 9-hole public golf course right in the middle of the city at the edge of Candler Park. Open daily during daylight hours, the course features three sets of tees, and all skill levels are welcome. Reserve your tee times or get an annual pass online at cityofatlantagolf.com.

Climb the ranks at the Wall Crawler Rock Club. This small rock-climbing facility offers free climbing, summer camps for kids, and bookings for events and birthday parties. Don’t know how to climb? Join their introductory classes and get a crash course in climbing. Monday night classes are half off!

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Candler Park?

Candler Park Market

Every neighborhood should have a market with quality local goods like the long-running Candler Park Market. Beyond their fresh meats and local organic produce, the Market serves breakfast bowls, sandwiches, freshly ground burgers, and more. Whether you’re eating in or grabbing stuff for home, they also offer hundreds of hand-picked beer and wine selections for purchase that will pair perfectly with your food.

Location: 1642 McLendon Ave NE; Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: candlerparkmarket.com

Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party

If you want more than your average tea and coffee shop, you must stop by Dr Bombay’s. Pop into this community tea house for a hot cup of tea, a delicious pastry, ice cream, or one of their homemade sandwiches, and relax in their quirky aesthetic straight out of a curiosities shop. If you want to take your tea party seriously, reserve a high tea session (at least 24 hours in advance) and enter through a private entrance to enjoy an assortment of snacks and a pot of tea to share with friends in their back patio garden. Proceeds help fund The Learning Tea’s international women’s education efforts.

Location: 1645 McLendon Ave NE; Hours: Fridays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Website: drbombays.com

Fox Bros. BBQ

One of the most popular Atlanta barbeque joints is also one of its best. Visit the original Candler Park location off DeKalb Avenue and get ready for a meaty good meal. Fox Bros. has your usual assortment of smoked meats stuffed into sandwich or onto a plate but be sure to also try their more offbeat offerings, too. The standout is their Texas-inspired Frito pie: a crunchy, savory mix of Frito chips, chili, and veggies topped with shredded cheese.

Location: 1238 DeKalb Ave NE; Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Website: foxbrosbbq.com

Gigi’s Italian Kitchen

Located in the former home of Gato, this pop-up turned full-time restaurant features the best of Italian food in a cozy, homely dining space. No spaghetti and meatballs here. Instead, start with a Caesar salad tossed in miso and garlic, then dine on beef carpaccio or radiatore pasta with sweet potatoes and pork belly. When it’s time for dessert, don’t forget to try their renowned tiramisu.

Location: 1660 McLendon Ave NE; Hours: Friday through Tuesday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Website: gigisitaliankitchenatl.com

Lazy Betty

On the high end of both price and acclaim lies Lazy Betty, whose chefs are anything but lazy. Recognized recently with a Michelin star, a dinner here is an experience built around an extensive tasting menu. A seven-course meal awaits, including caviar service, fresh entrees, and a vegetarian menu, among other things. Wine pairings are optional, with a two-bottle limit for an additional fee. Reserve a table for your date night or celebration today.

Location: 1530 DeKalb Ave NE; Hours: Open Wednesday through Saturday, 5-9 p.m.; Sunday, 5-8 p.m.; Website: lazybettyatl.com