Decatur Square 101 East Court Street Decatur, GA 30030 (404) 371-9583

map | website | comment

Decatur Square is true to its small-town roots. Grandparents can stroll around the shady environs of the Old Courthouse while grandchildren ramble in and out of the bandstand or listen to the frequent lunchtime jazz sessions held outdoors in the fall. Several family-friendly shops and restaurants surround the square, but the seasonal festivals show it off best. Grandparents and grandkids can enjoy a massive bonfire and marshmallow roast in winter. (Don’t worry, the fire department presides to keep everything safe, but the pointy roasting sticks may make you nervous.) The Decatur Beach Party in summer throws 60 tons of sand on the square to create “Ponce de Leon Beach,” where live music and a boardwalk pump up the faux-Malibu scene. Bonus: You can load up as much sand as you like for your own sandbox at the end of the day. If you get hungry, stop at the Brick Store Pub for a fish and chips basket you can share with even your youngest grandchildren, and save room for a cool brew.

Info: Bonfire and beach about $10, advance purchase online

Hours: Daily 24 hours

Age: Elementary (5-9), Tween (9-12), Teen (12+)