School is out! I am so happy to see children playing around outside in their yards, instead of lugging their heavy backpacks to and from school. I love this time of year—running into other families at the pool and around town. I always enjoy walking to downtown Decatur for dinner, festivals, and shopping, but it’s especially pleasurable in the warm weather. There is really no place in Atlanta that compares to our city and all it has to offer. Check out our extensive guide to summer fun indie-catur (page 9) and take advantage of the many activities available—something for everyone!

If you are looking for a local destination where you can enjoy cool outdoor dining with family or friends, you’ll want to peruse our picks. On pages 18-20, you’ll find information on 10 of the best alfresco experiences around. Choose a different destination each week and work your way through the list.

There are many scenic drives in Atlanta, but the stretch on Ponce de Leon Avenue from Virginia Highland to Decatur through the Olmsted Linear Parks is hard to beat any time of year, but especially now while the canopies of the ancient trees are so full and lush. Sometimes it’s easy to take these gorgeous views for granted, but it is our wonderful neighbors who raise awareness and funds to preserve what Olmsted envisioned. We spotlight the history and the future of these treasured parks on pages 21-23.

We hope you enjoy this issue and are inspired to immerse and enjoy Decatur this summer.