Decatur, Georgia is lively, walkable, and full of culture — and many of the best experiences here cost nothing. From parks to events to community art, Decatur invites families, students, and visitors to explore without spending money. If you want to get out and enjoy the city on a budget, this guide has all the top free options.
Explore Parks and Outdoor Spots
Decatur has lots of parks where you can walk, picnic, or just relax outside.
- Glenlake Park – A great green space near downtown for walking, picnics, and open play.
- Mason Mill Park – Big park with trails, playgrounds, and nature paths. Great for families and weekend hikes.
- Decatur Legacy Park – Large parkland with fields and trails for free outdoor fun.
- McKoy Park – Smaller neighborhood park perfect for a walk or a picnic.
- Dearborn Park – Quiet greenspace for morning walks and dog time.
- Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve – Nature preserve with trails and quiet forest areas.
Decatur has almost 200 acres of public parks, trails, and greenspaces where people can enjoy nature every day.
Visit Gardens and Quiet Natural Places
Nature lovers should check out places you can visit for free or low cost.
- Georgia Perimeter College Botanical Garden – A walking garden with native trees, shrubs, and rare plants open without fee.
- Woodlands Garden – A public 7‑acre woodland sanctuary with plants and walking paths.
These spots are perfect for a relaxing walk, a quiet photo walk, or time with family.
Art and Community Culture
Decatur has a growing arts scene with plenty of free experiences:
- Decatur Arts Alliance produces outdoor installations, murals, and many free exhibitions and events throughout the year.
- Public murals and sculptures across downtown make for an easy self‑guided art walk.
Art festivals and outdoor installations give you a taste of local creativity without paying museum fees.
Annual Events and Festivals
Many of Decatur’s best events are free for the public.
You can check the official events list on the Visit Decatur GA Annual Events, but here are some highlights that often include free components:
- Lunar New Year celebrations and Mardi Gras festivities
- Decatur International Festival in March
- Art walks and performances during the Decatur Arts Festival
- Summer concerts and porch music events like Oakhurst Porchfest
- Holiday tree lightings and community winter happenings
These events bring the community together and are worth planning around.
Free Performances and Meetups
Decatur has music and gatherings that don’t cost money.
- Outdoor jazz nights and picnics in neighborhoods like Oakhurst are popular in spring and fall.
- Free community concerts and holiday performances happen around the year (local groups and parks often list schedules).
Keep an eye on community calendars and local Facebook groups (like Discover Decatur) for weekly free shows.
Neighborhood Walks and Historic Sights
Decatur’s walkable streets make exploring easy.
- Downtown Decatur and historic districts are great for self‑guided walking tours.
- Historic buildings and small public spaces add character to every corner of the city.
- Enjoy the architecture, gardens, and street art with no cost at all.
What are the best free parks to visit in Decatur?
Decatur has several great free outdoor spots:
Decatur Waterworks – Historic site with trails.
The Decatur parks and greenspaces
Mason Mill Park – Trails, playgrounds, picnic space.
Legacy Park – Large green area for games and family time.
Woodlands Garden – Quiet public garden with walking paths.
Are there free events in Decatur this weekend?
Yes. Decatur often has free concerts, markets, and community meetups. Check the up‑to‑date calendar on the Visit Decatur Georgia events
Can families find free things to do in Decatur?
Absolutely. Families can enjoy:
Story hunts and “Secret Doors” downtown
Playgrounds and splash areas at parks.
Seasonal free movie nights and holiday events.
Free concerts and community fairs on select weekends
Is art free to see in Decatur?
Much of it is. Public murals and outdoor art installations are free to view year‑round. The Decatur Arts Alliance also shares free exhibitions and events,
Where can I find free nature and garden spaces?
Decatur has several peaceful outdoor gems:
Woodlands Garden – Free walking garden.
Georgia Perimeter College Botanical Garden – Free plant walks.
Bike PATH Trails – Walk or ride on paved city trails.
Does Decatur host free music events?
Yes. Seasonal concert series and neighborhood music days—like Porchfest in Oakhurst—offer free live music outdoors.
How do I know when free events are happening?
Wrap‑Up
Decatur is packed with free things to do for all ages. Parks, nature spaces, art installations, and community events give you reasons to explore every week of the year. Take advantage of these local spots and plan your next outing without spending money.
