Located just four miles from downtown Atlanta in DeKalb County, Kirkwood is a charming neighborhood with a rich history. Nestled between Oakhurst, East Atlanta, Lake Claire, and Edgewood, this nationally designated historic area has seen its share of changes over the years. Despite the ebbs and flows of residential settlement, Kirkwood remains a vibrant melting pot, home to people from diverse economic, and social backgrounds. Its unique food, shopping, and music scenes, along with fantastic events, continue to attract both residents and visitors.
A Community Deeply Rooted in its History
Kirkwood’s roots stretch back to the 1870s when residential development first began. An early tour book praised it as an “area of beautiful suburban villas,” marking it as one of Atlanta’s first streetcar suburbs. By 1910, streetcars offered express service to and from Atlanta three times a day, continuing along streets like Kirkwood Road NE until the early 1950s.
Kirkwood gained popularity among the upper class due to its modern amenities, including sewers and a robust artesian well water supply capable of serving 14,000 people. Its rural charm offered a refreshing escape from Atlanta’s gritty urban environment. By 1920, Kirkwood had firmly established itself as a desirable “bedroom” community, with most residents commuting to Atlanta for work.
Today Kirkwood has come a long way and has blossomed into a vibrant community. It has been included in the National Register of Historic Places. Its close proximity to downtown Atlanta makes it an ideal place to call home. Residents can have the best of both worlds, a tranquil and peaceful environment that is an easy reach to the excitement of city life.
Housing Market
Kirkwood is becoming one of the hottest places to live in Atlanta. There are Victorian, Craftsman and Bungalow style homes, along with new homes in traditional styles to choose from. Houses in Kirkwood range in price from $220,000 up to $1,000,000 and above. The average price is $476,693. Houses sell within 30 days or less. Renovations are happening everywhere, and homes are selling for top dollar! In addition to single family homes there are also town homes and condos for sale. Let’s take a look why this neighborhood is so popular and loved by its residents.
In the KNO
The Kirkwood Neighbors Organization (KNO) exists to promote the flourishing of all Kirkwood residents. It is a volunteer group that works to strengthen the community through various events, committees, and initiatives that address issues such as safety, education, zoning, beautification, and communication. Members pay a monthly membership fee. The KNO works with other government agencies to preserve the integrity of the neighborhood’s historic aesthetic and environmental landscape.
Festivals and Events
LANTA GRAS – Kirkwood Mardi Gras Parade Can’t make it to New Orleans this year? The Downtown Kirkwood celebration is filled with music, dancing, floats, beads and a good time for the whole family. (January)
Kirkwood Annual Spring Fling and Tour of Homes + 5K– Locals can listen to live music, enjoy food and find beautiful things for their homes at the artist market. (May)
The Kirkwood Wine Stroll – The annual fundraiser of the Kirkwood Business Owners’ Association. With 50 wine pouring stations, over 100 wines to sample from around the world and 3 stages of local live music. (September)
Kirkwood Family Find – An Easter Egg Hunt with 8,000 eggs at Bessie Branham Park. Held annually the Saturday before Easter.
Kirkwood Home For the Holidays – Celebrate the holidays with a tree lighting, live music, holiday market, and Santa at this downtown Kirkwood event every year. (December)
Urban Parks and Green Spaces
Kirkwood Urban Forest and Community Garden – The green space, which includes walking trails, a community garden and a creek within hundreds of towering hardwood trees, was preserved as part of an effort by the state and city to save forested urban parcels before they were lost to development.
Gilliam Park & Urban Gardens- A small neighborhood green space in Kirkwood with a few picnic tables, a small urban garden and a dog park.
Coan Park – Situated along the old trolley line, it features an accessible playground, baseball field, basketball court, tennis courts and an entertainment gazebo.
Bessie Branham Park – This park just recently got some million dollar improvements. Baseball fields, tennis courts, playground, picnic tables are just some of the amenities you will find here.
Culinary Delights
Sun in My Belly – Start your day off with delicious honey glazed and lavender biscuits. Also serves brunch.
Dish Dive – Enjoy good quality creative entrees. Rotating menu, call ahead to find out what’s cooking.
Le Petit Marche – A family run breakfast and lunch spot, located in the heart of Kirkwood.
Dulce Vegan Bakery & Cafe –You don’t have to be a vegan to appreciate their wonderful coffee, sweets and food menu.
Shopping
GBG Market – This rare bird is an actual neighbor hood grocery store, run by Kirkwood residents.
PB&J Gallery – Looking for art to decorate that new Bungalow? This art gallery sells competitive priced photography, paintings and glass work to beautify any space.
Augusta Designs – Handmade jewelry to make every customer feel special.
Edison Bikes – Skip the stress of traffic by riding an electric bicycle to work. These bikes are designed and created right here in Atlanta
As Kirkwood continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to preserving its unique character and history. New developments are thoughtfully integrated with the old, creating a harmonious blend of past and present.
Kirkwood is a neighborhood that offers a great place to live work and play. Whether you’re exploring its artistic side, savoring its culinary delights, or simply enjoying the strong sense of community, Kirkwood is a place that captures the heart and imagination. So, next time you’re in Atlanta, be sure to take a stroll through Kirkwood – you might just find your new favorite spot in the city.