Along West Paces Ferry Road, a 20-story residential tower rises within one of Atlanta’s most prized addresses. Elyse Buckhead introduces 194 private condominium residences with expansive terraces, floor-to-ceiling glass, and more than 63,000 sf of indoor and outdoor amenities designed as an extension of home. Adjacent to the St. Regis and steps from Buckhead Village, the setting is unrivaled. The perspective is rare.
Artist’s Rendering
Artist’s Rendering
From thoughtfully designed floor plans to designer-curated details, Toll Brothers homes make each day feel extraordinary. Explore Toll Brothers communities across the Atlanta area and discover build to order homes that allow you to choose your home design, home site, and luxury finishes as well as quick move-in and move-in ready homes awaiting your finishing touches.
Visit or schedule an appointment today with a Sales Consultant and take one step closer to a home you’ll love.
Models Open Daily
Townhomes from the mid-$500,000s
Single-family homes from the low $500,000s
Condos from the low $400,000s
from the editor
TAKE THE EDGE OFF
Welcome to the summer issue of KnowAtlanta — the first edition under my leadership, the first since Denise K.
James joined our staff as editor-atlarge, and the first issue since learning we won a National Azbee Award from the American Society of Business Publication Editors for publication redesign. Congrats to our team for that well-deserved honor, especially our design duo of Serra Miller and Taylor Jones at Salt & True!
Denise and I are not new to this magazine. She was a freelance contributor for quite some time, and I have been reading KnowAtlanta for a decade as an editor with other publications within New South Publishing’s portfolio. I think I can speak for Denise when I say the both of us are excited to be a larger part of this publication’s continued success and award-winning rebranding. So, allow me to share what makes our summer issue worth reading and holding onto.
First of all: Lakes! Who doesn’t love taking the edge off the summer heat with swimming and other water activities? Fortunately for us, Georgia features more than 4,800 man-made lakes, ponds, and reservoirs (there are no natural lakes in our state), the largest of
which is Lake Sidney Lanier, which is the focus of our cover feature. This article includes many of the ways in which you can enjoy Lake Lanier. If you want to make lake living a permanent part of your lifestyle, we have details on where you can buy a home, including in a new development currently under construction, and we found a hidden gem of a restaurant at Lake Oconee that must be added to your rotation.
Speaking of great food, Southern barbeque (or BBQ) is synonymous with summer. Our team had the incredibly difficult task of finding the best ‘cue in metro Atlanta. It was arduous (not really), but we narrowed it down to the six sauciest spots that offer diverse and creative menus for all the smoked meat fanatics out there. For our newest residents, get out there and try them all; you may find a new favorite! If lakes aren’t your thing, another way to beat the summer heat is with indoor activities. In metro Atlanta, we are blessed with options your entire family can enjoy, from museums and theaters to arcades and LEGO, or indoor rock climbing and sky diving. You can plan your entire summer from this one article! Finally, we could not let the summer of 2026 pass without mentioning that Atlanta made history 30 years ago as the host of the 1996 Summer Olympics — the only Southern U.S. city to host the Games. Take a look back with us in a new section called “Now You Know.”
Cory Sekine-Pettite, Managing Editor
Publisher Sherry Gasaway
Managing Director Robyn Sobelson
Vice President John Hanna
Managing Editor Cory Sekine-Pettite
Editor-At-Large Denise K. James
Contributing Writer Emily Guettler
Art Direction and Design Salt & True
Production Coordinator Megan Willis
Circulation Manager Amy Fine
New South Publishing Inc. 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210 Atlanta, GA 30350 (770) 650-1102
knowatlanta.com
Direct all advertising, circulation and editorial inquiries to sherry@knowatlanta.com (678) 689-8303.
Atlanta’s median home sale price is $433,500. Currently, homes tend to stay on the local metro market for approximately 70 days.
Source: Redfin.com
ATLANTA’S AIRPORT
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is recognized as the busiest airport in the world. The facility served more than 106.3 million passengers in 2024 with nearly 800,000 annual flights to 70+ international destinations from 156 domestic gates and 41 international gates over seven concourses.
A GOOD SPORT
Atlanta is a sports town! Here are our top five venues for fans:
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium*, home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC
• Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves
• State Farm Arena, home of the Atlanta Hawks
• Gas South Arena, home of the Atlanta Gladiators, the Georgia Swarm and the Atlanta Vibe
• Atlanta Motor Speedway, home to NASCAR and IndyCar events
*The stadium will temporarily be renamed Atlanta Stadium during the 2026 FIFA World Cup to adhere to FIFA regulations prohibiting corporate branding at host venues.
BIG BUSINESS MOVES
According to Area Development Magazine, Georgia is the #1 state for business for the 12th consecutive year. And metro Atlanta is one of the most coveted business communities. Some of the most notable recent business developments include:
• Salesforce planning to invest $15 million to expand its presence in Georgia, creating more than 250 jobs in Fulton County by the end of 2028.
• Electrical component and system manufacturer Socomec building a $10 million facility in Suwanee, bringing 300 new jobs to Gwinnett County.
• Duracell selecting Science Square in Atlanta for its new Global Headquarters for Research and Development, a $56 million investment that will create 110 jobs.
EXPERIENCE THE LIFESTYLE YOU DESERVE AT GREAT SKY NEW HOMES FROM THE LOW $400’S.
Experience life at Great Sky in Canton, Georgia, where the beauty of nature meets exceptional modern living. Nestled in rolling hills and surrounded by picturesque scenery, Great Sky offers a serene escape with all the conveniences you desire.
In addition to thoughtfully designed homes crafted by premier builders—David Weekley Homes, Toll Brothers, and Venture Communities—you’ll enjoy resort-style amenities, including three pools, sport courts, and miles of scenic trails through the community’s natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious 55+ retreat, timeless elegance, or innovative home designs, Great Sky is the perfect place to call home.
Discover your natural bliss today. Visit GreatSkyGA.com to learn more.
You will want to immerse yourself in the liveliness of Atlanta after reading our 20 reasons to call this city home. Nicknamed the “city in the forest,” Atlanta allows you to enjoy the convenience and energy of city life while still finding the wholesome comfort of our Southern charm. From our world-renowned attractions to the booming art and music scene that foster creativity, the number of reasons for loving Atlanta are abundant. If you are thinking of making Atlanta your home, allow us to help stir up your excitement with the Top 20 reasons to love this city.
1 HISTORY IN THE MAKING
Originally named, “Terminus,” due to the city’s development at the end of the Western and Atlantic railroad line, the history of Atlanta dates to the early 1800’s and includes influential people and sites that continue to shape our city — and country. Visit historical sites such as Atlanta History Center, Oakland Cemetery, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights to take a step back in time and learn about the rich history Atlanta’s cultural, political and social changes and how they have resonated around the world.
2 WORLD-FAMOUS ATTRACTIONS
People travel from all over the world to visit our city’s attractions. Step into the World of Coca-Cola for a rare opportunity to try the beverage giant’s international flavors. Next door, you’ll find the Georgia Aquarium — one of the largest aquariums in the world — which houses more than 10,000 animals for visitors to view.
3 QUANTITY AND QUALITY
20 Reasons To Love Atlanta And Call It Home
HOW DO WE LOVE ATLANTA? LET US COUNT THE WAYS.
By Emily Guettler
Being in a city does not always mean paying city prices. Quality of life is imperative when choosing a place to live, and Atlanta offers the most bang for your buck. According to Redfin Real Estate Brokerage, housing in Atlanta costs 17 percent less than the national average, healthcare costs two percent less and lifestyle costs 3 percent less, which ensures the quantity and quality lifestyle.
4 SHOWS ON STAGE
Calling all theater fans to Atlanta! Between travelling Broadway shows at the Fox Theatre or plays at Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse, your theatrical mind will always be entertained. Historic Fox Theatre opened in 1929 and hosts more than 200 shows each year, including Broadway classics like “Hamilton,” “Beetlejuice,” and “Wicked.” Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse is an Atlanta local theater where you can admire local performers on stage while grabbing a bite to eat to enjoy the show.
5
GET CLEAN ATLANTA
According to Metro Atlanta Chamber, Atlanta is becoming a leader in the cleantech industry. Ranked #1 for clean energy investments and projects since 2022, Atlanta is creating new advancements in solar energy, e-mobility, and sustainable fuel to continually improve our city’s infrastructure with over 800 cleantech firms. Along with a pilot hydrogen bus fleet being introduced by MARTA, Atlanta is getting cleaner with its energy one step at a time.
6
COLLEGE HIGH LIFE
According to a study done by Coworking Café, Atlanta ranks #1 as the top U.S. large city for recent college graduates. Between our public transportation system and low cost of living, this city is perfect for a young person to thrive. With more than 60 colleges and universities around metro Atlanta, such as Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, Emory, Morehouse, and Kennesaw State University, Atlanta ranks #7 in the country as the best college town on WalletHub. We can see why.
7
MUSIC HERITAGE
The music scene of Atlanta is a vibrant and historic one. Our state and capital have fostered a multitude of musical icons across a vast range of genres, such as John Mayer, Usher, Arrested Development, and Ray Charles. Atlanta has made its mark on history with its cultural contributions to genres such as Southern Rock, hip-hop, and blues to create the trends that are topping Billboard charts today.
Georgia Aquarium
SkyView Atlanta
The Beltline
8
EXPLORE THE BELTLINE
According to Atlanta’s Beltline, the 22-mile loop connecting 45 different neighborhoods is one of the nation’s largest urban development programs. The Beltline turned 20 years old in 2025 and has welcomed more than 2.5 million people each year to enjoy the environment, businesses, festivals, and art installations. You can always find something to do along the beltline whether it be walking on one of their 11 trails, or shopping and eating at one of the 6,000 businesses surrounding the line. There is something to do for everyone.
9
FLY HIGH ATLANTA
With 80 percent of the country’s population reachable within a two-hour flight, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is your premier hub for travel. It is coined the “Busiest Airport in the World,” with 2,700 arrivals and departures daily and has earned the distinction of being the first airport to have served more than 100 million passengers in one year. Atlanta’s airport also holds many awards, including the Business Traveler Award for North America’s Best Airport.
10
HOLLYWOOD OF THE SOUTH
Hollywood has moved to Atlanta ever since the Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act went into place in 2005. The tax credits and incentives created have allowed the film industry to bring $4 billion a year to Georgia’s economy while creating countless jobs for locals. Productions such as “The Walking Dead,” “Stranger Things,” “Family Feud,” and “Black Panther” have all been filmed in metro Atlanta, creating a buzz around the city and boosting tourism.
11
CITY IN A FOREST
Atlanta has been coined the “City in a Forest,” for its greenery and tree canopy. Tree coverage is important in urban areas to combat the heat island effect and
to help conserve energy. According to a study by Trees Atlanta, 47.9 percent of land within Atlanta’s city limits was covered by urban tree development and 22.1 percent of land is covered in grass, plants and shrubs, making Atlanta a true forest within a city and the perfect place for someone who wants to live within an urban area without giving up greenery.
12
ON THE WATER
Even though Atlanta is inland, we still have amazing lakes for locals to enjoy, including Lake Lanier, Lake Oconee, Lake Arrowhead and more. With these man-made lakes only being a short drive away, we invite you to come and participate in an array of activities like water sports, boating, fishing and more. These local gems allow you to cool off from our hot summer days and to be close to nature.
13 A FOODIE’S PARADISE
With eight Michelin Star restaurants, cuisines from all around the world and busy farmers markets stocked with fresh produce, Atlanta is the city that will satisfy your every craving. Placing in the Top 15 best cities for food in the country according to WalletHub, Atlanta delights with Southern soul food, Korean BBQ, and classic peach desserts. Don’t forget to savor in all the flavors at the three-day Atlanta Food & Wine Festival (each September) where Atlanta showcases its rising culinary artists and beloved staples.
14 YOUR TIME TO SHINE
Atlanta is the perfect city that invites artists to showcase their talents. Atlanta is full of open mics to allow your creativity to shine. Stop by and sign up for
Lake Lanier
Piedmont Park
poetry readings at places like Urban Grind, or play your original music at open mics such as Eddie’s Attic. Go pick up that mic and let Atlanta bring your dreams to life.
15 KEEP ON THE TRAIL
With more than 85 trails within the city of Atlanta, your desire for nature and exercise will always be met. Whether you are looking for a hike up Stone Mountain to take in the treetop views of the city, a waterfall view at Cascade Spring Nature Preserve or an easy, nature trail like Allatoona Pass, you will be met with serene terrain where mountains meet the city to create the perfect afternoon of outdoor fun.
16 SHOP TILL YOU DROP
Atlanta is every shopper’s dream — between its traditional malls, outdoor plazas and boutique pop ups, this city has everything you’re looking for. Come check out Ponce City Market with its open-air shopping experience and rooftop playground; head over to Lenox Square or Phipps Plaza, known for their selection of luxury stores; and explore the vintage and antique scenes Atlanta has to offer. Whatever you like, our city has you covered.
17 GO TEAM
Atlanta is a sports fan’s dream, home to many professional teams, including the Braves, the Falcons, the Hawks, and Atlanta United. With world-renowned
stadiums, parks and arenas, Atlanta welcomes all fans and sports lovers. Our city is known worldwide as a hub for sports, with tourists coming from all over this summer to watch Atlanta host eight matches of the FIFA World Cup 26TM
18 FESTIVAL FRENZY
Your weekends are guaranteed to be filled with Atlanta’s year-round festival scene. Residents and visitors from all over can enjoy music festivals such as the Sweetwater 420 Fest or the Atlanta Jazz Festival. Don’t
The Battery Atlanta
forget to indulge in a neighborhood food fest or chili cook-off and stop by in August to enjoy the culture of the Piedmont Park Arts Festival. No matter the time of year, Atlanta has got you covered.
19
MOVING ON MARTA
The MARTA rail line is improving quality of life by making your commute a breeze. With just a 20-minute ride from the airport to downtown, or a 35-minute ride to Buckhead, the city is always at your fingertips. MARTA is expanding all the time with the More MARTA Atlanta Program, working with the city to build a larger network of public transportation with light rail, bus rapid transit, and arterial rapid transit. Coupled with Atlanta’s Beltline and highway system, moving around the city is simple and easy.
20
LET’S TALK ABOUT TENNIS
Atlanta is widely known as the tennis capital of the country. Home to the Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association (ALTA) and their 60,000 members, ALTA exhibits their devotion to league play throughout the city. Created in 1934, ALTA is now recognized around the world for its purpose of developing tennis tournaments throughout the Atlanta area. With over 100 tennis courts placed throughout the city and the growing love and support of this popular sport, Atlanta is the perfect place to practice your serve.
Luxury For Your Lifestyle
For over 70 years, Pulte has built homes with the homeowner in mind.
The things that are important to you are what we focus on. Our foundation is quality construction and a simplified buying experience. With our insightful Life Tested® design features and easy personalization options, everyday moments are more enjoyable in your new Pulte home. That’s More Life Built In.
Discover two of Pulte Homes newest communities:
BLECKLEY STATION in Ball Ground, GA, offers singlefamily homes with private backyards, sidewalk-lined streets, and green spaces perfect for outdoor relaxation. Enjoy community amenities, including a pavilion, fire pit, playground, and trails —all designed for building connections with neighbors and creating lasting memories. | Homes from the $500s
EVERHOUR Experience timeless living in Newnan, GA. This new construction community offers sidewalk-lined streets with beautiful homes and a world-class amenity center where you’ll build lasting friendships. Whether you’re enjoying morning coffee or evening games, you’ll find the perfect balance of active living and peaceful moments. | Homes from the Low $400s
TWO MONTHS BEFORE
⃣ Research your options for moving or truck rental companies. Get onsite, written estimates and references from multiple companies—for moving and storage, if necessary.
CHECKLIST Moving to Atlanta
⃣ Take inventory of everything in your home, room by room. Decide what you’d like to get rid of and determine what’s worth keeping, and make a list of all of the items you plan to take with you.
⃣ Start a binder of all paperwork, estimates and receipts related to your move. These costs can later be taken as tax credits and deductions.
⃣ Collect necessary records from your child’s school and your pet’s veterinarian, as well as family medical, dental and legal documents, and keep them organized together.
SIX WEEKS BEFORE
⃣ Schedule a moving date, or reserve a truck if you’re moving yourself.
⃣ Complete a change of address with your local post office, or do it online at usps.com.
⃣ Start packing seasonal clothing and any other items not in immediate use.
⃣ Use up or give away food and supplies that can’t be moved, like frozen or perishable foods and cleaning supplies.
⃣ Host a garage or moving sale for the items you decide not to keep, and give away leftovers to charitable organizations.
There’s a lot of work that goes into coordinating an organized move, and it’s smart to get a head start on planning before the moving truck arrives at your door. Here’s a handy guide to help you streamline some of the most important activities associated with your move to Atlanta.
FOUR WEEKS BEFORE
⃣ Send your new address to friends and family members.
⃣ Notify important parties of your move and provide your new address, including your bank, your employer’s HR department, magazines and subscription services, credit card, insurance and utility companies.
FOUR WEEKS BEFORE
⃣ Schedule disconnection of services at your current home and reconnection at your new house, including phone, cable and internet.
⃣ Contact insurance companies to obtain moving coverage and to transfer policies to your new home.
⃣ Research new medical professionals for you and your family, including family doctors, dentists and veterinarians.
2-3 WEEKS BEFORE
⃣ Don’t leave it in the landfill. Research how you can recycle old electronics, plastics, metals and anything else you won’t be bringing with you that won’t naturally decompose.
⃣ Transfer your automobile registration and driver’s license if you’re moving out of state.
⃣ Create a folder of important information about your house for the next homeowner. Be sure to include your new address so that future residents can forward any mail.
ONE WEEK BEFORE ONE DAY BEFORE
⃣ Confirm dates and time of packing and moving if you’re using a mover. If you’re moving yourself, confirm moving truck arrangements.
⃣ Confirm travel arrangements and pack a travel kit for you and your family members with whatever you need, including cash, credit cards, travel documents, medications, etc. Don’t forget activities and toys for the kids!
⃣ Finalize all packing. Double-check that all closets, garage, attic and basement are cleared.
⃣ Complete a house check. Defrost the freezer, drain the water hose, disconnect and prepare any major appliances you’re planning to move.
⃣ Pack a “First Open/Load Last” box. Include items you’ll need on the first day in your new home.
⃣ Confirm hotel or temporary accommodations, if needed.
⃣ Arrange for childcare and pet services.
DAY
⃣ Verify the moving truck that shows up is the one you hired. The USDOT number on the side of the truck should match the number on the estimate/ confirmation paperwork. Scams can happen!
⃣ Sign the bill of lading/inventory list before the movers leave, making sure to check boxes and note any missing items or damage. Keep a copy in a safe place.
⃣ Be on hand for movers to answer questions and show where furniture and boxes should go.
⃣ Be prepared to pay the mover and have cash on hand to tip workers.
⃣ Enjoy settling into your new home and exploring your new neighborhood!
Atlanta’s Best Builders and Can’t-Miss Communities
There’s nothing quite like moving into a brand new residence—one that you have been able to personalize and transform into the forever home of your dreams. Fortunately, if you are planning a move to Atlanta, then you really are in luck, as the metro area is replete with outstanding homebuilders that are crafting exceptional communities in an array of highly sought-after locations. In fact, according to a ConsumerAffairs report, Atlanta
ranks as #4 in the country for new home construction. Inventory continues to increase as the local market grows, and builders are providing home buyers with access to an impressive range of residential options. Here, KnowAtlanta highlights just a few of the standout builders and can’tmiss communities that you have to put on your list as you navigate metro Atlanta’s remarkable new home market.
Traton Homes East Park Village
ATLANTA’S BEST BUILDERS
Lake Society
Tell us your story: Who you are and what you build.
Setting a new standard for elevated, active-adult living at the lake, Lake Society is a spectacular new club community set along miles of Lake Lanier shoreline exclusively for those ages 55 and up. Lake Society was designed to be a place where homeowners can focus on maintaining their lifestyle, not their home. This is active club living combining incredible amenities, inviting green spaces, and direct access to the lake with a thoughtful collection of new luxury homes — all on 186 acres along Lake Lanier with views of the lake or the Blue Ridge Mountains on the horizon.
Tell us about the floor plan options, amenities, etc.
An incredible array of amenities will make Lake Society truly low maintenance luxury at its best. Homeowners can enjoy community docks with 134 boat slips; a 14,000-square-foot clubhouse with fitness, activities, and restaurant dining; resort and lap pools; tennis and pickleball courts; parks; trails; and more. Two award-winning Atlanta new home builders, Southwyck Communities and O’Dwyer Homes, have been hand-selected to bring their thoughtful design and industry-leading craftsmanship to Lake Society’s new homes. Each has curated a diverse portfolio of floorplans and options, ready to be personally tailored, with introductory pricing ranging from the $600s to $1 million+.
What is unique or sets your communities apart from others in the Atlanta market?
Lake Society offers simplification with sophistication for discerning homebuyers ages 55 and up. Whether you love lake life on the water or just enjoy the view, Lake Society’s incredible array of amenities offers something for everyone to enjoy whether on or off the lake. Plus, the community’s award-winning builders offer luxurious, thoughtfully-designed, and wellness-inspired new homes with a myriad of floorplans and options and the ability to personalize to your own unique style and lifestyle. That means all the ease and enjoyment of active adult living without sacrificing space or style.
Elyse Buckhead
How do you describe Elyse Buckhead?
Elyse Buckhead was conceived as a forward-looking addition to one of Atlanta’s most established residential neighborhoods. Planned along West Paces Ferry Road beside the St. Regis Atlanta, the project reflects a longterm vision for Buckhead living—one rooted in design continuity, livability and thoughtful scale. With Kolter Urban serving as development manager, Elyse Buckhead builds on the firm’s deep experience in the neighborhood to introduce a new residential tower shaped by how residents expect to live today and into the future.
What sets Elyse Buckhead apart as a condo community?
Elyse Buckhead is distinguished first and foremost by its location. The community occupies a part of Buckhead where new residential condominium opportunities have been virtually nonexistent. From this setting, residents enjoy a rare combination of walkable access to Buckhead Village’s dining, retail and cultural destinations alongside the privacy and discretion of a residential streetscape. Elyse Buckhead also is among the first condominium offerings in the area to capture open cityscape views while also overlooking Buckhead’s mature tree canopy to the west, creating a distinctive relationship between urban energy and natural surroundings. Together with its adjacency to a world-class hospitality address and its 63,000 square feet of private residential amenities, including wellness and spa environments, fitness and movement studios, residents’ lounges, resort-style pools, a pickleball court, a secured dog park and more, Elyse Buckhead offers a residential experience that simply does not exist elsewhere in the Atlanta market.
What sets your units apart in the Atlanta market?
Elyse Buckhead offers a collection of 194 condominium residences designed to accommodate a wide range of urban lifestyles. The homes span from one-bedroom-plus-den residences to expansive three-bedroomplus-den layouts, with interior living areas ranging from approximately 1,436 to 4,032 square feet. Estate and penthouse offerings introduce spacious floor plans, elevated ceiling heights and oversized terraces, allowing buyers to select a residence that aligns with both scale and privacy preferences. Interiors are defined by generous proportions, floor-toceiling glass and ceiling heights of 10 feet in main living areas, with select residences offering heights up to 11 and 12 feet. Every home will enjoy a private terrace, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living and framing views across Buckhead’s mature tree canopy and skyline. Pre-construction sales are currently underway, with one- to three-bedroom residences priced from $1 million.
ATLANTA’S BEST NEW HOME COMMUNITIES
ATLANTA’S BEST COMMUNITIES
Toll Brothers
What makes Toll Brothers the leading luxury builder in Metro Atlanta?
Toll Brothers, the nation’s leading luxury home builder founded in 1967, has a strong presence in metro Atlanta, offering upscale communities in prime locations. Known for highquality craftsmanship and innovative home designs, we provide a range of single-family homes, townhomes and condominiums in communities that feature resort-style amenities, top-rated schools and convenient access to shopping, dining and major highways, making them a preferred choice for luxury living. Toll Brothers has been recognized on Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies list for more than 10 years in a row.
Where does Toll Brothers build in Atlanta?
Toll Brothers currently builds in 28 communities in the greater Atlanta area in sought-after locations like Alpharetta, Milton and Cumming. These luxury communities offer residents the Toll Brothers Advantage, with exceptional architecture and a range of home designs, prime locations, unrivaled choice and an extraordinary customer experience. Homes are priced from the mid$400s to $1.2 million.
What sets Toll Brothers homes apart from other Atlanta builders?
Toll Brothers offers expansive, flexible floor plans with the features that home buyers desire as they personalize their homes to reflect their lifestyles. Quick move-in homes with designer-appointed features are available in many communities across metro Atlanta. For build-to-order homes, buyers experience one-stop shopping at the Toll Brothers Design Studio. The state-of-the-art design studio allows home buyers to choose from a wide array of selections to personalize their dream home with the assistance of Toll Brothers’ professional design consultants.
ATLANTA’S BEST NEW HOME COMMUNITIES
Lake Arrowhead
How do you describe Lake Arrowhead?
The words breathtaking, stunning and majestic truly define the backdrop to this unforgettable master-planned community development nestled in the North Georgia Mountains. Known as one of the cleanest lakes in Georgia, the 540-acre spring-fed lake is the centerpiece to the charm of this private gated and manned mountain, lake and golfing community.
What sets Lake Arrowhead apart as a community?
This amenity-rich resort community elevates your social calendar to the next level. A year-round social calendar orchestrated by a fulltime activities director offers hiking excursions on 16+ miles of trails, golf tournaments, farmers markets, concerts, sporting event specials at The Grill, boat and kayak rental programs, karaoke, bingo, day spa specials at the Lake Arrowhead Golf Villa, trivia nights and so much more. New guests can enjoy the community Stay & Play Golf Villa, where they experience first-hand the Lake Arrowhead difference in both lifestyle and quality of life.
What sets your homes apart in the Atlanta market?
The community’s new construction homes are being built by some of the most legendary Atlanta home builders: John Wieland with the JW Collection, Tony Perry with Rezide Properties, Matt Wilkes and Allan Morris with Majestic Lifestyle Builders and Steve McKenzie with TIH Homes. Each builder offers their buyers a broad level of experience and a true commitment to excellence. Each of the builders’ model homes are open daily for private viewings. So whether you are looking for a mountain cottage, waterview townhome or a single-family ranch on a private wooded homesite, Lake Arrowhead has something for everyone. New homes start from the low-$400s to the $800s.
ATLANTA’S BEST NEW BUILDERS
Peachtree Residential
Tell us your story: Who you are and what you build.
For more than 35 years, Peachtree Residential has built luxury new homes for 4,000+ homeowners across metro Atlanta and Charlotte, combining boutique craftsmanship with the kind of personal, accountable service that national builders can’t match. For relocators arriving in metro Atlanta, the question of where to put down roots quickly becomes a question of how you want to live. Increasingly, the answer points north toward Forsyth County, Lake Lanier, and the kind of daily life that most people only experience on vacation. Peachtree Residential has spent more than 35 years building exactly that life for more than 4,000 homeowners across Atlanta and Charlotte, and its growing portfolio of Lake Lanier communities represents the clearest expression of what this boutique builder does best.
Tell us about the floor plan options, amenities, etc.
Arden on Lanier in Cumming offers 58 homesites priced from the $800,000s, with homes ranging from approximately 2,700 to 4,000 square feet across a mix of traditional and modern farmhouse plans. Gourmet kitchens, spa baths, flexible owner’s suite placement and a community fire pit define the experience, all within minutes of Lake Lanier and the vibrant energy of Cumming City Center.
White Post on Lake Lanier in Gainesville has only 11 homesites, many featuring private lake frontage and virtually all commanding sweeping water views. Priced from $1.1 million, every homesite includes a dedicated deep-water boat slip accessible via a scenic walking path to the covered community dock. For buyers who understand that genuine lakefront lots are a finite resource, White Post presents a rare combination of new construction quality, direct water access and boutique builder accountability.
Richland Woods, also coming soon to the Gainesville area, will carry forward
Peachtree’s signature approach, with just four exclusive 1+ acre homesites. The VIP List is now forming. To explore current availability, visit peachtreeresidential.com or contact the sales team at 770.883.7124.
What is unique or sets your communities apart from others in the Atlanta market?
Every home must satisfy its proprietary “Foundation to Rooftop” Gold Standard of Approval, a multistage process in which a structural engineer independently signs off at each phase of construction. Buyers work with the same sales agent and construction manager from contract through closing, participating in a minimum of six formal touchpoints throughout the build. Ranked among the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Top 15 Home Builders and recognized as a Certified Professional Home Builder, Peachtree Residential operates at a scale where its team genuinely learns your name and your story before your foundation is ever poured.
ATLANTA’S BEST BUILDERS
Pulte Homes
What makes Pulte a leading builder in metro Atlanta?
For over 70 years, Pulte has built homes with the homeowner in mind. The things that are important to you are what we focus on. Our foundation is quality construction and a simplified buying experience. With our insightful Life Tested® design features and easy personalization options, everyday moments are more enjoyable in your new Pulte home. That’s More Life Built In.
Where do you build in the metro area?
Pulte Homes has over 35 communities located all over the greater Atlanta area, featuring homes and townhomes in sought-after locations with access to excellent schools and a range of innovative home designs. Our homes are designed with solutions for everyday life. Every square foot and detail are created so you can do more in a Pulte home with built-in features to get more out of life.
What sets you apart from other builders?
We won’t just build you a new home. We’ll also stand behind it. Pulte homes are built for life and the way you live it. Peace of mind comes from the thoughtful Life Tested® design, quality craftsmanship and the industryleading 10-year warranty you can rely on. When we build your new home, we follow a process that meets high standards of quality and attention to detail. Our Signature Build Quality Experience process ensures that we’re with you every step of the way.
Dream Finders Homes
Tell us your story: Who you are and what you build.
Dream Finders Homes is a nationally recognized builder with strong ties to the Atlanta community. Our reputation for high-quality craftsmanship and innovative home designs makes us a top choice for new construction homes in Atlanta.
Our communities feature beautifully designed homes tailored to different lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a cozy retreat or a spacious family home, we focus on delivering superior quality and exceptional value. Plus, we actively engage with local organizations to help build strong, thriving neighborhoods.
Five locations:
Reserve at Hickory Hill in McDonough
The Woodlands Preserve in Jackson
Concord Oaks in Powder Springs
Moss Creek in Hogansville
Conner Springs in Social Circle
Tell us about the floor plan options, amenities, etc.
Dream Finders Homes offers a wide range of floor plans throughout the Atlanta area, with options that cater to first-time homebuyers as well as buyers looking for larger, upgraded homes. Communities feature everything from low-maintenance townhomes to spacious singlefamily homes with flexible layouts and modern finishes. Standout plans include the West Point at Hickory Hills in McDonough, the Aspen townhome at Moss Creek in Hogansville, and the Walker at The Woodlands in Jackson, GA. Pricing varies by community, floor plan, and available upgrades, with homes generally starting in the mid-$200s and extending into the $400s+ range. Amenities also differ by community, but many neighborhoods offer features such as pools, green spaces, walking areas, and convenient access to shopping, dining, schools, and major highways.
What is unique or sets your communities apart from others in the Atlanta market?
What sets Dream Finders Homes communities apart in the Atlanta market is the combination of thoughtfully designed homes, modern energy-efficient features, and locations in some of metro Atlanta’s fastest-growing areas. Our communities are built to fit a variety of lifestyles and budgets, offering everything from low-maintenance townhomes to spacious, single-family homes with contemporary finishes and flexible floor plans. Buyers also enjoy convenient access to major highways, shopping, dining, schools, and outdoor recreation, along with the quality craftsmanship and value Dream Finders Homes is known for nationwide. Learn more at dreamfindershomes.com.
ATLANTA’S BEST BUILDERS
ATLANTA’S BEST NEW HOME COMMUNITIES
Great Sky
How do you describe Great Sky?
Set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Great Sky is a masterplanned community that blends natural beauty with modern living. Residents enjoy peaceful water views, distant mountain scenery, miles of trails and resort-style amenities that support an active lifestyle. A dedicated lifestyle director plans year-round events and activities that help neighbors connect. From pickleball and tennis to scenic walks and community gatherings, Great Sky offers a welcoming environment where natural surroundings and thoughtful amenities create a truly rewarding place to call home.
What are the homes like in the community?
Great Sky offers a variety of home styles and price points. Our current builders include Venture Communities, Toll Brothers and Encore by David Weekley (55+ section), and each brings distinct architectural styles and craftsmanship to the community. Homes range from charming paired homes to luxury single-family homes, with pricing starting in the low $400s. Whether buyers are seeking a moveup property or an active adult lifestyle, Great Sky delivers thoughtfully designed homes with an unmatched lifestyle.
What sets Great Sky apart in the Atlanta market?
Great Sky offers a rare combination of natural beauty, resort-style amenities and diverse home styles in a conveniently located master-planned community. Its idyllic location along the edge of Hickory Log Creek Reservoir disguises the convenience to local necessities. Shopping, entertainment and downtown Canton are only minutes away, while Northside Hospital Cherokee, the area’s largest medical facility, is quickly accessed by I-575. Also, the community is served by highly regarded schools that make Great Sky an excellent choice for a variety of home buyers.
KnowAtlanta Guide to New Homes BUILDER AND COMMUNITY MAP
Dream Finders Homes
1. Reserve at Hickory Hills
2. The Woodlands Preserve
3. Concord Oaks
4. Moss Creek
5. Conner Springs
6. Elyse Buckhead
7. Great Sky
8. Lake Arrowhead
9. Lake Society
Peachtree Residential
10. Arden on Lanier
11. Hillshire
12. The Glade
13. White Post on Lake Lanier
Pulte Homes
14. Creekside 15. Riversprings 16. Sierra Creek
17. Traditions of Braselton
18. Amherst Toll Brothers
19. Toll Brothers at The Crossing at Coal Mountain 20. Emberly
21. Silverton
22. Toll Brothers at Lakeview
23. Ledgestone
On The Water
Make waves and catch rays at Lake Lanier
By Cory Sekine-Pettite
For water sports enthusiasts, camping fanatics, and nature lovers, Georgia is a veritable paradise. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), our state has 70,150 miles of streams and rivers, over 425,000 acres of lakes, and over 4.5 million acres of freshwater wetlands. Georgia’s abundant water sources provide drinking water; recreational areas ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating; and water for generating hydroelectric power.
In fact, the DNR says a tremendous number of Georgians enjoy outdoor recreation and therefore probably are more attuned to a clean environment than the average American. Georgia’s topography ranges from the mountains in the north to the sea coast and swampland in the south. The DNR strives to maintain clean air and water and to make the best use of our resources to benefit Georgia’s economy and citizens.
But did you know that none of our lakes are natural? They are all man-made, built for recreation, flood mitigation, and hydroelectric power production. One of Georgia’s largest lakes is Lake Sidney Lanier, located in Hall County, providing 38,000 acres of recreation with more than 700 total miles of shoreline. Since it’s construction in the 1950s, it has remained a popular destination, which today attracts between 11 million and 12 million visitors per year. That makes it one of the nation’s most visited lakes that’s managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).
Lake Lanier was designed and built by the USACE as part of a federal program (the River and Harbors Act of 1946) to provide hydroelectric power for a fast-growing Atlanta. The project — Buford Dam and the lake — was completed in 1957. Swimmers, boaters, fishers, and other outdoors enthusiasts soon followed. According to Stacey Dickson, President and CEO of Discover Lake Lanier, the official destination marketing organization for Hall County, Lake Lanier is truly a year-round destination for both visitors and residents. “During the warmer months, people enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, paddling, and lakeside dining. In the fall and winter, the lake offers birdwatching, fall foliage, holiday events, and vibrant lakeside communities. There’s always something to experience, no matter the season.”
“During the warmer months, people enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, paddling, and lakeside dining. In the fall and winter, the lake offers birdwatching, fall foliage, holiday events, and vibrant lakeside communities. There’s always something to experience, no matter the season.”
–STACEY DICKSON, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF DISCOVER LAKE LANIER
The lifestyle around Lake Lanier, she added, is relaxed and outdoors-focused, while still being close to Atlanta and surrounding communities. “Residents enjoy spending time on the water, gathering with friends and family, exploring local parks and marinas, and experiencing the natural beauty of the lake throughout the year,” Dickson said.
Anyone can visit, of course, with several nearby hotel or camping options, and you don’t need to own a boat or enjoy boating in order to enjoy the lake. Moreover, Dickson noted that vacation rentals — from cozy cabins and cottages to larger lakefront properties — are available all around the lake. The area also features numerous public parks with water access, trails, picnic pavilions and campgrounds, many of them right along the shoreline.
“Renting a vacation home on Lake Lanier is one of the best ways to experience what lake living is really like because each area of the lake has its own personality,” Dickson said. “Some areas are more social and activityfocused, while others are quieter and more secluded.”
A good place to start, she said, is deciding what type of vacation experience you want:
• The Buford and Lanier Islands area is popular for visitors who want restaurants, entertainment, marinas, and easy access to attractions.
• Gainesville-area communities tend to offer a quieter atmosphere with wooded shorelines, kayaking, and a more residential feel.
• South Lake Lanier, closer to Cumming and Atlanta, provides convenient access to shopping, dining, and nightlife.
• North Lake Lanier is generally more secluded and nature-focused, making it especially popular for fishing, boating, and relaxing lake weekends.
Lake and boating safety tips
• Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking, paddleboarding or participating in water sports.
• Stay aware of changing weather conditions and leave the water if storms approach.
• Never swim alone and closely supervise children near the water.
• Follow all boating and navigation rules, including no-wake zones and designated swimming areas.
• Avoid alcohol when operating a boat or participating in water activities.
• Be mindful of underwater hazards such as rocks, trees and sudden drop-offs.
• Use sunscreen, stay hydrated, and take breaks from the heat during warmer months.
• Keep phones charged and let someone know your plans before heading out on the lake.
RecReation on the Lake
Lake Lanier offers a wide variety of water recreation, including:
• Boating
• Kayaking and paddleboarding
• Swimming
• Sailing
• Fishing
• Water parks and beaches
• Party cruises
• Water taxis
• Jet skiing and tow sports
Of course, houseboats and a variety of other boat rentals are available on Lake Lanier. Operating requirements can vary depending on the type of boat and rental company, so visitors are encouraged to speak directly with rental operators regarding licensing, age requirements, and boating regulations. Visitors can explore rental options and local operators at discoverlakelanier.com
Vacation & RecReation
To help you plan your first — or next — trip to nearby Lake Lanier, Dickson suggests the following options for a fun-filled visit:
THE SIX — NIGHT GOLF
The Six offers a unique night golf experience at Georgia’s most exciting, lighted par-3 course overlooking Lake Lanier. The six-hole course features illuminated greens and fairways, cooler evening temperatures, and a lively lakeside atmosphere.
It’s designed to be approachable for families, beginners, and experienced golfers alike, creating a relaxed and social experience that’s perfect for an evening outing.
MARGARITAVILLE AT LANIER ISLANDS
Margaritaville at Lanier Islands offers a mix of activities throughout the year. During the summer, visitors come for the water park, beach area, boat rentals and lake activities, along with restaurants, live music, and lakefront cabanas.
In the cooler months, the destination continues to host seasonal events and activities. Fall brings firepits and lakeside gatherings, while winter features holiday lights and festive attractions. It’s a laid-back destination where visitors can spend the day relaxing by the water or enjoying activities with family and friends.
CAMPING ON LAKE LANIER
Camping is one of the most popular ways to experience Lake Lanier because it combines lake access with easy proximity to North Georgia and metro Atlanta. Visitors can choose from traditional campgrounds, RV sites, primitive camping, and glamping-style accommodations.
Many campgrounds are located directly on the lake and offer amenities such as boat ramps, beaches, hiking trails, picnic areas, and swimming access.
So, however you prefer to get away and cool off during the summer, Lake Lanier has you covered for accommodations, entertainment, water activities, and more. Begin planning your excursion at discoverlakelanier.com n
APRIL - SEPTEMBER Flowery
APRIL
APRIL - OCTOBER You pick strawberries, peaches and flower fields, Jaemor Farms
APRIL - OCTOBER Motorsports events at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta
JULY - SEPTEMBER
MAY - SEPTEMBER
Lake Society On Lake Lanier
A new standard in resort-style active adult living
One of the most highly anticipated new additions to the shoreline of Lake Lanier, Lake Society on Lake Lanier in Gainesville not only opened this spring but has made a splash with active adult home buyers. This thoughtfully master-planned destination for active adult living, designed exclusively for those ages 55 and better, recently debuted six designer model homes by award-winning Atlanta home builders Southwyck Communities and O’Dwyer Homes. Lake Society is more than just a new address, it’s a way of life that offers true luxury in sophisticated home designs and a connected, engaging setting for club living.
Designed to keep the active in active adult and to make the most of its lakeside setting, Lake Society offers elevated country club-style living with picturesque views, not only of Lake Lanier but also of the Blue Ridge Mountains. An array of resort-inspired amenities at Lake Society will make this one of Lake Lanier’s premier addresses for private club living. Residents will enjoy a 14,000-square-foot clubhouse with gathering places, fitness facilities, a demonstration/catering kitchen, theater, golf simulator and putting green, a full events calendar of activities, clubs, and socials maintained by the onsite activities director and more. The club also will offer private restaurant dining at its own eatery, The Crown & Anchor.
Just beyond the clubhouse will be a beach entry resort pool with cabanas, as well as a covered heated lap pool with a warming room, not to mention an outdoor amphitheater, and game lawn. The Racquet Club will offer both clay tennis courts and pickleball courts, providing plenty of space and opportunity to join a friendly match. Of course, there are myriad ways to get out on the waters of Lake Lanier, with community docks, 134 boat slips available for purchase, as well as dry storage options, a lakeside pavilion with barbecue area, kayak and paddle board storage, and more. The community is connected by sidewalks, walking trails, and green spaces including a dog park — creating an inviting, wellness-minded setting for active living. Best of all, residents won’t have to wait too long to start enjoying all the amenities of Lake Society. The community’s first docks are already in the water, and construction on the club amenities has already begun.
HOA-included lawn maintenance means more time to join in the fun at the club or set out on the lake. Lake Society is a place designed to allow residents to focus on maintaining their lifestyle, not their home. New homes at Lake Society are built exclusively by the community’s hand-selected builder group: Southwyck Communities and O’Dwyer Homes. These awardwinning home builders bring a proven track record in crafting exceptional active-adult homes that combine sophisticated design and trusted quality. They have curated a distinct portfolio of thoughtfully detailed home designs that live easily and are ready to be tailored to each homeowner’s style and lifestyle with an array of floorplan options as well as available designer features and finishes for the choosing. Initial pricing for new homes at Lake Society on Lake Lanier ranges from the $600s to more than $1 million with select lake and mountain views available.
With its scenic location along the shores of Lake Lanier, Lake Society may feel a world apart, but it offers prime convenience just 10 minutes from Downtown Gainesville with an array of local shopping, dining, and services in close proximity. Plus, it’s just a 45-minute drive to I-285 and all that Atlanta has to offer, or a 60-minute drive to the North Georgia mountains. Lake Society’s model home village is open daily for touring. To learn more about Lake Society on Lake
Residents will enjoy a 14,000-square-foot clubhouse with gathering places, fitness facilities, a demonstration/catering kitchen, theater, golf simulator and putting green, a full events calendar of activities, clubs, and socials maintained by the onsite activities director and more.
Lanier or to get directions to the community, visit lakesocietylanier.com and start exploring all the ways life is better at the lake. At this premier destination rich in both natural beauty and thoughtful amenities, living well comes easily. n
An Open Invite To Their Table
Restaurateurs Jon and Geoff AltizerBieger embrace Lake Oconee.
By Denise K. James
The town where Jon Altizer-Bieger grew up in Southwestern Virginia may have been too rural to boast a restaurant scene, but fortunately, Jon learned to appreciate food at home. Describing the women in his family as “exceptional cooks,” he looks back with fondness on long afternoons of hanging out in the kitchen and watching Food Network. The family prepared Southern Appalachian meals such as biscuits and fried chicken, and grew corn, tomatoes, and potatoes. Every summer, Jon’s mother and aunt would gather at his grandmother’s table at lunchtime to eat a full meal, complete with “something sweet.”
Yet Jon didn’t pursue culinary arts as his career. While he still loved food and cooked frequently for friends and roommates, he opted for an education in the health sciences, ending up at Emory for a master’s in public health, then working for the CDC. When he met Geoff, who also worked in public health, the two noticed a shared throughline of food and hospitality. “Whenever we traveled, we knew where we were eating before we knew the rest of the itinerary,” Jon laughs. “And at home, we’d host multiple dinner parties.”
“I had a passion for food as well, but in a different way,”
Geoff adds. “My dad was a retired professor; we traveled; I got exposed to other cuisines. And my mom’s side of the family is from Alabama and Florida — there’s a picture of me snapping green beans on the porch in Pensacola with my Papa.”
As of this summer, Table at the Lake is celebrating three years at Lake Oconee. The menu is helmed by Executive Chef Casey Burchfield, who is also co-owner.
After living in Chicago, the couple decided to move South during the pandemic. Atlanta felt crowded, but Lake Oconee was just right. As they settled into lakeside life, they realized something: The community needed more restaurants. Residents were swiftly moving to the area, but businesses weren’t multiplying as fast. Could the two of them open an eatery? “The learning curve was steep,” Jon confesses. “I consumed a lot of books, read a lot online, got a business plan together, and convinced the bank. We’re still learning every day.”
As of this summer, Table at the Lake is celebrating three years at Lake Oconee. The menu is helmed by Executive Chef Casey Burchfield, who is also co-owner. A native of upstate New York, Chef Casey attended Johnson & Wales, worked in Los Angeles, cooked with Wolfgang Puck, and eventually ended up on Lake Oconee to run the kitchen at Ritz-Carlton’s Linger Longer Steakhouse.
According to Jon and Geoff, Casey is an important part of the restaurant’s success. “It was kismet that we met,” Geoff says. “Table at the Lake was just an idea on paper, and we said, if you’re ever interested, let’s talk.”
The current dinner menu “represents the restaurant’s maturity,” in the words of Jon, as it moves into the third year. Table at the Lake is homing in on producers from Georgia, as well as the region, ranging from local farmers delivering fresh eggs each week to oysters from Southeastern purveyors
for “Oyster and Martini Mondays.” Occasionally, Jon and Geoff will bring back ideas from their travels — California in particular, which they visit every year — but the focus is becoming hyper-regional, according to Jon. “There’s so much abundance here for us to focus on.”
“Since we procure so much now from local farmers and purveyors, including much of our meat and vegetables, it allows us to build really trusted relationships with other small businesses,” Chef Casey adds. “We’ve had delicious food from the beginning, but we are really homing in on our brand as seasonally inspired with global influences.”
Wine and cocktails receive the same focus, and the restaurant has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for three years. A lover of wine, Jon admits the most difficult thing about building a great wine list is ensuring it’s more than his own favorites. The list now is different from three years ago,
he says, and has “mass appeal.” Meanwhile, cocktails contain all house-made ingredients, from fresh juices to cordials. “My philosophy is to manipulate ingredients and make the best expression of that ingredient,” Jon says.
Since opening Table at the Lake, new ventures have appeared on the horizon for Jon, Geoff and Chef Casey, namely The Burch x Boathouse — a grab-and-go cafe inspired by the Burch Food Truck, offering sandwiches, salads, cocktails, and more — as well as Rolling Clover Collective, a wine bar, cafe and gathering space coowned with lifestyle curator Joanna Garcia Swisher.
But despite the ongoing success, Jon and Geoff insist the work they put into the business pays off most of all whenever locals choose to dine with them. And it happens often; Lake Oconee is growing but remains close-knit.
“Opening this kind of restaurant in a smaller community means we’re a staple. We have amazing food as a foundation, and the chefs are talented. But we focus most on how our customers feel.”
–GEOFF ALTIZER-BIEGER
“Opening this kind of restaurant in a smaller community means we’re a staple,” Geoff muses. “We have amazing food as a foundation, and the chefs are talented. But we focus most on how our customers feel The people who have known us for decades say, ‘I feel like I’m eating in a restaurant version of your home.’ There’s an intangible culture about it.”
Visit tableatl.com for updated menus and event listings, or to make a reservation. n
Left to right: Executive Chef Casey Burchfield and his wife, Morgan; Jon Altizer-Bieger; and Geoff Altizer-Bieger.
National Study Highlights Atlanta As A U.S. Higher Education Powerhouse
By Cory Sekine-Pettite
According to a 2024 report from Forbes, Atlanta is the #2 Most Educated City in America. The study1 cited that nearly 60 percent of residents have a bachelor’s degree and nearly 30 percent have graduate degrees. In comparison, only about half of adult Americans hold a college degree.
As the report states, Atlanta is home to major colleges, including Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Georgia State University, so it’s no surprise the city’s residents are highly educated. This point is echoed by the Atlanta Regional Council for Higher Education (ARCHE), a consortium of 18 colleges and universities across the Atlanta metropolitan region, which recently released its own study, Higher Education in America’s Metropolitan Areas and Atlanta’s Prominence. This national study assessed higher education capacity in the 45 largest U.S. metropolitan regions and found that the Atlanta region ranked in the top ten nationally for the following fields: Information Technology and Computer Science, Engineering, Natural and Physical Sciences, and Education degrees. Atlanta is also a leader in bachelor’s degrees conferred, graduate and undergraduate enrollment, and grant research economic impact.
“Atlanta’s higher education ecosystem is a national model,” said ARCHE Executive Director Tracey Brantley. “The diversity, quality, and research strength of our institutions create unparalleled resources for students, employers, and the community.”
Founded in 1938, ARCHE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works to strengthen public support for higher education and help its members collaborate in ways that leverage their individual strengths. ARCHE offers cooperative programs — such as library sharing and cross registration for courses, in addition to several intentional communities of practice — that help member institutions expand opportunities for students, faculty, and staff. The 18 schools that make up its membership consist of Agnes Scott College, Brenau University, Clark Atlanta University, Clayton State University, Columbia Theological Seminary, Emory University, Georgia Gwinnett College, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, Interdenominational Theological Center, Kennesaw State University, Mercer University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Oglethorpe University, Spelman College, University of Georgia, and University of West Georgia.
1 The full report from Forbes is available at forbes.com/advisor/education/most-educated-cities
The ARCHE report analyzes student enrollment, degrees awarded, and university finances to show how metro areas leverage higher education to drive economic growth, innovation, and workforce development. With a special focus on Atlanta’s role in the national landscape, ARCHE highlights that the region now ranks among the top metropolitan areas in the United States for academic research, STEM degree production, and educational attainment.
According to the ARCHE report, “The Atlanta Regional Council for Higher Education hopes this report encourages government, business, and civic leaders to work more closely with institutions of higher
STEM EXCELLENCE AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Atlanta is a national leader in the growing demand for STEM fields. While the U.S. share of STEM degrees has risen from 18.5 percent in 2014 to 23.5 percent in 2022, Atlanta’s rankings in engineering, Information Technology (IT), natural sciences and physical sciences all exceed its population and GDP rankings.
Among 45 U.S. metro regions, Atlanta ranks:
• #2 in total IT and Computer Science degrees
• #2 in master’s degrees in IT and Computer Science
• #3 in undergraduate degrees in IT and Natural Sciences
• #4 in undergraduate Engineering and Physical Sciences
• #3 in doctoral Engineering
• #3 in doctoral Education
education in their metro regions. Our goal is that after reading this report, two takeaways are evident. First, universities and colleges are key to future economic development being shaped by technology and innovation. Secondly, provide evidence of the work that continues to define the exceptional post-secondary education experience and accomplishments of students, faculty and administrations represented in the 45 metropolitan regions profiled in this report.”
Below is a breakdown of some of the educational achievements of students at metro Atlanta colleges and universities as determined by the ARCHE study:
INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTH AND RESEARCH CAPACITY
The Atlanta region is one of the nation’s strongest research hubs, ranking:
• #4 in research spending
• #5 in federal grant receipts
• #6 in total operating revenue
• #6 in institutional housing capacity
• #6 in total bachelor’s degrees conferred
ENROLLMENT STRENGTH AND EQUITY
The region’s institutions attract and support a diverse student body, ranking:
• #2 nationally in Black undergraduate and graduate enrollment
• #5 in graduate full-time enrollment
• #5 in first-time, full-time Pell Grant recipients
A HIGHER EDUCATION LEADER IN THE SOUTHEAST
In comparison to other Southeast metro regions, Atlanta is the top provider of college degrees overall. Atlanta ranks:
• #1 in Engineering, IT, Communications & Media, Education, Policy Studies, Natural Sciences, and Physical Sciences
• #2 in Business (behind Miami)
• #2 in Mathematics, Statistics & Computation (behind Dallas)
• #3 in Medical & Health Sciences (behind Miami, Dallas, and Washington, D.C.)
• #3 in Arts (behind Orlando and Dallas)
In summary, the authors of the ARCHE study conclude: “Atlanta is exceptional in the unique constellation of higher education institutions within its metropolitan region. The combination of large public and private research universities, state colleges, and private liberal arts colleges, including two nationally ranked women’s colleges, offer a wide diversity of post-secondary education options for both faculty and students. Added to this list are four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) that make up the Atlanta University Center. As a result, Atlanta is positioned as one of the nation’s top
centers for academic research, innovation, and producing highly educated and talented graduates contributing to national and global societal good.”
More information and a report download option are available at atlantahighered.org/reports. n
ATLANTA’S
HOT CHILD IN THE CITY?
HERE’S HOW TO KEEP EVERYONE COOL THIS SUMMER.
By Denise K. James
Atlanta gets hot for at least half the year, and when the kids are out of school, it’s wise to have a few air-conditioned ideas in your arsenal to save everyone from sweating. We’ve rounded up several options — ranging from cultural and educational to just plain fun — around different areas of the metro.
EDUCATION AND CULTURE
None of us want the kids’ minds turning to mush over the summer, and luckily Atlanta has ways to ensure that doesn’t happen. Here, a few of our favorite options.
At the Alliance Theatre in midtown, kids can get a head start on arts appreciation with kidfriendly theater. Check out the Underground Repertory series for shows like The Great Ant Sleepover and Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed. Bring wee ones to the PNC Playspace, a no-cost indoor activity zone with programming like Baby Raves and Wellness Wednesdays.
Fernbank Natural History Museum’s special, interactive exhibition on T-Rex is open all summer through September 7, or opt to see an air-conditioned movie on the 3D giant screen, included in regular admission.
Visit the Georgia Aquarium after hours for Glow Nights, a summer-only event highlighting how some sea creatures, like jellyfish and coral, glow in the dark. Regular admission gets you and the kids into the Sea Lion and Dolphin presentations; just make sure to reserve ahead since seats fill up.
Fernbank
FUN AND GAMES
Need an idea for an indoor birthday party or playdate? These spots offer fun and games in an air-conditioned space.
The LEGO Discovery Center in Buckhead’s Phipps Plaza offers opportunities for watching LEGO movies, meeting favorite characters, experiencing virtual reality, and, of course, building. For the wee ones, the Duplo Park includes interactive fun such as duck fishing and a dino carousel.
Keep the older kids busy at Monster Mini Golf and Arcade in Marietta. At this glow-in-the-dark, monster-themed attraction, choose from classic arcade games, laser tag, mini golf, bowling, and even a laser maze. Or bring your sweetheart for date night.
Located in Acworth, the Portal Pinball Arcade has more than 90 pinball machines to choose from, ranging vintage 1970s games to modern tables. And don’t worry about quarters; all the machines are included with the price of admission, a modest $25 for all ages all day!
Atlanta’s immersive painting experience, the Splatter Studio, has locations in both Sandy Springs and Virginia Highland. Each 60-minute session includes gear, a demonstration, painting time, plus time to clean up and box up your art for safekeeping. Wear something you don’t mind getting dirty and leave the wee ones at home – it’s for ages 6 and up.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Sometimes, nothing but some good oldfashioned exercise will do the trick, and for times like those, we recommend these options.
Experience indoor rock climbing at The Overlook, located near Atlanta’s West End neighborhood, or at Central Rock Gym, located in midtown. At Overlook, opt to buy a day pass, take lessons, join a team and become a member. At Central Rock, start the younger ones with Intro to Rock Climbing for Kids, or sign teens up for Learn the Ropes.
If the kids are bouncing off the walls, take them to one of the many trampoline parks in the metro. Choose from Altitude Trampoline Park in Marietta; Sky Zone, with multiple locations in Roswell, Suwanee and Northlake; Xtreme Hopp in Johns Creek; and Urban Air in Kennesaw. n
‘Cue in Atlanta
THE SAUCY SIX YOU SHOULD KNOW
By Denise K. James
City Barbeque
Craving some summer barbecue? We got you. The Atlanta metro is home to several great options and styles, from barbecue with Asian flavor to Texas, Memphis and Mexican takes.
Here are our six, saucy favorites.
City Barbeque
Eight metro Atlanta locations
What started as a single backyard dream in 1999 has grown into a brand with more than 70 locations across 10 states, built on craft, community, and genuine hospitality. Guests can enjoy a range of slow-smoked classics, including brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and smoked chicken, paired with signature sauces. Popular sides include mac & cheese, coleslaw, green beans, and other house-made favorites, all prepared fresh daily. citybbq.com
Wood’s Chapel BBQ
Summerhill, Atlanta
As of May 2026, Wood’s Chapel unveiled a new “Tex Mex” barbecue menu after researching the Lone Star State and stumbling upon a favorite: Valentina’s Tex Mex in Austin. Now, fans can choose between classic meat plates of brisket, turkey, and pork, or opt to try barbecue Texas-style on a bun or Mexican-style on housemade tortillas.
woodschapelbbq.com
Lewis Barbecue
Ansley Park, Atlanta
Lewis Barbecue from El Paso-born pitmaster John Lewis is another chance to try smoked meats prepared Texan style. Take a walk or bike ride on the Atlanta Beltline and stop in for a plate of brisket, which they’re known for, plus delicious sides, icebox pies — and a secondary menu plus cocktails across the breezeway at Bar Lewis. lewisbarbecue.com
Heirloom Market BBQ
Smyrna
Described as having “a slight Asian accent,” this Smyrna eatery offers classics like brisket and pulled pork alongside spicy Korean pork, sweet and smoky wings, and gochujangrubbed spare ribs. Sauce options include Kitchen for spicy fresh and Korean for sweet heat, plus classic mild and vinegar. Dine on the patio or take your order to go, as Heirloom has limited seating.
heirloommarketbbq.com
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q Various locations
With locations in Brookhaven, the Battery, Toco Hills, DeKalb Avenue, and more, you’re never far from Fox Bros. Invite a crowd to sample the varied menu of not only classic ‘cue but also chili, salads, loaded fries and plenty of sides. foxbrosbbq.com
Big Shanty Smokehouse Kennesaw
This award-winning, Memphis-style barbecue spot is lauded for “killer” spare ribs and three signature dishes: the Smokehouse Bowl (served on a bed of Fritos!), rib tips tossed in Memphis dry rub, and the Spudzilla, a heap of brisket on a giant potato. Come hungry.
bigshantybbq.com n
City Barbeque
Heirloom Market BBQ
Wood’s Chapel BBQ
SCORE!
Your primer for navigating FIFA World Cup 26TM, coming to Atlanta this summer
FIFA World Cup 26TM isn’t just a tournament—it’s a global spectacle that transforms host cities, draws fans from every corner of the world and creates once-in-a-generation moments. And this summer, Atlanta will be at the center of it all. Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or simply curious about what the buzz means for the metro area, this guide breaks down what you need to know about this spectacular event and what will happen in the ATL.
All photos are courtesy of FIFA World Cup 26TM
HOW DID ATLANTA BECOME A HOST CITY?
Atlanta’s path to hosting matches in the FIFA World Cup was years in the making. The Atlanta Sports Council, a division of the Metro Atlanta Chamber, along with city officials and civic leaders, led the competitive bid process, which included the FIFA committee evaluating a number of North American cities across the United States, Canada and Mexico. In addition to Atlanta’s history as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, as well as major sporting events like four Super Bowls, four NCAA Men’s Final Four tournaments and the 2018 MLS Cup final, the city had a significant edge thanks to its infrastructure, access to a major international airport, ample hotel accommodations, solid business ecosystem and state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
In June of 2022, Atlanta was named as a host city in a global televised announcement. In early 2024, FIFA revealed that the city would welcome eight matches, including five group games, a Round of 32, a Round of 16 and a semifinal. And on December 6, 2024, Atlanta learned the schedule for its eight matches, which will take place between Monday, June 15, and Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
ATLANTA’S FIFA WORLD CUP MATCH SCHEDULE
Teams from around the world will descend upon Atlanta over the course of four weeks this summer to compete for soccer’s biggest title. Here is the match schedule, with games being played at the temporarily renamed Atlanta Stadium:
• June 15: Group Stage (Spain vs. Cape Verde)
• June 18: Group Stage (South Africa vs. UEFA Playoff Winner D)
• June 21: Group Stage (Spain vs. Saudi Arabia)
• June 24: Group Stage (Morocco vs. Haiti)
• June 27: Group Stage (Uzbekistan vs. FIFA Playoff Winner 1)
• July 1: Round of 32 (Match 80)
• July 7: Round of 16 (Match 95)
• July 15: Semifinal (Match 102)
FOR THE FANS
During the month-long FIFA World Cup event, Atlanta will turn Centennial Olympic Park into a bona fide celebration zone, hosting the FIFA Fan FestivalTM. The City of Atlanta and the Georgia World Congress Center Authority are collaborating to present the fan-centric event, which will be open for 20 days and allow visitors to watch live match broadcasts on giant outdoor screens, enjoy live music and performances, visit interactive exhibits, taste local food and beverages and much more. The festival is free and open to the public and will mark 30 years since the city welcomed global visitors to the exact same spot for the Summer Olympic Games in 1996.
DID YOU KNOW?
This isn’t Atlanta’s first brush with FIFA World Cup glory. In fact, Atlanta hosted six games for FIFA World Cup 2025, with Mercedes-Benz Stadium being the backdrop for six Round of 16 matches, including the quarterfinal between Paris SaintGermain and Bayern Munich.
A MAJOR IMPACT
FIFA World Cup 26TM in Atlanta is expected to provide the city with a major economic boost, bringing in $500 million to over $1 billion in revenue for the hospitality, restaurant, transportation and retail industries around town. The city will welcome more than 300,000 visitors for the event, and over 4,000 temporary and permanent jobs will be added to the local economy.
KICK IT IN THE ATL DURING THE FIFA WORLD CUP
If you’re not planning to travel downtown to experience the World Cup in Atlanta, you can still get in on the fun. In fact, events and community watch parties will be happening all across the metro area. Here are just a few options you may want to check out:
• Decatur WatchFest 26: This 34-day soccer festival will take place in Decatur Square, where every World Cup match will be shown live. Additionally, local restaurants, breweries and pubs will air matches not seen on the big screen in square. And live music from acts like Big Boi, The War and Treaty, Indigo Girls and more will be presented throughout the month.
• The Atlanta Beltline: Throughout the FIFA World Cup, festival-style events will be held at various locations along the Beltline, with music, food, vendors and more adding to the buzz in the air during soccer’s biggest tournament.
• Historic Fourth Ward Park: A community watch party on July 11 will welcome visitors to one of Atlanta’s most diverse neighborhoods. FIFA World Cup matches will be aired on giant screens, live music and food vendors will be present and kids activities will make the day ideal for visitors of all ages. The event is free.
SCORE YOUR SEATS!
FIFA World Cup 26TM will feature a record 140 matches in 16 cities across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Tickets are available for the matches in Atlanta; you can purchase for single matches or a venue series. For more information, visit fifa.com.
FAYETTEVILLE: THE NEW HOME OF U.S. SOCCER
America’s home for soccer has opened in our backyard, located in Fayette County, the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center made its official debut on May 7, 2026. Built on a 200-acre site, this new training center boasts more than 400,000 square feet of total facilities for the soccer community to utilize, including 17 outdoor playing surfaces with natural grass; turf and sand; a 10,000 square-foot, high-performance gym; 20 locker rooms; indoor training facilities; and more. The facility currently consists of 123 developed acres, allowing room to grow as the sport continues to evolve with this center becoming a pillar within the entire soccer community. Fayetteville welcomes all 24 U.S. National teams as they make this training center their home and is hosting the U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team this summer as they practice for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With this world-class facility focuses on inclusivity and advancement, as players, fans, and coaches will come from all over the world to appreciate America’s new home for soccer.
COCA-COLA: ALL EYES ON A HOMETOWN FAVORITE
During the FIFA World Cup, more than five billion people from around the world will have their eyes on the eight matches played at Atlanta Stadium. And as they watch the people in the stands, as well as those surrounding the stadium, they’ll see people enjoying ice cold Coca-Cola products. That’s because the CocaCola Company is the global exclusive non-alcoholic beverage sponsor of the tournament.
“We want to make sure that we help this city shine,” says Jake Powell, director of operational marketing, east region, for the Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc. “We are very fortunate to have our corporate headquarters in the host city for eight of the matches, including one of the semifinals, which is huge. All of the corporate sponsors are working with the city to elevate what they are doing and ensure that everyone traveling to and through Atlanta will be impressed.”
Coca-Cola’s collaboration with FIFA was crafted outside of Atlanta’s effort to secure the World Cup tournament. The company’s global sports marketing team regularly works to bring Coke to a wide array of sporting events, and the World Cup was a perfect fit. What’s more, the company has ample game day operations experience at the stadium (which is already a Coke-exclusive facility), having been part of Super Bowls, the SEC Championships, the Taylor Swift concert and more.
With the FIFA World Cup sponsorship, Coca-Cola promotions will be seen throughout the city not only at FIFA-presented events, but also via the company’s retail partners like Kroger, Publix and Walmart. CocaCola also has exclusive worldwide rights to organize the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, which brings the original solid gold FIFA World Cup Trophy directly to fans in cities around the world; the tour began on January 3 in Saudi Arabia and will visit all 16 host cities, including Atlanta on May 15 and 16.
“This is a great opportunity to highlight what Atlanta is capable of. We are an attractive city with so many corporations, international travel opportunities, a fantastic business community and more. The World Cup is just going to amplify that,” Powell concludes. “And when you think about the emotion that people have around events like this, we want to be the brand associated with those experiences. When people share their memories of the matches they watched, eating a hot dog and drinking a Coca-Cola, that is so important to us. It’s just great.” n
SELECT METRO ATLANTA PRIVATE SCHOOLS
The Paideia School
Porter Academy
Saint Francis School
FORSYTH
Saint Francis High School
Springmont School
Trinity School
The Walker School
Wesleyan School
Whitefield Academy 25. The Wood Acres School
Woodward Academy Main Campus 27. Woodward Academy North Campus
GET TO KNOW METRO ATLANTA’S COUNTIES
According to the Atlanta Regional Commission, the 20-county Atlanta region will be home to more than eight million people by the year 2040. The counties that comprise the area are as distinctive as the people who live within them, as each one has its own personality, features and resources. In the pages that follow, KnowAtlanta will introduce you to more than a dozen
of the most sought-after counties in metro Atlanta. You’ll learn about each county’s proximity to the city of Atlanta, basic facts, the major cities and neighborhoods, school information and more. Consider it your primer for getting to know Atlanta and its beautiful communities. When you relocate, all of the information you need is right here at your fingertips.
METRO ATLANTA HIGHWAYS
Interstate 75
I-75 runs northwest to southeast straight through the City of Atlanta.
Interstate 85
I-85 runs northeast to southwest and converges with I-75 to form the Downtown Connector.
Interstate 20
I-20 is a major artery running east to west through the City of Atlanta.
Interstate 285
Known as “The Perimeter,” this interstate loop encircles Atlanta and connects I-75, I-85 and I-20 to the city.
Georgia State Route 400
GA 400 runs north to south through the north-central suburbs of Atlanta and is concurrent with U.S. Route 19.
Interstate 675
This auxiliary highway runs through the southeast part of metro Atlanta connecting Stockbridge to I-285.
Interstate 575
I-575 is a 30-mile spur route that branches off of I-75 and traverses the northwestern suburbs.
BARTOW COUNTY
Bartow
Atlanta
Distance from Cartersville to Downtown Atlanta 43 MILES
Distance from Cartersville to Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta Int’l Airport 53 Miles
Population 120,800
Median Home Price $372,423
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
Shaw Industries, Inc.
Toyo Tire North America
• Piedmont Cartersville Medical Center
Voestalpine Automotive Components
• Anheuser-Busch
ATTRACTIONS
Red Top Mountain State Park
• Tellus Science Museum
• Booth Western Art Museum
• LakePoint Sports Barnsley Resort
CITIES OF BARTOW
Adairsville adairsvillega.net
Cartersville cityofcartersville.org
Emerson cityofemerson.org
Euharlee euharlee.com
Kingston cityofkingstonga.org
Taylorsville
White cityofwhitega.com
Combined Sales Tax Rate 7%
Online bartowga.org
Bartow County features the best parts of big-city life and smalltown living with Civil War and Native American sites, excellent dining experiences, a businessfriendly economy, unmatched arts, shopping and excellent educational opportunities.
EDUCATION
Public Schools
Bartow County Schools bartow.k12w.ga.us
Cartersville City Schools cartersvilleschools.org
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
UTILITIES
Natural Gas
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
Phone/Cable/Internet
Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com
Electricity
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Cartersville Electric System cityofcartersville.org
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
Greystone Power Corporation greystonepower.com
Water City of Cartersville cityofcartersville.org
Bartow County bartowga.org
H Select provider
Booth Western Art Museum
Red Top Mountain State Park
Downtown Cartersville
CHEROKEE COUNTY
Distance from Canton to Downtown Atlanta 40 MILES
Distance from Canton to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 50 Miles
Population 299,273
Median Home Price $566,450
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
Northside Hospital Cherokee
• Inalfa Roof Systems
• Pilgrim’s Pride
Chart Industries, Inc. Piolax Corporation
EDUCATION
Public Schools
Cherokee County School District cherokeek12.net
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
ATTRACTIONS
Lake Allatoona Dixie Speedway
• Gibbs Gardens
• The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta
• Cherokee Arts Center Chukkar Farm Polo Club
CITIES OF CHEROKEE
Ball Ground cityofballground.com Canton cantonga.gov
Dubbed the place “Where Metro Meets the Mountains,” Cherokee County benefits from its status as a region that’s business savvy, environmentally alluring and undergoing tremendous growth.
UTILITIES
Water
Cherokee County Water Authority ccwsa.com
City of Ball Ground cityofballground.com
City of Canton cantonga.gov
City of Holly Springs hollyspringsga.com
City of Waleska cityofwaleska.com
City of Woodstock woodstockga.gov
Gibbs Gardens
Canton
CLAYTON COUNTY
Distance from Jonesboro to Downtown Atlanta 18 MILES
Atlanta Clayton
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
Clayton County Public School
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta
International Airport
FedEx
Americold Logistics
• Southern Regional Medical Center
ATTRACTIONS
Porsche Cars North American
Experience Center
• Road to Tara Museum
Clayton County Performing Arts Center
• The Beach at Clayton County International Park
• Atlanta State Farmers Market
EDUCATION
Public Schools
Clayton County Public Schools clayton.k12.ga.us
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
Distance from Jonesboro to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 9 Miles Population
Water Clayton County Water Authority ccwa.us H Select provider
Online claytoncountyga.gov
Located 30 minutes south of Atlanta, Clayton County offers easy access to Interstates 75, 85, 285 and 675, along with rail service from Norfolk Southern and CSX and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest airport in the world. It is the only county in the metro area to be classified as a Foreign Trade Zone.
Lake City
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport
Porshe Experience Center
COBB COUNTY
Distance from Marietta to Downtown Atlanta 20 MILES
Combined Sales Tax Rate 7%
Online cobbcounty.org
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
• Amazon Services, Inc.
The Home Depot
• Lockheed Martin Corp.
• Kennesaw State University
FedEx Ground Package System
• Publix Supermarkets
• Walmart Wellstar Health System
ATTRACTIONS
Truist Park/The Battery Atlanta
• Six Flags Over Georgia/White Water
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
• Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History
• Silver Comet Trail
• Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Atlanta Cobb
EDUCATION
Public Schools
Cobb County School District cobbk12.org
Marietta City Schools marietta-city.org
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
Distance from Marietta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 30 Miles
Population 793,345
Median Home Price $452,450
UTILITIES
Natural Gas
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
Phone/Cable/Internet
Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
Electricity Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Acworth Power acworth.org
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
GreyStone Power Corp. Greystonepower.com
Marietta Power mariettaga.gov
Water
Cobb County Water System cobbcounty.org
Marietta Water marietta.gov
H Select provider
Long regarded as one of the best places to live in metro Atlanta, Cobb County captures the best of all worlds with growing businesses, neighborhoods and more just beyond the I-285 Perimeter. It provides easy access to recreation and entertainment opportunities, as well as a thriving commercial center.
CITIES OF
COBB
Acworth acworth.org
Austell austellga.gov
Kennesaw kennesaw-ga.gov
Mableton mableton.gov
Marietta mariettaga.gov
Powder Springs cityofpowdersprings.org
Smyrna smyrnaga.gov
NEIGHBORHOODS OF COBB
Cumberland cumberlandcid.org
Vinings vinings.com
Truist Park: Home of the Atlanta Braves
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
DEKALB COUNTY
Atlanta DeKalb
Distance from Decatur to Downtown Atlanta 7 MILES
Distance from Decatur to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 17 Miles
Population 774,394
Median Home Price $327,000
Combined Sales Tax Rate 8%
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
• Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
• Emory Healthcare, Inc.
• United Parcel Service
State Farm
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
ATTRACTIONS
• Stone Mountain State Park
• Fernbank Museum
DeKalb Farmers Market
• Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
• Eddie’s Attic Arabia Mountain
EDUCATION
Public Schools
DeKalb County School District dekalbschoolsga.org
City Schools of Decatur csdecatur.net
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
CITIES OF DEKALB
Avondale Estates avondaleestates.org
Brookhaven brookhavenga.gov
Chamblee chambleega.com
Clarkston clarkstonga.gov
Decatur decaturga.com
Doraville doravillega.us
Dunwoody dunwoodyga.gov
Lithonia lithoniacity.org
Pine Lake pinelakega.net
Stonecrest stonecrestga.gov
Tucker tuckerga.gov
NEIGHBORHOODS OF DEKALB
Candler Park candlerpark.org
Druid Hills druidhills.org
East Atlanta
Edgewood edgewoodatl.org
Kirkwood historickirkwood.org
Online dekalbcountyga.gov
Access to suburban settings, a fast-paced city lifestyle and hip locales and one of the region’s most diverse populations makes DeKalb County a popular relocation option for young professionals, students and established business executives. More than half of the Fortune 500 companies with a presence in Atlanta also have operations in DeKalb.
With the lowest property taxes in the metro area and an energetic business environment to boot, Douglas County is an ideal place to work and live, and it’s located just 20 minutes from Downtown Atlanta.
Fayette County combines rural beauty and urban convenience with a rich history and offers residents a variety of amenities and recreational activities, as well as the highest net worth index in the State of Georgia.
Trilith
Trilith Studios
Peachtree City
FORSYTH COUNTY
Distance from Cumming to Downtown Atlanta 38 MILES
Distance from Cumming to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 49 Miles
Electricity Georgia Power georgiapower.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
Water City of Cumming Water Department cummingutilities.com
Forsyth County Water forsythco.com
H Select provider
EDUCATION
Public Schools
Forsyth County Schools forsyth.k12.ga.us
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
Combined Sales Tax Rate 7% Online forsythco.com
Forsyth County has been recognized as the 13th wealthiest county in the nation, as well as the seventh-fastest growing county nationwide by Forbes magazine, largely due to the 8,000-plus businesses in the community.
Big Creek Greenway
Cumming Fairgraounds
Halcyon
FULTON COUNTY
Distance from Atlanta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 10 Miles
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
CITIES OF FULTON
Atlanta atlantaga.gov
Alpharetta alpharetta.ga.us
Chattahoochee Hills chatthillsga.us College Park collegeparkga. com
East Point eastpointcity.org Fairburn fairburn.com
Hapeville hapeville.org
Johns Creek johnscreekga. gov
Milton cityofmiltonga.us
Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com
Palmetto citypalmetto. com
Roswell roswellgov.com
Sandy Springs sandyspringsga. org
South Fulton cityofsouthfultonga.gov
Union City unioncityga.org
INTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS
Ansley Park ansleypark.org
Atlantic Station atlanticstation. com
Buckhead buckhead.com
Cabbagetown cabbagetown. com
Castleberry Hill castleberryhill. org Downtown atlantadowntown.com
Grant Park grantpark.org
Long regarded as one of the best places to live in metro Atlanta, Stretching across the heart of metro Atlanta, Fulton County is broken up into several main areas and offers an array of options for its more than one million residents. The county is home to an ever-growing economy, thriving industries, renowned universities, significant cultural opportunities and more.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Home
Inman Park inmanpark.org
Little Five Points littlefivepoints. net
Midtown midtownatl.com
Old Fourth Ward
Poncey-Highland ponceyhighland. org
Virginia-Highland virginiahighlanddistrict.com
UTILITIES
Natural Gas SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
Phone/Cable/Internet Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
Electricity
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
City of College Park collegeparkga.com
City of Fairburn fairburn.com
City of Palmetto citypalmetto.com
Water Fulton County Water fultoncountyga.gov
City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management atlantawatershed.org
Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com
Roswell Water Department roswellgov.com
H Select provider
of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC
Ponce City Market
GWINNETT COUNTY
Distance from Lawrenceville to Downtown Atlanta: 31 Miles
Distance from Lawrenceville to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta
Int’l Airport 42Miles
Population 1,018,099
Median Home Price $459,900
Combined Sales Tax Rate 6%
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
Gwinnett Co. Public Schools
• Northside Hospital
• Publix
Gwinnett Co. Government
• Walmart
ATTRACTIONS
• Coolray Field
• Gas South District
Lake Lanier
• Southeastern Railway Museum
• Chateau Elan Winery & Resort
EDUCATION
Public Schools
Gwinnett County Public Schools gwinnett.k12.ga.us
Buford City Schools bufordcityschools.org
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
CITIES OF GWINNETT
Berkeley Lake berkeley-lake.com Braselton braselton.net
Continually listed as one of Atlanta’s fastest-growing counties, Gwinnett is prized for its access to bustling city life, booming communities and gorgeously maintained natural spaces. Only 30 minutes from Downtown Atlanta, Gwinnett’s economic opportunities span far and wide for local employees.
UTILITIES
Electricity
Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
Walton EMC waltonemc.com
City of Buford cityofbuford.com
City of Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org
City of Norcross norcrossga.net
Water
Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources gwinnettcounty.com
City of Buford Water Department cityofbuford.sophcity.com
City of Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org
City of Norcross norcrossga.net
City of Loganville coganville-ga.gov H Select provider
Atlanta Gwinnett
Chateau Elan Winery & Resort
Chattahoochee River
HALL COUNTY
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
Cottrell, Inc.
• Northeast Georgia Medical Center
Kubota Manufacturing of America
• Fieldale Farms Corp.
Kings Hawaiian
ATTRACTIONS
• Chateau Elan Winery and Resort
• Road Atlanta
• Lake Lanier Islands and Golf Resort
• Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville
Buford Corn Maze
• Northeast Georgia History Center Atlanta Hall
EDUCATION
Public Schools
Hall County School District hallco.org
Gainesville City School System gcssk12.net
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
Distance from Gainesville to Downtown Atlanta: 54 Miles
Distance from Gainesville to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta
Int’l Airport 64 Miles
Population 226,568
Median Home Price $494,118
CITIES OF HALL
Braselton braselton.net
Buford cityofbuford.com
Clermont clermontga.com
Flowery Branch flowerybranchga.org
Gainesville gainesville.org
Gillsville gillsvillega.com
Lula cityoflula.com
Oakwood cityofoakwood.net
UTILITIES
Natural Gas SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
Phone/Cable/Internet Xfinity xfinity.com
AT&T att.com
Spectrum spectrum.com
Electricity Georgia Power georgiapower.com
Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com
Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
Water
Gainesville Water Department gainesville.org
Flowery Branch City Hall flowerybranchga.org
H Select provider
Combined Sales Tax Rate 7%
Online hallcounty.org
Bordered by the beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hall County is a vibrant, growing and diverse community that offers an unparalleled quality of life and a sound economic base for business and industry.
Lake Lanier
Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville
Atlanta Falcons Training Facility
HENRY COUNTY
Distance from McDonough to Downtown Atlanta: 30 Miles
Distance from McDonough to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles
Population 264,922
Median Home Price $379,990
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
• Luxottica
• Piedmont Henry Hospital PVH Corporation
• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
ATTRACTIONS
Atlanta Motor Speedway
• Panola Mountain State Park
• Locust Grove Train Watching Platform
• Army Aviation Heritage Foundation Southern Belle Farm
CITIES OF HENRY
Hampton hamptonga.gov
Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov
McDonough mcdonoughga.org
Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com
EDUCATION
Public Schools
Henry County Schools henry.k12.ga.us
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
Electricity Georgia Power georgiapower.com Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com Central Georgia EMC cgemc.com
Water
Henry County Water Authority hcwa.com
City of Hampton hamptonga.gov
City of Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov
City of McDonough mcdonoughga.gov
City of Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com H Select provider
Combined Sales Tax Rate 8%
Online henrycountyga.gov
With Southern neighborhoods, a solid education system and plenty of recreational and economic opportunities, Henry offers something for everyone and is recognized as one of the fastestgrowing counties in Georgia.
Eagles Landing Country Club
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Panola State Park
PAULDING COUNTY
Distance from Dallas to Downtown Atlanta: 33 Miles
Distance from Dallas to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 37 Miles
Population 190,996
Median Home Price $398,822
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
• WellStar Paulding Hospital
Tanner Medical System
• Publix
• Costco Interroll MDR Conveyers
ATTRACTIONS
• Paulding Northwest Atlanta Airport
• Silver Comet Trail
• Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site
• The Dallas Theater
• High Shoals Falls
Moonlight Stables Equestian Center
EDUCATION
Public Schools
Paulding County School District paulding.k12.ga.us
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
Georgia Power georgiapower.com Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Oglethorpe Power Corp. opc.com
Water
Paulding County Water Department paulding.gov
City of Dallas Water Department dallasga.gov/utilities
H Select provider
Combined Sales Tax Rate 7% Online paulding.gov
Once devoted to agriculture, Paulding County has diversified and taken an industrial path in recent years, leading to substantial growth in the county.
Atlanta Paulding
Wellstar Paulding Hospital
Silver Comet Trail
Hiram
ROCKDALE COUNTY
Distance from Conyers to Downtown Atlanta: 25 Miles
Distance from Conyers to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles Population 98,416
MAJOR EMPLOYERS
Pratt Industries (HQ)
• Golden State Foods
• Acuity Brands Lighting
Hill Phoenix
• Piedmont Rockdale Medical Center
ATTRACTIONS
GA International Horse Park
• Cherokee Run Golf Club
• Olde Town & Celebration Park
Costley Mill & Wheeler Parks
• Monastery of the Holy Spirit
• Panola Mountain State Park
CITIES
OF ROCKDALE
Conyers conyersga.com
EDUCATION
Public Schools
Rockdale County Public Schools rockdaleschools.org
Private Schools
Turn to page 39 for the private schools listing and a map.
Despite being Georgia’s second smallest county, Rockdale has experienced substantial growth in recent years. Twenty-five miles from Downtown Atlanta, the county offers commercial diversity for business and a variety of opportunities for families.
Olde Town Commercial Street
Mountain Bike Race
Monastery of the Holy Spirit
Looking Back: The 1996 Summer Olympics in ATL
By Denise K. James
As the 2026 FIFA World CupTM games ramp up excitement in the Atlanta metro, longtime residents recall another summer of games in the city: the 1996 Summer Olympics.
From July 19 to August 4, 1996, Atlanta became the fourth city in the United States to host the Summer Olympic Games, and the event coincided with the 1896 Olympic games a century earlier, which are considered the kickoff of the modern Olympics (and where Centennial Olympic Park gets its name). Many Atlanta natives consider the 1996 Olympics to be a turning point for the metro as we know it today. Here are few reasons the games were a good thing:
General economic impact
According to Olympics.com, Atlanta reported a $5-billion economic impact as a result of hosting the 1996 Summer Olympics. In fact, Atlanta is considered one of the most successful Olympic host cities of all time.
Better sports venues
The Olympics prompted the construction of a few new sporting venues. These include Turner Field (which served as the Olympic Stadium), Philips Arena (now State Farm Arena), and Georgia Dome, which was demolished to make way for Mercedes Benz Stadium in 2017. These venues have hosted events such as all-star games for baseball, basketball and ice hockey, World Series games, Super Bowls and NCAA Final Fours.
Enhanced green space
The hub for the 1996 Games took place at Centennial Olympic Park, downtown’s 21-acre urban oasis. At the time, the park was the largest green space created in the United States in a quarter century. Three other city parks were updated for the games as well: Piedmont Park, Woodruff Park, and Folk Art Park.
More tourism
In addition to green space, sports venues, and money for the city, the 1996 Olympics encouraged a tourism boom. The Georgia Aquarium, the largest in the United States and one of the city’s key attractions, opened in 2005, and an updated World of Coca-Cola location opened nearby. The Hartsville-Jackson Atlanta International Airport was extensively renovated as well, adding concourse E and the atrium to the now-busiest airport in the world. n
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