Southeast DeKalb - Lithonia, GA

The South DeKalb neighborhood was originally a mostly agricultural area up until the 1960s. As Atlanta continued to expand, the need for housing increased and more rural areas were developed and turned into suburban and urban sections of the city. Eventually, South DeKalb became one of the wealthiest sections of the city.

The city of Atlanta, as a whole, has prospered because of a diverse economy that includes the entertainment industry, technology and professional business services. Many of the leaders in these different fields call the South DeKalb neighborhood home because it caters to business people who are also raising families.

While the South DeKalb neighborhood does not house an abundance of museums, visitors can head to other parts of Atlanta to visit the Georgia Aquarium, the Road to Tara Musuem, which is full of "Gone with the Wind" artifacts, and the Delta Flight Museum.

To experience a variety of dining choices, locals travel along Interstate 20, which houses some of the best restaurants in the neighborhood. At the Seven Gables Restaurant and Bar, patrons can enjoy a full dining experience that goes beyond just the food. This chalet-style eatery sits on over two acres of land and provides great views of cedar forests and local wildlife. The garden area provides an ideal after dinner destination to enjoy a drink, great conversation and a gentle breeze. The menu features a selection of upscale dishes that includes: pheasant, quail, chicken Wellington, filet mignon and lobster tail. Fans of French and continental cuisine visit often to sample the classics and take in the beautiful setting.

Further east along Interstate 20 in the South DeKalb neighborhood sits the Blue Willow Inn and Restaurant , which hosts a daily lunch and dinner buffet filled with Southern inspired dishes. While it has become famous for its fried chicken and fried green tomatoes, guests also visit to take in the Greek Revival architecture and enjoy the unique setting that still reflects the local antebellum history. The classic menu, full of favorites such as corn on the cob, black-eyed peas and collard greens, combines with a historic setting to provide a truly unique dining experience.

To grab a drink after work or enjoy a beer while watching the big game, locals head to the 5 O'Clock Sports Bar. The bartenders and crowd of regulars create a warm and welcoming conversation. Newcomers won't find it hard to make friends over a few drinks or a game of pool on one of the many billiards tables. Friendly wait staff also serve up pub favorites like one-third pound cheeseburgers, mozzarella sticks and fried mushrooms.

For a variety of entertainment options, residents can head east to the heart of Atlanta and enjoy a night at the movies, a professional baseball or football game or a performance at 7 Stages theater or Theater Emory.

Residents of South DeKalb have an easy time traveling the neighborhood by car. Drivers enjoy quick and easy access to Interstate 75, Interstate 10, Interstate 285 and other major routes. Plenty of on-street parking makes it easy to find a spot any time of day.

Passengers looking to take advantage of the public transportation system will have to travel west to the Conyers bus station along Interstate 20. Otherwise, it can be difficult to catch a bus or hail a cab in other parts of the neighborhood. Those looking for an affordable ride should also take advantage of local Uber drivers.

For bikers and walkers looking to enjoy some fresh air and exercise, the vast majority of subdivisions provide plenty of space for pedestrians to safely co-exist with drivers. However, the main streets do not have bike lanes. Although more serious bikers can head to Conyers and the Panola Mountain State Park to enjoy miles of trails.

Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy a bucolic selection of national and state parks nearby. Hikers head to the Hard Labor Creek State Park or drive out to the Oconee National Forest to enjoy many miles of trails. Families often hold reunions at the Indian Springs State Park, which provides cabins, picnic shelters and campsites for those looking to get away for the weekend. Visitors can also go biking, enjoy golf, fishing and bird watching. Parking costs $5 a day and dogs are welcome. In addition, the park hosts events throughout the year including the I Love the Outdoors Festival, the Spring Fling, Global Youth Service Day and many more.

The cost of living in South DeKalb runs significantly below other areas of the city. Renting a one-bedroom residence in this suburban area of Atlanta costs $634 per month. Drivers enjoy gas prices that run about five percent below national averages and passengers pay $2.50 for a single ride on the public bus system. Locals who head out for a drink can expect to pay $3.50 for a bottle of domestic beer.

Locals head to the nearby Gallery at South DeKalb shopping center to visit regional stores and national retail chains. Macy's, Payless Shoe Source, GNC, Champs Sports and a long list of other familiar names all have locations at this large mall. Various spas and barber shops also dot the area.

To enjoy a more eclectic and unique shopping experience, residents head west into downtown Atlanta. The city prides itself on being fashion-forward and a leader in music, entertainment and culture. This means a bounty for shoppers who love to be trendsetters. At Brunello Cucinelli, shoppers can choose among collections of cashmere sweaters handcrafted in a small village in Italy. The high-quality materials and craftsmanship make these sweaters well worth the price. Classic designs and earthy colors also mean you can count on them to stay in style.

At Henry & June, shoppers can choose from a variety of hard-to-find designers and luxurious pieces that have a bit of an indie edge. From fitted trousers to flowing blouses, everything creates a certain look and helps patrons stand out in a crowd. Stop in to pick up a special addition and spice up an old outfit.

South DeKalb residents have their choice of grocery stores to visit. Wal-Mart, Publix, Kroger and other major chains all have locations dotted across every section of the neighborhood. Both Your DeKalb Farmers Market and the Noring Farms on Floyd provide fresh local produce.