Kirkwood is a historic East Atlanta neighborhood in DeKalb County. This intown community is a national historic designated neighborhood and is home to some of Atlanta’s most beautiful Craftsman and Victorian homes built in the late 1800s to the early 1900s.
With its historic flavor, Kirkwood exudes a small-town charm while being conveniently located just outside the Atlanta Perimeter. Downtown and Midtown Atlanta are mere minutes away, and neighboring communities include some of Atlanta’s lifestyle destinations, such as Decatur, Inman Park, and Virginia-Highland.
With a MARTA station right in the town and I20 and I75/85 nearby, commuting is a breeze for residents. More than that, Kirkwood’s relatively affordable housing, historic charm, well-maintained parks, and community spirit make it one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the Atlanta area today.
History of Kirkwood
Kirkwood is believed to have been named after the Kirkpatrick and Dunwoody families, two of the prominent American families who made their homes here before the Civil War. Incorporated as an independent municipality in 1899, Kirkwood was a streetcar suburb of Atlanta until the 1950s.
Kirkwood suffered a decline in the 1970s when crime and urban decay became rampant, but it had a dramatic resurgence starting in the 1980s. A fresh batch of residents came to breathe new life into the neighborhood, renovating historic homes, establishing new family-friendly businesses, and taking advantage of Kirkwood’s convenient location.
Today, Kirkwood is considered one of the most sought-after intown communities in Atlanta. It boasts its own distinct personality culled from its colorful history and diversity that makes it a vibrant place to live.
Kirkwood Real Estate and Kirkwood Atlanta Homes for Sale
Kirkwood’s historic Victorian and Craftsman homes are among the most coveted properties in the neighborhood. Most have been renovated and upgraded to include the latest features for comfort and convenience while keeping their beautiful historical elements.
The neighborhood’s housing stock also includes expansive single-family homes built in the 1950s and 1960s. There are plenty of new homes as well, including townhomes and condos. A few historic buildings have been converted into multi-family residences.
The Kirkwood Neighbors’ Association works with developers and Atlanta’s city government to ensure that the design of any new construction is in harmony with the neighborhood’s historic nature.
Living in Kirkwood
- Schools
Students at Kirkwood primarily attend Toomer Elementary, King Middle, and Jackson High School. Two charter schools, Drew Charter School and Ivy Preparatory Academy, provide more education options. Several private schools, such as Horizons and Paideia School, are also found in the area.
- Lifestyle
With a population of only around 5,000, Kirkwood is a close-knit community where everyone knows almost everyone. Downtown Kirkwood features a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and services. A must-visit is Ann’s Snack Bar, home to the “Ghetto Burger”, which has been named America’s best burger by The Wall Street Journal. Kirkwood also boasts a number of well-maintained parks with sports fields and courts and other facilities. A portion of PATH, a system of off-road trails in the Atlanta area, also runs through the neighborhood.
- Local attractions
Every September, the Kirkwood community gathers for Wine Stroll, a day-to-night event where local businesses serve wine and light snacks to guests, along with live entertainment and a program. Spring Fling is another signature Kirkwood event. Happening in May every year, this kid-friendly festival features live music, art booths, a barbecue cook-off,
and more.
If you want to learn more about Kirkwood and your real estate options here, get in touch with Karafotias Realty here or call404-321-0030 today.
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