Virginia-Highland neighborhood in Atlanta - one of the Top Atlanta Neighborhoods for Vacation Rentals or Holiday Rentals | atlantaandbeyond.com
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Top Atlanta Neighborhoods for Vacation Rentals: VRBO or AirBnB

Are you looking for the perfect Atlanta neighborhood to book a vacation rental for your next trip?  Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Atlanta like a local!  Book a place in one of the top Atlanta neighborhoods for vacation rentals which include popular intown neighborhoods.  Atlanta is known as a transportation hub, but it is so much more than its highways and airport.  Exit the interstate and immerse yourself in one of Atlanta’s charming residential neighborhoods – selected for you by a local!

I enjoy staying at vacation rentals when I travel with my family.  Everyone can have their own space.  Access to a washer and dryer means packing less.  We can take advantage of the grocery store and prepare meals at the vacation rental to save money and time.  Plus, it provides a peek into what living in that neighborhood is really like. 

Finding the Right Atlanta Neighborhood for Your Vacation Rental

The challenge is finding the right vacation rental in the right neighborhood.  Generally, I rely on a friend to guide me in the right direction.  When I don’t have a friend who is familiar with the area, I look to a local blogger.  My friend rescued me from almost selecting a vacation rental near the local prison in Nashville.  After my sister almost selected a vacation rental near the Atlanta Federal Penitentiary, I realized that this may be a common problem!

If you need a recommendation for Atlanta, check out my comprehensive list of the Top Atlanta Neighborhoods for Vacation Rentals.  You can’t go wrong with any of the neighborhoods listed below.  They are not listed in a particular order.  Ultimately the best selection for you will depend on who you are traveling with and what vacation rentals are available for your trip.  Happy Hunting!

Please note: when you park on the street in an urban area be sure to empty your car completely.  DO NOT leave any items in sight.


Summerhill Neighborhood

Summerhill is an intown Atlanta neighborhood located on the outskirts of downtown.  The Brave’s Turner Field, which is now Georgia State’s Center Parc Stadium is the most prominent landmark in Summerhill.  The neighborhood has undergone substantial revitalization since the Atlanta Braves relocated to Cobb County.  You will find a mix of historic houses, Olympic era homes from the 1990s, and brand-new townhouses.  The developer Carter brought the retail district on Georgia Avenue back to life.  You will find a lively and eclectic collection of shops and restaurants here. 

Why is Summerhill one of Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods for a Vacation Rental?

Summerhill is a vibrant neighborhood filled with full time residents.  Its revitalized Georgia Avenue is the centerpiece of the neighborhood.  If you choose a vacation rental in Summerhill, Georgia Avenue will provide you with fun dining options on your trip.  Atlantans themselves brave the traffic to hang out here!  The Summerhill neighborhood is only a short drive to the major attractions downtown.  I-75/I-85 and I-20 are easily accessible.  Plus, there is a grocery store right in the neighborhood!

Find a Vacation Rental in Summerhill

Summerhill: Details You Need to Know

Best for: Couples, Friends, and Families

Do I need a Car? Yes.  Summerhill is close to downtown but public transportation is limited

What is the parking situation?  Summerhill is a tight intown neighborhood.  Parking can be challenging close to Georgia Ave.  Pay attention to the vacation rental’s information regarding parking.  As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

Public Transportation in Summerhill

  • MARTA Rapid A Line is under construction and is expected to open for service in 2026.  This bus rapid transit will provide Summerhill with direct access to Five Points, South Downtown, and City Hall

Where to Eat in Summerhill

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Nearby Attractions


Grant Park Neighborhood

Grant Park is a popular intown Atlanta neighborhood that surrounds Atlanta’s oldest dedicated park.  The neighborhood is particularly popular with families.  This historic intown neighborhood is known for its Victorian cottages and craftsman bungalows that date to the late 19th and early 20th century.  The neighborhood is centrally located to the southeast of downtown Atlanta. 

Why is Grant Park one of Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods for a Vacation Rental?

A vacation rental in Grant Park is perfect for families, but couples and friends will love this walkable neighborhood too.  It is home to Zoo Atlanta.  Grant Park itself offers greenspace, walking trails, a playground, and recreation areas.  The Atlanta Beltline runs on the southside of the neighborhood.  The northern most area of Grant Park contains historic Oakland Cemetery and the King Memorial MARTA Station.  Plus, I-75/I-85 and I-20 are easily accessible. 

Find a Vacation Rental in Grant Park

The Symbol of the Grant Park neighborhood is the sunburst.  If the vacation rental you are looking at has a sunburst, then it is in Grant Park.  Keep in mind that while many houses in Grant Park sport their addresses on a sunburst, others do not.

Grant Park: Details You Need to Know

Best for: Families, Couples and Friends

Do I need a Car? A car is recommended in Grant Park.  Grant Park is close to downtown but public transportation is limited.  If you don’t have a car, I recommend staying on in the neighborhood north of I-20 and close to King Memorial Station.  You can also park on the street near the MARTA Station to visit downtown or Midtown attractions instead of driving.

What is the parking situation?  Grant Park is a tight intown neighborhood.  Parking can be challenging close to Zoo Atlanta and commercial nodes.  Pay attention to the vacation rental’s information regarding parking.  As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

For detailed information as to why Grant Park is one of the top Atlanta neighborhoods for vacation rentals please read my Grant Park Neighborhood Guide.

Public Transportation in Grant Park

Where to Eat in Grant Park

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Nearby Attractions

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Nearby Attractions


Cabbagetown Neighborhood

Cabbagetown is a historic mill village just to the east of downtown Atlanta.  The Fulton Bag & Cotton Mill is now a chic urban loft.  Today artists and those who appreciate art make this quirky neighborhood their home.  Look for the Forward Warrior Mural Project on Tennelle and Wylie Streets, which flanks the Krog Street Tunnel, which is Atlanta’s most famous location for street art. 

No one knows exactly how this neighborhood came to be called Cabbagetown, but there are a few stories out there.  The first is that produce vendors who peddled their carts through the neighborhood found that cabbages sold better than anything else.  The story goes that these vendors began to take carts filled with only cabbage to Cabbagetown.  Another story suggests that the mill workers, who were transplants from Appalachia, loved cabbage so much that you could smell it cooking throughout the neighborhood.  The story that I heard suggested that the houses were so close together that you could smell your neighbor’s cabbage cooking.

Why is Cabbagetown one of Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods for a Vacation Rental?

A vacation rental in Cabbagetown is perfect for couples, friends, and families.  This tightly knit, walkable neighborhood has fantastic restaurants for adults plus park space and playgrounds for families.  The Atlanta Beltline runs along Wylie Street and through the Krog Tunnel on the north side of the neighborhood.  Plus, I-75/I-85 and I-20 are easily accessible.   

Cabbagetown is an amazingly tight neighborhood.  The streets are small and the houses are very close together.  Get ready for a one-of-a-kind, local Atlanta experience if you stay in a vacation rental in Cabbagetown!

Find a Vacation Rental in Cabbagetown

Cabbagetown: Details You Need to Know

Best for: Couples, Friends, and Families

Do I need a car?  Yes. Cabbagetown offers limited public transportation options.

What is the parking situation?  Typically, neighbors park on the street in Cabbagetown.  This neighborhood is uniquely urban.  Be sure to pay attention to the vacation rental’s information regarding parking.  As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

For detailed information as to why Cabbagetown is one of the top Atlanta neighborhoods for vacation rentals please read my Cabbagetown Neighborhood Guide.

Public Transportation in Cabbagetown

Where to Eat in Cabbagetown

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Nearby Attractions

Attractions in Cabbagetown:

Nearby Attractions


Inman Park Neighborhood

Inman Park is one of Atlanta’s most popular intown neighborhoods. This neighborhood’s streets are lined with incredible turn of the century Victorian homes.  The atmosphere and the restaurants are amazing.  This neighborhood was developed in the late 1800s as Atlanta’s first streetcar suburb.  An electric trolley ran from downtown to Inman Park’s Trolley Barn on Edgewood Ave. The adorable Trolley Barn still stands although the streetcars are long gone. Today it functions as a special events venue.

Why is Inman Park one of Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods for a Vacation Rental?

Inman Park draws people in for many reasons. It is a fun place to get something good to eat, exercise or shop.  Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail borders the neighborhood to the west.  The mixed use Krog District lines the Beltline with shops and restaurants.  The Highland Avenue Shopping District offers more restaurants and retail opportunities.  The west side of Inman Park borders Atlanta’s funky Little Five Points district.

Inman Park’s Springvale Park features a small lake and a lovely playground.  Freedom Park and the PATH Trail are a linear greenspace perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or just hanging out on a picnic blanket.

Find a Vacation Rental in Inman Park

Inman Park: Details You Need to Know

Best for: Couples, Friends, and Families. 

Do I need a Car? A car is recommended.  However, Inman Park has its own MARTA Transit Station, which will provide easy access to other Atlanta attractions along the rail line or bus route.  If you plan to use public transit to Inman Park without a car, carefully read the reviews of the vacation rental to determine how far the walk is.

What is the parking situation?  Pay attention to parking information in the listing of your vacation rental.  Inman Park has permit parking adjacent to Little Five Points. As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

For detailed information as to why Inman Park is one of the top Atlanta neighborhoods for vacation rentals please read my Inman Park Neighborhood Guide.

Public Transportation:

Where to Eat in Inman Park

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Nearby Attractions

Attractions in Inman Park:

Nearby Attractions


Old 4th Ward / Sweet Auburn Neighborhood

Old 4th Ward is one of the oldest sections of Atlanta.  It is the only neighborhood that is still named after the historic Atlanta city council districts. You will see locals refer to it as O4W. The Sweet Auburn District is home to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and the historic African-American business and residential district.  These two neighborhoods almost seamlessly blend together, so I grouped them for my list of top Atlanta neighborhoods for vacation rentals.

Why is Old 4th Ward/Sweet Auburn one of Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods for a Vacation Rental?

Old Fourth Ward and the Sweet Auburn neighborhoods are a couple of the top Atlanta neighborhoods for vacation rentals for adults.  I recommend this neighborhood for couples and friends.  This neighborhood is known for its entertainment district on Edgewood Ave and Decatur Street.  Studioplex Alley, which is part of the Krog District borders the Atlanta Beltline and the Inman Park neighborhood on its western boundary.  Ponce City Market is a shopping and dining destination all to itself!

Find a Vacation Rental in Old 4th Ward / Sweet Auburn

I recommend staying in a vacation rental to the south or east side of the neighborhood – south of Freedom Parkway, between the block to the west Glen Iris and the Beltline or near Ponce City Market. 

Old 4th Ward/Sweet Auburn: Details You Need to Know

Best for: Couples and Friends

Do I need a Car? Yes.  There is limited public transportation to Old 4th Ward/Sweet Auburn

What is the parking situation?  Most houses only have street parking. Some may have driveways.  Pay attention to parking information in the listing of your vacation rental.  As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

Public Transportation:

Where to Eat in Old 4th Ward/Sweet Auburn

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Attractions in Old 4th Ward/Sweet Auburn:

Nearby Attractions


Virginia-Highland Neighborhood

The Virginia-Highland neighborhood is named after the prominent intersection and retail district where Virginia Ave and North Highland Ave cross.  Virginia-Highland is a highly walkable residential neighborhood with a few retail nodes that offer excellent dining and shopping.  Plus, it has a bustling bar scene. 

When I first moved to Atlanta, I was drawn to this neighborhood and I met up with friends often to shop, share a meal, or spend an evening at one of the excellent bars.  The homes in Virginia-Highland are a mix of single-family bungalows, English cottages, foursquares, and small colonials.  Plus, small-scale apartments or condo buildings round out the neighborhood fabric.   You will see locals refer to it as Va-Hi

Why is Virginia-Highland one of Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods for a Vacation Rental?

Virginia-Highland hosts a series of festivals throughout the year including Porchfest, Restaurant week, Winterfest, Summerfest and a Candy Crawl at Halloween.  These events may affect traffic and your ability to easily get around the neighborhood.  Check out the neighborhood calendar to find out what is happening when you plan to visit.

Virginia-Highland: Details You Need to Know

Best for: Couples, Friends, and Families

Do I need a Car? Yes.  While the Virginia Highlands is easily walkable, it is not easily accessed by public transportation.

What is the parking situation?  Street parking is typical, although many homes have off street parking such as a driveway.  Small apartment or condo buildings may have a dedicated parking lot.  Pay attention to parking information in the listing of your vacation rental.  As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

Public Transportation:

Where to Eat in Virginia-Highland

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Treats:
Legacy Bars

Nearby Attractions


Midtown Neighborhood

The Midtown neighborhood sits between downtown Atlanta and the Buckhead neighborhood.  Atlanta’s famous Peachtree Street runs through the heart of Midtown.  It is Atlanta’s most urban and most walkable neighborhood.  People live and work in Midtown, so it is vibrant at all times.  Midtown is Atlanta’s home of the arts – whether it be world class museums, art galleries or theaters.  The dining scene is incredible and there are plenty of bars and clubs where you can spend the evening. 

Why is Midtown one of Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods for a Vacation Rental?

Midtown is an excellent place to stay in a vacation rental in Atlanta because it is so walkable. The neighborhood boasts a the long list of museums and attractions.  Plus, you have access to the MARTA train line, which can take you to the downtown attractions without having to drive.  Midtown has so many amazing places to eat that I will only scratch the surface with my list below.

Find a Vacation Rental in Midtown

Look for a vacation rental on the east side of the downtown connector (I-75/I-85) in Midtown.  The neighborhood on the west side of the connector is called West Midtown, but it will not provide the same kind of access to public transportation or the Midtown attractions. 

Midtown has two districts.  Between the downtown connector and Piedmont Park, Midtown is very urban and it populated with skyscrapers, office buildings, condos, and apartments.  The Midtown Garden District located south of Piedmont Park is residential with a mix of single-family homes, multifamily homes, condos, and apartments.  If you stay in the Midtown Garden District, a car is recommended. 

Midtown: Details You Need to Know

Best for: Couples, Friends and Families

Do I need a Car? No!  If you stay in the urban section of Midtown, you will have access to the MARTA train, which you can take directly from the airport.  You can use public transportation to take you to the downtown attractions, the Inman Park neighborhood and more!  Midtown is Atlanta’s most walkable neighborhood

What is the parking situation?  If you bring a car, expect to park your vehicle in a parking deck if you are staying in the urban section of Midtown.  If you rent a place in the Midtown Garden District south of Piedmont Park, read the parking information carefully.  Street parking on the blocks closest to Piedmont Park is by residential permit only.  Pay attention to parking information in the listing of your vacation rental.  As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

Map of Midtown Neighborhood

Public Transportation:

Where to Eat in Midtown

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Weekend Brunch Restaurants:
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Nearby Attractions

Attractions in Midtown:

Nearby Attractions


Candler Park Neighborhood

Candler Park is a walkable, historic neighborhood to the east of downtown Atlanta.  It is named after Asa Griggs Candler, owner of the Coca Cola Company.  He donated land in this area to the City of Atlanta in 1922.  This land now features Candler Park – including a playground, swimming pool, playing fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts.  Plus, an unusual feature: a 9-hole golf course.  The neighborhood surrounding the park is also know as Candler Park.  The neighborhood is adjacent to the funky Little Five Points District.

Why is Candler Park one of Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods for a Vacation Rental?

Candler Park makes an excellent neighborhood to stay in a vacation rental because it is easily accessible by public transportation.  This residential neighborhood has an excellent park including a playground.  And it is adjacent to the Little Five Points District.

Find a Vacation Rental in Candler Park

Candler Park: Details You Need to Know

Best for: Families, Couples and Friends

Do I need a Car? A car is recommended.  However, Candler Park has its own MARTA Transit Station, which will provide easy access to other Atlanta attractions along the rail line or bus route.  If you plan to use public transit to Candler Park without a car, carefully read the reviews of the vacation rental to determine the walkability.

What is the parking situation?  Street parking is typical, although many homes have off street parking such as a driveway.  Pay attention to parking information in the listing of your vacation rental.  Candler Park has permit parking adjacent to Little Five Points.  As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

Public Transportation:

Where to Eat in Candler Park

Grocery Stores:
Breakfast Restaurants:
Lunch & Dinner Restaurants:
Treats:

Nearby Attractions


Kirkwood Neighborhood

Kirkwood is a historic neighborhood east of downtown Atlanta populated with Victorian and Craftsman style homes.  Early landowners in this area includes the Kirkpatrick, Dunwoody and Clay families.  The name Kirkwood likely came from combining Kirkpatrick and Dunwoody.  The retail area at the center of the neighborhood was originally downtown Kirkwood before the town was annexed by the City of Atlanta.  Recently many modern homes have been built in the neighborhood. 

Why is Kirkwood one of Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods for a Vacation Rental?

Kirkwood is an excellent neighborhood to stay in a vacation rental because it is a vibrant intown Atlanta neighborhood.  It offers a nice mix of old and new homes and restaurants and shops in the heart of the neighborhood.  Plus, you can easily access the East Lake MARTA Station or the nearby Edgewood/Candler Park MARTA Station to take the train to attractions in downtown Atlanta or in Midtown.

Find a Vacation Rental in Kirkwood

Kirkwood has a mix of old and new housing stock.  Read the reviews carefully to determine if older homes are renovated.

Kirkwood: Details You Need to Know

Best for: Families, Couples and Friends

Do I need a Car? A car is recommended.  However, Kirkwood is located between two MARTA Transit Stations, which will provide easy access to other Atlanta attractions along the rail line or bus route.  If you plan to use public transit to Kirkwood without a car, carefully read the reviews of the vacation rental to determine the walkability.

What is the parking situation?  Street parking is typical, although many homes have off street parking such as a driveway.  Pay attention to parking information in the listing of your vacation rental.  Candler Park has permit parking adjacent to Little Five Points.  As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

Public Transportation:

  • MARTA East Lake Station – free parking is available at the station if you wish to take the train to attractions downtown or in Midtown.  This station is located in the northeast corner of the neighborhood.
  • MARTA Edgewood/Candler Park Station – free parking is available at the station if you wish to take the train to attractions downtown or in Midtown.  This station is located just outside the northwest neighborhood boundaries in the Edgewood neighborhood.

Where to Eat in Kirkwood

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Nearby Attractions


East Atlanta Neighborhood

East Atlanta is a funky historic neighborhood east of downtown Atlanta.  It is known for its local artistic spin on dining and nightlife in its downtown area called East Atlanta Village or EAV for short.  This area is also known for its live music venues.

Why is East Atlanta one of Atlanta’s Top Neighborhoods for a Vacation Rental?

If you enjoy a bohemian spirit, art, live music and nightlife, then the East Atlanta neighborhood is a great place for you to stay in a vacation rental. 

Find a Vacation Rental in East Atlanta

A place close to East Atlanta Village is an ideal location for couples and friends who are looking for a short walk to East Atlanta Village.  However, further out from East Atlanta Village, you will find quiet streets which are perfect for a family trip too!

East Atlanta: Details You Need to Know

Best for: Couples, Friends, and Families

Do I need a Car? Yes.  While East Atlanta is walkable, it is not easily accessed by public transportation.

What is the parking situation?  Street parking is typical, although many homes have off street parking such as a driveway.  Pay attention to parking information in the listing of your vacation rental.  As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

Public Transportation:

Where to Eat in East Atlanta

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Breakfast Restaurants:
Lunch & Dinner Restaurants:
Nightlife plus dinner too at a few of these:

Nearby Attractions


Top Atlanta Neighborhoods for Vacation Rentals

I hope that this guide provided you with the information that you need to find the perfect neighborhood for your next trip to Atlanta. If you have any questions, please leave me a message in the comments and I will answer.  Be sure to read each listing and the reviews carefully.  As with any urban area, keep your car clean!  Do not leave anything within view inside your car when parking on the street, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

A few other neighborhoods that are not included on the list of top Atlanta neighborhoods for vacation rentals that may also work for your trip include:

  • Ormewood Park – between Grant Park and East Atlanta
  • Reynoldstown – just east of Cabbagetown
  • Lake Claire – east of Candler Park and north of Kirkwood
  • Edgewood Neighborhood – west of Kirkwood and south of Candler Park (not to be confused with Edgewood Ave)
  • Morningside – north of Virginia-Highland

Feel free to ask me questions in the comments. If you are planning a trip to Atlanta or recently visited, let me know which neighborhood you selected in in the comments!

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