Photograph courtesy of Cobb Travel & Tourism
With its northwest location near Buckhead, the Battery Atlanta, and the Silver Comet Trail, Vinings feels both intown-ish and suburban, a combination that attracts people young and old to its leafy neighborhoods. The Chattahoochee River provides one boundary, while I-285 and I-75 provide others.
Paces Ferry Road, which runs through the community, was named for Hardy Pace, who operated a ferry across the Chattahoochee River in the 1800s—the area was even called Paces Crossroads for a while. As it grew and the train came through, the town was named for railroad engineer William H. Vining.
Residential designer William T. Baker has been designing houses here for decades and lives in the area himself. “You’ve got several of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta here,” Baker says, noting that the area’s many classic colonial houses represent the sort of timeless architecture that ages well. High-rise condos on surrounding hills offer excellent views of downtown Atlanta, he says, while new walkable areas attract young people.
What’s to love?
Courtesy of Paces Properties
Vinings Jubilee
This multipurpose center has long served as the heart of the community. Its shingled buildings, street lanterns, and clock tower add a quaint touch, enhanced by its pedestrian-friendly vibe. Within the Jubilee are upscale shops, restaurants new and old, spas, medical offices, and more. There’s a well-curated mix of local faves like Read Shop, a bookstore and coffee bar, or Waiting on Martha Home, and national brands like Talbots. Surrounding the Jubilee are longtime local restaurants such as Orient Express, located in a renovated railroad car, and the historic Old Vinings Inn.
Lower taxes
Cobb County has the lowest property taxes of close-in metro counties, a big draw for Vinings’ 12,000+ residents. Once Cobb homeowners reach the age of 62, they can opt out of county school taxes.
Courtesy of Canoe Restaurant
Canoe
Buzzworthy restaurants elsewhere in Atlanta may come and go, but Canoe’s appeal is consistent: excellent food and a memorable dining experience set along a picturesque portion of the Chattahoochee River. The lush riverside gardens offer a place to stroll before or after a meal and make it an Instagram favorite.
Chattahoochee River
The 430-mile Chattahoochee River winds its way through Vinings, providing access to nearby hiking trails such as Cochran Shoals and the Palisades. “For anyone interested in active lifestyles, Vinings is situated in the heart of it all, where you can enjoy the water, ducks, and trails,” says Baker.
Courtesy of Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Like its neighbors Truist Park, the Battery Atlanta, and Cumberland Mall, this premier venue—home to the Atlanta Ballet and Atlanta Opera—may technically be located outside of Vinings’ boundaries, but it’s close enough to share a zip code.
This article appears in our November 2023 issue.
