Virginia Highland Atlanta: Complete 2025 Neighborhood Guide (VaHi Living)
Last Updated: January 2025
Virginia Highland Quick Facts
- Location: Northeast Atlanta, 3 miles from downtown
- Boundaries: Ponce de Leon Ave (south) to Amsterdam Ave (north)
- Walk Score: 88 (Very Walkable)
- Median Home Price: $1,100,000 (2025)
- Population: ~12,000 residents
- Best Known For: Craftsman bungalows, brunch restaurants, Summerfest
- Top School: Morningside Elementary
- BeltLine Access: Yes (Eastside Trail)
- Nickname: VaHi
- Year Established: 1910s-1920s
Overview: Atlanta’s Most Walkable Historic Neighborhood
Imagine strolling down tree-canopied streets lined with charming 1920s bungalows, popping into independent boutiques, and settling onto a patio for brunch at one of Atlanta’s most beloved restaurants. Welcome to Virginia Highland, one of Atlanta’s most walkable, vibrant, and genuinely charming neighborhoods.
Virginia Highland (locally known as VaHi) is a historic walkable neighborhood in Atlanta, Georgia, located 3 miles northeast of downtown. Known for its 1920s Craftsman bungalows, tree-lined streets, and vibrant restaurant scene, Virginia Highland consistently ranks as one of Atlanta’s most desirable neighborhoods with a Walk Score of 88. This complete 2025 guide covers everything about living in, visiting, or moving to Virginia Highland—from real estate prices and top-rated schools to the best brunch spots and things to do.
Located just northeast of Midtown, Virginia Highland perfectly balances historic character with modern urban energy. Whether you’re considering a move to Atlanta, exploring neighborhoods for a home purchase, or simply want to spend a perfect afternoon in one of the city’s most beloved districts, this complete guide will show you everything Virginia Highland has to offer.
Virginia Highland’s Vibe: Historic Charm Meets Urban Energy
Virginia Highland is where Atlanta’s past and present come together beautifully. Bounded roughly by Ponce de Leon Avenue to the south, Piedmont Avenue to the west, Amsterdam Avenue to the north, and Briarcliff Road to the east, this neighborhood has maintained its historic character while evolving into one of the city’s most desirable addresses.
Virginia Highland is bordered by Morningside to the north, Poncey-Highland to the south, Midtown Atlanta to the west, and Druid Hills to the east, placing it in the heart of Atlanta’s most vibrant intown corridor.
Who Virginia Highland is Perfect For
- Young professionals who value walkability and community
- Families seeking excellent schools and safe, tree-lined streets
- Anyone who appreciates independent shops over chain stores
- Urban dwellers who want urban amenities without high-rise living
- Community-minded residents who love strong neighborhood identity and events
Best Time to Visit
Virginia Highland shines year-round, but spring (March-May) showcases the neighborhood’s beautiful gardens and tree-lined streets at their peak. The annual Virginia Highland Summerfest street festival in June is the neighborhood’s signature event. Plan to spend at least half a day here—the walkable commercial districts along Virginia and Highland Avenues deserve leisurely exploration.
The neighborhood is accessible via MARTA bus routes, though most visitors drive or bike. Street parking is available but can be competitive on weekend mornings during brunch rush.
The History That Shaped Virginia Highland
Understanding Virginia Highland’s history helps explain its unique character. Developed in the 1910s and 1920s as one of Atlanta’s first streetcar suburbs, the neighborhood was designed for walkability from the start. The charming Craftsman bungalows and English Tudor homes you see today were built during this era, creating an architectural consistency that gives the neighborhood its distinctive look.
By the 1960s and 70s, Virginia Highland faced decline as residents moved to newer suburbs. The neighborhood’s renaissance began in the 1980s when young professionals and artists discovered the affordable bungalows and walkable streets. Residents organized to preserve the historic character, fought against proposed highway construction, and revitalized the commercial districts.
Today, Virginia Highland is one of Atlanta’s most stable and desirable neighborhoods, with a strong Virginia Highland Civic Association and residents deeply invested in maintaining its character and community spirit.
Top Things to Do in Virginia Highland
1. Explore the Virginia-Highland Commercial District
The heart of the neighborhood is the intersection of Virginia and Highland Avenues, where you’ll find the main commercial district. Unlike many Atlanta neighborhoods dominated by chains, Virginia Highland proudly maintains its independent character with locally-owned shops, restaurants, and businesses.
Highland Avenue (between Virginia Avenue and Ponce de Leon) features boutiques like Mooncake (clothing and gifts), Abbadabba’s (eclectic home goods and toys), and Bill Hallman (Atlanta designer’s flagship boutique). The strip also includes numerous restaurants, coffee shops, and the iconic George’s Restaurant & Bar, a neighborhood institution since 1948.
Virginia Avenue (between Highland and Barnett) offers more shopping and dining, including Tapa Tapa for Spanish tapas and Murphy’s for one of Atlanta’s best brunches.
2. Visit John Howell Memorial Park
This small but beloved neighborhood park at 1590 N Highland Ave NE serves as Virginia Highland’s community gathering spot. The park features:
- Playground equipment for children
- Open green space for picnics and dogs
- Community garden plots
- Frequent neighborhood events and movie nights
The park is especially lively on weekend mornings when families gather and the Saturday morning farmers market (seasonal) sets up nearby.
3. Walk or Bike the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail
Virginia Highland’s southern edge connects directly to the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, the city’s most popular walking and biking path. Access the trail at several points along Ponce de Leon Avenue, then head west toward Piedmont Park or east toward Inman Park and the Krog Street Market area.
The BeltLine connection is one of Virginia Highland’s major assets, providing car-free access to multiple neighborhoods and dozens of restaurants along the trail.
4. Attend Virginia Highland Summerfest
The Virginia Highland Summerfest, held annually in early June, is one of Atlanta’s largest neighborhood festivals. This two-day event transforms the commercial district into a massive street fair with:
- Over 200 arts and crafts vendors
- Live music on multiple stages
- Food from local restaurants
- Kids’ activities and entertainment
- The Tour de Georgia Highland 5K race
Attendance typically exceeds 100,000 people over the weekend, making it a true Atlanta tradition.
5. Explore the Historic Residential Streets
Don’t miss the residential streets that give Virginia Highland its character. Take a walk down:
- Virginia Circle – A charming circular street with beautiful bungalows
- Lanier Boulevard – Tree-canopied street with some of the neighborhood’s finest homes
- St. Charles Avenue – Classic Virginia Highland architecture
- Greenwood Avenue – Connects to Morningside and features beautiful gardens
These streets showcase the Craftsman bungalows, English Tudors, and cottage-style homes that define Virginia Highland’s architectural character. Many homes feature beautifully landscaped front gardens—residents take pride in their curb appeal.
Where to Eat & Drink in Virginia Highland
Virginia Highland has one of Atlanta’s highest concentrations of excellent restaurants, many of which have been neighborhood institutions for decades.
Best Brunch Destinations
Murphy’s (997 Virginia Ave NE) is Virginia Highland’s most famous brunch spot and consistently ranked among Atlanta’s best. The wait can exceed an hour on weekends, but the creative menu, fresh ingredients, and charming atmosphere are worth it. Try the goat cheese grits or any of the daily specials.
- Price: $$$
- Reservations: No
- Outdoor Seating: Yes
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
Highland Tap (1026 N Highland Ave NE) offers a more casual brunch experience with Southern-inspired dishes, excellent cocktails, and a great patio. The shrimp and grits are outstanding.
- Price: $$
- Reservations: Limited
- Outdoor Seating: Yes
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
Atkins Park Tavern (794 N Highland Ave NE) claims to be Atlanta’s oldest continuously licensed tavern (since 1922) and serves reliable American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The patio is perfect for people-watching.
- Price: $$
- Reservations: No
- Outdoor Seating: Yes
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
Dinner & Fine Dining
La Tavola Trattoria (992 Virginia Ave NE) brings authentic Italian cuisine to Virginia Highland with house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and an excellent wine list. Reservations recommended for dinner.
- Price: $$$
- Reservations: Yes (recommended)
- Outdoor Seating: Limited
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
Fontaine’s Oyster House (1026 N Highland Ave NE) specializes in fresh seafood and Gulf Coast-inspired dishes. The oyster selection is impressive, and the cocktails are creative.
- Price: $$$
- Reservations: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: No
- Kid-Friendly: Limited
Noche (1000 Virginia Ave NE) serves upscale Latin American cuisine in an intimate setting. The ceviche and empanadas are exceptional.
- Price: $$$
- Reservations: Yes (recommended)
- Outdoor Seating: No
- Kid-Friendly: No
Bread & Butterfly (290 Elizabeth St NE) is a charming French-style café serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The European atmosphere and excellent pastries make it a neighborhood favorite.
- Price: $$
- Reservations: No
- Outdoor Seating: Yes (secret garden patio)
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
Casual Favorites
Taco Cowboy (1035 N Highland Ave NE) offers creative tacos, strong margaritas, and a fun atmosphere. The fish tacos and queso are crowd-pleasers.
- Price: $$
Moe’s & Joe’s (1033 N Highland Ave NE) is the neighborhood’s casual gathering spot with burgers, sandwiches, and a great beer selection. Perfect for watching games.
- Price: $$
Pacci Italian Kitchen (1020 N Highland Ave NE) serves Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian classics in a casual, family-friendly setting.
- Price: $$
Coffee & Treats
Highland Coffee (1052 N Highland Ave NE) has been the neighborhood’s coffee shop since the early 1990s. It’s where locals read the paper, work on laptops, and catch up with neighbors.
- Price: $
Sublime Doughnuts (535 10th St NW) – While technically in Midtown, it’s close enough that Virginia Highland residents claim it. These are some of Atlanta’s best doughnuts.
- Price: $
Morelli’s Gourmet Ice Cream (749 Ponce de Leon Ave NE) serves exceptional gelato and ice cream just south of the neighborhood.
- Price: $
Living in Virginia Highland: What You Need to Know
Real Estate & Housing
Virginia Highland is one of Atlanta’s most expensive neighborhoods, reflecting its desirability, walkability, and proximity to Midtown and downtown.
Housing Types
- Craftsman bungalows (1,200-2,000 sq ft) – The neighborhood’s signature style
- English Tudor homes (1,800-3,000 sq ft) – Charming and distinctive
- Renovated/rebuilt homes (2,500-4,000+ sq ft) – Modern amenities in historic style
- Townhomes and condos – Limited but available, especially near commercial areas
Price Ranges (2025)
- Starter bungalows needing renovation: $600,000-$800,000
- Renovated bungalows: $900,000-$1,200,000
- Larger renovated or rebuilt homes: $1,200,000-$2,000,000+
- Luxury properties: $2,000,000-$3,500,000+
Rental Market
- 2-bedroom bungalow: $2,500-$3,500/month
- 3-bedroom home: $3,500-$5,000+/month
- Apartments/condos: $1,800-$3,000/month
Schools in Virginia Highland
Virginia Highland is served by Atlanta Public Schools:
Elementary: Morningside Elementary School – Highly rated neighborhood school with strong parent involvement and excellent test scores. One of Atlanta’s most sought-after public elementary schools.
Middle: Inman Middle School – Solid middle school option serving several intown neighborhoods.
High: Grady High School – Atlanta’s premier public high school with strong academics, arts programs, and college preparation.
Many Virginia Highland families also choose private schools, with several excellent options nearby including The Paideia School, The Westminster Schools, and The Lovett School.
Walkability & Transportation
Virginia Highland consistently ranks as one of Atlanta’s most walkable neighborhoods with a Walk Score of 88 (Very Walkable).
What’s Walkable
- Dozens of restaurants, coffee shops, and bars
- Grocery shopping (Whole Foods on Ponce, Publix nearby)
- Boutiques and retail
- Parks and the BeltLine
- Pharmacies and services
MARTA Access
No direct MARTA rail station, but multiple bus routes serve the neighborhood. The nearest MARTA stations are Midtown (1.5 miles) and North Avenue (2 miles).
Biking
Excellent biking neighborhood with bike lanes on major streets and direct BeltLine access. Many residents bike to Midtown, Piedmont Park, and other nearby neighborhoods.
Parking
Street parking is available but competitive, especially near commercial areas during peak times. Most homes have driveways or garages.
Practical Information for Visiting Virginia Highland
Getting There
By Car: From downtown Atlanta, take North Avenue or Ponce de Leon Avenue east (about 10 minutes). From I-85, exit at North Avenue or Monroe Drive and head east.
Parking: Street parking is free but limited, especially on weekend mornings. Arrive before 10am for brunch spots to avoid long waits for parking. Several small parking lots serve the commercial district.
By Bike: Virginia Highland is easily accessible via the BeltLine from Piedmont Park, Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, and other connected neighborhoods.
Is Virginia Highland Safe?
Virginia Highland is one of Atlanta’s safest neighborhoods with low crime rates and active neighborhood watch programs. The commercial districts are well-lit and busy until late evening. Residential streets are safe for walking day and night.
As with any urban neighborhood, use common sense: don’t leave valuables visible in cars, lock doors, and stay aware of your surroundings. The strong sense of community and “eyes on the street” contribute to the neighborhood’s safety.
Best Times to Visit
- Weekday mornings (9am-11am): Explore shops and grab coffee without crowds
- Weekend brunch (arrive before 10am): Beat the rush at popular restaurants
- Early evenings (5pm-7pm): Perfect for patio dining and people-watching
- First Saturdays: Check for neighborhood events and farmers market
Avoid: Weekend brunch rush (11am-1pm) unless you enjoy waits and crowds
Insider Tips & Hidden Gems
The Secret Garden at Bread & Butterfly – The back patio at this French café feels like a hidden European courtyard. Perfect for a quiet breakfast or afternoon glass of wine.
Virginia Circle Walk – This circular street is one of the neighborhood’s most charming. Park and walk the entire circle to see beautiful bungalows and gardens.
Monday Night Garage – Just south of Virginia Highland on the BeltLine, this brewery and event space hosts food trucks, live music, and community events. Great BeltLine pit stop.
Early Morning BeltLine – Access the BeltLine from Virginia Highland early (7am-9am) for peaceful walks before crowds arrive. The morning light is beautiful.
Neighborhood Yard Sales – Virginia Highland hosts massive neighborhood-wide yard sales twice a year (spring and fall). Treasure hunters find amazing deals on furniture, books, and household items.
Free Parking Hack – Park in residential areas one block off Highland or Virginia Avenues for easier parking, then walk to restaurants and shops.
Best Photo Spots – Virginia Circle for bungalow architecture, the commercial district intersection for neighborhood vibe, and the BeltLine access points for urban greenspace shots.
Local Tip – Many restaurants don’t take reservations. Put your name in early (especially for brunch), then walk around the neighborhood while you wait.
Virginia Highland vs. Other Atlanta Neighborhoods
| Feature | Virginia Highland | Inman Park | Midtown | Decatur |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walk Score | 88 | 90 | 91 | 92 |
| Median Home Price | $1,100,000 | $950,000 | $650,000 | $800,000 |
| Architecture | Craftsman | Victorian | High-rise | Mixed |
| BeltLine Access | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Vibe | Family-friendly | Trendy/Young | Urban | Small-town |
vs. Inman Park
Virginia Highland is slightly more family-oriented with more bungalows, while Inman Park skews younger with more Victorian homes and closer BeltLine access.
vs. Midtown Atlanta
Virginia Highland offers more residential character and historic homes, while Midtown provides high-rise living and more urban density.
vs. Decatur
Both are walkable with great restaurants, but Virginia Highland is more residential while Decatur has a true downtown square and city center feel.
vs. Buckhead
Virginia Highland is more affordable, more walkable, and more community-focused, while Buckhead offers luxury shopping and fine dining.
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Highland
What does VaHi mean?
VaHi is the local nickname for Virginia Highland, combining the first syllables of “Virginia” and “Highland.” It’s commonly used by Atlanta residents.
Is Virginia Highland expensive?
Yes, Virginia Highland is one of Atlanta’s most expensive neighborhoods. The median home price is approximately $1,100,000 (2025), with renovated bungalows starting around $900,000.
Can you walk to restaurants in Virginia Highland?
Absolutely! Virginia Highland has a Walk Score of 88 and is one of Atlanta’s most walkable neighborhoods. Dozens of restaurants, shops, and cafes are within easy walking distance of residential areas.
What is Virginia Highland known for?
Virginia Highland is known for its Craftsman bungalows, excellent brunch restaurants (especially Murphy’s), the Virginia Highland Summerfest, walkability, and strong community spirit.
How much does it cost to live in Virginia Highland?
Homeownership: $600,000-$3,500,000+ depending on home size and condition. Rentals: $1,800-$5,000/month depending on size and type.
Does Virginia Highland have good schools?
Yes! Virginia Highland is served by Morningside Elementary, one of Atlanta’s top-rated public elementary schools, and Grady High School, the city’s premier public high school.
What is the Walk Score of Virginia Highland?
Virginia Highland has a Walk Score of 88 (Very Walkable), meaning most errands can be accomplished on foot.
Conclusion: Atlanta’s Most Charming Walkable Neighborhood
Virginia Highland delivers what many people seek when they move to Atlanta: a true neighborhood with character, walkability, excellent restaurants, and genuine community spirit. The tree-lined streets, historic bungalows, and independent businesses create an atmosphere that feels both urban and neighborly—a rare combination in modern American cities.
Whether you’re brunching at Murphy’s, strolling residential streets admiring Craftsman architecture, or joining thousands at Summerfest, Virginia Highland offers an authentic Atlanta experience that showcases why people fall in love with intown living.
Ready to Explore More Atlanta Neighborhoods?
- Inman Park Guide – Victorian charm and prime BeltLine access
- Midtown Atlanta Guide – Arts, culture, and urban energy
- Best Walkable Neighborhoods in Atlanta – Complete comparison
- Atlanta BeltLine Restaurant Guide – Dining along the trail
- Best Brunch in Atlanta by Neighborhood – Where to eat
Next Steps
📧 Subscribe to The Atlanta Guide for weekly updates on Atlanta neighborhoods, new restaurant openings, and insider tips for experiencing the city like a local!
🏠 Thinking of moving to Virginia Highland? Browse current listings and connect with local real estate experts who know the neighborhood.
📍 Download our free Virginia Highland Walking Tour Map and explore the neighborhood’s best streets, restaurants, and hidden gems.
