old decatur historic district

The economic downturn had been hard on this small city but they are striving to make a comeback. The downtown area has many empty storefronts, many recent but also a flurry of activity remodeling and trying new businesses. I think the area is probably a good bet as an investment. Like they say about dilapidated buildings... they sometimes have good bones and Decatur has good bones. People were friendly and genuine. I would definitely visit again. Many places were nicely decorated for Christmas.

Before leaving home, my husband downloaded the Old Decatur Historic District and the Albany Historic District walking tour maps. You can stop at the Decatur Visitor Center on 6th Ave. to pick up a brochure. We did this as a driving tour. We enjoyed seeing the old homes (known as the "Painted Ladies") and the different architectural styles of the last 19th and early 20th century homes. Part of the Old Albany tour is the Princess Theater. To really appreciate it would best be done at night to see the neon lights of the marqee. Check out my pictures and go see this wonderful neighborhood.

I live in Old Decatur. There are so many abandoned homes and boarding houses. People are transient in the homes near where I live. I cannot understand why the area is not monitored more closely. A vehicle on the corner of Church street has been abandoned for years and how is it possible for one boarding house to rent by the week in our area?

We enjoyed driving around the historic residential district downtown. We visited the flea market (Bank St?). There was a small park on the river with a nice view. There seem to be lots of trains coming through and we enjoyed seeing those, also.

You can spend a really nice afternoon down on bank street. There is a lot of shops and a few places to eat.