Virginia-Highland

Where the upscale boho set hangs out
Word to the wise: Many make the mistake of calling the neighborhood 'Virginia Highlands', with an 's', or 'The Highlands'. True locals despise this practice and shun the use of an 's' on the end.

Talk of the town: Atlanta magazine dubbed Va-Hi as the city's favorite neighborhood in 2011.
The Virginia-Highland neighborhood, with its epicenter at the intersection of Virginia and Highland avenues, was founded as a streetcar suburb in the early 20th century. Although there aren't streetcars anymore, it still has a quaint village vibe, just a couple miles east of Midtown.

If you prefer shopping at smaller boutiques rather than bigger chain stores, Virginia-Highland is the place to go, and the best territory is on Highland between Virginia and 'Ponce' de Leon avenues. Charming craftsman-style bungalow homes line the walkable streets, and locals hang out at outdoor cafes between shopping breaks - try brunch at Murphy's Restaurant or grab a beer at Hand in Hand or Neighbors.

You'll find antique stores, salons, ice cream shops, denim stores, cutesy home decor stores, and unique kitchenware shops. Unlike the downtown or Buckhead areas, you'll feel like you're in a little cozy town rather than in a large sweeping city.