Located at the Frazer Center, this 39-acre old-growth forest is one of the few remaining historic estates in the metro area and a popular spot for weddings. The gardens are a social enterprise of the Frazer Center, a nonprofit that serves children and adults with and without disabilities.

With five separate parks nestled among the winding streets of Ansley Park, there’s plenty of space to relax in the shade of big oaks, surrounded by beautiful old (and newer) homes. The Beautification Foundation of the Ansley Park Civic Association maintains the parks and works with the City of Atlanta to add capital improvements to these areas for the benefit of local residents.

Located on the roof of Georgia Tech’s Student Center, this garden provides views across campus above the bustle of the quad. In addition to a quiet place to recharge, the roof also is home to solar panels that provide on-site renewable energy, while other aspects minimize and filter stormwater runoff.

Epitomizing feng shui, complete with a 32-foot waterfall, the park was designed by a Kyoto-based architect, making it super-legit. Stroll along the walking trail, or spend some quiet time reflecting at one of the seating areas located throughout the garden.

Just 1.7 acres, this elevated piece of land next to the MARTA tracks used to be filled with kudzu. Now there’s a playground complete with resident emu, Big Lou, more than 60 community garden beds, a stage and amphitheater, a sauna, and a pond. It’s a popular gathering spot for small festivals and drum circles, too.

While the Atlanta Botanical Garden isn’t all that secret, not everyone knows about their Cocktails in the Garden series. Because plants are a lot more interesting when there is alcohol, live music, entertainment, and games. This event generally runs each week from May through September.

Located beneath Ga. Highway 400 in a secluded residential valley, the 13-acre park has undergone major upgrades for its linking to PATH400. In addition, reforestation efforts have resulted in the return of native hardwood trees, native flowers, and woody shrubs.

Stretching through the heart of Inman Park, gulley-like Springvale Park was the brainchild of Joel Hurt and designed by famous landscape architects the Olmsteds. Enjoy a walk beside the pond, bring the kids to the impressive playground, or spread out a blanket on the grass and bask in the sun.