A Lavish Georgia Neighborhood Blends Grand Estates, Historic Charm, And Impeccably Manicured Gardens

Exclusive communities can be found all throughout the United States, from Martha's Vineyard in the Northeast to Beverly Hills on the West Coast. But did you know that one of these elite enclaves is located in the scenic state of Georgia? There's a good chance you've never heard of or visited Tuxedo Park in Buckhead, the Atlanta neighborhood that blends upscale shopping, rich Georgia history, and vibrant nightlife. That's all right with the residents here who relish the feeling of seclusion it affords them. 

In fact, though it has seen tremendous growth since it was first put on the map in the early 1900s, Tuxedo Park has managed to stay quietly apart from the world around it. It's also a gated community, allowing guests to feel safe and secure from the moment they arrive. For inbound travelers, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a convenient 20-mile drive away, so there's less travel time cutting into the exploration of treasures that this spot has to offer. At Tuxedo Park, you get to skip the crowds found in other lavish communities while admiring impressive estates and gardens.

At the turn of the 20th century, the well-to-do zeroed in on Tuxedo Park as a prime location for their sumptuous estates. The mix of architectural styles showcased in Tuxedo Park provides a glimpse into a bygone era and imbues the community with loads of character. What's more, the buildings transmit a Southern charm that may very well remind you of York, a South Carolina city boasting unique architecture of its own. Not surprisingly, Tuxedo Park was listed in The National Register of Historic Places in 2025. 

It really doesn't get more sophisticated than the Governor's Mansion, which oozes Greek Revival elegance across its 30 lavish rooms. Open for tours on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings from February through October, you'll marvel at doric porch columns, Federal-era furnishings, and a lovely fountain fronting the property. Across from the mansion is the six-bedroom Arden estate boasting a design inspired by Mount Vernon, George Washington's Virginia estate. Even if you're not an architecture buff, you'll appreciate the home's eye-catching Colonial Revival features — from its sky-reaching columns to the dormer windows that have surely offered great views to occupants past and present. On 225 Valley Road is an English Manor constructed in 1930 that encompasses a whopping 12,000 square feet. The vast manor formerly served as the residence of Tuxedo Park founder Charles Black Jr. 

As enchanting as these mansions are, the verdant gardens found throughout the neighborhood will surely delight you, whether you're a nature lover or simply looking to get away from the concrete jungle. For example, the stunning Swan House is surrounded by serene gardens full of exhibits that dive into Atlanta's rich history. Take a leisurely stroll as lush vegetation and the soothing chirping of birds put you at ease. In addition, at the Goizueta Gardens at the Atlanta History Center, tall trees tower over small waterfalls, marshland, and a winding creek, creating a picturesque setting you'll want to capture on camera. 

If you'd rather sweat your worries away, consider a game of tennis or workout at Chastain Park. Golf enthusiasts can perfect their swing here or at Capital City Club, a social club chartered in 1883. For luxurious lodging, The Georgian Terrace Hotel, which opened in 1911 and is housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building, lies approximately 15 minutes away by car. Unwind in the hotel's generously sized and light-bathed guestrooms and grab a bite in the inviting on-site restaurant.