Best Things to Do at Lullwater Park

Lullwater Preserve | Laura Powell

Situated on Emory University’s campus is a 154-acre oasis known as Lullwater Preserve. Visitors won’t find typical swings and slides like other parks. Instead, families can explore, hike, and discover. Read on to see our favorite things to do at this hidden gem.

Explore the 1920s Powerhouse

Kids (and adults!) love to explore this old mill, which is really the ruins of a powerhouse. With its octagonal shape, stone walls and open roof, it seems like a fortress to children.

Suspension Bridge at Lullwater Park | Laura Powell

Walk Across the 210-foot Suspension Bridge

This bridge has just the right amount of swing to it to make children feel like they are doing something a little bit dangerous. It crosses a creek and connects the hiking trails.

Hike the Trails

Speaking of hiking trails, Lullwater’s got them and most are nicely shaded. Families can hike along the banks of Candler Lake, which offers a nice, wide paved trail (better for strollers than the dirt ones). You might even spot a deer, birds or other wildlife. 

Discover the Waterfall

If you walk from the entrance, it takes about ten minutes to get to the amazing waterfall (including crossing the cool suspension bridge).

Lullwater Preserve | Laura Powell

Check Out a Mansion

Lullwater House, built for Walter Candler, a son of Coca-Cola’s founder, is now the private residence of the Emory University  president. The Tudor-style mansion sits on the lake and is a highlight for visitors to the park.

Insider Tip

We’ll be honest. Parking is not one of Lullwater’s best features, but perhaps that is what keeps it so serene. Options are to pay to park at Emory’s campus (Clairmont Deck is closest) during the week or park there for free on the weekends. Some visitors have luck parking at the Hahn Forest Park Entrance, which has a small parking lot on Houston Mill Road.