As part of various neighborhood revitalization programs, Lions Park is slowly getting a new lease on life. Homebuyers are being incentivized by the city to reinvest in the area, which has increased owner occupancy and stabilized the condition of existing properties over the years. The improvements are greatly welcomed, as current residents see the value of Lions Park and its location. The neighborhood is next to Nelson Park, a major recreational destination in Decatur. At locals’ fingertips are a state-of-the-art amphitheater, a multifaceted adventure park and a $13 million water park, among other amenities. Residents are also roughly 1 mile from Downtown Decatur and Highway 36, a hub for citywide travel.
Live bands and water slides around the corner
Lions Park, located in the eastern section of the neighborhood, is the neighborhood’s primary green space. The park’s acreage is small but within walking distance of most homes, making it a frequent hangout spot for neighborhood kids. Its amenities include open field space, a small playground and two basketball half-courts. However, a significant feature of Lions Park is that it sits adjacent to Nelson Park, a significant outdoor destination in Decatur. The park has some of the most diverse amenities of any green space in the city and is home to several entertainment hubs. Clay Gerhard, executive director at the Decatur Parks District, says Overlook Adventure Park and Splash Cove water park have been overwhelming successful additions to the green space. Another hotspot he mentions is the Devon Amphitheater, which regularly hosts touring musical acts. Kristi Mullinix, a lifelong Decatur local and principal at South Shores Elementary School, agrees, saying, “The Devon is probably the best thing to happen to Decatur. The other day, they had a Taylor Swift impersonator, and the little kids just loved that. I also know other faculty members take their kids to the free movie screenings they have, and some nights, you can see a band for only $5.”
Nelson Park is a great place to exercise nearby Lions Park.
Lions park is a nice green space in the heart of the neighborhood.
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Government revitalization increasing owner occupancy
Lions Park has a history of blighted properties, but the city’s commitment to neighborhood revitalization around Downtown Decatur has helped to stabilize the area’s housing market. From 2019 to 2022, the conditions of existing structures in the neighborhood noticeably improved as the number of owner-occupied residences increased. Programs like the Owner-Occupied Residential Rehabilitation Program, the Owner-Occupied Small Home Improvement Program and the Landlord Loan Program incentivize homeowners to continually reinvest in Lions Park. Homes needing renovations are priced between $15,000 and $40,000, while move-in options needing less tender loving care upfront can range from $40,000 to $70,000. Buyers can choose from Craftsman-style and split-level homes, bungalows and the occasional two-story home with Cape Cod and Dutch Colonial aesthetics. Homes sit along gridded streets lined with narrow sidewalks and mature trees that add a layer of privacy to front lawns.
Homes in Lions Park come in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Classic craftsman and bungalow style homes line the streets of Lions Park.
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Neighborhood bars and mom-and-pops
Local dives line the borders of Lions Park. Kennedy Fried Chicken sits in the western corner, offering on-the-go meals from a casual counter-serve establishment. In the east, Los Sauces Mexican offers south-of-the-border fare, while Flashback Lounge is locally considered the go-to cocktail bar. Along South 22nd Street, the neighborhood’s eastern border, the mom-and-pop Waterfront Cafe serves Southern-style cooking, like crispy fried catfish. Next doors, customers pack into Wild Dog Saloon’s patio and bar for a drink and monthly live music. About 1 mile from the neighborhood is a Save A Lot, as well as downtown’s main strip of boutique shops and high-end restaurants.
The Gin Mill is downtown, just a short drive from the Lions Park neighborhood.
Lions Park residents head to Save A Lot for everyday needs.
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Business routes and a hospital within 1 mile
While Decatur is a car-dependent city overall, Lions Park residents can access many public bus stops. Most are located along the neighborhood’s borders, but a few streets within the neighborhood also have stops. For those who drive, South 22nd Street connects to Highway 36, a major east-west thoroughfare connecting most of the city. Lions Park is also within 1 mile of Business Route 51, a north-south avenue that passes through Downtown Decatur, and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital. For flights, residents are under 5 miles from the Decatur Airport.
Residents of Lions Park can use the buses to get to the downtown transit hub.
St. Mary’s Hospital is just south of the Lions Park neighborhood.
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Two elementary schools for one neighborhood
A small portion of students living on the west side of Lions Park are zoned for South Shores Elementary School. All other students attend Muffley Elementary School. Both schools earn a C-minus rating from Niche. Older students attend Stephen Decatur Middle School, which hosts an annual healthcare career day, followed by Eisenhower High School, which has a specialized public safety career program. Stephen Decatur Middle earns a C-minus rating, while Eisenhower High has a C-plus.
Eisenhower High School provides a safe environment for students from Lions Park.
Stephen Decatur Middle School creates an inspiring atmosphere for students from Lions Park.
Muffley Elementary School creates a welcoming environment for students from Lions Park.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Lions Park
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
7
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Lions Park Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Lions Park, Decatur sell after 48 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Lions Park, Decatur over the last 12 months is $45,000, down 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Bring your toolbelt and make your vision a reality! This home has already had most of its main components updated, so now it's time for a face-lift! The open-concept between the kitchen and dining room makes this space feel airy and inviting while entertaining family and friends. There are replacement windows throughout most of the home, offering tons of natural light and a cool breeze on those
East side - Near St Marys and Eisenhower High School; a few fix-ups and you can turn this house into a great home. The garage has access from the alley. Bring your cash and be ready to sell. Selling AS IS. Seller will not accept assignment offers nor attorney-in-fact. Contract buyer must be the buyer at close of escrow.
2 BEDROOM 1 BATH WITH A FENCED BACKYARD & 1 CAR DETACHED GARAGE. NEWER ROOF, CENTRAIL AIR, HEAT, HOT WATER HEATER, REFRIGERATOR, AND DISHWASHER. CURRENTLY USED AS A RENTAL PROPERTY, PLEASE INQUIRE WITH AGENT FOR MORE DETAILS. CAN ALSO BE SOLD IN PKG @ $239,897 - 5 PROPERTIES - 2152 E DECATUR; 2038 E WHITMER; 1720 N GULICK; 936 E MOORE; 621 E SAWYER.
This home features 2 large bedrooms and oversizes 2 car garage. Desirable corner lot close to park. dining and Decatur's premier lakeside attractions. Nice starter home or investment opportunity that needs refurbishing. Location location!
Charming Home with Endless Potential! Welcome to 1675 E. Clay Street in Decatur! This inviting home offers comfortable living in an established neighborhood with convenient access to schools, shopping, restaurants, and parks. Step inside to find a welcoming layout filled with natural light and plenty of space to make your own. Whether you’re searching for your first home, looking to downsize, or
2 BEDROOM 1 BATH WITH A 1 CAR DETACHED GARAGE. CURRENTLY USED AS A RENTAL PROPERTY, PLEASE INQUIRE WITH AGENT FOR MORE DETAILS. CAN ALSO BE SOLD IN PKG @ $239,897 - 6 PROPERTIES - 2152 E DECATUR; 2038 E WHITMER; 1720 N GULICK; 936 E MOORE; 621 E SAWYER; 1976 E WILLIAM.
Tucked into an established Decatur neighborhood, this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath ranch is full of potential and ready for its next chapter. Inside, you'll find a comfortable layout that's easy to enjoy today while offering plenty of opportunities to update and make it your own over time. The unfinished basement provides valuable storage space and the flexibility to create a workshop, hobby area,
This cozy home has had a complete interior remodel AND a new roof, new siding and majority of windows have been replaced. You will love the kitchen with new cabinets, stainless appliances, new light fixtures and paint. The bathroom is also updated. In fact, the whole house has fresh paint and new light fixtures and ceiling fans. The beautiful hardwood floors in the living room and bedroom, and a
Tasha CohenVieweg RE/Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate-Service First
Cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bath home with lots of potential as a starter home or investment. This property features a welcoming front porch, a fenced front and backyard, and a 1-car detached garage with a roof replaced in 2025. Inside, you'll find a spacious living room with a cozy fireplace and a dining room highlighted by built-in bookshelves that add character and charm. Major mechanical updates have
Property Id: 2536882 Why keep renting when you could own? This home offers: • Affordable monthly payment • Move in right away • No traditional bank financing required • A chance to build ownership instead of paying rent Perfect for someone ready to take the next step toward owning a home but who may not qualify for a traditional mortgage. Opportunities like
Property Id: 2753553 Why keep renting when you could own? This home offers: • Affordable monthly payment • Move in right away • No traditional bank financing required • A chance to build ownership instead of paying rent Perfect for someone ready to take the next step toward owning a home but who may not qualify for a traditional mortgage. Opportunities like
Property Id: 2759450 Why keep renting when you could own? This home offers: • Affordable monthly payment • Move in right away • No traditional bank financing required • A chance to build ownership instead of paying rent Perfect for someone ready to take the next step toward owning a home but who may not qualify for a traditional mortgage. Opportunities like
Property Id: 2224601 Welcome to 1453 E Clay St., a beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2-bath rental home in a quiet, convenient East End neighborhood of Decatur! Whether you're a professional, family, or student, this home has the space, upgrades, and location you’re looking for — and pets are welcome! This spacious home has been renovated in all the right places, including: Newer
Property Id: 2707970 Why keep renting when you could own? This home offers: • Affordable monthly payment • Move in right away • No traditional bank financing required • A chance to build ownership instead of paying rent Perfect for someone ready to take the next step toward owning a home but who may not qualify for a traditional mortgage. Opportunities like
Step into the enchanting world of 1255 E Clay St, Decatur, where charm meets comfort in a spacious 4,194 sq ft sanctuary. This delightful two-bedroom home is a haven of tranquility, offering ample room for relaxation and creativity. As you explore the generous living spaces, imagine the potential for cozy gatherings or peaceful retreats. The full bathroom is thoughtfully designed, ensuring
1363 E Johns Ave, Decatur, IL 625212 Beds/ 1 Bath884Sq. Ft/ Lot 3,484 Sq. FtSUMMER SPECIAL!! $1,000 OFF INITIAL PAYMENT!!$575 Per month. No credit requirements.In order to qualify, you must have verifiable income greater than 4 times the monthly payment and a clean rental history for starters.Call 1- or email us at
Awaken to the charm of 1753 E Clay St, Decatur, IL, where cozy living meets convenience in a delightful 708 sq ft abode. This inviting one-bedroom home is a perfect retreat for those seeking a serene and uncomplicated lifestyle. Step inside to discover a well-lit, open floor plan designed to maximize every square inch. The full bathroom is thoughtfully laid out, offering both functionality and
Celebrate the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at 1585 Sedgwick St, nestled in the heart of Decatur, IL. This charming three-bedroom home offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, ideal for creating lasting memories. Step inside to discover a spacious living area that's perfect for relaxation and entertaining. The full bath is thoughtfully designed to cater to all your needs, combining style
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