I'm an Emory grad and I really enjoyed my time there. I can tick off some comments, but please know that things like atmosphere will be dated because I've been out for a while.
Location: it's in Atlanta, which is huge and full of traffic, but the campus is "contained" in a nice area that's generally walkable. They also run shuttles around campus. There are opportunities for internships & jobs in the city, but not like what you'd find in DC/NYC. Beautiful campus.
Academic: always been strong and getting stronger every year. If you child is interested in the sciences or b school, then Emory is a great choice. Many grads go on to top med, law and B schools. I majored in Poli Sci/econ and went into politics when I got out, then law.
Atmosphere: it was very (60%?) Greek when I was there. That doesn't seem to have changed, based on people I know and the alumni publications. You can find Southern pockets, but it is not as southern feeling as Vandy/UVA/Duke are.
Emory also hands out a good amount of merit-based scholarship money in an effort to attract smart students. If Emory is your son's safety and he shows interest by visiting the school, he could be on the top of the heap for some of this money.
I'm happy to answer other questions, but also hope people with more recent experiences will chime in.