Guide to Marietta
Just northwest of Atlanta, Marietta is known for its historic charm, centered around a beautifully preserved turn-of-the-century square. With unique shops, scenic parks, celebrated theaters, and unforgettable museums, Marietta offers a vibrant destination rich in culture and community.
Historic Marietta is just a short drive from downtown Atlanta, yet it feels worlds away with its five National Register historic districts and nearby Kennesaw Mountain. The thriving downtown area offers locally owned restaurants, unique shops, and inspiring art galleries, along with a popular weekend farmers market that runs year-round. History buffs won’t want to miss the museums, including the Marietta History Center, which brings the city’s rich heritage to life. Begin your visit at the Marietta Welcome Center, located in the charming Western & Atlantic Railroad Passenger Depot, to get oriented and dive into all Marietta has to offer.
Things to Do
Tours in Marietta
Discover Marietta’s unique blend of history, culture, and flavor with a variety of local tours. If you’re up for a little thrill, take the Ghosts of Marietta tour, where history meets a touch of fright. For beer lovers, hop on Atlanta’s free brewery bus tour and explore Marietta’s craft beer scene with stops at Glover Park Brewery, and Schoolhouse Brewing. To dive into Marietta’s rich heritage, pick up a free map at the Welcome Center for the Black Heritage Walking Tour and explore historic sites that tell the stories of Marietta’s Black community.
Marietta Square
A central gathering place surrounded by Glover Park, Marietta Square is a hub of activity. From festivals, concerts and special events to shopping and dining, there's plenty to do in this area. Pose for pictures at the gazebo or three-tier fountain and let kids climb on the playground train engine.
Six Flags White Water
Families love Six Flags White Water, a longtime water park not far from the Marietta Square. Open May to October, the park has everything from thrilling high slides to toddler-friendly splash pads as well as a wave pool and multiple dining outlets.
Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre
The 1935 Art Deco Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre is perhaps the most iconic building in Marietta, which operated as a movie theater until 1976. It sat vacant for years before being restored to its former glory, now hosting classic films, concerts, stage productions and special events. The terrace has a bar that overlooks the square.
William Root House Museum and Gardens
One of the oldest homes in the Atlanta area, the Root House is more typical of its time and place than the columned mansions popularized by Gone With the Wind. Though the home and grounds have been meticulously restored to their 1860 appearance, modern touchscreens and interactive displays have been added to help tell the story of the Root family and their enslaved house servants.
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Places to Stay
Marietta is close to all the popular attractions in metro Atlanta and offers outstanding room options at practically any price point. Convenient to thrilling games at Truist Park, easily accessible to major highways, and appropriate for any occasion, Marietta has ideal accommodations for your stay.
Hilton Atlanta/Marietta Hotel and Conference Center
The Hilton Atlanta/Marietta Hotel and Conference Center is perhaps the best, located one mile from the square on sprawling grounds. Its adjacent City Club Marietta Golf Course and Brumby Hall & Gardens set it apart.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Atlanta Marietta
Make yourself comfortable at our Home2 Suites by Hilton Atlanta Marietta. Enjoy spacious suites with free WiFi and free breakfast. The hotel is located off I-75, less than two miles from Dobbins Air Reserve Base.
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta/Marietta
Stay close to the action at the Courtyard by Marriot Atlanta/Marietta. In addition to the proximity to Marietta businesses and attractions, the hotel is just 15 minutes from downtown Atlanta.
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Where to Eat
When you visit Marietta, come hungry! Our vibrant culinary scene has everything from farm-to-table flavors to the iconic Marietta Diner. Locally owned restaurants serve up dishes that are sure to impress any foodie, and with new spots opening on Church Street in 2025, there’s always something fresh and exciting to try.
Spring
Honored by the James Beard Foundation, Spring is a humble neighborhood restaurant on the historic square. The seasonal menu focuses on sustainability, using the ingredients from local farmers and artisans for simple, but delicious dishes.
Hamp & Harry's
Hamp & Harry’s on the Square offers an elevated dining experience in the heart of Marietta, with expertly crafted dishes that showcase fresh, local ingredients in a warm, welcoming setting. After dinner, head upstairs to High Note for live music that keeps the night going strong. Whether for cocktails, farm-to-table fare, or a vibrant night out, Hamp & Harry’s is the place to be.
Stockyard Burger and Bones
Now a local chain, Stockyard Burger and Bones serves the square's best burgers that use certified Black Angus beef. Make your own or choose one of their options. There are also tuna, pork and veggie options.
Thaicoon and Sushi Bar
Dine on authentic Asian cuisine at Thaicoon, which carries Thai dishes as well as Japanese sushi. Favorites include the gyoza, tuna tataki and larb gai.
Marietta Square Market
Conveniently located just off the Square, Marietta Square Market brings together over 15 diverse restaurant options in a lively food hall setting. With both indoor and outdoor dining, it’s the perfect spot to explore Marietta’s flavors and local finds in one vibrant location.
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Events
Marietta celebrates every day! Don’t miss our year-round farmers' market, the wonderful Glover Park Concert Series, or the numerous fun festivals for the whole family.
North Georgia State Fair
Each September, the North Georgia State Fair comes to Marietta and attracts more than 300,000 people to enjoy live music, free attractions, competitions, delicious fair food and thrilling rides.
Taste of Marietta
Taste of Marietta, always the last Sunday in April, recognizes the community's best restaurants, chefs, and dishes with tastings and demonstrations as well as live music.
Chalktoberfest
Chalktoberfest in October is a unique event that brings together live music, craft beer, and nearly 100 artists creating large-scale chalk murals on sidewalks around town. The free festival benefits the Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art.
Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Home Tour
Every December, the Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Home Tour allows visitors a look into the area's most iconic homes. The private homes have been lovingly restored and decorated for the holiday season.
