Marietta

Start at Marietta Square, the heart of the city, where you’ll find local shops and restaurants, including Spring, a Michelin-starred restaurant. You’ll also find a popular food hall, Glover Park, and a farmers’ market. History and outdoor enthusiasts can explore Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, which features more than 17 miles of hiking trails and Civil War sites. For a quirky photo stop, don’t miss The Big Chicken, a 56-foot-tall local landmark that’s become a symbol of Marietta.

If you’re traveling with kids, Six Flags White Water and Andretti Indoor Karting & Games are must-stops. Aspiring firefighters also love the Marietta Fire Museum, where antique fire equipment brings local history to life. Couples have plentiful activities to choose from, including strolls through Glover Park, shows at the historic Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre, and perusing Marietta’s locally owned boutiques and art galleries.

Highlights include Taste of Marietta in April, a celebration of the local culinary scene; Chalktoberfest in October, known for its street art and craft beer; HarvestFest in the fall; and Art in the Park over Labor Day weekend, one of the largest fine arts festivals in the region.

The best time to visit Marietta is in the spring (April and May) and fall (October and November), when the city comes alive with festivals like Taste of Marietta and Chalktoberfest. 

Summers are hot, while spring brings ideal weather for exploring with temperatures in the 60s and 70s, and fall offers crisp nights and mild, sunny days.

Marietta —the county seat of Cobb County — is located about 15 to 20 miles north of downtown Atlanta.

The closest major airport is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 30 miles from Marietta.