In the Northwest of Atlanta, Georgia is a city called Kennesaw. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, to the southeast, features trails and monuments commemorating the Civil War.

The city was play important role in the American Civil War, and since it has kept much of its past, Laura Bush, who was the first lady at the time, designated it as a federal Preserve American Community center in 2004.

Kennesaw, Georgia, provides a variety of attractions to keep visitors engaged while they are in this region of Georgia. Kennesaw is rated as one of the safest cities in Georgia, despite the requirement that every home own a weapon.

There are playgrounds and a skate park in Swift Cantrell Park. Red Top Mountain State Park, which includes trails and a beach, juts into Lake Allatoona to the northwest.

List of things to do in Kennesaw

Given is the list of Things to do in Kennesaw during a visit to Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, Southern Museum, Smith-Gilbert Gardens, Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, Museum of History and Holocaust Education, historic Hiram butler house, Zuckerman museum of art, rose garden, and many more.

1. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

The Atlanta Campaign’s Civil War battleground is preserved within the 2,965-acre Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. From June 19 through July 2, 1864, opposing forces maneuvered and engaged in combat on the battlefield. Kennesaw Mountain National Battleground Park has a considerably more interesting history despite being most well-known as a Civil War battlefield.

The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park serves as a monument to the exhausted combatants and innocent bystanders. Three monuments, four gravestones, and the entire battlefield, where numerous people gallantly fought for their cause, are all preserved in the park.

The Civil War Memorial, the Civil War, Civil Rights, the People of Kennesaw Mountain, and the Preservation of this wonderful setting are just a few of the messages that Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park maintains and interprets for its visitors as a key landmark in the nation.

2. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History

On April 12, 1862, Union Army volunteers boarded a train and set out to cause as much damage as possible to the Western and Atlantic Railroad, a system crucial to the Confederate cause.

The stolen train is the main draw of the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. This incident became known as the Great Locomotive Chase.

This steam engine, known as “The General,” is just one of many items and displays in the  Southern museum that tell the tale of a conflict that tore the nation apart.

The trail and railroad industries, which affected the city’s history long before the Civil War, are also represented in collections at Southern Museum. You would see blueprints, pictures, letters, and other fascinating objects on your tour that provide a glimpse of the business in the past.

3. Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Despite the tragic closure of the Kennesaw Sky Zone Trampoline Park, there is still one within 30 minutes to the east in Roswell.

Both kids and adults are welcome here, where you may test your general fitness on Sky Zone’s ninja warrior course or enjoy a somewhat more laid-back time bouncing on Freestyle Jump’s wall-to-wall trampolines.

If you enjoy competition, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy the Ultimate Dodgeball trampoline court, while aspiring acrobats can practice new stunts in the Foam Zone with the safety and security of a soft and foamy landing.

4. Smith-Gilbert Gardens

Smith-Gilbert Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden covering 6.5 hectares, and visitors who enjoy plants and art will appreciate exploring its magnificent exhibitions.

More than 3000 varieties of trees, shrubs, and other native and imported plant species can be found within the Smith Gilbert gardens. You would find many lovely and interesting plants on show, from rows of blooming tulips to tiny yet majestic bonsais.

Georgia’s wonderful climate also allows for year-round plant growth in the garden. This implies that there are new plants to see and flowers to smell in each season.

You would pass by contemporary sculptures on the way to the various displays, which give the space a chic and modern feel. You shouldn’t miss a historic house, a tea house, or an artificial waterfall at Smith-Gilbert Gardens while on your tour.

5. Lake Acworth

A hundred-hectare synthetic reservoir called Lake Acworth is located a few miles to the northwest of Kennesaw. Its stunning mature woods surroundings, though, can make you believe the lake has been there for ages.

Parkland covers a significant portion of its shoreline, such as East Lakeshore Park and Overlook Park, which are situated on the earthen dam that divides its waters from Lake Allatoona.

With 18 different species of fish, including bluegill and yellow perch, the lake is well-liked by anglers. Boating is another popular pastime on the lake, and Acworth Beach is an excellent substitute for the far Georgia coast.

6. Explore the Kennesaw Mountain Trails

The highest point in the Metro Atlanta region is located all the way south of Marietta, close to the city’s only high-elevation location.

1808-foot-tall Kennesaw Mountain is home to miles of woodland paths, trails, streams, and other natural wonders. This location is a popular destination for birdwatchers because it serves as a significant stopover for migrating birds.

An interpretive center and museum are located near the park’s entrance, where you may learn more about the mountain, its heritage, and its various features.

You can take a self-guided tour to view the park’s natural and manufactured features once you’ve learned the ins and outs of the location.

7. Lazy Guy Distillery

When it comes to whiskey manufacturing, Kennesaw’s Lazy Guy Distillery is a bit of a newcomer, but that doesn’t make this laid-back attraction any less interesting.

Beyond the front porch, tours of the distillation machinery take visitors to see all that happens behind the scenes to make a craft spirit.

Visitors also can partake in cocktails made to maximize the flavor of the distilled spirits as part of the tours, which include sample sampling of the many whiskeys that Lazy Guy produces. There is also the option to try their Atlanta vodka and gin if you don’t like bourbon and whiskey.

8. Zuckerman Museum of Art

Kennesaw State University students and the rest of the local population can find art and design opportunities at the Zuckerman Museum of Art. Of course, guests are welcome to tour this magnificent building.

Even for frequent visitors, the Zuckerman museum always has something fresh in store with its wide permanent and changing collection of artworks. The majority of the exhibits feature modern artwork by regional and international artists, giving even modest yet skilled individuals a platform to present their works.

If you’re lucky or plan your trip well, you might even catch one of the many events hosted at the site.

These occasions encourage the promotion of various art forms and the sharing of ideas, from performance art exhibitions and workshops.

9. Museum of History and Holocaust Education

This museum, which is a part of Kennesaw State University, was established in 2010 to assist in public education about the occurrences and hostilities of the Second World War and Holocaust education.

Its exhibits, which include historical images and the testimonies of people who lived through and survived this violent time in history, are both thought-provoking and educational.

The museum aims to understand the role Georgia and its people perform, bringing home the impacts this conflict had all over the world while being largely shielded from the European and Pacific theaters of the war.

10. Swift Cantrell Park

Due to the numerous features and services included in the outdoor destination, Swift Cantrell Park is ranked as the top family park in Kennesaw.

The most well-known of these attractions is perhaps Kennesaw Skatepark, which features a concrete bowl, a flow course, and a skate plaza that has been certified by the Street League Skateboarding Foundation.

Those who have kids can take them to the splash pad and watch them play with other youngsters. For ADA compliance, there is also an inclusive playground design, ensuring that children with disabilities have an enjoyable and memorable time playing.

The Swift Cantrell park occasionally has movie evenings with current blockbusters, which are wonderful for family bonding.

11. Marietta Gone with the Wind Museum

Margaret Mitchell, an Atlantan, wrote the beloved novel Gone with the Wind, which is set in adjacent Clayton County, Georgia.

The museum is located inside Brumby Hall, which was built in 1851. This museum is dedicated to the even more well-known movie of the same name, which featured Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable, and is located in Marietta, a city 4 miles south of Kennesaw.

Its amazing collection consists of writings, original artworks, and costumes like the honeymoon dress that Leigh wore when she played the lead character Scarlett O’Hara.

Additionally, some exhibits focus primarily on the struggles faced by the African-American cast members during the period of racial segregation in the American south, as well as Mitchell’s copy of her best-selling novel.

12. Big Shanty Festival

Because of the several railroad workers who established shantytowns nearby, Kennesaw used to be known as Big Shanty.

The Big Shanty Festival honors the creativity and tenacity of those workers today. One of the largest gatherings in the state, this occasion highlights Kennesaw’s rich legacy and history.

Therefore, in addition to the railroad era, the Civil War era is also celebrated throughout the festival. This event draws crowds of people from all around thanks to its more than 250 vendors, vibrant parades, carnival rides, and numerous other attractions.

You can enjoy the live entertainment and the delicious Southern fare served by the stalls while hanging out with friends or family. There is a Kid’s Zone that offered your kids to chill out in and interact with other young visitors.

13. Dry County Brewing Company

If you prefer beer over spirits, you might want to substitute a trip to the Dry County Brewing Company for one to the Lazy Guy Distillery.

This brewery, like Lazy Guy, gives frequent public tours of its space and has garnered recognition for its small-batch craft brews.

The barrels here are filled with anything from classic American-style ales to those flavored with bourbon, double chocolate imperial stouts, and a beer inspired by roses. They are made by local Georgians for local Georgians.

14. Adams Park

Adams Park is a public outdoor park that encourages physical activity. The community park, with a total area of around 33 acres, is the place with the most sports facilities in the city.

So you may enjoy playing at the football fields, tennis courts, and baseball and softball diamonds dispersed throughout the park. You may even practice your swing in outdoor batting cages that are also present inside.

Grassy areas, picnic shelters, and covered spots are still present, so you may still have a relaxing day with your family there. And the park features a concession facility where you can have a filling and energizing bite if you need to refuel in between rounds of games.

15. East Palisades Trail

Palisades trail is one of the top attractions in Kennesaw. The Chattahoochee River’s Palisades section, one of the river’s most picturesque stretches in suburban Atlanta, is traversed by the hiking and walking trail.

Few people can dispute the grandeur of the vistas complemented by the sound of flowing river water, and the class I and II rapids here are a favorite among kayakers.

The numerous trails that wind along the river’s banks are marked, but if you’re hesitant to venture into the wilderness, you may head to Paces Mill Park’s paved trails, which are located 26 kilometers south of Kennesaw.

16. Kennesaw Farmers Market

Kennesaw Farmers Market is the place to visit if you’re looking for fresh produce while you’re visiting the city.

It is open on Wednesday mornings from April to August, and there are usually about 30 stalls selling the product of nearby farmers and gardeners. So be sure to arrive early if you want the best choices. Seasonal vegetables, different fruit varietals, root crops, and other produce grown on surrounding agricultural grounds are all available.

The merchants also offer goods created by nearby companies, like baked goods, cured meat, aromatic flower arrangements, and homemade preserves. Don’t forget to socialize with the stall owners and other customers to make friends while you are there.

17. Six Flags White Water

One of the top entertainment parks in the country, Six Flags White Water, is situated on the eastern outskirts of Marietta and can be seen on the route to the East Palisades Trail.

The park, which covers an enormous 280,000 square meters, includes 20 primary attractions spread across four themed zones. The majority are water slide-based rides, some of which have been expressly created so that younger kids can safely experience the rush of excitement.

The Little Hooch lazy river tube ride is named after the Chattahoochee River, while the Atlanta Ocean wave pool is located in the Pine Valley portion.

18. Marietta Country Club

Visit the Marietta Country Club, Kennesaw’s top course, to improve your teeing and putting techniques.

It won’t be difficult to get to this picturesque location because it is still well inside Kennesaw’s boundaries. Due to the background views of Kennesaw Mountain and the site on a farm from the Civil War, the 27-hole course has a resort-like feel.

The course offers demanding yet enjoyable gameplay for golfers of all ages and skill levels because of its well-thought-out layout, great fairways, and streams that act as water hazards. The clubhouse also boasts a tennis complex, fitness station, and even an aquatic facility if golf isn’t your preference.

19. Burnt Hickory Brewery

The Burnt Hickory Brewery sells seven different kinds of craft beers. The brewery features an outdoor courtyard where customers can drink its brews and offers tours of its operations.

20. Old Railroad Depot

When passenger services were terminated permanently in 1968, after more than a century, Kennesaw’s historical connection to the railroads was severed.

The passenger-serving depot, or station, was later transformed into a modest museum that highlights the most significant events in Kennesaw’s past within its historic walls. This modest wooden building, designed in a traditional southern manner, serves as a reminder of the railroad’s significance in the early development of Kennesaw.

The suffering of the aboriginal Americans who were driven from their ancestral lands during the Trail of Tears is depicted in other places.

21. Aviation Park

Aviation Park, as the title indicates, is all about the spectacular flying machine airplanes. Because of its proximity to McCollum Cobb County Airport, this location is a fantastic area to observe planes land or take off.

The restroom facility, which has the appearance of an air traffic control tower, is the most noticeable structure in the three-acre park. Many other aspects of aviation-related designs radiate out from it.

These include a picnic pavilion shaped like an airplane wing, a STEM playground with an aviation theme, and a sizable open space that resembles an airport runway, although without the actual planes. The Noonday Creek Trail, a beautiful trail that leads to various natural and man-made sights along the banks of Noonday Creek, is also accessible from the park.

22. Monster Mini Golf

A nearby 18-hole miniature golf course with a glow-in-the-dark monster theme called Monster Mini Golf is enjoyable for players of all ages. The building also has a DJ on-site, many gift shops, and a section with art-themed arcade games.

23. SkyView Atlanta

SkyView Atlanta, as the name indicates, provides a bird’s eye view of downtown Atlanta. This Ferris wheel rises around 20 stories and is surrounded by attractions like Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium, and the World of Coca-Cola.

You can board one of the gondolas up until late at night for the 15-minute voyage in about 30 minutes from Kennesaw.

A personal experience, each gondola can hold just six passengers at most. Additionally, since people aren’t supposed to jam into a gondola with strangers, it may develop into a beautifully romantic getaway, especially once the sun has set. Every gondola has custom-made seats, and the VIP experience also offers a gondola with a glass floor.

24. Adventure Air Sports Kennesaw

Visit Adventure Air Sports Kennesaw if you’re looking for a place where the whole family can have a great time. Power trampoline courts, obstacle courses, foam pits, and even virtual reality games are available there.

Even trampolines have modifications and accessories that let you play basketball, and dodgeball and do gymnastic tumbles on springy surfaces.  You can test your upper body strength and endurance on the zip lines and rock climbing walls, which are also available for the more daring.

It’s the ideal location for gathering with your coworkers for special events like parties and team-building exercises. The building contains concession areas where you may refuel with filling American favorites and cool beverages.

25. Splash Pad

Splash Pad, one of the many family-friendly features and amenities at Swift Cantrell Park, is likely to be a hit with kids.

Splash Pad is a great place to cool yourself on sweltering Georgia afternoons. It is made up of several colorful water features that spray water in peculiar and distinctive patterns.

Attractions such as a kid-friendly water geyser, magic mist, and jet stream are triggered by motion sensors. There are also two dry playgrounds for kids, covered picnic shelters, and a lot of benches throughout the park.

26. Town Center at Cobb

The Town Area at Cobb is a well-known local shopping center that is situated along Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw, Georgia. The main shopping complex in Northwest Atlanta is Town Center at Cobb, which has more than 170 retailers. The largest retail town center mall in Northwestern Atlanta is this one, which contains more than 177 stores.

The Food Court, as well as clothing retailers like Macy’s, Belk, and JCPenney, are among its many specialty stores. Pandora, forever 21, Victoria’s Secret, American Eagle, Sephora, and more are examples of retailers.

27.  Fifth Third Bank Stadium

Soccer and lacrosse games are played at Fifth Third Bank Stadium, which is a part of the Kennesaw State University campus. A stage deck, rehearsal facilities, and 8,300 seats are available at the stadium.

28. Leone Hall Price Park

Leone Hall Price Park spans more than 200 acres and is situated along Stilesboro Road and Allatoona Creek.

Along with a variety of native plant and animal species, the gorgeous Allatoona Creek meanders through the park’s meadows and natural trails. A park is a great place for picnicking, hiking, bird watching, dog walking, and just letting the kids run about unsupervised.

At Price Park, there are drinking fountains, restrooms, picnic spots, a covered pavilion, an amphitheater, and a faucet where you may wash your dog or your feet. Spend some time with your loved ones and unwind at Leone Hall Price Park.

29. Noonday Creek Trail

The Noonday Creek Trail in Cobb County is a trail used for multipurpose that may be accessed from Kennesaw.

The six-mile, hard-surfaced trail connects the park to the Town Center Mall and terminates at the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park Visitor Center on the park’s southwest side. It is a continuation of the nearby Mountain-to-River Trail.

The name of this lovely hiking trail comes from the fact that a substantial chunk of it parallels the Noonday Creek trail. As it makes its way to the Marietta Northeast trailhead, it connects to numerous parks along the way.

FAQ’S

What is famous about Kennesaw, Georgia?

Kennesaw served as the staging area for the Great Locomotive Chase on April 12, 1862, during the American Civil War. The city’s obligatory gun possession law, which mandates that all Kennesaw families have a gun, with certain exceptions, is likely what makes it the most well-known in the country today.

Is Kennesaw, Georgia, a good place to live?

The population of Kennesaw, an Atlanta suburb, is 34,232. One of the top places to live in Georgia is Kennesaw, which is located in Cobb County. Kennesaw residents enjoy a dense suburban feel, and the majority own their homes. There are numerous restaurants and parks in Kennesaw.

Conclusion

In the Greater Atlanta Metropolitan Area, Kennesaw has developed into a family-friendly destination because of its ideal fusion of history, modernity, and environment.

The list of fun things to do in Kennesaw is limitless and includes everything from historic battlefields to major festivals, lush gardens to modern art museums. Decide to spend your next weekend’s vacation in this city.