One of the largest cemeteries in Atlanta, the Oakland Cemetery is located in the heart of downtown. This bucolic expanse serves as a constant reminder of the city's history. Dating back to the 1850s, the cemetery was the final destination for all Atlantans until 1884, when private burial grounds began appearing throughout the city. The oldest section is near the main entrance, where legendary golfer Bobby Jones and author Margaret Mitchell are interred. This expansive 48-acre (190,000-sq meter) beautiful garden now houses sculptures, an art gallery, a green space and serves as a prominent wedding venue for the city.
The most expansive and popular of Atlanta's city parks was originally laid out for the Cotton States and International Exposition of 1895, and it now attracts more than 2 million visitors annually. Dog owners, sun-seekers, and sports enthusiasts flock to Piedmont Park to enjoy the fair weather, largely unaware that this was the spot of the Battle of Peachtree Creek during the Civil War. Its picturesque locales also offer a romantic ambiance. The 189-acre (76.48-hectare) facility is home to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and scenic Lake Clara Meer and plays host to many of Atlanta's favorite concerts and festivals.
Atlanta History Center is a great spot for history buffs. This comprehensive museum complex was founded in 1926 and chronicles the region's history, including sections on the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, Southern folk crafts, Atlanta's expansion, and much more. Spread across 33 acres (13.5 hectares), the complex consists of the Atlanta History Museum, Swan House, Tullie Smith Farm (Smith Family Farm), Margaret Mitchell House, Lee Playhouse, Victorian Playhouse, McElreath Hall, Kenan Research Center, and beautiful gardens. It has various programs, festivals, and events throughout the year. Considered to be among the biggest history museums in the country, each space is unique and distinct, giving a glimpse of an era bygone and stories to enthrall everyone.
A few blocks to the east of downtown, the Sweet Auburn neighborhood is home to the birthplace of America's most influential Civil Rights leader. Operated by the National Park Service, the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park comprises Dr. King's boyhood home, his tomb and the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King and his father were both pastors. The park, along with much of the surrounding district, was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977. This collection of historic monuments invokes poignant memories of Martin Luther King Jr., and the indelible mark that he has left on the American Civil Rights Movement. Visitors will also find other fascinating monuments here such as the King Center, the Prince Hall and a statue of the world-revered Mahatma Gandhi. The Visitor Center of the site shelters an insightful museum, which sheds light on the legacy of Dr. King.
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is one of the largest spectacles of plant life in the Southeast. Sprawling over 30 acres (12.14 hectares), this natural oasis was established in 1976 and is located within stumbling distance of the famous Piedmont Park. It is home to the Fuqua Conservatory and Japanese gardens, both rich in globe-spanning flora. Follow a walking trail, which is a favorite of couples, and admire exotic rose plantations and carnivorous specimens. In addition, guided tours and seasonal shows guarantee an entertaining botany lesson.
The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum spread across 30 acres (12.14 hectares) lies next to John Lewis Freedom Parkway in Atlanta. The complex consists of interconnected pavilions that house the offices of the former President, research and foundation facilities, and the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. The Presidential Library and Museum has an extensive collection of papers, photographs, films, and videos about the Carter administration and the President’s family life. Visitors can opt for the docent tour or a self-guided tour of this wonderful place.
Lake Claire Community Land Trust offers a green space to relax, unwind and introspect. It is privately-owned, but open to the public and features long, winding paths under shady trees. It also has a pet emu called Big Lou who is loved and petted by most locals. One can rent a piece of land and grow vegetables of one's choice. Lake Claire Community Land Trust is a community park where people come together and maintain the land.
Housed within a lovely Gothic Revival style building that was built in 1906, is the All Saints Episcopal Church of Atlanta. In a space sheltered by the church's high ceilings and surrounded by some beautiful stained glass windows, the congregation gathers to worship and pray in unison. The church does not only attract those looking for a place to pray, but also tourists who come to see the church's wonderful stained glass windows, six of which have been crafted by the famed Tiffany Studios. The services are accompanied by a lively choir and organ music, while the sermons offer a thoughtful and progressive interpretation of the Scriptures. Through its support of a variety of ministries, social outreach programs, special events and social gatherings, the church fosters a sense of fellowship and community amongst its members.
The Peachtree Trolley is a company which provides tours across Atlanta. These tours will take you to the best sites around the city and unfold its history, the lives of the people and discover the delights that make up this lovely place. It will include the legends and stories of Georgia Aquarium, CNN, Oakland Cemetery, Underground Atlanta, etc. This fully-narrated tour covers all the must-see places in enclosed, climate-controlled buses which ensure the comfort of the travelers. Check the website for tour timings.
This national park is located on the site of the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, the last significant victory for the South during their defense of Atlanta in 1864. The park features over 16 miles (26 kilometers) of mapped trails as well as a museum commemorating the historic battle. Picnic sites, battlefield markers and monuments are peppered throughout the forested mountainside, which features great views of Atlanta in clear weather. Maps detailing the trails and battle history are available at the visitor center.
One of the largest cemeteries in Atlanta, the Oakland Cemetery is located in the heart of downtown. This bucolic expanse serves as a constant reminder of the city's history. Dating back to the 1850s, the cemetery was the final destination for all Atlantans until 1884, when private burial grounds began appearing throughout the city. The oldest section is near the main entrance, where legendary golfer Bobby Jones and author Margaret Mitchell are interred. This expansive 48-acre (190,000-sq meter) beautiful garden now houses sculptures, an art gallery, a green space and serves as a prominent wedding venue for the city.
Peacefully residing in Douglas County, the Sweetwater Creek State Park is a breathtaking amalgam of history, nature, and biodiversity. Located within close proximity to downtown Atlanta, this state park is a serene sanctum, offering repose from the cacophony of the city. An incredible canvas of wilderness unfolds at the park, as rolling hills, meandering trails, and emerald thickets, all come together to form an ethereal site. The agile Sweetwater Creek slices through the diversified terrains of the park, whereas an assemblage of birds croons into densely wooded expanses. Amid all the blooming ferns, azaleas and magnolias, lie the enigmatic ruins of a cotton mill run by the erstwhile New Manchester Manufacturing Company. Anchoring a placid lake, picnic spots, a museum, yurts, campsites, and playgrounds, this state park hosts a range of activities like boating, birding, hiking, camping, fishing and more. The park's visitor center has gained much praise for its environment-friendly stride, housing exhibits, displays, and maps chronicling the region's history.