Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

The Illinois Monument stands 30 feet tall and is a beautiful dedication to fallen heroes from Illinois who fought alongside the Confederate army during the Civil War. The monument was first erected in 1889 by the Daughters of the Confederacy and depicts Cpl. James Stone, an Illinois private in the war, leaning against his abandoned rifle with his right hand on his hip and face turned away from the viewer.

Cheatham Hill, is known for its connection to historic events of the civil war. This area was the site of a defining battle in July 1864 and has since been dubbed “The Hell Hole” due to its ferocity during that fight. During the months after this battle, Cheatham Hill served as a Union garrison, though the original hill no longer exists as it was leveled when Interstate 75 was constructed. A memorial monument serves to remind visitors of this history.

Little Kennesaw Mountain is a popular scenic spot, just northwest of Marietta. Named after the mountain range on which it stands, Little Kennesaw Mountain is a great place to go for dramatic views as well as some good exercise. Visitors can either hike, run or bike up to the crest of the Kinnehoochee Ridge where they will find unparalleled views of the surrounding city and countryside scenery and quite a few opportunities for photographs.

Noonday Creek is a vibrant outdoor recreational area that offers many activities. Visitors can explore the banks of this creek on foot or by bike, discovering the many wildlife and flora that call it home. Anglers can try their luck at some of the best fishing spots along Noonday Creek, catching trophy bass and other species. Swimmers will be delighted by picnic areas and swim holes throughout the creek, providing beautiful swimming experiences with breathtaking views of nearby hills.

Kennesaw Mountain features a variety of scenic views and recreational activities, including diverse wildlife habitat and more than 3,000 acres of forest. Known for its historical significance during the Civil War Battle of Kennesaw Mountain in 1864, visitors can explore the park’s 17 miles of trails offering panoramic views from its 1,808-foot summit. The park also includes an interpretive battlefield trail with 15 historic sites describing the battle's events and stories.

This vibrant community offers an array of activities to visitors and residents alike. From the Marietta Museum of Historic Homes to the lively Glover Park events year-round, there's always something exciting happening at the square. The historic district is a treasure trove of late 19th and early 20th century architecture, with unique stores lining each street. It also features excellent restaurants that are frequented by foodies from all around Georgia.