20 Attractions to Explore Near Little Kennesaw Mountain

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.

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 National Battlefield Park is full of Civil War history. Established in 1917, the park spans over 2,965 acres and has the Kennesaw Mountain summit area standing at a height of 1,808 feet. Visitors can explore one of America's most notable battlefields by strolling along one of 17 miles of trails that are nestled amongst a preserved landscape featuring stunning views across North Georgia.

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.

The Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre was built in the small town of Marietta, Georgia in 1939. This historic theatre is a magnificent experience like none other, with velvet curtains, old-fashioned fixtures, and enough seating for 622 guests. The Strand only uses state of the art technology to brint the biggest Hollywood favorites to locals. Movies are not the only feature; they also provide live performances such as concerts, plays, and even rebroadcasts of Broadway productions!

Glover Park is a picturesque community located close to the renowned city of Atlanta, it is a perfect blend of small town charm and metropolitan luxury. With lush greenery, peaceful surroundings, spectacular parks and lakes, it offers plenty of room for outdoor activities like fishing and boating. Tourists can explore the nearby attractions such as Little River Park, James Walker Park and East Cobb Park, where there are amenities like tennis courts, playgrounds, green spaces and tennis courts.

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.

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.

Marietta Confederate Cemetery is a historic burial site for those who lost their lives during the Civil War. Home to over 3,000 soldiers and sailors who fought for the Southern cause, the cemetery provides a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by so many for their beliefs. As one visits this hallowed ground, it is hard not to feel an overwhelming sense of respect for those who sacrificed their lives to protect what they believed in.

Marietta National Cemetery is a U.S War Veterans’ cemetery. The site of the cemetery was initially donated by the Congregation Children of Israel in Marietta. The cemetery is still considered active today, and most recently celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2016. Boasting over 13,000 graves all honoring those who were bravely served their country, it is a testament to the hundreds of thousands of men and women who have died defending freedom around the world.

The Atlanta Lyric Theatre, has been a premier purveyor of musical performance since its opening in 1976. From opera to musicals to children's theater and more, this venue has provided amazing entertainment for the region for over four decades. The theatre prides itself on putting together productions with immense attention to detail and clever applications of staging. Audience members can come prepared for high quality artistry from start to finish during each performance.

The Aviation History and Technology Center is an amazing place to learn all about the many facets of aviation. Whether you are a plane enthusiast or just curious about the part air travel has played in history, there is something here for everyone. Visitors can browse the extensive collections of memorabilia and artifacts associated with aviation, dive into the archives to read news stories, documents, photographs and more, and explore dozens of interactive exhibits.

Noonday Creek Trail, is a pristine 4.5-mile trail popular amongst walkers, cyclists, and joggers alike. Taking visitors along the banks of Noonday Creek, the natural beauty of the wooded area creates an inviting atmosphere for visitors to take part in numerous outdoor activities like fishing or bird watching. For those looking to stay on the move, keep an eye out for historical markers placed along the path!

Six Flags White Water is a giant water park filled with exciting rides and attractions for everyone. Thrill-seekers will love navigating the park's five speed slides, six body slides, and two tube slides. Families can enjoy ride the lazy river or dipping into Hurricane Harbor where kiddie slides and family tube floats await. Adventurers can traverse the Bonzai Pipelines or explore The Cliffhanger thrill slide. With its two wave pools, rocking chairs, play area, and more.

This is an engaging place to explore the ties between transportation and wartime history. It allows guests to tour a window into past conflicts through interactive displays, artifacts, and its restored locomotive, The General. Visitors also get a special chance to get behind the wheel of a World War II American-built Sherman Tank - an incredible experience that brings history to life! Representing both sides of the conflict, this museum honors those who served in war with heartfelt exhibits.

The Big Chicken is an iconic KFC franchise that was built in 1956. This eye-catching fast food restaurant stands out with its massive steel-beam architecture shaped like a giant chicken, and is one of the multiples tourist attractions of Cobb County. Apart from its unique iconic design, this restaurant has provided to the county multiple jobs. It also plays an important role within the local economy by providing citizens affordable and tasty meals prepared with the Colonel's famous recipes.

Lewis Park provides a great escape from city living. Located several miles away from Atlanta, this 1000 acre wooded park offers plenty of recreational activities to keep visitors busy. Hiking trails and picnic areas are perfect for leisurely days outdoors, while the two lakes provide opportunities for fishing and paddling. The natural setting is supplemented with modern amenities such as a skate park, playgrounds, and sports fields for even more ways to have fun.

This lush 200-acre oasis is full of trees, streams, ponds, and wildlife providing visitors with an incredible experience no matter time they visit. At Green Meadows you’ll find trails that meander through the forest with plenty of opportunities to spot a variety of birds and other animals. There’s also a pond great for paddling where folks can soak up all that nature has to offer while taking in spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Oregon Park is an ideal destination for a family outing or for enjoying nature. Located on the banks of South Cobb Creek and only 5 miles from downtown Smyrna, it's the perfect spot for picnicking, fishing, hiking and cycling. Amenities include a large playground with swings and slides, 3 different types of trails, a gazebo, pavilions and restrooms. Additionally, the 33-acre park has a stocked lake to fish in as well as open grass fields that are suitable for flying kites.

Lost Mountain Park is a recreational oasis features five miles of trails for biking and hiking year round. There are decks built along the trail as well, allowing visitors to take in the stunning beauty of the park from breathtaking vistas. Lost Mountain even offers a multi-use trail, which allows access to both hikers and horseback riders alike. There are various other activities for people of all ages such as an adventure playground and amenities like tennis courts, picnic areas, and grills.