When I was young, single and living in Atlanta (years ago) I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my days off from work than strolling through the area’s premier shopping centers—Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza. Eventually, after I burned one too many holes in my wallet from doing so I decided I needed to venture beyond the malls and explore the other incredible attractions the city had to offer. I’ve featured several of them in previous blogs, but most of those included hot spots in the city proper.
If you travel to Atlanta you’ll likely find that some of your fondest memories will be made at sites just outside of the booming metropolis. Here are two of my favorites:
Stone Mountain Park
Take the 16-mile drive east of downtown and you’ll be transported to a retreat filled with natural wonders. The mountain that gives the park its name is a giant mound of granite, which dominates the countryside. But, it’s not the size of the mountain that’ll make you reach for your camera. Rather, it’s what is etched into its side that will have you pointing and clicking. Figures of Confederate leaders Robert E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson and Jefferson Davis dominate a 90-foot tall and 190-foot wide carving (it’s bigger than the presidential faces chiseled out of Mount Rushmore).
You can get to the top of the mountain by foot or tram (make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes if you opt to hike it). In addition, the park features an 1870s-themed village called Crossroads, which features storytellers and demonstrations by local craftsmen. If you are traveling with children you’ll want to take time to watch the nightly laser light show or experience the land-to-water “duck’ rides. You can also spend the day golfing at the park’s course or canoeing on the lake. The park also houses a petting zoo and tennis courts.
Parking costs $8 per vehicle. You can purchase individual tickets to rides and attractions, but if you are planning to spend most of the day there you’re better off buying the daily pass for $22.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
I’m not a huge history buff, but the guy I was dating while I lived in Atlanta was, so it was no surprise that we spent many weekends at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. (Much to my surprise I really enjoyed my visits there.)
The park is located just two miles from Marietta, Georgia and 25 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta. It is hard to miss as it spans 2,888-acres. It is the preserved site of three Civil War battles fought in the Atlanta Campaign in 1864. It’s like taking a trip back in time. If you homeschool your children, this is one place you want to take them for some serious hands-on history lessons. The park also boasts a helpful visitors’ center and more than 17 miles of walking trails, which features signs that provide insights about the battle and the park. The park is open daily, year round.
Related Articles:
Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park–Come Celebrate!