As part of the Greater Atlanta metropolitan area, Kennesaw enjoys access to big-city attractions while maintaining its small-town ambience. It’s home to leafy parks, local breweries, bustling farmers’ markets and historic Civil War museums and former battlefields.

Things to do

Art and history play a significant role in visiting Kennesaw, starting with the extensive horticulture displays, aviary refuge and 30 sculptures at Smith-Gilbert Gardens, a former plantation home built in 1840. The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History brings to life the impact of railroads and the Civil War in Georgia.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park preserves an actual Civil War battleground of the Atlanta Campaign, with a visitor centre displaying war memorabilia. Numerous trails wind throughout the park to the top of the mountain for spectacular views of Atlanta. Additional walking, hiking and geocaching trails in the city include Winchester Forest Park Trail, Whispering Lake Trail and Swift-Cantrell Park.

The farmers’ market in Kennesaw takes over Depot Park downtown, where local farmers and craftspeople sell everything from herbs to homemade jams, salsas, freshly-baked bread and produce. Food trucks arrive on Monday evenings for “Dinner at the Depot”, which is accompanied by live music.

Get a taste of Cajun and Creole fare at Copeland’s of New Orleans or try an upscale version of down-home cooking at L. Marie’s Southern Cuisine. You can also dig into some finger-licking ribs at Big Shanty Smokehouse BBQ and enjoy a brewery tour and tastings at Burnt Hickory Brewery.

Getting around

The CTT transit system operates buses within Kennesaw and to Downtown Atlanta. Taxis and rideshares are available, as well as bike shares and rentals near Kennesaw State University. You’ll find rental cars and shuttles at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport, about a 30-minute drive away.