A Guide to Atlanta’s Parks and Green Spaces
Atlanta is a city with a surprising amount of green space. From large parks and forests to small neighborhood parks and gardens, there is a place for everyone to enjoy the outdoors in Atlanta.
Here is a guide to some of Atlanta’s most popular parks and green spaces:
Piedmont Park
Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s largest park, with over 185 acres of green space. The park is home to various amenities, including a lake, a dog park, a playground, and a concert venue. Piedmont Park is a popular spot for picnics, walking, running, and biking.
Centennial Olympic Park
Centennial Olympic Park was built for the 1996 Summer Olympics and is now one of Atlanta’s most popular tourist destinations. The park has several attractions, including the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium, and the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Centennial Olympic Park is also a popular spot for concerts and festivals.
Atlanta BeltLine
The Atlanta BeltLine is a former railway corridor that is being converted into a multi-use trail system. The BeltLine will eventually connect 45 neighborhoods and offer 33 miles of walking, running, and biking trails. The BeltLine is already a popular recreation spot and is home to several restaurants, shops, and art installations.
Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park is a state park located just east of Atlanta. The park is home to Stone Mountain, a granite monadnock that is one of the most giant exposed rocks in the world. Stone Mountain Park is also home to other attractions, including a scenic railway, a Skyride, and a laser show.
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a 48-mile stretch of the Chattahoochee River that flows through Atlanta. The recreation area is famous for swimming, fishing, camping, and hiking.
Other Notable Parks and Green Spaces
- Bobby Jones Golf Course: This golf course, located in Piedmont Park, is one of the country’s most prestigious public golf courses.
- Oakland Cemetery: This historic cemetery is the final resting place of many notable figures, including Margaret Mitchell, Bobby Jones, and Maynard Jackson.
- Grant Park: This park is home to Zoo Atlanta, the Grant Park Carousel, and the Rose Garden.
- Freedom Park: This park is home to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum.
- Chastain Park: This park is home to the Chastain Park Amphitheatre, the Chastain Park Arts Center, and the Chastain Park Horse Park.
These are just a few of Atlanta’s many parks and green spaces. The city has diverse parks and green spaces, so there is a place for everyone to enjoy the outdoors in Atlanta.
Here are a few tips for making the most of your time in Atlanta’s parks and green spaces:
- Be prepared for the weather: Atlanta can be hot and humid in the summer and cold and rainy in the winter. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather when you spend time outdoors.
- Bring water and sunscreen: It is essential to stay hydrated and protected from the sun when you spend time outdoors. Be sure to bring water and sunscreen with you.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Many of Atlanta’s parks and green spaces have trails perfect for walking, running, or biking. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes when you are exploring these trails.
- Respect the environment: Leave no trace while enjoying Atlanta’s parks and green spaces. Be sure to pack out all of your trash and leave the background as you found it.
Atlanta’s parks and green spaces are a valuable asset to the city. They offer residents and visitors a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the outdoors. Following these tips, you can maximize your time in Atlanta’s parks and green spaces.