Things to Do in Marietta, GA
Your Complete Guide to Fun, Food, History & Adventure
If you’re searching for the best things to do in Marietta, GA, you’ll quickly discover that Marietta offers far more than charming streets and historic homes. As the heart of Cobb County, Marietta blends Southern history, outdoor adventure, chef-driven dining, family fun, and a thriving arts scene — all centered around its iconic downtown square.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or considering making Marietta home, here’s your local guide to everything this dynamic city has to offer.
📍 Explore Historic Marietta Square
At the center of it all is the Marietta Square, a walkable downtown district filled with:
- Boutique shopping
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Locally owned restaurants
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Wine bars & coffee shops
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Outdoor concerts and festivals
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Farmers markets
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Glover Park green space
The Square hosts year-round events including art walks, holiday celebrations, and live music; making it one of the most active community hubs in Metro Atlanta.
Homes for Sale Near Marietta Square
🏔️ Outdoor Activities in Marietta
If you love fresh air and scenic views, Marietta delivers.
🌄 Hike at Kennesaw Mountain
The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is one of the most visited national parks in Georgia.
Here you’ll find:
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Miles of hiking trails
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Civil War historical markers
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Sweeping views of the Atlanta skyline
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Wildlife & bird watching
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Picnic areas
It’s a favorite for both serious hikers and families looking for a weekend adventure.
Homes for Sale Near Kennesaw Mountain
🚴 Ride the Silver Comet Trail
The Silver Comet Trail offers over 60 miles of paved trail for:
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Cycling
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Running
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Walking
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Rollerblading
It’s one of the most popular outdoor activities in Marietta and connects west toward the Alabama state line.
🌳 Parks & Green Space
Marietta features more than a dozen public parks. Highlights include:
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Laurel Park – playgrounds & tennis courts, green space & walking trail
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Lewis Park – playground, tennis court, dog park, shaded trails, picnic areas
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A.L. Burruss Park – sports fields & walking paths
Find more Marietta Parks & Cobb County Parks.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun
Marietta is especially appealing for families thanks to its mix of outdoor activities and interactive attractions.
🎢 Adventure & Entertainment
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Andretti Indoor Karting & Games – Go-karts, arcade games, laser tag
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Six Flags White Water – Seasonal water park favorite
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Six Flags Over Georgia – amusement park offering restaurants, shows and events
Arts & Crafts
- Just Kiln Time – pottery painting suitable for all ages
- Doodle Art Studio – suitable for all ages to explore art in a variety of mediums
🏛️ Museums Kids Love
These attractions blend learning with hands-on experiences and local storytelling.
🍽️ Best Restaurants in Marietta
The Marietta food scene continues to grow, especially around the Square.
🌟 Local Favorites
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Mac’s Chophouse – Classic steakhouse dining
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Stockyard Burgers and Bones – Upscale burgers & craft cocktails
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Spring Restaurant – Chef-driven Southern cuisine
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Two Birds Taphouse – Casual American & rooftop seating
- Marietta Pizza Company — Lunch staple at Marietta Square, a variety of pies, buy the whole or the slice
- Dave Poe’s BBQ — Award winning barbecue, casual dining
Of course, no visit to the South would be complete without an early morning (or late night) breakfast at a local Waffle House! You are sure to find one on nearly every corner.
🛍️ Marietta Square Market
The Marietta Square Market offers a collection of food stalls including tacos, ramen, desserts, and specialty cuisine — ideal for groups or casual nights out.
🎭 Arts, Theatre & Nightlife
Marietta’s evenings are lively but approachable.
🎬 Live Entertainment
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Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre – Live music, classic films, comedy
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Marietta Cobb Museum of Art – Rotating exhibits & art events
- Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center — The Atlanta Opera, The Atlanta Ballet, concerts, events & shows
🍷 Casual Night Out
The Square features wine bars, breweries, and patio dining that create an energetic but relaxed nightlife atmosphere.
🎉 Annual Events & Festivals
Marietta’s calendar is packed year-round.
Spring & Summer
Fall
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Chalktoberfest – Chalk art, craft beer & live music
Winter
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Christmas Tree Lighting
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New Year’s Eve on the Square
These events are a major reason residents love living near downtown.
Quick List: Must-Do Things in Marietta
✔ Walk the Marietta Square
✔ Hike Kennesaw Mountain
✔ Bike the Silver Comet Trail
✔ Eat at a Square restaurant
✔ Attend Chalktoberfest
✔ Catch a show at The Strand
✔ Explore a local museum
Why This Matters If You’re Considering Moving Here
Many buyers searching for homes in Marietta aren’t just looking for square footage, they’re looking for lifestyle. Proximity to parks, restaurants, events, and walkable downtown areas consistently influences buying decisions.
Marietta offers that rare combination of:
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Historic charm
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Modern amenities
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Outdoor access
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Strong community identity
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Easy access to Atlanta
It’s not just a place to visit — it’s a place people choose to stay.
