Need a charming Southern getaway with history, shopping, and scenic views? Head to Marietta, Georgia! Just northwest of Atlanta, Marietta offers historic architecture, vibrant downtown attractions, Civil War landmarks, and a warm small-town vibe. Whether you're into food, festivals, or family fun, Marietta makes for a relaxing and cultural escape.
Marietta, GA Highlights:
- Explore Marietta Square: The heart of downtown with boutique shops, restaurants, and a charming central park.
- Tour the Gone with the Wind Museum: Discover memorabilia and the history behind the famous novel and film.
- Catch a show at the Strand Theatre: See classic films, concerts, or live performances in this restored 1930s venue.
- Visit Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park: Hike trails and learn Civil War history at this preserved battlefield site.
- Stroll the Marietta History Center: Dive into local history with rotating exhibits and permanent collections.
Best Time to Visit Marietta, GA
The best time to visit Marietta is in spring and fall (March–May and September–November), when the weather is comfortable for walking tours, festivals, and hiking. Summers are warm and full of outdoor events, while winter brings quieter streets and holiday charm.
How to Get to Marietta, GA
- If you are traveling by car: Marietta is located off I-75, about 20–25 minutes northwest of downtown Atlanta.
- By Air: Fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and drive or take a rideshare to Marietta.
- By Bus: CobbLinc offers local bus service, and regional transportation connects to MARTA rail stations.
Where to Stay in Marietta, GA
- Hilton Atlanta/Marietta Hotel & Conference Center – Golf course views and upscale amenities near downtown Marietta.
- Drury Inn & Suites Atlanta Marietta – Comfortable lodging with free hot breakfast and evening snacks.
- Days Inn by Wyndham Marietta White Water – Budget-friendly option close to Six Flags White Water and local attractions.
Best Things to Do in Marietta, GA
1. Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre
Rating: ★★★★★
I arrived in Marietta late in the day and I already had tickets to see a show at Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre so this was my first stop after dropping my bags of at the hotel. I'm glad I went! This Art Deco-style theater located at Marietta Square is full of history dating back to 1935.
You can go see a variety of stage productions, concerts, musicals, children’s films, and classic films.
117 N Park Square, Marietta, GA 30060, Phone: 770-293-0080
2. Six Flags White Water - Atlanta
The next morning, we went to Six Flags White Water just outside of Atlanta, near Marietta, Georgia.
I enjoyed the large Typhoon Twister with its 67-foot bowl. You can also go in the wave pool, children’s play areas, a racing slide tower, high-speed slides, and a lazy river.
Address: 250 Cobb Pkwy N, Marietta, GA 30062, Phone: 770-590-4067
Recommended Activities for Families
3. Marietta Museum of History
I personally can't visit an area without learning a little bit about the local history. This is just what the Marietta Museum of History is for. You can view collection of historical artifacts related to Marietta.
I found the building itself fascinating because it was originally built in 1845 as a cotton warehouse, became a hotel in 1855, and later served as a hospital and morgue during the Civil War. The building has been the subject of several several stories and ghost folklore.
1 Depot St, Marietta, GA 30060, Phone: 770-794-5710
4. Marietta Fire Museum
The Marietta Fire Museum is home to a wide assortment of items that have been used by the Fire Department of Marietta, Georgia, dating back to the 1800’s. This collection features displays, photos, antique items, equipment, clothing, and vehicles, however, one of the main highlights of the Marietta Fire Museum is the Silsby Steamer, which is a steam-powered horse-drawn pumper that the fire department bought in 1879.
There’s now only five of these that still remain in existence. Other vehicles in the collection include a 1921 American LaFrance pumper, a 1929 Seagrave Pumper, and a Pirsch Ladder Truck.
112 Haynes St, Marietta, GA 30060, Phone: 770-794-5466
Attractions for Couples
5. Marietta National Cemetery
The Marietta National Cemetery in Marietta, Georgia is one of the United States National Cemeteries, encompassing more than twenty acres. Established by General George Henry Thomas back in 1866, the cemetery was created to provide a resting place for almost ten thousand Union soldiers who died during the Atlanta Campaign of General William Sherman. THe land for the cemetery was donated by Henry Cole, a local resident who had hoped Union and Confederate soldiers could both be buried at the site to foster peace. In 1998, the Marietta National Cemetery was added to the country’s National Register of Historic Places.
500 Washington Ave NE, Marietta, GA 30060, Phone: 866-236-8159
6. Seed Kitchen & Bar
The Seed Kitchen & Bar is a neighborhood eatery in the town of Marietta, Georgia serving a chef-driven menu of modern American cuisine, highlighting local producers, artisans, and ingredients whenever possible. Situated in the middle of the emerging dining scene of the East Cobb neighborhood, the restaurant combines a casual, yet stylish atmosphere and a playful modern approach to American fare. A seasonal menu is reflective of the hard work and ingredients of local artisans and farmers. The Seed Kitchen and Bar is open for lunch and dinner, Monday to Saturday, as well as brunch and dinner on Sundays.
1311 Johnson Ferry Rd, Marietta, GA 30068, Phone: 678-214-6888
7. William Root House Museum and Garden
The William Root House Museum and Garden is one of the Atlanta area’s oldest homes, and is a bit more typical of the the place and time than columned mansions that were popularized by the film Gone With the Wind.
The grounds and home have been restored back to their original 1850’s appearance, however, interactive displays and modern touch screens have also been added in order to share the story of Marietta’s Root family and their life during the era of the Civil War. Each room features authentic period pieces and tours take place several times a day.
80 North Marietta Pkwy NW, Marietta, GA 30060, Phone: 770-426-4982
8. Out of Box Theatre
The Out of Box Theatre strives to captivate its audiences, both locals and visitors alike, with its dynamic approach towards contemporary theater. The theatre is dedicated to offering intimate and one-of-a-kind experiences that continue to excite and surprise audiences, providing what the theatre calls an “Out of Box Experience.” The Out of Box Theatre was first started in early 2012 with the idea of producing excellent shows using a practical and smart budget as a way to build viable sustainability, as well as utilizing the resources and talents of the art community of Marietta and the surrounding area.
585 Cobb Pkwy SE, Marietta, GA 30060, Phone: 678-653-4605
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