Kennesaw, Georgia, is nestled in breathtaking Northwest Georgia between Atlanta and Chattanooga. Its inviting small-town charm, historic downtown and relaxed pace of life makes Kennesaw a place where community truly matters. Just under 60 miles away, these same values are thoughtfully reflected at The Spires at Berry College in historic Rome, Georgia. It also offers a unique opportunity to experience both a vibrant campus atmosphere at Berry College and the peaceful freedom of retirement in a scenic setting. Here, you can enjoy an active, independent lifestyle while connecting with others from across the country, all while benefiting from the convenience of a full continuum of onsite health care services, should you ever need them.
Kennesaw, GA, is a vibrant community offering small-town charm and southern hospitality. Recognized as a Preserve America community, it’s nestled in north central Cobb County, about 35 minutes northwest of Atlanta. Downtown Kennesaw is revitalizing and sustaining its position as a quaint hub to the area’s cultural, historic and natural resources. Kennesaw’s walking-friendly size offers visitors and residents easy access to attractions and city amenities, including The Kennesaw Welcome Center, parks, specialty shops, a distillery and a variety of restaurants. The city is home to The Depot, a restored 1908 Nashville, Chattanooga, & St. Louis Railway Station, now serving as The Kennesaw Welcome Center.
The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History is another key attraction in downtown Kennesaw, showcasing artifacts from the Civil War battles fought in the area. This 40,000 square foot museum also houses the infamous iron horse, The General, a steam locomotive hijacked by Yankee soldiers in what was later referred to as the Great Locomotive Chase and a critical move in ending the Civil War. It is also the center of activity surrounding Kennesaw’s annual Big Shanty Festival in mid-April. This free, fun-filled event is a tribute to Kennesaw’s heritage. Over 50,000 people fill downtown Kennesaw to enjoy a day full of fun-filled activities at one of the largest Arts & Craft Shows in north Georgia. Downtown Kennesaw also hosts the Main Street Farmers Market, Kennesaw’s Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival, Taste of Kennesaw, The Santa Parade & A Day with Santa and free summer concerts and movies, all popular draws for residents and visitors to this charming historic alcove of vibrant “small town charm”.
Kennesaw, Georgia: Outdoor Attractions
The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a nearly 3,000-acre park featuring over 17 miles of trails. The visitor’s center features information about the area as well as the Civil War. From the top of the mountain, you can see downtown Atlanta and the surrounding area. At Smith-Gilbert Gardens, visitors can explore the home and gardens surrounding an 1880s plantation home. Over 3,000 plant species and 30 sculptures by nationally known artists are available for exhibition and study. Swift-Cantrell Park features 42 acres of land and is the City of Kennesaw’s largest community park. Leone Hall Price Park spans 243 acres on both sides of Allatoona Creek and on both sides of Stilesboro Road. Price Park is a passive park with natural trails, meadows, Allatoona Creek, and plenty of wildlife. The Noonday Creek Trail is a 7-mile scenic trail that connects Bells Ferry Road with Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. The paved trail is accessible for cycling, walking and jogging and includes bike sharing at the Bells Ferry Trailhead, Aviation Park and Town Center Park.