Marietta Travel Guide

Marietta, Georgia, just northwest of Atlanta, offers historic charm, vibrant downtown life, and plenty of nearby outdoor adventures. Its blend of heritage, local culture, and Southern hospitality makes it a great destination for day trips, weekend getaways, or a fresh start in a new city.

Top Downtown Attractions

Begin your visit in Marietta Square, the heart of the city, where historic buildings, shops, and outdoor events create a lively atmosphere.

• Marietta History Center: Housed in the historic Kennesaw House, this museum showcases local history from the Civil War to the modern era.
• Gone With the Wind Museum at Historic Brumby Hall: View costumes, memorabilia, and artifacts from the iconic novel and film.
• Earl & Rachel Smith Strand Theatre: A restored 1930s movie palace offering films, live theater, and concerts.
• Historic Districts: Five districts capture Marietta’s architectural and cultural evolution, perfect for a self-guided walking tour.

Arts and Culture Hotspots

Marietta’s art and cultural scene is small but full of character.

• Local Art Galleries: Showcasing paintings, sculptures, and crafts from regional artists.
• Monthly Art Walks: A lively way to explore downtown galleries and meet artists.
• Theatre Productions: Enjoy performances ranging from community plays to touring productions.

Outdoor Adventures Near Marietta

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in and around the city.

• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park: Hike scenic trails while learning about Civil War history.
• Noonday Creek Trail: A paved trail for walking, running, or biking through wooded areas and alongside the creek.
• Local Parks and Farmers Markets: Perfect spots to relax, enjoy fresh produce, or join community events.

Eat, Drink, and Explore Marietta’s Food Scene

Marietta offers a diverse food scene with flavors ranging from classic Southern fare to international and modern twists.

• Craft Beer and Casual Drinks: Enjoy a relaxed outdoor vibe with local brews and refreshing drinks at spots like Glover Park Brewery.
• Steak, Seafood, and Southern Classics: Savor hearty dishes and Southern hospitality at favorites such as Mac’s Chophouse.
• Fusion and International Flavors: Try bold, creative meals that mix global influences at places like Taqueria Tsunami.
• Coffee and Sweet Treats: Start your morning with a freshly brewed cup or indulge in pastries and desserts at charming coffee shops and bakeries around the square.

Shopping and Leisure

Marietta’s shopping scene thrives on unique, independently owned shops that give the city its local flavor.

• Boutiques and Specialty Stores: Browse Sarah Liz Boutique for trendy women’s fashion, Eli’s Boutique for handmade jewelry and accessories, or Market with a B. for gifts. These shops make it easy to find one-of-a-kind items or souvenirs.

• Antiques and Local Finds: Discover unique treasures at The Local Exchange, which features locally made art, food, and specialty items, or explore Doodlebugz for gifts, personalized items, and fun home décor.
• Downtown Shopping and Leisure: The Marietta Square is perfect for strolling between shops, enjoying a coffee at a local cafe, or visiting the seasonal farmers market on Saturdays to pick up fresh produce, handmade goods, and seasonal treats. Take a seat at the square’s fountain or relax on a bench and soak in the historic charm as you explore.

Getting Around Marietta

Marietta is just about 20 minutes from Atlanta by car, making it easy to explore both the city and the surrounding areas. Parking near the downtown square is generally plentiful, though it can fill up during weekends or special events, so plan ahead if you’re visiting at a busy time. The downtown area is very walkable, with charming historic sidewalks that invite exploration. For trips beyond the square, having a car is ideal, giving you easy access to nearby parks, neighborhoods, and other attractions throughout the city.

Why Visit Marietta?

Marietta combines historic charm, lively downtown energy, and outdoor adventure. Its food, shopping, and cultural attractions provide plenty to see and do, while nearby trails and parks offer space to relax and explore.

If you’re moving to Marietta, Public Storage makes it easy to manage your belongings, giving you the freedom to settle in, explore, and enjoy your new Southern home.