Major Landmarks in Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta, the capital of Georgia, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and rapidly growing metropolitan area. Located in the southeastern United States, Atlanta played a significant role during the American Civil War and later became a major center for the Civil Rights Movement in the 20th century. Today, it’s a hub for commerce, transportation, education, and entertainment, home to global corporate headquarters like Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines. With its blend of Southern charm and modern innovation, Atlanta offers visitors an exciting range of experiences, from its historic districts to sprawling parks and nature preserves. Whether exploring the city’s pivotal moments in American history or enjoying its urban green spaces, Atlanta is a city with something for everyone.
Historical Landmarks in Atlanta
Atlanta is a city deeply rooted in history. From its role in the Civil War to its significant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, the city’s historical landmarks preserve these important stories, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the past.
1. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Landmark Overview
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is one of Atlanta’s most iconic landmarks, dedicated to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a leader of the Civil Rights Movement. The park includes several historic buildings, such as King’s childhood home, the original Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. Visitors can walk through the Civil Rights leader’s birthplace, view exhibits on his work, and pay their respects at the King Center’s reflecting pool, where both Dr. King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, are buried. This site is not only a place of historical reflection but also a monument to the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in America.
Location
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is located at 450 Auburn Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30312.
Ticket Price
Admission to the park is free, though donations are encouraged to support its maintenance and educational programs.
Nearby Airports
The nearest major airport is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), located about 11 miles south of the park.
Highways
The park is accessible via Interstate 20 (I-20) and Interstate 75/85 (the Downtown Connector).
Special Attentions
Guided tours of Dr. King’s birth home are free, but tickets are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early to secure a spot on these popular tours. Parking is available but may be limited during peak visiting hours.
2. Atlanta History Center
Landmark Overview
The Atlanta History Center offers a comprehensive view of the city’s past, from its founding to its present. The center spans 33 acres and includes a museum, historic houses, gardens, and a research library. Notable highlights include the Swan House, a stately 1928 mansion, and the Smith Family Farm, which offers insights into life in the 1860s. The museum’s permanent exhibits cover topics such as Atlanta’s role in the Civil War, the city’s growth as a transportation hub, and the 1996 Olympic Games. The history center is also home to the Centennial Olympic Games Museum, featuring memorabilia and stories from the Atlanta-hosted games. This landmark is perfect for history buffs and those interested in Southern culture.
Location
The Atlanta History Center is located at 130 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30305.
Ticket Price
Admission is $23 for adults, $20 for seniors (65+), and $9 for children ages 4-12. Children under 4 are free.
Nearby Airports
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is about 17 miles from the Atlanta History Center.
Highways
The center is easily accessible via Interstate 75 (I-75) and is located near Peachtree Road, one of Atlanta’s main thoroughfares.
Special Attentions
The grounds are extensive, so wear comfortable shoes for walking through the gardens and historic houses. Some areas are accessible only through guided tours, which may require advance reservations.
3. Oakland Cemetery
Landmark Overview
Oakland Cemetery is Atlanta’s oldest public park and one of its most unique historical landmarks. Established in 1850, it is the final resting place for many of Atlanta’s notable figures, including Civil War soldiers, politicians, writers, and business leaders. The cemetery spans 48 acres and is a beautifully landscaped space filled with Victorian-era tombstones, sculptures, and mausoleums. It is also home to the graves of Margaret Mitchell, author of Gone with the Wind, and Maynard Jackson, Atlanta’s first African American mayor. Oakland Cemetery offers a peaceful place to reflect on the lives of those who shaped the city’s history, and its lush gardens and towering oaks make it a popular spot for walks and photography.
Location
Oakland Cemetery is located at 248 Oakland Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30312.
Ticket Price
Admission to the cemetery is free, but guided tours cost $12 for adults and $6 for students, seniors, and children ages 6-17. Special events and private tours may have additional fees.
Nearby Airports
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is about 12 miles from Oakland Cemetery.
Highways
The cemetery is accessible via Interstate 20 (I-20) and local roads near downtown Atlanta.
Special Attentions
While the cemetery is open to the public, certain areas are reserved for guided tours. Special events, such as the annual Halloween tours, draw large crowds, so advance ticket purchases are recommended.
Natural Landmarks in Atlanta
Though Atlanta is known for its urban skyline, the city and its surrounding areas are filled with beautiful natural spaces where visitors can escape into nature and enjoy outdoor recreation.
1. Piedmont Park
Landmark Overview
Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s premier green space, offering more than 200 acres of rolling hills, lakes, and scenic trails in the heart of the city. Located near the Midtown area, the park is a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike, hosting numerous outdoor festivals, concerts, and sporting events. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the paths, rent a paddleboat on Lake Clara Meer, or picnic in one of the park’s open meadows. The park also features the Atlanta Botanical Garden, which includes a stunning conservatory and outdoor exhibits. With its wide variety of recreational facilities and its central location, Piedmont Park is a must-visit natural landmark for those looking to relax or stay active.
Location
Piedmont Park is located at 1320 Monroe Drive NE, Atlanta, GA 30306.
Ticket Price
Admission to the park is free. However, some attractions within the park, such as the Atlanta Botanical Garden, have separate admission fees (typically around $25 for adults).
Nearby Airports
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is about 12 miles from Piedmont Park.
Highways
The park is accessible via Interstate 85 (I-85) and is located near major streets like 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue.
Special Attentions
Parking around Piedmont Park can be challenging, especially during large events. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation (MARTA) or rideshare services. The park is also dog-friendly, with designated off-leash areas.
2. Stone Mountain Park
Landmark Overview
Stone Mountain Park, located just outside of Atlanta, is a stunning natural landmark featuring a massive granite monolith that rises 1,683 feet above sea level. The mountain itself is famous for the enormous Confederate Memorial Carving on its side, depicting Jefferson Davis, Robert E. Lee, and Stonewall Jackson. Beyond the historical aspects, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The popular Walk-Up Trail takes visitors to the summit, offering spectacular panoramic views of Atlanta and the surrounding area. The park also hosts seasonal events and attractions, such as a laser light show, scenic train rides, and historical exhibits.
Location
Stone Mountain Park is located at 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083, about 16 miles east of downtown Atlanta.
Ticket Price
Daily parking at the park costs $20 per vehicle. Attractions and events within the park vary in price, with all-access passes ranging from $30 to $35 for adults and $25 to $30 for children.
Nearby Airports
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is approximately 30 miles from Stone Mountain Park.
Highways
Stone Mountain Park is accessible via U.S. Highway 78 and Interstate 285 (I-285).
Special Attentions
The walk-up trail to the summit is moderately strenuous, so bring water and wear sturdy shoes. Some attractions, such as the cable car and historic exhibits, may require additional fees beyond the entrance or parking fee.
3. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
Landmark Overview
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area offers visitors the chance to experience Atlanta’s natural beauty along the scenic banks of the Chattahoochee River. Stretching across multiple sites along the river, the recreation area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering kayaking, canoeing, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. One of the most popular sections of the park is the Cochran Shoals Trail, a flat, wide path that follows the river, perfect for walking, running, or biking. The Chattahoochee River’s cool waters and lush surroundings provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists seeking outdoor adventure.
Location
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area encompasses several locations along the river. The Cochran Shoals entrance is located at 1956 Eugene Gunby Road, Marietta, GA 30067.
Ticket Price
A $5 daily parking fee is required at most entrance points. Annual passes are available for $40.
Nearby Airports
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is approximately 30 miles from the various entrances of the recreation area.
Highways
The park is accessible via Interstate 285 (I-285) and local roads depending on the chosen section of the park.
Special Attentions
The river currents can be strong in some areas, so caution is advised for those planning to kayak or canoe. The park is popular during weekends, and parking can fill up quickly, especially at the more accessible entrances like Cochran Shoals.
