Grant Park, Atlanta's oldest city park and surrounding neighborhood, perfectly blends historical significance, natural beauty, and modern attractions. This guide explores the park's rich heritage, its must-visit spots, and how to make the most of your visit.
Exploring Grant Park: Atlanta's Oldest Neighborhood and Green Space
Grant Park is a testament to Atlanta's history and a thriving community hub in a unique part of the city.
Historical Overview of Grant Park
Established in 1882, Grant Park was created when Lemuel P. Grant, a successful engineer and businessman, donated 100 acres of his land to Atlanta. The park quickly became a centerpiece for the developing neighborhood, which took on the same name.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area around Grant Park developed into one of Atlanta's first streetcar suburbs. The Victorian and Craftsman-style homes built during this period still characterize much of the neighborhood today, giving it a distinct historic charm.
Green Spaces and Natural Beauty
The 131.5-acre park that forms the heart of the neighborhood is a verdant oasis in the city. It features:
Walking trails that wind through mature oak and magnolia trees
A picturesque lake that serves as a focal point for relaxation and recreation
Well-maintained gardens, including the eye-catching Beaumont Allen Greenhouse
Open meadows perfect for picnics, sports, and community gatherings
The park's landscape design, influenced by the renowned Olmsted brothers in the early 1900s, balances natural areas and cultivated spaces.
Community and Cultural Importance
The Grant Park neighborhood hosts numerous events throughout the year, including:
The Grant Park Summer Shade Festival, which celebrates local arts and music
The Grant Park Farmers Market, with fresh produce and artisanal goods every Sunday
Various holiday celebrations and community gatherings
Top Attractions in and Around Grant Park
While the park itself is a major draw, the surrounding area offers several world-class attractions you shouldn't miss. Each of these destinations contributes to the unique character of Grant Park.
Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta is one of the oldest zoos in the U.S. and a must-visit attraction. Spanning 40 acres, the zoo is home to over 1,000 animals representing more than 200 species from around the world.
Key highlights include:
One of the nation's largest collections of gorillas and orangutans
A giant panda habitat (one of only three in North America)
An African savanna exhibit featuring elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos in a sprawling, multi-species environment
An interactive KIDZone perfect for younger visitors, including a petting zoo and playground
The Scaly Slimy Spectacular: The Amphibian and Reptile Experience, showcasing a diverse collection of cold-blooded creatures
The Asian Forest, home to sun bears, Sumatran tigers, and clouded leopards
The zoo's focus on conservation and education makes it entertaining and enlightening for visitors of all ages. Zoo Atlanta participates in more than 30 Species Survival Plans for endangered species and conducts significant research on gorilla and orangutan behavior.
Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum
Housed in a building adjacent to Zoo Atlanta, the Cyclorama offers a unique perspective on Civil War history. The centerpiece is a massive, 360-degree painting depicting the Battle of Atlanta, measuring 49 feet tall and 371 feet in circumference.
Key features include:
The newly restored cyclorama painting, one of only two of its kind in the United States
Cutting-edge technology that brings the painting to life with sound and light effects
The steam locomotive Texas, a key player in the Great Locomotive Chase of 1862
Interactive exhibits that provide context for Atlanta's role in the Civil War
A theater showing a short film about the creation and history of the Cyclorama
Recently restored and paired with state-of-the-art technology, the Cyclorama provides an immersive historical experience that transports visitors back to 1864.
Historic Oakland Cemetery
Just a short walk from Grant Park lies Historic Oakland Cemetery. This 48-acre Victorian-style garden cemetery is the final resting place for many of Atlanta's historical figures and provides a unique outdoor museum experience:
Take guided tours to learn about Atlanta's history through the stories of those buried here, including Margaret Mitchell, author of "Gone with the Wind."
Enjoy the beautiful gardens and sculptures throughout the grounds, featuring a mix of Victorian, Greek Revival, Gothic, and Egyptian architectural styles.
Attend one of the many events hosted at the cemetery, including the popular "Capturing the Spirit of Oakland" Halloween tours and the "Sunday in the Park" fall festival.
Explore different sections of the cemetery, including the African American Grounds, the Jewish Flat, and the Confederate Memorial Grounds.
Visit the newly restored Bell Tower, which houses a visitor center and museum.
Grant Park Farmers Market
Every Sunday from April through December, the Grant Park Farmers Market transforms the park into a bustling marketplace. This award-winning market has become a community staple, offering much more than just fresh produce:
Purchase fresh, locally-grown produce from over 50 vendors, including organic fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, and locally-raised meats.
Sample artisanal foods from local vendors, such as freshly baked breads, homemade jams, and small-batch sauces.
Enjoy live music and community events, creating a festive atmosphere every week.
Participate in chef demonstrations and cooking classes, learning how to prepare delicious meals with local, seasonal ingredients.
Support local artists and craftspeople by purchasing handmade goods.
Engage in community outreach programs, including health and wellness initiatives.
The market serves as a weekly community gathering spot, fostering connections between local farmers, artisans, and residents.
Experience Atlanta's Best Attractions With CityPASS® Tickets
While exploring Grant Park and its surrounding attractions, consider using CityPASS® tickets to maximize your Atlanta experience. CityPASS® tickets provide significant savings on combined admission to top attractions, including Zoo Atlanta.
With a CityPASS® ticket, you can also visit other nearby attractions, making planning a full day or weekend of sightseeing easy. After enjoying Grant Park, you might want to:
Take a solo trip to explore more of Atlanta's diverse neighborhoods
Discover things to do for adults in the city
Explore more outdoor plans in Atlanta's numerous parks and green spaces
FAQs
Is Grant Park worth visiting?
Absolutely! Grant Park offers a unique blend of history, nature, and attractions suitable for all ages. Whether you're interested in zoo animals, Civil War history, or simply enjoying a picnic in a beautiful setting, Grant Park has something to offer.
Is Grant Park a nice area of Atlanta?
Yes, Grant Park is considered one of Atlanta's most desirable neighborhoods. It combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering a safe and pleasant environment for both residents and visitors.
How big is Grant Park Atlanta?
The Grant Park neighborhood covers about 1.9 square miles, while the park itself spans 131.5 acres.
Is Grant Park a historic district?
Yes, Grant Park is on the National Register of Historic Places as a historic district. This designation recognizes the area's significant collection of late 19th and early 20th-century architecture and its importance in Atlanta's development.
Grant Park offers a perfect blend of Atlanta's past and present. From its historic homes and green spaces to world-class attractions like Zoo Atlanta, there's something for everyone in this charming neighborhood. Using CityPASS® tickets, you can make the most of your visit to Grant Park and beyond, experiencing the best of what Atlanta offers.
Lodging in Atlanta
To get the most out of your stay in Atlanta, we recommend finding lodging near Atlanta's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
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