Roswell is a Georgia city located roughly 20 miles north of Atlanta. While the city center is technically in Fulton County, much of unincorporated Roswell falls into Cobb County. As such, it is generally considered to part of "East Cobb"---a relatively affluent area with strong public schools that attracts professionals and families alike. The Roswell/East Cobb area has many attractions for visitors and residents.
East Cobb is home to some of Atlanta's finest restaurants, including Aqua Blue and the Zagat-rated Pastis. The area also offers down-home cooking as well as family dining. Roswell's "The Swallow at the Hollow" is one of metro Atlanta's favorite barbecue joints. Coffee shops, tea houses and bakeries abound for those seeking a sweet snack or caffeine boost.
East Cobb is well-known for its many specialty shops. Boutiques and designer stores far outnumber department stores in this area and are extremely popular. Alpharetta and Canton Streets are referred to as the "Antique Alleys" because of the numerous antique stores on each street. Other specialty shops include upscale toy shops, independent book stores, organic food markets, custom perfumeries and hand-dipped candle shops.
East Cobb is home to a thriving arts community. The Roswell Fine Arts Alliance helps artists, students and the public come together through shows, classes, exhibits and more. Art and photography galleries are plentiful, and include several form-specific artist's collectives as well as single artist galleries. Singing groups and visual performers also call East Cobb home. The Kudzu Playhouse, Roswell Theatre and Encore Park are just a few of the local live performance venues.
Both Cobb County and the City of Roswell maintain extensive park systems that are available for picnicking, sports or an afternoon of relaxation. Nature lovers will enjoy the Chattahoochee Nature Center's miles of trails and might want to rent a kayak, paddle boat or raft to enjoy the river. History buffs should visit the Roswell Fire Museum, the Teaching Museum and the Heritage Center at the Roswell visitor center. Also consider one of the area's historic walking tours or the Roswell Ghost Tour.
East Cobb is home to numerous festivals and events. Besides local or one-time events, there is an annual festival or event every month of the year--from a January wedding showcase and a March quilt show to the June Butterfly Festival and December's Christmas in Roswell celebration. Roswell Roots, a Festival of Black History & Culture, is held each February in honor of Black History Month. The Taste of Roswell offers area restaurants a chance to show their stuff each October.
