Marietta may be a suburb of Atlanta, but this thriving north Georgia community is a city in its own right. Since its establishment in 1834, the city of Marietta has been a popular place for people to visit and to put down roots. The town square retains much of its turn-of-the-century charm, and you'll find cutting-edge shopping, well-reviewed restaurants and plenty of outdoor adventures in Marietta. Some of the city's attractions can be a little on the pricey side, but there's plenty to entertain your kids that won't cost you a dime.
Your kids can explore the history of firefighting at the Marietta Fire Museum. There's no cost to go through the museum, where you can see fascinating antique firefighting gear including an 1879 horse-drawn Silsby Steamer and a classic 1952 Chevrolet panel fire truck. The museum is open from Monday to Friday.
Marietta Fire Museum
112 Haynes St.
Marietta, GA 30060
770-794-5491
mariettaga.gov
Marietta's twin Civil War cemeteries, just a few miles apart, offer a fascinating glimpse into just how divided America was during those turbulent years. The Confederate cemetery, started in 1863 on a donated corner of a plantation, marks the final resting spots of more than 3,000 Confederate soldiers who died during the Civil War. Not far away, the Marietta National Cemetery is the final resting place of more than 17,000 Union soldiers. Originally, the Marietta National Cemetery, established in 1866, was intended for all the Civil War dead, but the federal government forbade Confederate soldiers to be buried beside the Union dead. You can explore both cemeteries on weekdays for no charge; call ahead to check times.
Marietta Confederate Cemetery
395 Powder Springs St.
Marietta, GA 30060
770-794-5606
Marietta National Cemetery
500 Washington Ave.
Marietta, GA 30060
770-428-5631
The Silver Comet Trail has more than 37 miles of paved trail built over an abandoned train line that used to run from Smyrna to Rockmart, Georgia, passing through part of Marietta on its way. Motorized vehicles aren't allowed, so the trail is a good place for kids to hone their rollerblading or bike riding skills. The trail, especially near the Mavell Road trailhead, gets crowded with serious runners and bikers on weekends, making it less kid-friendly.
Silver Comet Trail
starting at Mavell Road in Smyrna
770-528-8865
silvercometga.com
