7 of Our Favorite Atlanta Parks

 

Due to growing health concerns some of these parks may be temporarily closed or have limitations. Please consider visiting at a later time.

Spring and summer often feel, to us, like our reward for getting through another winter, and they give us an opportunity to get outside and feel the warmth of the sun. While we might not have winters as rough as some areas up in the Midwest, winter is still not particularly our favorite season. But as spring really gets into gear and we start nearing summer, it’s easy to remember why we love Atlanta and the surrounding area for getting outside and having fun.

Some of the best parks in all of Georgia can be found in and near Atlanta, and there are few things we enjoy quite as much as a day out with the blue sky overhead and the grass under our feet. But with so many events in Atlanta, and numerous commitments that many of us have, it can be difficult to find time for such frivolity. When we have the time and opportunity, however, there’s nothing quite like getting out and enjoying a day in the park with loved ones, or just taking a stroll alone with our thoughts.

We asked around here at the dealership to find out which parks everyone prefers. Presented here, in no particular order, are some of our favorites.

#1 – Piedmont Park

When we’re looking for some outdoor time without leaving the city limits, Piedmont Park is almost invariably our top choice. It’s a gorgeous stretch of green right in Atlanta that lets us feel simultaneously connected to nature and still at home in the city. There are playgrounds, gardens, and plenty of areas to walk, jog, or run to our heart’s content. And it’s a dog-friendly park, so those of us at Rick Hendrick Buick GMC Duluth with dogs are always quick to make this our destination.

Piedmont Park is located at 400 Park Dr NE in Atlanta.

#2 – Centennial Olympic Park

Created for the 1996 Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park is another one of our favorite choices for getting in touch with nature without leaving the city. Although not quite as “green” as Piedmont Park, Centennial Olympic Park just has so much to offer that its charm is undeniable. We love the fountains, of course, which are great on hot summer days, especially if you have kids that aren’t shy about running and splashing about in them. But there are also terrific stretches of green and some truly gorgeous scenic spots that are perfect if you know someone that likes to indulge in outdoor photography.

Centennial Olympic Park is located at 265 Park Ave NW in Atlanta.

#3 – Chastain Park

This is Atlanta’s largest city park, and such impressive size means there is truly no shortage of fun things to see and do at Chastain Park. Whether you’re interested in horseback riding, golf, playing softball, or seeing a performance at its amphitheater, there’s something for you at Chastain Park. There are also numerous pavilions located throughout the park, making it the perfect spot for an impromptu picnic or a larger event, like a birthday party or family reunion. Whatever you’re looking for this spring or summer, Chastain Park probably has it going on––you simply need to show up.

Chastain Park is located at 140 Chastain Park Ave NW in Atlanta.

#4 – Grant Park

While Chastain Park might be the largest in the city, Grant Park is the oldest park in Atlanta and provides a picturesque slice of history for a day outdoors. Surrounded by gorgeous Victorian homes, along with a wide range of businesses and restaurants, Grant Park is a fantastic destination for a day outside. There are plenty of activities available thanks to a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a large playground, while farmer’s markets are held at Grant Park routinely throughout the season. And if you want something a bit more relaxed, then there is plenty of areas just perfect for a slow stroll surrounded by all of the beauty Atlanta has to offer.

Grant Park is located at 90 Cherokee Ave SE in Atlanta.

#5 – Historic Fourth Ward Park

If you want something a bit more recently developed than historic Grant Park, then consider Historic Fourth Ward Park, which (despite its name) was just completed in 2012. This park is part of a city initiative to develop a 22-mile corridor surrounding downtown Atlanta designed for recreation and outdoor activities––and we’d say they’re off to a great start. Historic Fourth Ward Park has a large number of events and activities available, including a children’s playground and splash pad, climbing structures, and rock walls, and Atlanta’s first public skatepark. No matter what you’re interested in, Historic Fourth Ward Park is a fantastic choice with a lot to offer.

Historic Fourth Ward Park is located at 680 Dallas St NE in Atlanta.

#6 – Stone Mountain Park

While there are plenty of great parks in Atlanta, if you’re willing to head outside the city, then you absolutely owe it to yourself to head to Stone Mountain Park. Surrounding the world’s largest granite mountain, Stone Mountain Park truly lives up to its name and offers an experience unlike anything else you will ever see. The park itself is a gorgeous opportunity to get into nature and surround yourself with trees that are part of the most visited attraction in Georgia.

If you’re up for a little exercise, then you can hike up to the top of the mountain itself for a truly breathtaking view of your surroundings. On a clear day, eagle-eyed park visitors can see up to 45 miles into the distance from the top, making for one of the most spectacular experiences in the Atlanta area. During the summer, laser light shows with music are hosted at the park, with lasers projected onto the side of the mountain for a memorable and fun evening out.

Stone Mountain Park is located at 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd in Stone Mountain.

#7 – Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Another great spot to visit if you’re willing to head outside the downtown area is the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Far more than a simple park, this is a tremendous expanse of nature with a fantastic selection of activities and events for you to take part in. We’re particularly fond of spending a day on the river, rafting along its cool waters, and connecting with our friends and families on its buoyant wake.

If fishing is more your speed, then there are plenty of opportunities to cast into the river, with rainbow trout often in particularly high supply. There are also a number of trails for you to choose from if you would rather do some hiking, along with numerous paths that provide a scenic view of the river and wilderness around you. With more than 45 miles of river and amazing opportunities for hiking, running, and cycling, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, truly offers something for everyone.

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area’s Hewlett Lodge Visitor Center is located at 1978 Island Ford Pkwy in Atlanta.

Did we miss your favorite park? Or maybe we reminded you of one you haven’t been to in a while and helped you decide what to do this weekend. Come visit us at Rick Hendrick Buick GMC Duluth to discuss your favorite parks and find the vehicle that will take you there.