Marietta is a municipality of the State of Georgia located in Cobb County in the United States.
It is the fourth largest city in the Atlanta region, with a population of nearly sixty-one thousand according to the 2020 census.
There is no dull moment here with the bundle of attractions and fun activities awaiting you.
Marietta will keep you excited all through your stay when you visit places like Six Flags White Water, Marietta National Cemetery, Historic Oakton House and Gardens, Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre, the Marietta Confederate Cemetery, etc.
Are you planning a trip to Marietta? Here are the top things to do in Marietta, GA.
Things to Do in Marietta
1. Marietta Museum of History
Are you interested in learning about the history of Marietta? Then, add a visit to the Marietta Museum of History to your list of fun things to do in Marietta, GA.
Marietta Museum of History was founded in 1996, and it is located in an 1845 building that was initially used as a cotton warehouse before being used as a hotel in 1855.
During the Civil War, it was converted into a hospital and has become one of the most essential historical landmarks in the city.
Here, you will find the most extensive collection of historical relics and artifacts focusing on Marietta City and Cobb County history.
Marietta Museum of History shows artifacts relating to different sections such as lifestyle, military, and general history.
Visitors get to listen to interesting tales about the Native Americans in the regions before being chased out of their ancestral origin.
Address: 1 Depot St, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
2. Marietta Square Farmers Market
Marietta Square Farmers Market is a popular public market open only in the morning every Saturday.
If you want to feel the authentic cultural vibes, shopping at Marietta Square Farmers Market is one of the best Marietta activities.
The market consists of over fifty booths with local vendors offering a wide variety of quality products and services.
Marietta Square Farmers Market offers fresh farm products such as vegetables, fruits, honey, herbs, flowers, spices, and more.
The market offers quality beauty products, baked bread, soaps, juices, perfumes, souvenirs, artworks, and more.
You also get to meet and interact with many locals when you visit Marietta Square Farmers Market and learn more about the community.
Address: Church St, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
3. Six Flags White Water
Six Flags White Water is a top-notch water park that extends for a whooping sixty-nine acres in Marietta, Georgia.
The water park was founded in 1984, although it was known as White Water Atlanta before Six Flags purchased it in 1999.
It features four separate areas such as Pine Valley, Flash Flood Canyon, Wildwater Lagoon, and Slippery Ridge.
Six Flags White Water features large children’s play areas with lots of play equipment for them to explore and enjoy.
There is a wave pool and a lazy river where you can swim or simply float lazily on the water; it is a great way to cool off.
The Lazy River is called Little Hooch, while the wave pool is known as Atlanta Ocean. There are also pools for little children to guarantee their safety.
Address: 250 Cobb Pkwy N, Marietta, GA 30062, United States
4. Marietta Cobb Museum of Art
Are you searching for a place where you can truly appreciate the works of art? Then, add a visit to Marietta Cobb Museum of Art to your list of top things to do in Marietta, GA.
The Marietta Cobb Museum of Art opened to the public in the 1990s and has become one of the most popular places in the region.
The Museum became known globally after it was used in shooting a movie scene in 2014 from the very famous movie, Selma.
The structure is built in a Greek style with a porch full of columns inspired by the Romans Era, formerly used as the major post office of the city.
The Marietta Cobb Museum of Art is committed to promoting American artwork by showcasing an extensive collection of exhibits dating back to the 18th century and the present.
Its interiors are graced with sculptures and paintings, which is one of the reasons lots of locals and visitors usually visit it.
Address: 30 Atlanta St SE, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
5. Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre
The Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre is a unique theater housed in what was once used as a movie house for the community from 1935 to 1976.
Situated at Marietta Square, Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre offers visitors many entertaining presentations.
A large array of concerts, classic films, stage presentations, comedies, children’s dramas, and musicals are held in the theatre.
Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre is a culture and art center for the entire Cobb County town, offering a variety of educational programs.
There is an amazing feature on the fourth floor known as the “Brew with a View” make sure you check it out.
Address: 117 N Park Square, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
6. Historic Oakton House and Gardens
A historic landmark, Oakton House and Gardens, has existed since 1838 when the city was not fully created.
Historic Oakton House and Gardens is known as the oldest home in Marietta and famous for its role during the war of Kennesaw Mountain.
In 1864, during the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, the house served as the Confederate headquarters, which protected Atlanta against Union forces.
The house features gorgeous gardens that are adequately maintained and arranged formally.
Historic Oakton House and Gardens feature an ancient barn, a milk house, a smokehouse, and box hedging, all contributing to the estate’s beauty.
Address: Oakton, Marietta, GA 30064, Amirka, United States
7. Marietta National Cemetery
The Marietta National Cemetery stretches over twenty acres, and it is the National Cemetery of the United States.
This historic cemetery was founded in 1886 by General George Henry Thomas to serve as the final burial ground for those who died while fighting for the country.
Nearly ten thousand Union soldiers were killed during General William Sherman’s Atlanta Campaign.
Donated by a native of Marietta to the community, Henry Cole, he wanted the Confederate and Union Soldiers to be buried on the same ground as a sign of peace.
The Marietta National Cemetery was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998. You can stop by and pay your last respect to the fallen heroes.
Address: 500 Washington Ave NE, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
8. Atlanta Lyric Theatre
Atlanta Lyric Theatre was established in 1980 by three people, Tedi Langdon, Robert Langdon, and Sally Knap.
Known as the only notable Atlanta city’s music theatre, Atlanta Lyric Theatre concentrates strictly on promoting works by Sullivan and Gilbert.
The theater’s first production was presented in 1980, December, known as The Mikado by Gibert and Sullivan.
Atlanta Lyric Theatre has consistently put Atlanta on the map through the quality of music produced in the theater.
As a premium musical theater, it offers local talented artists an opportunity to showcase their talents for over thirty-five years.
Address: 548 South Marietta Pkwy SE, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
Georgia holds some cool attractions and activities, check out our guides on things to do in Cartersville, things to do in Dahlonega as well as things to do in Dawsonville for a memorable time here.
9. Marietta Fire Museum
The Marietta Fire Museum is a special museum that displays an enormous collection of memorabilia from the 1800s formerly used by Marietta’s Fire Department.
It is located just two blocks away from the ancient Marietta Square featuring different kinds of exhibits such as vehicles, antiques, photos, clothing, tools, and more.
One thing that will catch your attention in the museum is the Silsby Steam, which was acquired by the Fire Department in 1879 as a Steam-powered pumper.
The Marietta Fire Museum features a Pirsch Ladder Truck, a Seagrave Pumper from 1929, and an American LaFrance pumper from 1921.
Self-guided tours are allowed as you learn more about the advancement of the Marietta Fire Department. In addition, there is a lovely gift store where you can shop for nice souvenirs like t-shirts, mugs, and more.
Address: 112 Haynes St, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
10. Ghosts of Marietta Tour
Are you a fan of spooky and creepy stories? If yes, add a visit to Ghosts of Marietta to your list of fun things to do in Marietta, GA.
Ghosts of Marietta offers you the thrills you desire, taking you on a tour through some of the creepiest streets in the city.
You get to stroll down different haunted streets using nothing but the light from a lantern under the guidance of an experienced tour guide.
They also offer a ninety-minute tour where you will be driven around the town and learn more about the city’s history.
Ghosts of Marietta allows you to choose the kind of tour you would like to embark on, either the foot tour or the bus ride tour.
For more adventure, you will be taken to some burial grounds and listen to tales about the civil war, ghosts of the city, and early residents.
Address: 80 North Marietta Pkwy NW, Marietta, GA 30064, United States
11. William Root House Museum and Garden
For a more intriguing historical journey, visiting the William Root House Museum and Garden is one of the best things to do in Marietta, GA.The William Root House Museum and Garden is one of the historic homes in Atlanta constructed in the 1850s.
The home and garden were intensively refurbished to retain their former glory featuring beautiful displays with unique additions.
The Estate was preserved to tell the story of the Root family and how they lived during the Civil War era.
The William Root House Museum and Garden feature rooms consisting of timeless pieces and beautiful decorations with original furniture.
The beautiful garden features several kinds of vegetables and herbs with medicinal features used by William Root, who was a Pharmacist.
Address: 80 North Marietta Pkwy NW, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
12. The Marietta Confederate Cemetery
The Marietta Confederate Cemetery was founded in 1863 when Jane Glover gave up a significant portion of her plantation as a burial ground for twenty Confederate Soldiers who lost their lives during a train wreck.
The cemetery was later used as the final resting place for more than three thousand soldiers with the full representation of all the Confederate States.
It is recognized as the largest Confederate cemetery among all the confederate states and the entire region.
The Marietta Confederate Cemetery features a field gun weighing about six pounds, which is available for public view, and you need to check it out before leaving the city.
This is considered a holy place with a divine aura within the vicinity. Take out time to visit the cemetery; it is definitely worth it.
Address: 395 Powder Springs St, Marietta, GA 30064 United States
13. Out of Box Theatre
The Out of Box Theatre is a wonderful theater in Marietta built to provide spectators with a variety of entertaining theater productions.
The theatre is open to residents and visitors, offering them an exceptional experience they wouldn’t forget in a hurry.
The presentations performed here are nothing short of exhilarating and exciting, starting from dramas, musicals, dance shows, and more.
The Out of Box Theatre officially opened in 2012 to produce educational, entertaining, and quality shows.
These productions are made using a logical and creative appropriation while also using the community’s resources and talented artists to transform the city into an art-performing region.
Address: 585 Cobb Pkwy SE, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
14. Marietta Square Food Tour
Have you ever thought of going on a food tour? This is one of the most fun things to do in Marietta, GA, especially when you visit Marietta Square.
Marietta Square Food Tour takes visitors on a tour to about seven different restaurants in the city, which extends for about three hours.
All the restaurants, food stores, and bakeries you get to visit are locally owned and operated; get ready to also visit the famous Big Chicken.
The tours are usually led by highly experienced and knowledgeable tour guides who are native of the city, offering tourists more insight into the lifestyle of the people.
Marietta Square Food Tour offers you at least twelve different delicious meals and five delightful beverages, including the ones for adults.
You also get to try out Italian dishes, native southern cuisine, Asian dish, Colombia specials, homemade desserts, and more.
Address: 39-75 E Park Square, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
15. Shezmu Cellars
Are you a lover of good wines? Then, add a visit to Shezmu Cellars to your list of best things to do in Marietta, GA, for an awesome experience.
Shezmu Cellars is a prominent winery that is dedicated to manufacturing honey wine known as dry Mead.
They also offer other varieties of wines, including white and red wines produced by local manufacturers, plus over twenty wines produced in Georgia.
Owned by Cody and Adam Chinn, they make the wines served in Shezmu Cellars with the major goal of developing the United States’s Mead.
Shezmu Cellars offers drinks like Guinness Draught, To Kill A Blackberry, Blood Orange Mint, Genesee Beer, Lemon Lime Spritz, Key Lime Dr. Robot, Strawberry Lemonade Gose, cloud breaker, Ruby American Red Ale, and many more.
Address: 562 Wylie Rd SE, Marietta, GA 30067, United States
Also check out our checklist of fun things to do in Lawrenceville, things to do in Clayton, and fun things to do in Pooler, if you are planning a Georgia road trip.
16. J Christopher’s
J Christopher’s is an actualization of the idea of Jau McCann’s and Chris Brogdon, who wanted to create a place where people could have breakfast and lunch.
The main idea was to serve the public with traditional meals adding a unique twist, and encouraging them to adopt healthy eating lifestyles.
The restaurant officially opened in 1997, and over the years, the business greatly flourished and currently operates in over twenty locations.
J Christopher’s offers a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere that invites customers and excites them even before the meals are served.
They serve an extensive menu featuring omelets, salads, strawberry waffles, burgers, eggs Christopher, sandwiches, and more.
Address: 1205 Johnson Ferry Rd, Marietta, GA 30068, United States
17. Seed Kitchen & Bar
For those searching for a nice restaurant to dine, add a visit to the Seed Kitchen & Bar to your list of things to do in Marrietta.
The Seed Kitchen & Bar is a local restaurant that offers an impressive food menu featuring Contemporary American dishes.
They offer a simple but classic setting with an energetic and inviting atmosphere for patrons to come in and fill their hungry stomachs.
The restaurant uses local ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers, ensuring the meals are served fresh and healthy.
The Seed Kitchen & Bar serves only lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday, while Sundays are dinner and brunch.
The level of hospitality and services displayed by the staff is one feature that makes the Seed Kitchen & Bar unique.
Address: 1311 Johnson Ferry Rd, Marietta, GA 30068, United States
18. Goldbergs Fine Foods
A place offering an amazing dining experience, Goldbergs Fine Foods should be added to your list of things to do in Marietta, GA.
Goldbergs Fine Foods was established in 1972 and was first known as Goldberg and Son before it was changed to Goldberg’s Bagel Company and Deli.
They offer authentic New York cuisine comprised of great quality plus lots of history, treating patrons with a great show of Southern hospitality.
Due to its consistency, Goldbergs Fine Foods has transformed into a truth-worthy and reliable brand in the area, which is also held in high esteem.
Goldbergs Fine Foods agreed with the Atlanta Braves to establish the All Star Grill located at the Hartsfield Jackson International Airport.
They serve Famous Goldbergs Bagel, shrimp & grits, Fried Chicken Biscuit, homemade French toast, Belgian Waffle, Veggie Omelette, Flavored Cream Cheese, and more.
The staff is friendly and receptive while attending to their customers’ needs ensuring they are optimally complacent
Address: 1062 Johnson Ferry Rd, Marietta, GA 30068, United States
19. Australian Bakery Cafe
Do you wish to take your little ones on a treat? Then, visiting Australian Bakery Cafe should be added to your vacation list of things to do in Marietta, GA.
Australian Bakery Cafe offers the biggest selection of Aussie Meat Pies in Marietta; you can’t leave without having a bit.
It was founded in 1991 as a perfect way of bringing some of the most delicious snacks to the people of Marrietta.
You should try out their Hamburgers, Sausage rolls, fish & chips, homemade Dim Sims, pasties, and more.
Australian Bakery Cafe will blow your mind and make you want to stop by regularly because of the taste and quality of the snacks.
Address: 48 S Park Square NE, Marietta, GA 30060, United States
20. Cobb Antique Mall
Cobb Antique Mall is the number one shopping center in Marietta, which has been in business for more than fifteen years.
For a fun and stress-free shopping moment, add Cobb Antique Mall to your list of fun things to do in Marietta, GA; it is a large facility of about 47, 000-square feet.
There is absolutely nothing you need that you wouldn’t find here, starting with jewelry, comic books, picture frames, sports memorabilia, and more.
They also offer different kinds of beautiful furniture to suit your style, such as Vintage, primitive, American, European, ancient, and more.
Cobb Antique Mall oaks offer vinyl records, costumes, glassware, clothing, coins, artworks, linens, and so on.
Address: 2800 Canton Rd, Marietta, GA 30066, United States
21. Dave Poe’s BBQ
Dave Poe’s BBQ is the number one spot when it has to do with barbecue; they serve the most delicious barbecue in the city.
They offer properly cooked meats using traditional methods dating back to the 19th century providing their customers with an amazing bbq experience.
The restaurant has been given so many unique names and has been tagged as the best place for the best ribs in the region.
Once you enter the restaurant, you will be engulfed by the pleasant and savory aroma, making your stomach dance even before the meals are served.
Dave Poe’s BBQ offers patrons a variety of meats to choose from, starting from pulled pork, tender ribs to beef, and more.
They are open on Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday from 11am-8pm and Fridays & Saturdays from 11am-6pm.
Address: 660 Whitelock Ave. SW, Marietta, GA 30064, United States
22. Hong Kong Star Chinese Cuisine
If you are searching for a reliable Chinese restaurant, Hong Kong Star Chinese Cuisine is the best place.
Hong Kong Star Chinese Cuisine is owned and operated by Michelle Kong, a hard-working lady who began her culinary journey when she was only sixteen.
At sixteen, she worked at a top-class restaurant way back in the 1980s in Hong Kong to assist her family.
During that period, she gained all the necessary knowledge and experience before setting out to establish her own business.
Hong Kong Star Chinese Cuisine was established to offer every visitor an amazing experience taking them on a unique culinary journey.
Their services are the best and highly affordable; if this is your first time trying Chinese cuisine, do not worry because a staff is available to interact with you and find out what you would enjoy.
Address: 4719 Lower Roswell Rd #110, Marietta, GA 30068, United States
23. Marietta’s Iconic Big Chicken
Of course, your list of things to do in Marietta, GA, wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Marietta’s Iconic Big Chicken.
Marietta’s Iconic Big Chicken is a 56-foot high chicken erected in 1963 and has become a historic landmark.
Every tourist wishes to visit this spot before leaving the city; it is as though your tour isn’t perfect without a stop by the Big Chicken.
It is used to promote a restaurant known as Kentucky Fried restaurant; years back, an order for its demolition was made, but some locals fought against it; today, it is seen as a notable feature in the city.
Marietta’s Iconic Big Chicken features a gift store where you can shop for beautiful souvenirs like T-shirts, caps, and more.
Address: 12 Cobb Pkwy SE, Marietta, GA 30062, United States
24. A.L. Burruss Nature Park
One of the best ways to enjoy your tour in Marietta, GA, is to check out the A. L. Burruss Park. It is a 45.46-acre park with various outdoor opportunities for visitors to explore.
A.L. Burruss Nature Park currently has trails that are available for off-road bicycling. Bikers, runners, and hikers can use some paths inside the nature park.
The Park has a picnic pavilion with a capacity of 36 people that operates on the first come, first serve principle. This attraction is family-friendly. It is a perfect location for amateurs to hone their off-road biking skills.
The trails are open to everyone and available only from dusk to dawn. Bikes are allowed only on specific routes; all bikers must wear helmets.
Address: 75 S Cobb Dr, Marietta, GA 30060, USA
25. Wildwood Park
Wildwood Park is an ideal place to check out during your stay in Marietta. It is a 28.11-acre attraction perfect for exercising and walking your dogs.
Wildwood Park comprises spacious gravel trails, outdoor working stations, off-leash dog areas, and mini off-shoot trails.
The dog off-leash area is 1.4 acres and is entirely fenced with a mulched floor for your dogs to play, run and enjoy the company of other dogs.
For hiking, the Park features a 2.5-mile trail and also a jogging trail that is one mile long. There are clean restrooms for your convenience. Two picnic shelters operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Address: 1050 Barclay Cir, Marietta, GA, USA
Want more of Georgia? do check out our list of things to do in Statesboro, things to do in Thomasville, and things to do in Cleveland for a memorable vacation.
Plan a Trip to Marietta
Marietta is a great tourist city which has been described as one of the top places to spend your holidays or anniversaries.
The beauty and elegance of the city make it unique and different from other cities in the United States.
Plan a trip today to Marietta; you will be glad you did.