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Kennesaw

Kennesaw, Georgia, United States

Kennesaw, located in the state of Georgia, United States, is a charming city with a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere that offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. One of the key attractions i…

#Suburban#Family-friendly#College town#Historic#Outdoor activities

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kennesaw.

Top Hotels in Kennesaw

Top Flights to Kennesaw

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kennesaw.

Tours

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

A 2,965-acre National Battlefield preserving a Civil War battleground of the Atlanta Campaign and offers amenities such as a museum, trails, and a panoramic view from the top of the mountain.

Smith-Gilbert Gardens

A serene botanical garden offering a tranquil retreat with over 3,000 species of plants, a bonsai exhibit, and a waterfall.

Shopping

Town Center at Cobb

A regional shopping mall featuring numerous major retailers and diverse dining options.

Outdoor

Swift-Cantrell Park

A community park with a playground, dog park, skatepark, and walking trails.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kennesaw.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Kennesaw, Georgia, is about 34,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Kennesaw

Jan

10°0°

Feb

13°1°

Mar

17°5°

Apr

22°9°

May

26°14°

Jun

30°19°

Jul

32°21°

Aug

31°21°

Sep

28°18°

Oct

23°11°

Nov

17°6°

Dec

12°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kennesaw.

What people love

Kennesaw, located in Georgia, United States, offers several advantages for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Kennesaw include:

Rich History: Kennesaw has a rich history, including its significance during the Civil War. History enthusiasts can explore historical sites such as the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the Civil War era.
Outdoor Activities: Kennesaw is surrounded by natural beauty, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Visitors can explore Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Family-Friendly Attractions: Kennesaw is home to family-friendly attractions such as the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, where visitors can enjoy scenic views, hiking trails, and educational programs. The city also has parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities for families to enjoy.
Shopping and Dining: Kennesaw features a variety of shopping and dining options, including local boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area for unique shopping experiences and delicious dining options.
Convenient Location: Kennesaw is located near major cities such as Atlanta, making it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area. Visitors can easily access attractions in Atlanta, as well as nearby communities and natural areas.

Overall, Kennesaw offers a blend of history, outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, shopping, dining, and a convenient location for travelers to enjoy.

What to know

There are a few potential cons of traveling to Kennesaw, Georgia, United States:

Limited public transportation: Kennesaw does not have an extensive public transportation system, so getting around without a car can be challenging. This may limit your ability to explore the area easily.
Weather extremes: Kennesaw experiences hot and humid summers, which may be uncomfortable for some travelers. Additionally, the area can also see occasional severe weather events like thunderstorms and tornadoes.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: While Kennesaw offers a range of shopping and dining options, the nightlife scene is relatively limited compared to larger cities. If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife, you may find Kennesaw lacking in this regard.
Limited cultural attractions: While Kennesaw has some historical sites and museums, it may not offer as many cultural attractions as some larger cities. If you are looking for a wide variety of museums, art galleries, and cultural events, you may find Kennesaw lacking in this aspect.

Overall, while Kennesaw has its charms, travelers looking for a bustling city atmosphere with extensive public transportation options and a wide range of cultural attractions may find it somewhat lacking in comparison to larger cities.

Kennesaw, Georgia, is a city with a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Located in Cobb County, northwest of Atlanta, Kennesaw played a significant role during the Civil War and has evolved into a vibrant suburban community.

Early History and Founding

The area that is now Kennesaw was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Cherokee. European-American settlers began moving into the area in the early 19th century. The city itself was officially incorporated in 1887, but its historical significance began earlier.

Civil War Era

Kennesaw is perhaps best known for its role in the American Civil War. The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, fought on June 27, 1864, was part of the Atlanta Campaign. This battle was a significant conflict between the Union forces, led by General William Tecumseh Sherman, and the Confederate forces, under General Joseph E. Johnston. Although the Confederates won the battle, they were eventually forced to retreat, allowing Sherman to continue his march to Atlanta.

The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, established in 1917, preserves the site of this battle and serves as a significant historical landmark. It is a popular destination for history enthusiasts and offers hiking trails and interpretive programs.

Post-Civil War Development

After the Civil War, Kennesaw became a quiet agricultural community. The arrival of the railroad helped spur growth, and the town gradually developed into a small but thriving community.

Modern History

In recent decades, Kennesaw has experienced significant growth as part of the greater Atlanta metropolitan area. It has become known for its family-friendly environment and emphasis on preserving its historical roots.

Significant Events

A notable event in Kennesaw's modern history is the passage of a 1982 ordinance requiring heads of households to own a firearm and ammunition. This law was primarily symbolic and was intended to demonstrate support for the Second Amendment.

Historical Figures

While no single historical figure dominates Kennesaw’s history, the generals involved in the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, such as Sherman and Johnston, are closely associated with the area due to their roles in the Civil War.

Important Landmarks

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park: This park is a major historical site that offers insight into the Civil War and provides recreational opportunities.
Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History: This museum features exhibits on the Civil War and the Great Locomotive Chase, a significant event during the war involving the theft of a Confederate train.
Smith-Gilbert Gardens: This public garden and cultural center offers a blend of horticulture and art and is a popular local attraction.

Kennesaw continues to blend its historical heritage with modern development, making it a unique city with a robust community spirit.