Piedmont Park: Atlanta's Green Oasis

Explore Atlanta's iconic Piedmont Park: a vibrant green space offering recreation, events, and a rich history in the heart of the city.

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Piedmont Park, a sprawling green space in the heart of Atlanta, offers a blend of recreation, culture, and history. From its origins as farmland to its transformation into a fairground and ultimately a beloved urban park, Piedmont Park provides a refreshing escape for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Piedmont Park

Atlanta, Midtown, Georgia, US
+1404-875-7275
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Monday 6 am-11 pm
Tuesday 6 am-11 pm
Wednesday 6 am-11 pm
Thursday 6 am-11 pm
Friday 6 am-11 pm
Saturday 6 am-11 pm
Sunday 6 am-11 pm

Local tips

Check the park's event calendar before visiting, as Piedmont Park hosts many popular festivals and events throughout the year [6, 17].
Consider visiting the Atlanta Botanical Garden, which is located adjacent to Piedmont Park [5, 9].
Take advantage of the park's walking and biking trails to explore its various attractions and enjoy the scenery [5, 9].
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the park's expansive lawns, or grab a bite at the concession stand near the pool [9].
Bring your furry friend to the off-leash dog park for some canine socialization [5, 14].

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Piedmont Park via public transportation, take the MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) [8, 20]. Two nearby stations are Midtown and Arts Center [8]. From the Midtown Station, walk north on 10th Street until you reach Piedmont Avenue, then turn left and walk two blocks to the park's 12th or 14th Street gates [8]. From the Arts Center Station, walk south on West Peachtree Street for one block, then head east on 14th Street to the park entrance [8]. Several MARTA bus routes, including routes 2, 27, 36, 40, and 809, also stop near key park entrances [8, 15, 21]. A one-way MARTA fare is $2.50 [20].
Walking

Piedmont Park is easily accessible on foot, surrounded by Piedmont Avenue, Monroe Drive, and 10th Street [8]. Enter through multiple entry points, such as the 12th or 14th Street gates off Piedmont Avenue, or the Charles Allen Gate off 10th Street [8]. A popular route is via the Atlanta BeltLine, which connects to the park at the north end near Piedmont Commons and at the south end at 10th Street and Monroe Drive [8].
Parking

If driving, parking is available in the SAGE Parking Facility, shared with the Atlanta Botanical Garden, accessible via Monroe Drive [8, 24]. The first 30 minutes are free; 31-60 minutes costs $3.00, and each additional 30 minutes is $2.00, with a maximum daily rate of $30 [8, 24]. During festivals, a flat rate of $35 may apply [23]. Note that the SAGE Parking Facility is cashless [8, 23]. Limited street parking is available in surrounding neighborhoods, but be aware of restrictions and enforcement [24]. Alternative parking options can be found using parking apps like SpotHero [22].

Discover more about Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park, located about a mile northeast of Downtown Atlanta, is a vibrant hub nestled between the Midtown and Virginia Highland neighborhoods [6]. This expansive park has evolved significantly over nearly two centuries, transitioning from a forest to farmland, then to a fairground, and finally into the urban oasis it is today [2]. Originally, the land was owned by Dr. Benjamin Walker, who used it as a gentleman's farm [6, 3]. In 1887, Walker sold the land to the Gentlemen's Driving Club, later known as the Piedmont Driving Club, who sought to establish an exclusive club and racing ground for horse enthusiasts [6, 12]. The club then partnered with the Piedmont Exposition Company to host fairs and expositions, giving the park its name [6]. Two major expositions were held here in the late 19th century: the Piedmont Exposition in 1887 and the Cotton States and International Exposition in 1895, showcasing the region's prosperity [6, 3]. Booker T. Washington delivered his famous Atlanta Exposition speech at the 1895 event [3, 12]. In 1904, the City of Atlanta purchased Piedmont Park, extending its city limits to include the acreage [4, 6]. The Olmsted Brothers, sons of Frederick Law Olmsted (the designer of New York's Central Park), were hired to develop a master plan, implementing picturesque designs with broad lawns, playing fields, and wooded areas [4]. Today, Piedmont Park is a central gathering place, hosting numerous annual celebrations and events, including the Atlanta Pride Festival, the Atlanta Jazz Festival, the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, and Music Midtown [6, 17]. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking trails, picnic spots, playgrounds, sports fields, Lake Clara Meer, and an off-leash dog park [5].

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Oakland Cemetery

4.4 km

Explore the serene charm of Oakland Cemetery, a historic landmark in Atlanta showcasing stunning Victorian architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Illinois State Monument

26.5 km

Explore the Illinois State Monument in Marietta, Georgia, a significant historical landmark honoring Civil War soldiers from Illinois.

Pickett's Mill Battlefield State Historic Site

41.3 km

Discover the historical significance and scenic beauty of Pickett's Mill Battlefield State Historic Site, where Georgia's Civil War history comes to life.

Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site

55.2 km

Discover ancient history at Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site. Explore earthen mounds and a museum showcasing the Mississippian culture.

Chattahoochee River

59.9 km

Explore the historic Chattahoochee River near Newnan, GA: a natural landmark offering recreation, history, and scenic beauty.

Chieftains Museum/Major Ridge Home

91.5 km

Explore the rich heritage of the Cherokee Nation at Chieftains Museum, a historical treasure in Rome, Georgia, featuring authentic artifacts and captivating stories.

New Echota State Historic Site

97.2 km

Explore the rich heritage of the Cherokee Nation at New Echota State Historic Site, a unique blend of history, culture, and nature in Georgia.

Unmissable attractions to see

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum

2.8 km

Discover the legacy of Jimmy Carter through interactive exhibits, historical documents, and serene gardens at his Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta.

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum

World of Coca-Cola

3.4 km

Discover the history, mystery, and global flavors of the world's most iconic beverage brand at the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta, a must-see attraction for all ages.

Georgia Aquarium

3.5 km

Explore the wonders of the aquatic world at the Georgia Aquarium, home to thousands of animals, interactive exhibits, and a commitment to conservation, in the heart of downtown Atlanta.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

3.5 km

Walk in the footsteps of a civil rights icon at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, Georgia.

SkyView Atlanta

3.7 km

Experience Atlanta from new heights! Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline from the comfort of climate-controlled gondolas on SkyView Atlanta.

Apex Museum

3.8 km

Explore the rich tapestry of African American history and culture at Atlanta's APEX Museum, a vital landmark in the Sweet Auburn Historic District, offering a panoramic journey through time.

Krog Street Tunnel

4.0 km

Explore Atlanta's iconic Krog Street Tunnel: a vibrant, ever-changing canvas of street art connecting historic neighborhoods.

Tiny Doors ATL

4.6 km

Discover Atlanta's hidden art scene with Tiny Doors ATL: a whimsical public art project that brings big wonder to tiny spaces throughout the city.

Paces Mill

11.9 km

Explore Atlanta's natural side at Paces Mill: Hike scenic trails, paddle the Chattahoochee, and discover local history in a revitalized park.

East Palisades Trailhead

11.9 km

Escape to nature within Atlanta: Hike scenic trails, discover a bamboo forest, and enjoy river views at the Chattahoochee's East Palisades.

East Palisades Unit - Indian Trail

12.3 km

Escape to nature in Sandy Springs with scenic trails, river views, and a unique bamboo forest at the Chattahoochee River's East Palisades.

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve

12.6 km

Discover a hidden gem in Atlanta: a nature preserve with a cascading waterfall, Civil War history, and tranquil escape from the city.

Cochran Shoals Unit, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

16.1 km

Explore scenic trails, historical ruins, and abundant wildlife at Cochran Shoals, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area's most popular unit.

Cochran Shoals Unit, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Six Flags Over Georgia

16.6 km

Experience thrilling rides and family fun at Six Flags Over Georgia, Atlanta's premier theme park, featuring world-class roller coasters, live entertainment, and seasonal events for unforgettable memories.

Superman: Ultimate Flight

16.9 km

Experience the sensation of soaring like a superhero on Superman: Ultimate Flight at Six Flags Over Georgia, featuring a thrilling pretzel loop and face-down flying thrills.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The District at Howell Mill

4.1 km

Explore The District at Howell Mill, Atlanta's vibrant shopping mall with diverse stores, delicious dining, and a lively atmosphere for every visitor.

Wild Oats & Billy Goats

7.2 km

Explore Wild Oats & Billy Goats: A unique gift shop and boutique in Decatur, GA, showcasing local artistry and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Vinings Jubilee

12.3 km

Explore Vinings Jubilee, Atlanta's charming shopping mall featuring unique boutiques, delightful dining, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Georgia Gifts & More

16.2 km

Explore Georgia Gifts & More, a charming shop in Tucker offering unique books, candies, and exquisite gift baskets for every occasion.

Shops at Hampton Oaks

29.5 km

Explore the Shops at Hampton Oaks, where shopping meets dining in a vibrant atmosphere in Fairburn, Georgia.

Uniquely Gifted

38.6 km

Explore Uniquely Gifted in Fayetteville, GA for an enchanting collection of gifts, metaphysical supplies, and unique jewelry.

The Nest

48.1 km

Explore The Nest in Peachtree City, a unique gift shop offering a diverse selection of home goods and charming gifts for every occasion.

A Southern Accent

51.8 km

Discover unique treasures and Southern charm at A Southern Accent, a delightful gift shop in Peachtree City, Georgia.

Whistlestop Shops

56.2 km

Explore Whistlestop Shops in Auburn, Georgia for unique local crafts, handmade gifts, and a warm Southern shopping experience.

The Woodbury Shoppe

56.7 km

Explore The Woodbury Shoppe in Senoia, GA for unique gifts and local artistry that captures the spirit of Southern charm and heritage.

The Farmhouse

56.9 km

Explore The Farmhouse in Senoia, Georgia, for unique gifts, stylish women's clothing, and charming home goods that embody Southern hospitality.

The Gathered Warehouse

91.6 km

Explore the charm of The Gathered Warehouse, Woodbury's premier antique store, showcasing unique treasures and repurposed vintage items.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

St. Regis Bar

5.8 km

Experience Atlanta's upscale nightlife at the St. Regis Bar, where exquisite cocktails and elegant ambiance await in Buckhead.

Canoe

11.1 km

Experience exquisite American cuisine amidst breathtaking views of the Chattahoochee River at Canoe, one of Atlanta's premier dining destinations.

Ray's on the River

14.0 km

Experience unparalleled fine dining at Ray's on the River, where exquisite American cuisine meets breathtaking riverside views in Sandy Springs.

Junction Bar

94.5 km

Unwind at Junction Bar, a vibrant Muscadine hotspot with great drinks, friendly locals, and live entertainment for a memorable night out.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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