We’ll let you know where you can find your daily dose of natural things to do in Atlanta’s environment and all its outdoor activities. Read on for a wild ride through the city’s greenest spaces.
1. Lenox Park
Tucked away in the heart of Atlanta, Lenox Park is the city’s secret community garden. You’ll find it hidden behind the AT&T building. Unfortunately, there's no dedicated parking, but for those willing to walk, it’s a lovely, quiet place to spend a little time reconnecting with nature. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you spot the British-style red telephone booth.
Take a stroll over the twin bridges, and watch the ducks and geese floating on the lake. It’s a popular place for walking and jogging, but note that there are no public bathrooms. When nature calls, you’ll need to seek out a nearby business. If you haven't packed a picnic basket, you're in luck. There are a couple of excellent eateries within a mile of Lenox Park.
2. Woodruff Park
When you need to feel grass beneath your feet but don’t want to stray too far from the urban buzz, Woodruff Park is where you need to be. This popular park in Atlanta plays host to a range of events, including history tours, free yoga classes, and live music.
In the summer, people flock to this beautiful park for outdoor movie screenings, while its Caroling in the Park event brings everyone together for the holidays. When hunger strikes, look out for the food trucks — a common sight in one of the best parks Atlanta has to offer. Dine in style in the courtyard plaza, which comes equipped with tables, chairs, and umbrellas.
There’s even free Wi-Fi — although if you’d rather step away from tech, then the Game Cart lets you check out board games to play. Once refueled, work up a sweat at the ENERGI fitness station, or kit yourself out with two wheels at the Relay Bike Share hub for a gentle lap of the park. There’s also a children’s play area, complete with sculptures.
With so much to offer, it’s impossible to get bored at Woodruff Park. In fact, losing track of time is a real risk. Be sure to set a reminder to ensure you don’t miss one of our immersive and evocative shows because you’re having too much fun!
3. Perkerson Park
Perkerson Park is a gateway to the Southside and Westside Trails, scenic stretches of the Atlanta Beltline that connect communities and offer a unique perspective on the city. Lace up your walking shoes or bring your bike for an Atlanta hike. A leisurely journey along the Beltline is a great way to explore.
Perkerson Park itself is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts. With sports fields, tennis courts, and even a disc golf course, it’s a playground for both young and young-at-heart. And yes, there’s a splash pad for those warm Atlanta days — perfect for a quick cool-off in the heat of the afternoon, before heading out for the evening to experience one of our epic shows.
4. Central Park
Much like its iconic cousin in the Big Apple, Atlanta’s Central Park is a sprawling sanctuary in the midst of all that urban hustle and bustle. Right off the bat, you’ll notice the array of sporting facilities on offer here, from outdoor courts to an indoor recreation center.
Younger visitors can revel in the delights of a dedicated playground, while everyone can enjoy the vast 17 acres of open green space. It’s the perfect place for a gentle stroll, a game of catch, or simply soaking up the serenity that’s on offer right here in Central Park.
Venturing beyond the municipal park’s borders opens up a world of dining opportunities. From the seafood specials at Krab Queenz to the ambiance of Nikolai’s Roof Restaurant, the surrounding area soon becomes an extension of your park experience.
Convenient parking is available at the Atlanta Civic Center Parking Lot, offering easy access to Central Park with just a short, pleasant walk. Whether you’re up for a sports-filled afternoon, some family quality time, or a culinary exploration, Central Park Atlanta can easily be your gateway to a fantastic day in the city.
5. The Olmsted Linear Park
Step into the timeless charm of Olmstead Linear Park, which is surely one of the most beautiful public parks in Atlanta. Designed by the renowned Frederick Law Olmstead, this urban park is a series of interconnected green spaces, with each segment offering a unique and serene retreat in the heart of the city.
Olmstead Linear Park’s allure lies in its carefully crafted design, which features meandering paths, lush foliage, and stunning historical architecture. The historic Druid Hills neighborhood, where the park resides, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
As you explore this Atlanta landmark, you’ll encounter the enchanting Virgilee segment, which is named for the daughter of 19th-century Atlanta businessman Joel Hurt.
Olmstead Linear Park is too pretty for a parking lot, but on-street parking is available nearby on South Ponce de Leon Avenue and North Ponce de Leon Avenue. Or let someone else do the driving by hopping on the MARTA — Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit System — Route 2.
6. Folk Art Park
If you're looking for parks in downtown Atlanta that can offer more than just a green space, visit Folk Art Park. Here, creativity takes center stage. As you step into the park, you’ll immediately notice the eclectic sculptures, each telling the story of the artist who created it.
The park is a living gallery, featuring the work of notable regional folk artists, including James Harold Jennings and Vollis Simpson. Folk Art Park was the first public art project by the Georgia Department of Transportation.
It reclaimed two old highway bridges and turned the area into one of Atlanta's best public parks. There’s no parking lot, but you can easily reach it on foot from nearby downtown.
7. Morningside Nature Preserve
After a few days in busy Atlanta, many people long to wander through winding walking trails, surrounded by the sweet melodies of chirping birds and the gentle rustle of leaves. You’ll find all that and more at Morningside Nature Preserve, a haven for those craving a peaceful retreat.
This Atlanta, Georgia, national park offers a slice of Atlanta’s wild side without straying too far from the city lights. Morningside Nature Preserve is home to Atlanta’s “dog beach” — a shallow part of South Fork Peachtree Creek below the suspension bridge where locals bring their dogs to play.
Away from the happy barks, you'll also hear the songs of many different types of birds. Keep an eye out for the seasonal changes that can add a touch of wonder to your peaceful stroll.
Like most Atlanta parks, Morningside Nature Preserve is free to access. The land was purchased by a group of neighbors and volunteers using crowdfunding and donations from the Georgia Greenspace Fund and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.
8. Westside Park
It’s back to the Beltline with the newest and largest city park on our list. Opened in 2021, Westside Park connects to the northern extension of the Beltline’s Westside Trail. It’s built on an old quarry site and boasts hiking trails that offer great views over the reservoir created by filling the hollow with water and the city’s skyline.
Many of the trails are fully accessible, so please bring the whole family along!
9. Winn Park
Winn Park isn’t just a park. It’s a playground for two-legged and four-legged residents of the city. Popular among Atlanta’s canine community and their human companions, this space offers a multipurpose field for spirited games of fetch and impromptu doggy socials.
While your furry friends enjoy their romps, Winn Park is also an ideal spot for aspiring acrobats to practice their circus skills, thanks to the fantastic playground. Beyond the playful antics, Winn Park ensures a seamless experience for visitors. Ample street parking surrounds the park, making it easy to bring your canine companions or gather your pint-sized circus crew.
However, do keep an eye on the permitted times for parking. The park’s gates swing open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day, welcoming everyone to revel in the joy of outdoor activities in a green, pleasant environment.
10. Blackburn Park
Whatever time of year you're looking for parks in Atlanta, Blackburn Park should be at the top of your list. In the spring, the park explodes in color during the Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival. On Wednesdays in summer, you can sample delicious treats from the food trucks that line the park.
Even in winter, this Atlanta park is buzzing with life, as it’s home to the Light Up Brookhaven festival. Parking at Blackburn Park is free. There’s also a car charging station, so you can put some juice in your car’s battery while your little monkeys tire themselves out on the climbing frame.
11. Shady Valley Park
When the summer sun turns up the heat, Shady Valley Park in Pine Hills beckons with its 11 acres of cool, shady bliss. The mature trees that dot the park create a lush canopy, providing a natural respite from the sun’s rays.
Under this green umbrella, a world of recreational delights awaits — whether it’s a friendly game of tennis, the exhilarating flips and flings of the playground, or a leisurely paddle in the creek to give your tootsies a refreshing cool down.
Conveniently located just off Shady Valley Drive, reaching this oasis by car is simple. While there’s a small parking area, the park’s popularity might see it fill up quickly, but don’t fret — ample space can be found on the nearby streets. Pack a picnic, spread out on the provided tables, and indulge in a leisurely lunch surrounded by the natural beauty of Shady Valley Park.
It’s more than just a place to beat the heat. It could reasonably claim to be the best park in Atlanta — although the other contenders on this list might have something to say about that!
12. John Calhoun Park
During your search for cool parks in Atlanta, it would be easy to overlook John Calhoun Park. This pocket park is tiny — only a quarter of an acre — but what it lacks in size it makes up for in style! The park’s most interesting feature is a stainless steel sculpture called Ancestral Totem, which was crafted by local artist Ayokunle Odeleye.
There’s not much in the way of facilities here, but there’s plenty of history. As boards in the park explain, John Calhoun was a local realtor and Republican Party activist.
The neighborhood was once filled with all kinds of businesses, most notably the Top Hat Club, which was the epicenter of 1930s and 1940s nightlife. Pop into this little park and relive Atlanta’s proud history as you take a break from the rush of the city.
Wow-Worthy Circus Acts!
Get ready to be amazed in Atlanta! Jaw-dropping Cirque du Soleil performances are just a click away.
13. Pershing Point Park
Named for General John J. Pershing, Pershing Point Park is a historical gem located in midtown Atlanta. Here you’ll find a memorial to the 130 Fulton County soldiers who were lost in World War I. It’s not a big park in Atlanta, but it’s a monument to one of the most important periods in history. Take the time to stop by and spend a moment in quiet reflection.
14. Westside Reservoir Park
With around 450 parking spaces, handicapped parking, water fountains, and bathrooms, Westside Reservoir Park is nothing if not accessible. The well-maintained walking paths are dotted with conveniently located benches in case you need to rest those tired feet.
Safe, pleasant trails connect the park to Grove Park to the BeltLine’s Westside Trail, in case you want to continue your journey on two feet or two wheels. Enjoy the views, and don’t forget to make time for your kids to climb, slide, and play on the large playground.
15. Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park
Welcome to the first public skate park in Atlanta! You’ll find the Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park right beside the BeltLine’s Eastside Trail. In addition to skateboarding facilities that can challenge boarders of all ability levels, there’s also a fun-filled playground for kids of any age.
Look out for upcoming art exhibitions and other events, which often take place on the Atlanta BeltLine. The Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park is a great place to explore them. On a practical note, this is one of the best parks in Atlanta when it comes to amenities. You’ll find everything from restrooms to nighttime lighting to bags for doggie waste.
Explore Atlanta’s Parks
From the hidden wilderness of Morningside Nature Preserve to the artistic wonderland of Folk Art Park, every park in Atlanta adds its own chapter to the city’s story. The historic charm of Olmstead Linear Park and the stunning views at Westside Park showcase the wide variety that's as diverse as the performances we put on.
Embrace the great outdoors, whether it’s through a quiet stroll, a family picnic, or a game of frisbee in the sunshine.
Once you’ve burned off some energy through your outdoor adventures, immerse yourself in spectacular acrobatics as you watch one of our shows.
Spellbinding performances and storylines that will blow your mind await. We look forward to seeing you at one of our Atlanta shows, where we’ll inspire you with a whole new kind of wonder. Set your imagination wild and prepare to be amazed — you won’t be disappointed.