History of Grant Park:

Established in 1895, Grant Park is the oldest city park and largest historic district in Atlanta. Known for its Victorian homes and forested green space, Grant Park has become one of Atlanta’s most iconic and visited neighborhoods. The park is home to famous attractions like Zoo Atlanta and hosts popular events like the weekly Farmer’s Market and the yearly Summer Shade Festival. Despite the park’s popularity, the large green space still offers tons of trails and paths to find moments of peace in the midst of the city. Take a walk through this historic playground with us as we highlight the gorgeous Grant Park.

Grant, Father of Atlanta:

Civil Engineer L.P.Grant is a heavy-hitter in Georgia’s history due to his advocacy and success in bringing the railroad to central Georgia. The economic gains brought on by the railroad put Atlanta on the map and many subsequently named Grant the “Father of Atlanta.” Grant owned much of the land now used for his namesake city park, which he donated to Atlanta over the course of his lifetime. Grant Park offers contemporary Atlantans amenities like a public Olympic-sized pool, a recreation center, tennis and basketball courts, a large playground, walking paths and shaded pavilions for BBQing and dining. Two public parking lots have been added in recent years, making access to the park even easier.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side:

Grant Park is also home to Zoo Atlanta, one of only four institutions in the US that house Giant Pandas. Zoo Atlanta was founded in 1889 when a local businessman George V. Gress bought a bankrupt traveling circus and donated the animals to the city of Atlanta. The zoo’s collection was expanded in the 1930s through Asa G Candler’s (another Atlanta history giant) donation of his private menagerie. Today the zoo includes many habitats for stars like Giant Pandas Lun Lun and Yang Yang, lion brothers Hondo, Azizi and Hatari, and African elephants Kelly and Tara, among many others!

Sunday Funday in Grant Park:

Each Sunday Grant Park hosts a community farmers market from 9-1. Voted the Best Farmers Market in Atlanta by Creative Loafing and Atlanta Magazine, The Grant Park Conservancy Organization helps operate this dog and kid-friendly weekly event. With a focus on locally-sourced sustainable foods, you can shake hands with farmers as they sell their fresh crops straight to your table! With a coffee stand, fresh bakery, and interesting specialty items like fresh cheeses and sausages, it’s a great place to grocery shop or purchase unique gifts each Sunday.

Party in the Park:

Each August the Grant Park Summer Shade Festival brings people together for a fun weekend full of live music, kid activities, food, beer, and exercise. August 24^th and 25^th, 2019, from 10am-10pm, the festival takes over the large park. It all starts with a 5K to benefit the Grant Park Conservancy on Saturday morning. Ride your bike to the festival for free bike valet with the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition, or enjoy the new park parking for easy access.