Welcome to Roswell, a suburb of Atlanta high on Southern charm and lush pockets of outdoor space. Start in the Historic District, a hub for culinary treats, galleries and boutiques. For a spot of nature, the town’s verdant parks offer vast trails, relics of old cotton mills and picturesque covered bridges. Save room for art, a peek at the history of technology and later, enjoy a sip (or two) of craft beer. Below, a few of our favorite suggestions.
Downtown Roswell, GA
Get Your Nature On
Nature lover? Don’t miss Roswell’s green spaces. In Old Mill Park, you’ll find a covered bridge that connects to six miles of hiking trails and a lovely waterfall. You’ll also stroll past historic mill ruins that once produced textiles. Just down the road, the 127-acre Chattahoochee Nature Center features wetlands, wildlife and on-site gardens (keep your eyes peeled for butterflies). Nearby, Garrard Landing Park has a covered bridge with a cascading stream that leads to picturesque trials. In East Roswell Park, the newly-opened Seven Branches Trail is ideal for a walk in the woods (there’s also tennis courts, a playground, a basketball court and dog park).
Hit the Biking Trails
Did you know Roswell was the first city in Georgia to be dubbed a bicycle friendly community? Start at the Roswell Riverwalk which includes a scenic, flat-paved trail that backs up along the iconic Chattahoochee River. Later, tucked away in a forest of mature beech-maples, cyclists hit a mix of trails among the 644-acre Big Creek Park. For bike rentals, nearby shops like Atlanta Cycling and Fresh Bike Service have you covered. And that’s not all: maps and community events can be found through locally-loved organizations Bike Roswell and RAMBO.
See Art, Make Art
Since 2014, this free public collection hosted by the Roswell Arts Fund has featured diverse works around outdoor sites around the city’s Historic District and parks. Dubbed a “museum without walls,” this spring will feature 10 new pieces based on the theme of connection. A self-guided tour lets you access a map, and listen to the artist talk about their process. Looking for an immersive experience? Roll up your sleeves and take a pottery class at the Roswell Clay Collective or try your hand at glass blowing at Flame Tree Glass (they also sell handmade glass beads, pendants and jewelry).
Craft Beers Galore
You certainly won’t go thirsty in Roswell. Located near Magnolia and Canton Street, the industrial-flared Gate City Brewing Company pours 20 house-crafted brews. Across from Canton Street is the friendly and locally owned Variant Brewing, stop by to see local artisans and food vendors every third Sunday. Nearby, the wood-hued From the Earth Brewing Company offers on-tap suds and regional drafts. You can also sip outside in the beer garden. The family-owned 5/4 Meadery offers dry meads (sweeter wines) and small-batch hard ciders while the kid-and-dog friendly Roswell Beer Market serves rare beers, alongside a retail shop for grab-and-go provisions. For wines, beers and bubbles Deep Roots Wine Market & Tasting Room has you covered.
Kimpton Roswell Rendering, Photo by Randall-Paulson Architects
Kimpton’s new 125-room hotel in Roswell, centrally located in the Historic District, will open in early 2024.
