Skip the crowded beaches and make Marietta your Spring Break destination! Whether you’re in your 20s looking for adventure and nightlife or a family searching for kid-friendly fun, Marietta has something for you.
College Students & Young Adults – Take a break in Marietta!
Marietta offers a rich variety of outdoor fun, shopping, nightlife, and live music. You’ll also find breweries and fun late-night eats and drinks.
Outdoor Entertainment:
From scenic hikes to lively festivals and artsy strolls, Marietta offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors this spring break. Whether you’re exploring nature, celebrating pop culture, or soaking in the local art scene ,enjoy being outside in Marietta.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park – Nature lovers, hikers, and history buffs will enjoy all that and more at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. Boasting 22 miles of hiking trails, and a trek to the summit of just over a mile, Kennesaw Mountain is the perfect spot to get in your steps, see wonderful views, and become immersed in the history of the Civil War battle that was fought on the grounds. About 3 miles from Marietta Square, the Kennesaw Mountain Visitors Center is open daily from 9 AM – 5 PM.
Marietta The Gathering – March 1, 2025 – Marietta the Gathering is a festival held each March in Glover Park at the Historic Marietta Square which celebrates Geek Community, pop culture, and the arts. This family-friendly festival will include the Guild Show, a collection of art makers, merchandisers, crafters, and smiths; Tourney Alley, a street full of board games, video gaming, and open play card gaming tables; as well as several other panels, performances, and contests in and around Glover Park from 10 AM – 8 PM on Saturday, March 1st.
Art Walk – One of the most popular happenings on Marietta Square, Art Walk takes place on the first Friday of each month starting at 5 PM. Galleries stay open late, welcoming guests with live music, refreshments, and brand-new exhibits. Visitors can meet featured artists and browse unique creations from local craft-makers and artisans set up along the sidewalks. Thanks to Marietta’s Open Container policy, you can sip, stroll, and soak in the lively atmosphere with friends and neighbors. Even if you miss Art Walk, the Square’s galleries are always worth a visit during your stay.
Shopping:
Visiting our local shops is one of the best ways to experience the unique flavor of our city. Marietta’s shops feature handmade jewelry, keepsakes, art, regional specialty food, and more.
The Local Exchange 130 S. Park Square – Billing themselves as your modern-day general store, at The Local Exchange you will find locally made fresh food, beverages, merchandise, craft beer, fine wine, local art, and vintage antiques. All of their products are local, fair trade, organic, made in the USA, and/or recycled or recyclable. When you shop at The Local Exchange you not only find quality and unique products, but you are also supporting the local business community. Located on the south side of Marietta Square, stop by for a grab-n-go lunch, a gift for a friend, a southern-themed basket of goodies, everyday groceries, or a Marietta keepsake.
Market With a B 15 West Park Square – This uniquely Southern boutique is a carefully curated mix of farmhouse decor, gifts, women’s accessories, baby’s necessities, and home provisions, all hand-selected for charm and usefulness. Located on the west side of historic Marietta Square, Market With a B is a delightful gift shop that makes gifting even easier with complimentary gift wrapping.
Hickory & Houston 800 Whitlock Ave suite #202 – Located just over a mile west of Marietta Square, Hickory & Houston’s mission is to provide affordable, high-quality gifts and fashion items that bring joy and delight to every occasion. Locally owned by Erin Houston, H & H evolved from a booth at the former Magnolia Room nine years ago and fulfills her dream of owning a unique gift store in her hometown. Hickory & Houston is offering a special for Spring Break visitors of $5.00 off any purchase – just mention this article!
Live Music & Comedy:
Looking for the perfect mix of live entertainment this spring break? From side-splitting comedy to intimate live music Marietta has plenty of ways to keep the good vibes going all season long.
GSO Jazz! West Coast Swing – Friday, March 28 at The Strand Theatre – Don’t miss the Georgia Symphony Orchestra’s Jazz Series featuring West Coast Swing that will have you dancing in your seats! This electrifying concert features the best of West Coast jazz, showcasing the legendary sounds of Stan Kenton, Bill Holman, Woody Herman, Buddy Rich, Bob Curnow and his All LA Band, and Gordon Goodwin. Experience the vibrant energy and timeless melodies that defined an era, performed by the world-class GSO Jazz! From the intricate arrangements of Kenton to the high-octane rhythms of Rich, this concert promises to deliver a sensational celebration of Big Band brilliance!
Comedy at The Alley Stage 11 Anderson St. – The Alley Stage is a cozy, intimate live entertainment venue located on the vibrant Marietta Square. Best described as a combination of a comedy club, a cabaret lounge, and a live theatre, The Alley Stage presents a wide variety of programming. With a capacity of just over 100 seats, you’ll be up close and personal with the performers ensuring a truly unforgettable experience. Check out the website for comedy every Friday and Saturday night in March and special performances and open mic nights in April.
The Third Door 131 Church St. – The Third Door is an intimate and lively music venue, speakeasy saloon, and event space located just steps away from historic Marietta Square in a restored 1930s filling station. Inspired by the heyday of the Prohibition Era, their menu features classics, original mocktails, and signature drinks. With both indoor and outdoor seating areas, enjoy live music with soloists, duos, and small ensembles almost nightly. You can check out The Third Door’s Google Calendar happenings on their website for more details.
Breweries & Late-Night Eats:
Contrast Artisan Ales 101 Church St. – One of the newest offerings on the Marietta Square, Contrast Artisan Ales serves up a wide array of blonde, pale, amber, and red beers designed for ultimate drinkability. The menu also includes unique tart and sour beers, hoppy beers, Browns, Porters, and Stouts. Check out their website for a full list including gluten-free seltzers, and THC/CBD drinks.
Two Birds Taphouse 52 Powder Springs St. – Your modern-day “Cheers” on the Square, Two Birds offers 32 taps of craft beer, rotating cocktails, wood-fire pizza, boutique wine & seasonally inspired shared plates – a nice combination of tasty food and drinks. Music & trivia night schedules can be found on their website.
Atlanta Hard Cider & Distillery 1010 Roswell St. – Atlanta Hard Cider is Georgia’s top-selling craft cider, crafted with a deep passion for apples and a commitment to bold, refreshing flavors! They are so passionate about cider that they distill it into a delicious variety of apple-based spirits. They proudly make all their ciders and spirits onsite at the family-owned and operated cidery and distillery just east of Marietta Square. The ciders and spirits are all-natural, gluten-free, handcrafted, and bottled by hand. In addition to a wide flavor variety of ciders, in their taproom, you also find apple-based spirits including Vodka, English Dry Gin, Eau De Vie Un-Aged Apple Brandy, Charred Barrel Brandy, and Toasted Barrel Apple Brandy. Happenings at Atlanta Hard Cider are listed on their website and include a March 5th evening of Shrek Trivia, plus various dates with live music, line dancing, and more.
Johnny McCracken’s Celtic Firehouse Pub 15 Atlanta St. – Make Johnny McCracken’s your late-night hotspot for unforgettable eats and entertainment! This unique Irish pub in the heart of Marietta Square serves up hearty pub favorites and a lively atmosphere perfect for wrapping up your night with great vibes. With live music, a killer drink menu, and a vibe that keeps the energy going, it’s the ultimate destination for spring break fun. Don’t miss the late-night magic!
Family Spring Break in Marietta with Kids & Teens
Looking for the perfect spring break activities for kids and teens? From outdoor adventures to hands-on experiences, Marietta offers plenty of ways to keep the whole family entertained all week long.
Outdoor Entertainment:
Spring is the perfect time to get outside and explore! Whether your family loves hiking scenic trails, discovering local history, or enjoying open-air festivals, Marietta has plenty of outdoor adventures to make this spring break unforgettable.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park – At almost 3,000 acres, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is not only rich in history but also offers activities to fill full or half-days, depending on your family’s preferences. Hiking: Kennesaw Mountain has over 22 miles of maintained interpretive trails for hiking and learning. You can also enjoy a picnic, participate in living history, sign up for Ranger-led hikes, and bring your family dog on leash with you. Or, if you leave your pup at home, you can Go Birding at Kennesaw Mountain or check out other events.
Atlanta Braves Baseball Truist Park and The Battery – Approximately 9 miles from Marietta Square, the season opener for America’s Team, The Atlanta Braves is April 4th. Your family can enjoy all the perks at the Braves Stadium at Truist Park and The Battery with a wide assortment of dining, arcades, specialty-themed sports shops, and interactive entertainment.
Six Flags Over Georgia Theme Park 275 Riverside Parkway, SW, Austell – Six Flags is about 20 minutes south of Marietta Square with this season’s opening day on March 15th. For an exhilarating spring break, plan a day at Six Flags and experience pulse-pounding coasters, dining, shopping, entertainment, and attractions for kids, adults, and everyone in between.
Interactive Entertainment:
Make spring break unforgettable with interactive experiences the whole family will love! From arcade games and retro vibes to hands-on creativity, Marietta offers plenty of ways to play, learn, and explore together.
Marietta Melt Yard Bar & Kitchen (and arcade) 800 Whitlock Ave. – This locally owned and operated favorite describes its vibe as “a casual, somewhat retro, extremely family-friendly neighborhood hang out spot.” With plenty of space to relax, a vintage ’60s van-turned-bar, pinball machines, a chalk wall for kids, and 10 TVs plus a 13-foot projector playing sports and quirky films, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out Marietta Melt Yard for lunch or dinner and stay awhile for the one-of-a-kind family fun experience.
Georgia Symphony Orchestra – Family Friendly and Sensory Family Concert Wheeler High School 375 Holt Rd NE – Treat your family to a magical musical adventure with the Georgia Symphony Orchestra on April 19th! Prokofiev’s timeless Peter and the Wolf will captivate audiences of all ages as the tale of a brave boy, his animal friends, and a daring encounter with a wolf unfolds through music and narration. With two performances, including a sensory-friendly performance designed for inclusivity, it’s the perfect way to introduce kids to the joy of live orchestral music. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience!
Marietta History Center 1 Depot St.– The Marietta History Center offers a captivating journey through the rich history of Marietta and Cobb County, featuring engaging exhibits and interactive displays for all ages. Conveniently located just steps west of the Marietta Square, next door to the Marietta Welcome Center, it’s the perfect place to spark curiosity and make family memories. Plan your visit today and discover why history is anything but boring! MHC offers family pop-in days with free admission on the third Saturday of each month.
Just Kil’n Time 27 Atlanta St. – Unleash your creativity this Spring Break at Just Kil’n Time, Marietta’s favorite pottery painting studio! Perfect for families, this hands-on experience lets kids and adults alike create personalized masterpieces while enjoying quality time together. With a variety of pottery pieces to choose from and a relaxed, fun atmosphere, it’s the ultimate destination for a memorable day on the Marietta Square.
Where to Eat:
Marietta is lucky to have such a great assortment of restaurants, treats, and snack spots all around the Square. Some family favorites include:
Marietta Melt Yard Bar & Kitchen 800 Whitlock Ave.– Marietta Melt Yard, already mentioned above, specializes in a yummy family-friendly menu, and seasonal theme parties with specialty drinks, burgers, and décor.
Marietta Square Market 68 North Marietta Parkway – Marietta Square Market’s expansive food hall is conveniently situated adjacent to the Historic Marietta Square and boasts 20 diverse restaurants, 3 vibrant bars, and ample indoor and outdoor seating options in a revamped warehouse. The Market offers a wonderful assortment of cuisines from around the globe as well as an assortment of beers, wines, and handcrafted cocktails. You will also find Tiny Bubbles Tea Bar, a favorite among teens for its refreshing bubble teas and fun flavor combinations.
Stockyard Burgers & Bones 26 Mill St. – From burgers, to tots, salads, to seafood, this locally owned restaurant offers tasty meals for the whole family and a full bar for the grownups. Located on the Square you can dine inside or al fresco at Stockyard as you take in the charm of Marietta.
Marietta Diner 306 Cobb Parkway South – Since 1995, the Marietta Diner has offered 24-hour-a-day deliciousness with a great children’s menu. The diner has been a hit with people here at home and across the country, even before a feature on Food Network’s “Diner, Drive-ins and Dives.”
Where to Stay:
Choose from a variety of accommodations, including charming historic properties and modern hotels, all strategically located for an unforgettable Spring Break getaway.
Spring Break in Marietta offers fun for all ages and interests.Whether you’re exploring with family, taking in local history, or enjoying live music and comedy with friends, the city’s charm and variety ensure a memorable getaway. Make Marietta your Spring Break destination and discover why it’s the perfect spot to relax, explore, and create lasting memories.
Contributing writer, Kim Ellet is a local Marietta resident and lives in the city with her Yorkie pal, Gigi. She is the development director for the Georgia Symphony Orchestra and has served on the Visit Marietta Board of Directors. She staffs the Welcome Center on Saturdays and is a member of Marietta Kiwanis and Marietta Arts Council. Read more Marietta Insights, or follow @kimelletwrites.