Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Acworth, GA

Located in Cobb County, Georgia, Acworth is situated on the periphery of a wave of urban development extending northwest from Atlanta.

This charming town borders the banks of two lakes, Allatoona and Acworth, nestled within the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains.

Referred to as ‘the lake city,’ Acworth Georgia epitomizes many characteristics of a traditional southern city. Originally Cherokee land, it was ravaged during the American Civil War.

Significantly recovering by the 1880s thanks to surrounding cotton plantations, it maintained racial segregation until 1967. Since then, it has flourished, marrying a picturesque landscape with a variety of attractions.

Below are the top 15 activities to enjoy in and around Acworth, Georgia.

1. Main Street

The historical core of Acworth, Main Street predates European settlement in the region and has long served as a trading route for the Cherokee Native Americans.

For many decades, it has been the center of life in this quaint rural town, featuring numerous commercial structures dating back to the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

As part of the renowned north-south Dixie Highway, the Victorian-era buildings continue to host a variety of shops, restaurants, and independent boutiques, despite the existence of larger shopping centers in the vicinity.

Preserving its ambiance of southern charm, visitors should take note of its vintage signs and advertisements.

2. Acworth Beach

Make the most of Georgia’s pleasant year-round weather by visiting Acworth Beach, located on the northern shore of Lake Acworth in Cauble Park.

This locale features an abundance of clean sand, which was brought in via truck during the establishment of this man-made lake.

This serene location, mere minutes from downtown Acworth, is a favored destination for locals to embrace their lakeside setting.

Canoes, kayaks, and electrically-powered boats are allowed, alongside designated areas for swimmers, as well as an attractive boardwalk area.

3. Collins Avenue Historic District

Recognized by the National Register of Historic Places, Collins Avenue Historic District showcases a blend of late Victorian-style architecture and more informal Craftsman-style bungalows.

At the southern terminus of the avenue lie the oldest structures, including the Collins-Smith House, constructed in 1850 as part of an 80-acre farm.

In contrast, the McMillan-Parks House, erected in 1897, was relocated to the northern end of the avenue in the 1980s and is more associated with bungalow architecture from the 1920s.

4. Acworth Arts Alliance

Located just north of Main Street, Acworth Arts Alliance, established in 2017, resides in a beautifully restored house typical of the area.

Encircled by a wraparound veranda, the alliance hosts exhibitions featuring local artists across various mediums, including watercolor paintings, sculpture, and oil paintings.

The Acworth Cultural Arts organization, situated in the former city jailhouse, also adds to the cultural landscape by promoting arts ventures that keep the artistic spirit of Acworth vibrant. It frequently hosts events ranging from choral concerts to pop-up performances.

5. Mountain Bike Trails

Exploring nature in and around Acworth is effortless with three mountain biking trails forming a 16-kilometer loop within Allatoona Creek Park.

The routes incorporate a wide array of trail challenges, encompassing lakes, forests, and rugged unpaved pathways.

Named Hocus Pocus, Mumbo Jumbo, and Voodoo, it is notable that these trails have a reputation for their difficulty level; therefore, it is crucial to keep this in mind when orchestrating your biking adventure.

Primarily singletrack, these arduous trails also provide picturesque views across the creek.

6. Liberty Hill Cemetery

Simultaneously beautiful and historically significant, Liberty Hill Cemetery is located at the northern end of Main Street.

Established shortly after Acworth’s founding, the cemetery features its oldest grave, dated 1847.

One of the most historically rich areas in the city, Acworth’s First Baptist Church, once nearby, was initially housed in a simple log building that was lost during the Civil War, rebuilt in 1866, and later sold.

For those interested in historical religious structures, visit the Bethel AME Church, notable for its Romanesque Revival architecture dating back to the 1870s.

7. Dixie Highway

The Dixie Highway, stretching from Chicago to Miami, played a crucial role in the growth of southern states, particularly following the advent of the automobile.

While its function as a main thoroughfare has largely been supplanted by contemporary highways and interstates, this remnant from the early twentieth century provides an excellent foundation for a road trip originating from Acworth.

Although much of the original path has been lost, its remaining stretches are a valuable insight into Georgia’s small towns and Civil War history.

8. Folklore Haunted House

For enthusiasts of frightful experiences, Folklore Haunted House in downtown Acworth offers an exceptional venue for thrilling scares.

Regarded as one of the country’s premier haunted attractions, Folklore features two distinct experiences that can be enjoyed individually or as a combined visit.

The Manor, reminiscent of a once-stately residence now plagued by supernatural entities, and Asylum ’67, which immerses visitors in the sinister atmosphere of a 1960s mental institution.

Both experiences incorporate live actors guiding patrons through eerie settings filled with unexpected encounters.

9. Depot Park History Center

Operated by the Save Acworth History Foundation, this historic railway station complex features a collection of images and artifacts that narrate Acworth’s rich heritage related to railroads, milling, and agriculture.

Numerous displays include community-donated items, including original freight scales utilized for weighing packages destined for the railway in the 1890s.

Additionally, a video booth allows visitors to engage with the narratives of Acworth’s residents, ensuring that these vital aspects of social history are preserved for future generations and visitors alike.

10. Red Top Brewhouse

Red Top Brewhouse is among the emerging small breweries that are gaining prominence within the Atlanta metropolitan area.

However, the quality of its beers remains uncompromised, even amidst local competition, ensuring that only superior craft beers are produced.

Established as a communal gathering space catering to families, spending time here offers an excellent introduction to Acworth’s community life, often complemented with live music.

The brewery features approximately 20 different beverages on tap, spanning from ciders to wheat beers.

11. Historic Acworth Walking Tour

History enthusiasts are encouraged to engage in Acworth’s self-guided historic walking tour, designed to ensure that newcomers to the city do not overlook any significant historical details.

While no route markers are present, the path is easy to navigate without a map by commencing on Main Street and exploring the charming side streets branching from it.

This tour encompasses notable sites including Liberty Hill Cemetery and Collins Avenue Historic District, along with lesser-known points of interest such as Dallas Street and Lemon House—General Sherman’s headquarters in June 1864.

12. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History

Beyond the Town’s devastation during the Civil War, another notable event occurred in April 1862, when a steam engine named the General was commandeered from nearby Kennesaw and passed through Acworth as Union forces aimed to dismantle the South’s rail infrastructure.

The General remains intact and serves as the main attraction at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History located in Kennesaw, approximately 10 minutes southeast of Acworth.

13. Red Top Mountain State Park

Positioned on a peninsula extending into Lake Allatoona, Red Top Mountain State Park is roughly 6 miles north of Acworth.

Similar to Lake Acworth, a beach is available for safe swimming within a small cove, set against the backdrop of mature trees.

The expansive lake spans nearly 5,000 acres, ensuring ample space for water activities, even on bustling summer days.

With over 20 kilometers of hiking trails available, visitors can also find picnic benches and shelters to enjoy the natural beauty without requiring strenuous activity the following day.

14. Antique and Flea Markets

Acworth’s extensive history has rendered it an appealing destination for individuals seeking antiques and other unique items.

In addition to the independent retailers on Main Street, those in pursuit of something exceptional should visit Lake Acworth Antiques and Flea Market.

This sizable former barn has functioned as a one-stop shop for vintage items since 1972. Even if nothing piques your interest, the mix of indoor and outdoor areas also includes a farmers’ market featuring fresh produce, along with a food truck serving delicious tacos.

15. Dallas Landing Park

Located on Lake Allatoona, Dallas Landing Park features a spacious swimming beach free from pets. The park also made headlines for hosting the world’s largest inflatable water slide, measuring 11 meters high and over 50 meters long, which comfortably sits on the sandy beach.

A volleyball court is frequently alive with the sounds of summertime activities, complemented by picnic tables and grills available for public use.

Extending over 30 acres, the park is conveniently situated a short distance from the northern end of Main Street, making it accessible for a brief walk to stretch one’s legs.