Kennesaw, GA
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transportation
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Healthcare Institutions
Kennesaw is a historic suburb northwest of Atlanta, home to Kennesaw State University and the iconic Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, offering a blend of outdoor adventure and Civil War history.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Kennesaw, Georgia
- Administrative Role: Kennesaw is a city in Cobb County and is part of the greater Atlanta metropolitan area. It is not a county seat, that distinction belongs to the nearby city of Marietta .
- Regional Context: The city is located in the state of Georgia, in the southeastern United States. Cobb County is known as a major suburban zone northwest of Atlanta, characterized by rapid growth, a strong economy, and a mix of residential communities and commercial centers .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Big Shanty: From its original settlement in the 1830s until its incorporation in 1887, Kennesaw was known as "Big Shanty." The name originated from the shanties built to house workers constructing the Western and Atlantic Railroad .
- The Name "Kennesaw": The current name is derived from the Cherokee word gah-nee-sah, meaning 'cemetery' or 'burial ground,' and was adopted from the nearby Kennesaw Mountain .
Founding Date and Age
- Date of Incorporation: September 21, 1887 .
- Age: The city was incorporated 138 years ago.
- Early Settlement: The area was first settled as a railroad camp called Big Shanty in the 1830s. Its early growth and identity are deeply tied to the railroad .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 34°1′24″N 84°36′55″W .
- Positioning: Kennesaw is located in the Piedmont region of northwest Georgia, approximately 27 miles (43 km) northwest of downtown Atlanta . It is bordered by the city of Acworth to the northwest .
- Elevation: The center of the city sits at an elevation of 1,089 feet (332 m) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
- College Town: Kennesaw is home to the main campus of Kennesaw State University (KSU) , the third-largest public university in the state, which significantly shapes the city's character and economy .
- Suburban Hub: It functions as a residential suburb within the Atlanta metropolitan area, with a growing local economy that includes retail, dining, and services catering to its residents and the university population .
- Tourism and History: Tourism, centered around the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park and the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, is a vital part of the local economy .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 33,036 .
- City Class: Kennesaw is classified as a small city.
- Growth: The city has experienced rapid growth, with its population increasing by over 140% between 2000 and 2020 . It is a diverse community, with a 2020 demographic makeup of 51.8% White (non-Hispanic), 23.8% African American, 12.9% Hispanic or Latino, and 4.9% Asian .
The City's "Calling Card" (In Short)
Kennesaw is a historic small city where the legacy of the Civil War on Kennesaw Mountain meets the energy of a major state university. Visitors and residents alike are drawn to its extensive national battlefield park for hiking and history, its Smithsonian-affiliated museum showcasing a famous locomotive, and a charming downtown with a growing foodie scene .
Geography
Mountains and Ranges
- Kennesaw Mountain: The city's most prominent geographic feature, Kennesaw Mountain, is located just southeast of the city limits within the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. Its summit, at an elevation of 1,808 feet (551 m), is the highest point in the Atlanta metro area. The city itself was renamed for this mountain . It is a iconic peak visible from the I-75 bridge crossing into the city and is crisscrossed with miles of popular hiking trails .
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Creeks)
- Local Creeks: The Kennesaw area lies within the Etowah River watershed. Several creeks, including Noonday Creek and Noses Creek, flow through the region, contributing to the local hydrology and offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing .
National and State Parks
- Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park: This is the city's premier natural and historical attraction. The park preserves the site of a major battle during the 1864 Atlanta Campaign of the Civil War. Covering 2,965 acres, it offers visitors a visitor center with a museum, over 22 miles of well-maintained hiking trails, scenic views from the mountain summit, and opportunities for horseback riding and picnicking. Living history demonstrations are also held periodically .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Kennesaw has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa) , characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild but wet winters .
Average Temperatures by Month
- Hottest Month: July, with an average daily high of 89°F (32°C) and an average low of 68°F (20°C). Record highs have reached 104°F (40°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average daily high of 52°F (11°C) and an average low of 30°F (-1°C). Record lows have plunged to -12°F (-24°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Rainfall: Kennesaw receives abundant precipitation throughout the year, averaging approximately 54.6 inches (1,388 mm) .
- Wettest Month: February is typically the wettest, with an average of 5.36 inches (136 mm) of rain .
- Humidity: Humidity levels are high during the summer months, contributing to the "muggy" or "oppressive" feeling . July has an average of 23.1 days with闷热 conditions .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Best Time to Visit: The most pleasant times to visit Kennesaw for outdoor activities are from early May to mid-June and from mid-August to mid-October, when temperatures are warm but not excessively hot or humid, and the chances of rain are lower .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm rapidly from average highs of 64°F (18°C) in March to 80°F (27°C) in May. Rainfall is plentiful, and the landscape becomes lush and green. It's an excellent time for hiking before the summer heat sets in .
- Summer (June-August): This is the hottest and most humid time of the year, with average highs in the upper 80s to low 90s°F (around 31-32°C). Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Early mornings and evenings are best for outdoor excursions, while the heat of the day is a good time for museum visits .
- Fall (September-November): Temperatures become increasingly mild and comfortable. Humidity drops, making it ideal for hiking Kennesaw Mountain. This season is often considered the best for enjoying the city's outdoor amenities .
Landmarks and Attractions
The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History
Located in a century-old train depot in downtown Kennesaw, this Smithsonian-affiliated museum is a premier attraction. It showcases the city's deep railroad and Civil War history through extensive exhibits, educational programs, and a collection of 1,250 items . Its marquee exhibit is the General, a life-size locomotive that was stolen by Union spies during the Civil War's famous "Great Locomotive Chase" of 1862, which began right here in Kennesaw (then known as Big Shanty) .
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
More than just a natural area, the park is a living history monument and memorial. It preserves the site of the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, a crucial engagement during the 1864 Atlanta Campaign. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails that lead to Civil War earthworks and cannon emplacements, and the visitor center offers well-curated exhibits on the battle. The park is a National Park Service site and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places .
Smith-Gilbert Gardens
A 17-acre botanical garden and nature preserve, Smith-Gilbert Gardens is a serene escape. Centered around the historic 1880-era Hiram Butler House, the gardens feature over 20,500 daffodils, 15 distinct gardens, 32 sculptures, and a renowned bonsai collection. Seasonal highlights include the "A Garden with Wings" Butterfly House. The gardens also host wellness activities like yoga and walking events .
The Historic Train Depot
Located in Depot Park in the heart of downtown, this building served as an active train station from 1908 until 1968. It was meticulously restored by the city and now serves as a museum itself, housing exhibits and photographs related to Kennesaw's history. It is a key piece of the city's historic fabric and a focal point for community events .
Transportation
Main Airports in the City and Region
- Cobb County International Airport - McCollum Field (KRYY/RYY): This public airport is located immediately south of Kennesaw, approximately 21 miles northwest of Atlanta. It is a general aviation airport with no scheduled commercial service, but it offers charter services, aerial tours, and is home to a restaurant called Elevation Chophouse & Skybar, where patrons can watch planes take off and land .
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL): The world's busiest airport, located approximately 36 miles southeast of Kennesaw. It serves as the primary commercial airport for the region, offering flights to destinations all over the globe .
Major Highways and Roads
- Interstate 75 (I-75): This major interstate highway passes just northeast of the Kennesaw city limits, with access from exits 269, 271, and 273. It provides a direct route southeast to downtown Atlanta (27 miles) and northwest to Chattanooga, Tennessee (94 miles) .
- U.S. Route 41 / State Route 3 (Cobb Parkway): This major thoroughfare passes directly through the city, leading southeast to Marietta and northwest to Cartersville .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Kennesaw State University (KSU)
Kennesaw is defined by its status as a major college town, home to the main campus of Kennesaw State University (KSU) . Established in 1963 as Kennesaw Junior College, it became Kennesaw State University in 1996 . Today, it is the third-largest university in the state of Georgia, enrolling approximately 48,000 students annually across its two campuses . The university offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate degree programs through 13 academic colleges, and has been authorized to award doctoral degrees as a state university since at least 2012 .
KSU is a hub of activity, offering art exhibits, athletic events, films, guest speakers, and performances that are open to the community . Its main campus in Kennesaw features notable facilities like the Social Sciences building, which includes a 302-seat auditorium and a cinema classroom, and the Dr. Bobbie Bailey & Family Performance Center, home to a 630-seat auditorium .
The university's athletic teams, the Kennesaw State Owls, compete in NCAA Division I as members of Conference USA . KSU has a history of athletic success, with its baseball and softball teams winning NCAA Division II national championships in 1996, and the men's basketball team winning the Division II National Championship in 2005 before moving to Division I .
KSU boasts a list of notable alumni, including television host and producer Ryan Seacrest (Ryan Seacrest) , television host and carpenter Ty Pennington (Ty Pennington) , and professional golfer Larry Nelson (Larry Nelson) .
Museums
The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History
Housed in the historic Kennesaw Train Depot, which served as an active train station until 1968, the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History is a Smithsonian-affiliated museum . It showcases Kennesaw's rich Civil War and railroad history through a vast collection of over 1,250 items on display, including exhibits, educational programs, and tours . A key highlight is its collection related to the "Great Locomotive Chase," featuring two actual trains involved in this famous Civil War event .
Bernard A. Zuckerman Museum of Art
A unit of Kennesaw State University's School of Art and Design, the Bernard A. Zuckerman Museum of Art (ZMA) serves as a vital cultural resource for the university and the wider community . Opened in 2014, the museum presents significant works from the University's permanent art collection and regularly exhibits contemporary works by local and nationally-recognized artists . The museum also features the Fine Arts Satellite Gallery in the Wilson Building, which focuses on faculty, student, and alumni projects . Admission is free .
Smith-Gilbert Gardens
While primarily a botanical garden, Smith-Gilbert Gardens also functions as an outdoor museum of art and history . The garden surrounds the historic Hiram Butler House, which dates back to the 1880s . Visitors can explore 15 distinct gardens featuring over 20,500 daffodils and a renowned bonsai exhibit, all while viewing 32 sculptures integrated into the landscape . The garden also features the "A Garden with Wings" Butterfly House .
Sport and Sports Legends
Major Sports Venues
Walens Family Field at Fifth Third Stadium
This 10,200-seat, world-class, multi-use outdoor facility is the signature athletics landmark on the KSU campus . Opened in 2010, it is the home stadium for the Kennesaw State Owls football, women's soccer, and lacrosse teams . The stadium has garnered national recognition, being named a top-five must-see collegiate facility by NCAA.com in 2012 .
Beyond university athletics, the stadium has a rich history of hosting professional and international sports. It has been home to Atlanta United 2 of the USL, the Atlanta Beat of Women's Professional Soccer, and the Atlanta Blaze of Major League Lacrosse . It has also hosted the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team, FIFA men's soccer matches for Guatemala and Guyana, and CONCACAF Champions League Soccer . The venue has also welcomed major concerts, with performances by artists like Cody Johnson (Cody Johnson) and Big Boi (Big Boi) .
VyStar Arena
Located on the KSU campus, VyStar Arena (formerly the KSU Convocation Center) opened in 2005 and serves as the home court for the Kennesaw State Owls men's and women's basketball and volleyball teams . With a seating capacity of 4,600 for basketball, the arena is known for its energetic atmosphere, fueled by the student section and mascot, Scrappy the Owl .
The arena has also been a venue for major concerts and events, hosting musical legends like Elton John (Elton John) and tennis stars such as Billie Jean King (Billie Jean King) , Andy Roddick (Andy Roddick) , Anna Kournikova (Anna Kournikova) , and Pete Sampras (Pete Sampras) for indoor tournaments .
Kennesaw State Owls
Kennesaw's professional sports identity is centered on its university teams. The Kennesaw State Owls field 18 NCAA Division I teams and compete in Conference USA . Key teams include:
- Football: The team plays at Walens Family Field at Fifth Third Stadium and has quickly gained a passionate following since its inaugural season in 2015 .
- Men's Basketball: The Owls won the NCAA Division II National Championship in 2005. In 2023, as a Division I team, they won the Atlantic Sun Tournament and earned a berth in the NCAA Tournament, where they lost a dramatic buzzer-beater game to Xavier .
- Women's Soccer & Lacrosse: These teams also play at Fifth Third Stadium and have been foundational tenants since its opening .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Kennesaw's culinary scene is a vibrant mix of Southern comfort food, international flavors, and craft beverages, reflecting its identity as a college town and a growing foodie destination .
Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery
For a classic Southern breakfast or brunch, Honeysuckle Biscuits & Bakery is a must-visit. This local favorite serves up a full menu of warm, homemade biscuits, hearty breakfast plates, and an array of house-made baked goods, all complemented by locally-roasted Bellwood coffee .
Main Street Eats
An award-winning lunch spot in downtown Kennesaw, Main Street Eats is celebrated for serving "the best burger in Kennesaw" alongside other comforting classics . Their menu features grilled cheese sandwiches, hot dogs, salads, onion rings, and tater tots, with their house-made custards being a particular standout .
1885 Grill
A perfect spot for dinner, 1885 Grill offers a unique fusion of Southern and Puerto Rican flavors, a blend rooted in the heritage of its founder, Miguel Morales . Menu favorites include Southern staples like fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits. The restaurant also features an extensive drink menu with craft cocktails, including a "Build Your Own Old Fashioned," and a wide selection of wines and beers .
Local Breweries and Distilleries
Kennesaw has a growing craft beverage scene perfect for a happy hour outing.
- Horned Owl Brewing: This local brewery offers a long list of its own beers in a lively setting with pub food, music, and bar games .
- Lazy Guy Distillery: Open from Thursdays through Sundays, Lazy Guy Distillery serves a variety of proprietary cocktails with names like the Dixie Land Martini and Snowball, alongside classic gin and tonics and their take on an Old Fashioned. The distillery also offers group tours with advance reservations .
International Flavors
For those seeking international cuisine, Kennesaw Thai Cuisine offers a wide array of traditional dishes, including soups, salads, wontons, noodles, fried rice, rolls, and various curry dishes .
Healthcare Institutions
Kaiser Permanente TownPark Comprehensive Medical Center
A major healthcare provider in Kennesaw is the Kaiser Permanente TownPark Comprehensive Medical Center. This facility offers a wide range of services, providing access to primary care and various specialties all in one location . A key feature is its 24/7 Advanced Care Center, which is staffed by board-certified emergency medicine physicians and supported by around-the-clock radiology, lab, and pharmacy services for non-life-threatening urgent care needs .
The medical center also provides specialized services, including infusion and chemotherapy . It is a comprehensive facility for Kaiser Permanente members and serves the broader Kennesaw community.
Nearby Major Medical Centers
While Kennesaw has its own comprehensive medical center, it is also located just 25 miles northwest of Atlanta, granting residents and visitors quick access to some of the nation's most renowned hospitals and specialized medical centers . This proximity means that world-class institutions like Emory University Hospital, Piedmont Hospital, and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta are within a reasonable distance for advanced or specialized medical care not available within the city limits.