Grant Park's Trees, Trails, History and Architecture Highlighted in Phoenix Flies Festival Tour

Annual event showcases Atlanta's oldest park and its ongoing restoration efforts.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Atlanta Preservation Center and Trees Atlanta are partnering to offer a guided tour of Grant Park as part of the 2026 Phoenix Flies Festival. Visitors will learn about the park's diverse tree canopy, historic landmarks like the Lion Bridge and Milledge fountain, and the restoration work being done by the Grant Park Conservancy.

Why it matters

Grant Park is Atlanta's oldest public green space, donated to the city in 1882. The annual Phoenix Flies Festival highlights the city's historic architecture and landscapes, and this tour provides an opportunity for the public to engage with the ongoing preservation and revitalization efforts in one of Atlanta's most iconic parks.

The details

The two-hour walking tour will cover Grant Park's trees, trails, historic sites, and architectural features. Highlights include the park's oaks, elms, maples, and magnolias, as well as the recently restored Lion Bridge and Milledge fountain. The Grant Park Conservancy, which manages the park's tree canopy and restoration projects, is partnering with Trees Atlanta and the Atlanta Preservation Center to lead the tour.

  • The tour will take place on Sunday, March 8, 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm.
  • The Phoenix Flies Festival runs annually in Atlanta, celebrating the city's historic architecture and landscapes.

The players

Grant Park Conservancy

The nonprofit organization that manages and maintains Grant Park, Atlanta's oldest public green space.

Trees Atlanta

A nonprofit dedicated to protecting and growing Atlanta's urban tree canopy through planting, education, and advocacy.

Atlanta Preservation Center

A nonprofit organization that works to identify, protect, and revitalize Atlanta's historic buildings, neighborhoods, and landscapes.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're excited to partner with Trees Atlanta and the Grant Park Conservancy to showcase the natural and historic treasures of Grant Park during the Phoenix Flies Festival.”

— Boyd Coons, Executive Director, Atlanta Preservation Center (creativeloafing.com)

What’s next

The Grant Park Conservancy continues its ongoing efforts to maintain the park's tree canopy and restore historic landmarks like the Lion Bridge and Milledge fountain.

The takeaway

The Phoenix Flies Festival tour of Grant Park highlights the importance of preserving Atlanta's historic green spaces and the collaborative efforts of local organizations to protect and revitalize these community assets.