Downtown Kennesaw Walking Tour Celebrates City's 200-Year History

The Atlanta Preservation Center leads a 90-minute tour highlighting Kennesaw's past, from its origins as a railroad stop to its current status as a bustling Atlanta suburb.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 2:00pm

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The Atlanta Preservation Center is hosting a 90-minute walking tour of downtown Kennesaw on March 21, 2026. The tour will explore the city's nearly 200-year history, from its founding as a railroad stop in the 1830s (when it was known as 'Big Shanty') to its present-day status as a thriving Atlanta suburb. Participants will learn about the Medals of Honor awarded for actions that began in Kennesaw, see historic downtown structures, and hear unique stories from the city's past.

Why it matters

As a suburb that has grown rapidly over the past two centuries, Kennesaw's downtown walking tour provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to connect with the city's origins and appreciate how it has evolved. The tour highlights Kennesaw's role in important historical events and showcases the architectural and cultural landmarks that have endured through the decades.

The details

The walking tour, part of the Atlanta Preservation Center's annual 'Phoenix Flies' event, will cover approximately 1.5 miles of downtown Kennesaw. Attendees will learn about the city's founding as a railroad stop, its role in the Civil War, and the historic buildings and transportation links that have shaped its development over the years. The tour will also touch on unique incidents and stories from Kennesaw's past.

  • The walking tour will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 10 am to 11:30 am.

The players

The Atlanta Preservation Center

A nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Atlanta's historic buildings, neighborhoods, and cultural heritage.

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The takeaway

This walking tour provides an opportunity for both locals and visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for Kennesaw's rich history and how the city has evolved over nearly two centuries. By highlighting key landmarks, events, and stories, the tour helps connect the past to the present, fostering a greater sense of community pride and awareness of the city's unique identity.