A mountain of history and fun: Your city guide to Kennesaw

Keep going north on I-75 in Cobb County and eventually you’ll reach the suburb of Kennesaw. Known these days for its picturesque mountain peaks and a growing university, this city’s history stretches back much further.

Like many suburbs in North Georgia, the town once known as “Big Shanty” sprung up from an intercity rail line between Atlanta and Cartersville. During the Civil War, Kennesaw Mountain and the surrounding areas were the site of several battles in General Sherman’s southward campaign. After the war, the town began to recover, and by 1887 it was officially incorporated as Kennesaw, Georgia.

Cotton fields and rail freight sustained the city well into the twentieth century as it grew slowly but increasingly attracted attention. In 1957, Disney’s film “The Great Locomotive Chase” retraced the story of the General locomotive that escaped the city during the Civil War. Kennesaw State University was established in the 1960s and today is rising in the rankings for its enrollment and academics. Yet, like many nearby suburbs, the real growth came in the 1990s and beyond as major malls, highways, and more suburban development led to massive expansion.

What can I do for fun in Kennesaw?

Go a mile in history’s shoes at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. Hikers of all skill levels can enjoy a trek up to the top of Kennesaw Mountain and back. With the mile-long main trail and a few side routes, it’s the perfect day hike with lovely views of the surrounding area at the top. Be sure to visit the museum back on the ground for some well-made Civil War retrospectives. (Bonus: During living history demonstrations, you may get to meet an old soldier shooting cannons at the base of the mountain.)

Train your eyes on the Southern Museum. Honor Kennesaw’s history at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. This massive museum pays tribute to the use of railroads during and after the Civil War. Its marquee exhibit is a life-size General locomotive, stolen during the Civil War’s “Great Locomotive Chase”. Today, the train sits a few miles from the events that made it famous — which you can learn about through videos, readings, and artifacts in the museum. Train lovers and history buffs of all ages will find something to love here, from the assembly line to interactive exhibits, history, and more.

Embrace nature at the Smith-Gilbert Gardens. Get away from the malls and highways and enjoy the Smith-Gilbert Gardens, a 17-acre nature preserve on the historic Hiram Butler house land. Once here, you’ll find thousands of plants, 31 sculptures, and several pathways to stroll as you take in the natural beauty. Check out their collection of bonsai trees, enjoy a yoga class, and maybe catch a glimpse of butterflies in the warmer months!

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Kennesaw?

Big Shanty Smokehouse

This award-winning barbecue joint is full of smoky flavor and big smiles. Dig into a juicy slab of killer ribs with a crispy, spicy crust, or try the smoked shanty chicken grilled to perfection. All the meats are juicy, the sauce tangy, and the sides savory. New pitmaster Paul Holden is determined to uphold the legacy of the original owners and deliver the tastiest barbecue in the region.

Location: 3393 Cherokee St NW; Hours: Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Website: bigshantybbq.com/

Cylantros Venezuelan Cuisine

Don’t let its location tucked next to a Shell gas station fool you. Cylantros is worth the stop for its beloved, flavorful arepas and empanadas. True to their name, the special cilantro sauce served with most dishes adds an enjoyable kick. Wash it down with a Venezuelan chicha, a fusion of condensed milk and cinnamon that adds a sweet balance to your meal.

Location: 3338 Cherokee St NW; Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Website: cylantros.net

Capers Restaurant & Bar

If you’re looking for an upscale, classic New American vibe, be sure to make a reservation at Capers. Start your meal off with a salmon salad or fried calamari and a glass of wine. Then dig into a plate of colorfully topped pasta, a juicy Hawaiian rib-eye steak, or fish dishes like the herb-crusted grouper. Be sure to leave room for dessert treats such as a tempura-battered banana split or the rich chocolate mousse cake.

Location: 1631 Old 41 Highway NW, Unit 403; Hours: Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Website: capersonmain.com

Frozen Cow Creamery

This charming family-owned ice cream parlor is the perfect place to chill after your meals. Step up to the wispy clouds of dry ice and get that cone ready. Choose from their many flavors of thick, handmade ice creams, including classic turtle, banana pudding, cherry cordial, or something unique. Flavors are changing all the time!

Location: 2870 Cherokee Street NW; Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, noon to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, noon to 11 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: frozenbluecow.com