Elizabeth Porter Park & Playground

Imagine a space where modern entertainment technology blends harmoniously with historical heritage. Elizabeth Porter Park and Playground is exactly that kind of place, located in a suburb of Atlanta. Opened in 2018 in the USA, this park quickly became a favorite spot for family recreation thanks to its innovative approach to spatial design.

One of the main features of this site is its inclusivity. The park is fully adapted for children with disabilities, featuring special Zero G swings and sensory-friendly equipment. For those who love active challenges, there is a "ninja warrior" style playground, and during the summer heat, visitors flock to the sprayground — a modern complex with fountains and water jets that saw tens of thousands of visitors in its first season alone.

Beyond the play zones, the park offers excellent conditions for relaxation: there is a concrete walking path, cozy picnic areas, and pavilions. It is more than just a playground; it is a true open-air community center where every element — from the tall slides to the historical installations — is thought out to the smallest detail.

To plan your visit or check details regarding the water zone's operation, you can use the following contact information:

The main magnet for young visitors is the unique playground. Here, children can feel like heroes while navigating rope bridges, nets, and climbing walls. The structures are designed to develop coordination and strength, with clear zones separated for toddlers (ages 2–5) and older children. Be sure to try the gravity swings and the unusual rope "snake," which provide a thrilling sensation of flight.

In the warmer months, the sprayground is a must-visit. It is the perfect place to cool off, where children can play for hours among the water jets and dancing fountains. Parents can relax comfortably on the numerous benches, which offer an excellent view of the entire play area.

For those who prefer a slower pace, take a stroll along the circular path, which is about 500 meters long and perfect for light cardio or walking with a stroller. The park also offers educational opportunities: exploring the timeline mural and the statue of Elizabeth Porter allows you to connect with the history of the local community. You can finish your day with a cozy picnic in a specially equipped shaded area.

Getting to the park is easy, as it is conveniently located in the Baptist Town neighborhood, just 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta. If you are traveling by car, take I-75, which will lead you directly to Marietta. Free parking is available on-site for visitors, making the trip very convenient.

For those who prefer public transport, CobbLinc or MARTA bus routes are available from Atlanta to stops in Marietta. From the bus stop, you can walk to the park entrance (about 1–2 km) or use a taxi service. The park is also accessible via scenic bike paths that are popular with local residents.

Since the park fully complies with ADA standards, all paths and approaches within the area are level and wide, providing easy access for people with limited mobility and families with strollers.

The park's name carries deep significance: it is named after Elizabeth Porter, an outstanding African-American activist of the early 20th century. She dedicated over 20 years of her life to caring for the children of Marietta, managing "The Canteen" — the only recreational center for African Americans during the era of segregation. Here, children could not only play basketball but also receive help with their homework and learn valuable life skills.

The site where children's laughter rings out today has a rich history. It was formerly the location of the Cobb County African American hospital, which was later converted into a community center. In 2009, city authorities decided to demolish the old building to create a modern recreational space while preserving the legacy of Mrs. Porter and the history of the Baptist Town neighborhood.

The park's modern look is the result of a collaborative effort between residents, historians, and artists. A life-sized statue of Elizabeth Porter is installed on the grounds, and the walls are decorated with a large-scale timeline mural depicting the community's development. For this project, the City of Marietta was awarded the prestigious All-America City title in 2020, highlighting the park's significance as a symbol of inclusivity and progress.

To fully enjoy all the amenities this location offers, a typical visitor will need between 2 and 4 hours. This is plenty of time for children to try out all the play structures and, on a hot day, enjoy the sprayground area.

If you plan to have a family picnic in one of the pavilions and take time to explore the historical murals and monuments, we recommend setting aside half a day for your visit. Summer visits can easily last 3–5 hours, as the water attractions are incredibly popular and it can be hard to pull little travelers away from the fun.

The park is open to the public daily, making it easy to fit into your travel plans. The standard operating hours for the park grounds are from 05:00 to 23:00, Monday through Sunday.

Please note that the water area (sprayground) may operate on a separate schedule depending on the season and weather conditions. Reservations are sometimes required to visit the sprayground, so it is recommended to check the latest information on the official website of the City of Marietta before heading out.

A visit to Elizabeth Porter Park can be easily combined with other interesting sights in the Marietta and Atlanta area. This region is rich in family entertainment centers — from thrilling water attractions to modern trampoline parks.