Tumlin Park

Nestled in a picturesque corner of Georgia is Tumlin Park (full name Steve & Virginia Tumlin Park at Hickory Hills) — a cozy urban recreation area covering approximately 11 acres (4.4 hectares). Located in the city of Marietta, USA, this park serves as an excellent example of a modern public space designed for recreation and sports.

The park is a harmonious blend of open green lawns and well-thought-out sports infrastructure. It is very popular with locals due to its high standard of maintenance and safety. It is more than just a place for a walk; it is a true hub for those who appreciate an active lifestyle and peaceful relaxation in nature.

Key features of the park are its versatility and accessibility. Here you can find professionally equipped fields for team games as well as secluded corners under shady trees. Well-maintained paved paths make the park convenient to visit in any weather, turning an ordinary city square into a full-fledged multifunctional outdoor complex.

To inquire about facility operations or pavilion reservations, you can use the official communication channels of the City of Marietta.

The primary draw of Tumlin Park is the opportunity to stay active in the fresh air. Athletes will appreciate the two lighted tennis courts, one of which is equipped with additional markings for pickleball. For fans of team sports, there are spacious fields available for rent for softball, soccer, or baseball. If you prefer individual training, there is a convenient half-mile path perfect for running or cycling.

Families with children will find one of the best play areas in the vicinity. A large playground with modern slides and swings allows kids to safely burn off energy while parents relax on comfortable benches nearby. The swing benches overlooking the green zones are especially popular — an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a peaceful day.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the park features a picnic pavilion. It is equipped with tables, grills, and even power outlets, making it an excellent choice for a family lunch or a birthday celebration. Wide open fields allow for an impromptu frisbee match, kite flying, or simply a picnic on the grass, enjoying the space and quiet of the residential area.

The easiest way to reach the park, located at 400 Chestnut Hill Rd SW, is by car. If you are coming from the city center, the drive will take only a few minutes. Travelers from Atlanta should head northwest on I-75; the trip to the Hickory Hills area typically takes about 25–30 minutes. Free parking is available on-site for guests arriving in their own vehicles.

If you plan to use public transport, you can take the local CobbLinc buses that serve Marietta. However, keep in mind that the nearest stops may be within the residential neighborhood, requiring a short walk. A more convenient option is to call a taxi or use rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, especially if you are coming from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) — the ride will take approximately 40 minutes.

Active travelers can also reach the park by bicycle. Local trails and the quiet streets of the residential sector make the ride to the entrance of Tumlin Park pleasant and safe, and the paths within the park itself allow you to continue your ride through the recreation area.

Tumlin Park was named in honor of prominent local residents Steve and Virginia Tumlin. Steve Tumlin served as the Mayor of Marietta for many years, and dedicating this public space to his family was a tribute to their long-standing contribution to the community and urban improvement.

The land where the park sits today was historically part of the Hickory Hills residential neighborhood. Creating a modern recreation area here was part of a large-scale program to transform vacant municipal land into functional public spaces. The core idea was to create a "green oasis" that could meet the needs of both athletes and families with young children.

An interesting feature is how the park has adapted over time to residents' needs. For instance, adding pickleball markings to the tennis courts was a response to the growing popularity of the sport in Georgia. This highlights the park's vibrant and evolving nature, as it strives to keep up with the times while maintaining the atmosphere of a traditional American city park.

Over the years, the park has become the heart of the community. It is not only a venue for sports matches but also a place where traditions of family picnics are formed and passed down through generations of local residents. Meticulous maintenance allows the park to preserve its original cozy appearance year after year.

For those who simply want to stroll along the scenic paths and enjoy the park's atmosphere, 1 to 2 hours is usually sufficient. This is plenty of time to walk around the grounds, relax on the famous swing benches, and appreciate the well-kept landscaping.

If you are planning a visit with children or intend to use the sports facilities — for example, to play a game of tennis or pickleball — we recommend budgeting 2–3 hours for your trip. Families often spend even more time here, combining active play on the playground with a leisurely lunch in the picnic pavilion.

Overall, Tumlin Park is a flexible location. It is perfect for both a short 30-minute break during a busy sightseeing day and a full Saturday afternoon outdoors when you are in no hurry at all.

The park is open to guests daily from early morning until late evening. Official hours are from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Monday through Sunday. This flexible schedule allows runners to enjoy sunrise workouts and athletes to hold full matches on the lighted courts even after sunset.

Since Tumlin Park is a municipal facility, entry is free. Evening lighting on the sports courts makes the park safe and comfortable to visit at any time within the established schedule.

Exploring the area around Tumlin Park is a great way to get better acquainted with the rich history and culture of Cobb County. The park's location allows you to reach central historic districts in just minutes, where the unique architecture of the American South has been preserved.

Nearby, you will find quiet memorial sites as well as modern art galleries. Exploring these locations will help you form a complete impression of Marietta as a city that carefully preserves its past while supporting modern talent.