The Atlanta Traveler

Marietta, where it’s better? Anyway, that’s what folk who live in Marietta, Ga. say.

Marietta is considered part of the Atlanta metro area. I didn’t know that when I first considered moving to Atlanta. A friend of mine had been bragging about Atlanta for months, and I decided to move to the area too. Well, she gave me the directions, and I found out that she actually lived in Marietta, not Atlanta. I felt short changed! Then I learned the hard way that the 120 loop is actually a loop. And it is possible to drive around and around that loop for an hour or more.

Ah, yes. The good ole days. I was directionally challenged even then. When I finally found Marietta Square, I was hooked. If you have ever seen Back to the Future, Marietta Square has that same look, in my opinion. I don’t think that there’s a clock tower, though.

Anyway, you’ll find bars, antiques stores, costume stores, restaurants, and a small theater on the square. In fact, there are over 30 places to eat on the square.

Parking is usually easier to come by on Sundays, it’s possible to find a free space on Saturdays, too.

Staying in Marietta can be an alternative to securing a hotel in Atlanta. It’s really a short drive from Marietta to Atlanta. A large number of Atlanta commuters live in Marietta or Cobb County. 

Directions from Atlanta

Take I-75 North to exit 265. Turn left. You will end up on North Marietta Parkway, which is also the 120 Loop. Turn left onto Whitlock Avenue.

Here are some Marietta hotels to consider:

• Best Western
• Courtyard by Marriott
• Day’s Inn
• Crowne Plaza
• Marietta Conference Center and Resort has golf courses and two restaurants
• Ramada Limited Suites, has kitchens and accepts pets
• Stanley House Bed and Breakfast, very close to Marietta Square
• Whitlock Inn Bed and Breakfast

Photo credit: Claudine