Atlanta History Center

Buckhead Traffic Advisory: Like all of Atlanta, Buckhead is notorious for heavy traffic. To avoid gridlock, steer clear of the roads from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Exploring the Atlanta History Center

Spread across 33 acres in Atlanta's trendy Buckhead neighborhood, the Atlanta History Center delves into Georgia's past through extensive exhibitions, historic homes, and miles of gardens and trails. The center's main facility, the Atlanta History Museum, features exhibits covering the region's history from the culture of the Muscogee and Cherokee Indians' ancestors to life in the antebellum South.

The Swan House

Adjacent to the museum is the Swan House, a restored estate built in 1928. True to its name, many rooms are decorated with swan or bird motifs. The 10-acre Swan Woods nearby preserves native Georgia plants.

Smith Farm

Close to the Swan House is Smith Farm, which offers insights into the lives of enslaved people on a plantation. The farm includes historic buildings moved for preservation and features such as a recreated enslaved people's garden and a garden kitchen. The farm is also home to animals like sheep, goats, and chickens.

Kenan Research Center

For an in-depth look into Atlanta's history, visitors can explore the extensive collections at the Kenan Research Center. Note that the Margaret Mitchell House, though part of the Atlanta History Center, is located in midtown Atlanta.

Visitor Feedback

Many travelers believe the center's attractions justify the entrance fee. Several visitors recommend allotting at least three hours to fully explore the site.

Location and Accessibility

The Atlanta History Center is situated in the Buckhead area, about 10 miles north of downtown Atlanta. Free parking is available on-site. Alternatively, you can use MARTA's Red Line and the No. 110 bus to get there.

Hours

The center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, but note that the historic houses open at 11 a.m. The Kenan Research Center operates by appointment only. For more details, check the center's website.

Tickets

Tickets, which grant admission to all the center’s attractions as well as access to facilities like a gift shop, coffee shop, and restaurant, cost $27 for adults and $24 for children ages 4 to 12. Children under 4 can enter for free.