Exploring Atlanta Memorial Park: Trails, Playgrounds, and Riverside Green Space in Buckhead

Atlanta Memorial Park is one of the city’s largest and most scenic in-town green spaces, tucked along Peachtree Creek in Buckhead. For Atlantans, it’s a go-to spot for walking, jogging, playground time, tennis, and peaceful riverside views—while still being only a short drive from Midtown and Downtown.

This guide walks through what to expect at Atlanta Memorial Park, how it connects to nearby amenities like Bobby Jones Golf Course and the Northside BeltLine Trail, and practical tips for planning a visit.

Where Atlanta Memorial Park Is and How It Fits Into the City

Atlanta Memorial Park sits in northwest Atlanta, in the Memorial Park / Collier Hills / Peachtree Battle area of Buckhead.

• General area: Near Northside Drive NW and Peachtree Battle Avenue NW
• Closest major corridors: Northside Drive, Peachtree Road, and I-75
• Nearby neighborhoods: Buckhead, Collier Hills, Springlake, Underwood Hills

The park follows Peachtree Creek, giving it a long, green, linear feel rather than one big open field. It’s often thought of together with:

• Bobby Jones Golf Course (public course on the park’s south side)
• Bitsy Grant Tennis Center (popular public tennis center)
• Portions of the Northside BeltLine Trail

For Atlanta residents, it’s a quieter alternative to Piedmont Park, with more shade, creek views, and neighborhood vibes.

What Makes Atlanta Memorial Park Unique

Several features set Atlanta Memorial Park apart from other Atlanta parks:

• Creekside scenery: Much of the walking path runs alongside Peachtree Creek.
• Shaded trails: Tall, mature trees offer shade, especially helpful during Atlanta summers.
• Neighborhood feel: Surrounded by single-family homes and quiet streets rather than high-rises.
• Linked amenities: Direct access or close proximity to golf, tennis, and BeltLine trails.

It’s especially popular with walkers, runners, dog owners, and families looking for a gentler, more relaxed park experience.

Main Features and Amenities

Below is a simple overview of what you’ll find in and around Atlanta Memorial Park:

Details can vary over time, so it can be helpful to quickly check the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation website or posted signs for the latest information when you arrive.

Walking, Running, and Biking at Atlanta Memorial Park

Trails and Paths

Most visitors come to Atlanta Memorial Park for the paths along Peachtree Creek.

Common experiences include:

• Short loops for casual walks
• Flat routes suitable for strollers and leisurely runs
• Creek overlooks where you can pause and enjoy the view

Surfaces range from paved sidewalks and multi-use paths to packed dirt or natural trails, depending on which section you’re in.

Connection to the Northside BeltLine Trail

The park area connects to or sits very close to portions of the Northside BeltLine Trail, giving you options to extend your route:

• Use the park as a starting point for a longer run or ride.
• Combine creekside walking with BeltLine-style urban trail sections.

Cyclists often pass through on their way to or from other intown neighborhoods.

Family-Friendly Features and Playgrounds

Atlanta Memorial Park is a frequent choice for local families thanks to:

• Playgrounds:

  • Typically include slides, climbing structures, and swings.
  • Designed more for younger children, but older kids can enjoy running and exploring the open spaces.

• Open lawns:

  • Space for kids to kick a soccer ball, toss a frisbee, or play tag.
  • Informal, neighborhood-style use—not heavily scheduled fields.

• Shaded areas:

  • Trees provide cover for picnic blankets and quick breaks from the sun.

📝 Tip: For longer play sessions, many parents in Atlanta bring water, snacks, and sometimes a portable picnic blanket, since picnic tables and shelter space can be limited in some sections.

Access to Bobby Jones Golf Course and Bitsy Grant Tennis Center

While not technically the same park facility, Bobby Jones Golf Course and Bitsy Grant Tennis Center sit right next to Atlanta Memorial Park and function as part of the broader recreation area for many Atlantans.

Bobby Jones Golf Course

• Type: Public golf course
• Location: Near Northside Drive NW and Woodward Way NW
• Use:
  • Regular rounds for Atlanta golfers
  • Practice areas and, at times, instructional programs

For golfers, Atlanta Memorial Park makes it easy to combine creekside walks with a round of golf or some practice time.

Bitsy Grant Tennis Center

• Type: Public tennis facility
• Location: Near Northside Drive NW, typically accessed from the same general roadway corridor as the park
• Use:
  • Outdoor courts (and in some seasons, courts under bubble covers)
  • Leagues, lessons, and recreational play

Both facilities are supported by ongoing community interest, and their proximity enhances the park’s role as an all-around recreation hub in northwest Atlanta.

Nature, Wildlife, and Flooding Awareness

Natural Environment

Atlanta Memorial Park’s riparian (creekside) environment is part of its charm:

• Tall hardwood trees and understory vegetation
• Birds, squirrels, and occasional small wildlife sightings
• Seasonal changes in foliage that make the park feel different throughout the year

Nature-minded Atlantans often use the park to introduce kids to creek ecosystems and urban wildlife.

Flooding and Wet Conditions

Because the park sits in the Peachtree Creek floodplain, some sections can:

• Feel muddy or soft after rain
• Experience temporary flooding in very wet weather
• Have standing water near low spots

When visiting:

• Wear sturdy shoes if rain is in the forecast or has just passed.
• Avoid venturing into flooded or obviously saturated areas.
• Use posted signs and barriers as your guide; some paths may close or be discouraged during high water events.

Getting There and Parking

Driving

From around Atlanta, many people reach Atlanta Memorial Park by:

• I-75: Exit toward Moore’s Mill Road or Northside Drive NW, then follow local roads toward the Memorial Park area.
• Peachtree Road: Turn onto Peachtree Battle Avenue NW or nearby cross streets and head west toward Peachtree Creek.

Because street patterns in Buckhead can feel a bit winding, navigation apps are commonly used for the last mile.

Parking Options

Expect a mix of:

• Street parking along nearby neighborhood roads
• Parking associated with Bobby Jones Golf Course or Bitsy Grant Tennis Center
• Some small lots or pull-off areas near key access points

Parking can become tight on pleasant weekends and evenings, especially when golf or tennis activity is high. Many Atlanta residents plan to:

• Arrive earlier in the morning for easier parking
• Be prepared for a short walk from their car to the heart of the park
• Follow all posted residential parking restrictions to avoid tickets or towing

Safety, Rules, and Etiquette

Like other Atlanta parks, Atlanta Memorial Park follows general City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation expectations.

Common Rules

While specific regulations can be confirmed on posted signage, typical expectations include:

• Park hours: Generally dawn to dusk (check for posted times).

• Alcohol: Typically restricted or prohibited without permits.

• Pets:

  • Dogs should be on a leash unless in a designated off-leash area (which is limited in this park).
  • Owners are expected to pick up after their pets.

• Litter: Pack out trash or use available bins to help protect Peachtree Creek.

• Respect for neighbors: Keep noise at reasonable levels, especially early or late.

Personal Safety

People who live in Atlanta often treat Atlanta Memorial Park like any other in-town park:

• Visit during daylight where possible.
• Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles.
• Be aware of surroundings on more secluded paths.
• Use well-traveled routes if alone.

For non-emergency safety concerns in city parks, residents commonly contact the Atlanta Police Department non-emergency line or the City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation office, depending on the issue.

Amenities to Expect (and Not Expect)

Atlanta Memorial Park is more of a natural, neighborhood park than a fully built-out event venue.

You will likely find:

• Benches along paths
• Trash cans in common areas
• Some restroom access near adjacent facilities (availability can vary)
• Lighting at certain points, especially near roads and major access areas

You should not expect:

• Large, permanent concession stands
• Extensive covered pavilions for big events (compared to some other parks)
• A heavy schedule of large festivals or concerts

Many Atlantans bring their own:

• Refillable water bottles
• Snacks or simple picnics
• Bug spray in warm months, given Atlanta’s humidity and the proximity to water

Who Atlanta Memorial Park Is Best For

Atlanta Memorial Park tends to be a good fit for:

• Local residents in Buckhead and nearby neighborhoods wanting a daily walking or running spot
• Families with young children seeking a quieter playground alternative
• Dog owners looking for shaded walks (with leashed pets)
• Recreation enthusiasts who want to combine park time with golf or tennis nearby
• Visitors looking to experience a less touristy, more residential side of Atlanta’s green spaces

Those looking for large festivals, frequent food vendors, or skyline views may prefer places like Piedmont Park or The BeltLine’s Eastside Trail, while those wanting creekside calm and neighborhood charm often favor Atlanta Memorial Park.

How Atlanta Memorial Park Fits into Atlanta’s Park System

Within the broader City of Atlanta park network, Atlanta Memorial Park serves as:

• A major northwest Atlanta green corridor along Peachtree Creek
• A connector between residential Buckhead and regional trails like the Northside BeltLine Trail
• A recreation anchor thanks to its proximity to Bobby Jones Golf Course and Bitsy Grant Tennis Center

For anyone living in or visiting Atlanta, it’s a solid choice when you want:

• A peaceful walk or jog close to the city
• A place where kids and dogs can burn off energy
• Easy access to golf or tennis in the same general area

Spending time at Atlanta Memorial Park gives you a clear sense of how Atlanta blends intown living, wooded landscapes, and creekside trails—all within minutes of major city streets.