Exploring Historic Roswell Square: A Classic Day Trip from Atlanta

Historic Roswell Square is one of the easiest and most rewarding “escape the city for a few hours” spots for Atlantans. Located just north of the city in Roswell, Georgia, this charming historic district blends Southern history, walkable streets, local restaurants, and green space—making it a popular choice for weekend outings, casual dates, family strolls, and out-of-town guests.

If you live in Atlanta, are visiting the metro area, or are planning a nearby staycation, here’s how Historic Roswell Square fits into your “things to do” in Atlanta list and how to make the most of your visit.

Where Is Historic Roswell Square in Relation to Atlanta?

Historic Roswell Square is in downtown Roswell, roughly:

• 20–25 miles north of Midtown Atlanta
• Often about 30–45 minutes by car, depending on traffic

Common driving routes from Atlanta include:

• GA-400 North to exit for Holcomb Bridge Road / Roswell Road, then west into historic Roswell
• Roswell Road (Hwy 9) straight north from Buckhead, through Sandy Springs into Roswell

The heart of the area is around:

This area connects directly with Canton Street, the main dining and shopping corridor, and is just minutes from the Chattahoochee River.

What Makes Historic Roswell Square Special?

For metro Atlanta residents, Historic Roswell Square offers a combination you don’t always find in-town:

• Preserved history from the early and mid-1800s
• A small, grassy central square with a gazebo used for photos and events
• Easy walkability to restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques
• Quick access to riverside parks and trails

You get the feeling of a “small historic town” without actually being far from Atlanta.

A Brief History: Why Roswell Square Matters Locally

Roswell started in the 1830s as a mill town centered around textile mills on Vickery Creek. The Square became a key community space, surrounded by:

• Historic churches and civic buildings
• Well-preserved homes and mansions
• Early commercial buildings that now house modern businesses

For Atlantans interested in local history, the Roswell Square area gives a good sense of pre-Civil War North Georgia, including:

• Architecture from the Greek Revival and Victorian eras
• Sites tied to the Roswell Manufacturing Company and early industry
• Proximity to Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall, and Smith Plantation, three historic homes open for tours

It’s a manageable way to get a feel for North Fulton history without a long drive.

Top Things to Do Around Historic Roswell Square

Although the Square itself is relatively small, it serves as a hub for a full half-day or full-day outing.

1. Stroll the Square and Nearby Streets

Start with a slow lap around the central green space:

• Check out the gazebo and historic markers
• Take photos of the surrounding brick buildings and churches
• Walk along Atlanta Street and Sloan Street, then work your way toward Canton Street

This is a great low-key option for:

• Families with strollers
• Visitors wanting gentle walking
• Locals who just want to sit on a bench, read, or people-watch

2. Visit Roswell’s Historic Homes (Near the Square)

Within a short drive from the Square (often just a couple of minutes), you can tour several key historic properties:

• Barrington Hall – A well-preserved 19th-century home linked to Roswell’s founding family
• Bulloch Hall – Childhood home of Mittie Bulloch, mother of President Theodore Roosevelt
• Smith Plantation (Archibald Smith Plantation Home) – A historic house offering insight into 19th-century life in the area

These sites give meaningful context to the Square and the broader history of Roswell and North Fulton. They’re popular with history enthusiasts, school-age kids, and visiting relatives.

Tip:
🕰️ Check hours and tour times in advance; many historic homes close on certain weekdays or have limited guided tour slots.

3. Explore Canton Street: Dining and Shopping

From the Square, you’re very close to Canton Street, Roswell’s main strip for:

• Restaurants and cafes
• Boutiques and galleries
• Dessert spots and casual bars

For people in Atlanta, Canton Street often serves as the main draw, with the Square as a scenic starting or ending point. You can:

• Have brunch or lunch, walk down to the Square, then circle back for dessert or coffee
• Plan an evening dinner date with a sunset stroll around the historic area
• Take out-of-town guests for a walkable evening out, instead of staying in city traffic

4. Combine the Square with the Chattahoochee River

One of the biggest perks for Atlantans: you’re only a few minutes from the Chattahoochee River when you’re at Roswell Square.

Nearby spots include:

• Riverside Park (Roswell) – Paved paths, playground, river views
• Shoot the Hooch / tubing and paddling access points (seasonal activities)
• Trails near Vickery Creek and the old Roswell Mill – Great for short hikes and scenic overlooks

Many people plan a combo outing:

1. River walk, short hike, or park time
2. Lunch or dinner near the Square or on Canton Street
3. Evening stroll through Historic Roswell Square itself

5. Enjoy Seasonal Events and Local Happenings

Roswell Square and the surrounding downtown area often host:

• Holiday events and seasonal decorations
• Art walks, small festivals, or markets concentrated around the historic district
• Occasional live music or community events in nearby venues

This makes it a strong option for anyone in Atlanta looking for small-town-style events without driving far into the North Georgia mountains.

Because event schedules change, it’s wise to:

• Check Roswell’s official city or visitor information channels before you go
• Confirm parking, road closures, and event times if you’re heading there for a specific activity

Historic Roswell Square vs. Atlanta In-Town Attractions

If you’re trying to decide whether to stay in the city or head to Roswell, here’s a simple comparison:

For many metro residents, Historic Roswell Square fills a niche: slower pace than downtown, more historic than many intown neighborhoods, and easier to navigate with kids, older family members, or larger groups.

Getting There from Atlanta: Transportation & Parking

Driving from Atlanta

Most visitors reach Historic Roswell Square by car. From central Atlanta:

• Take I-85/75 to I-285, then GA-400 North
• Exit near Holcomb Bridge Road / Roswell Road, follow signs toward Historic Roswell

Traffic considerations:

• Expect heavier traffic weekday evenings and weekend dinner hours
• During peak times, the Roswell Road / Hwy 9 corridor can slow down

Parking Near the Square

Parking is generally easier than in dense Atlanta neighborhoods, but it can fill up during:

• Weekend evenings
• Special events and festivals
• Holiday seasons

Parking options often include:

• Street parking near the Square and along nearby streets
• Public lots in the historic district or near Canton Street
• Some private lots associated with specific businesses (check posted signs)

Tip:
🚗 Arrive earlier than your reservation or event time, especially Thursday–Sunday evenings, to avoid circling for parking.

Who Will Enjoy Historic Roswell Square Most?

Historic Roswell Square is a strong option if you:

• Live in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, or North Fulton and want a close, relaxed outing
• Have out-of-town guests and want to show them a charming historic area plus good food
• Prefer walkable, low-intensity activities over packed big-city attractions
• Enjoy local history, architecture, and old churches or homes
• Have kids or older relatives who need a comfortable, manageable area to explore

It may be less ideal if you’re seeking:

• Big-ticket attractions like pro sports venues or major museums
• Late-night club scenes or high-energy nightlife
• Highly urban experiences with skyscrapers and dense city streets

Practical Tips for Visiting from Atlanta

Use these pointers to make your trip smoother:

• Plan 3–6 hours if you want to include a meal, a walk around the Square, and some time in a park or along Canton Street.
• Wear comfortable shoes—the area is very walkable, and you’ll likely go back and forth between the Square and nearby streets.
• Check hours for any specific attractions (historic homes, museums, or river rentals) before driving up from Atlanta.
• In warmer months, bring water and sun protection, especially if you’ll also spend time near the river or on trails.
• For families: identify a central meeting spot (like the gazebo in the Square) if your group separates for shopping or exploring.

How Historic Roswell Square Fits into an Atlanta Itinerary

If you’re building a longer Atlanta trip or weekend plan, Historic Roswell Square works well as:

• A day 2 or day 3 destination after downtown and midtown attractions
• A Sunday brunch and stroll option if you spent Friday/Saturday intown
• A way to balance busy urban experiences (like the Georgia Aquarium or BeltLine) with something slower-paced and more historic

Many locals treat it as a repeat destination: returning for different restaurants, seasonal events, or just a quiet afternoon walk in a familiar, scenic setting.

Historic Roswell Square offers Atlanta-area residents and visitors a nearby, history-rich, and walkable escape that feels distinct from in-town neighborhoods while still being easy to reach. Whether you’re planning a simple afternoon stroll, a full day of exploring, or a relaxed outing with family, it’s a solid addition to your list of things to do in and around Atlanta.