Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is a 189-acre urban oasis located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia. Situated about 1 mile northeast of Downtown, between the Midtown and Virginia Highland neighborhoods, the park serves as a central gathering place for both locals and visitors.

Originally owned by Dr. Benjamin Walker in the 1830s as a gentleman's farm, the land was later sold to the Piedmont Driving Club in 1887. The park hosted two major expositions in the late 19th century, including the Cotton States and International Exposition in 1895, which played a significant role in showcasing Atlanta's post-Civil War recovery.

The City of Atlanta purchased the land in 1904 to establish Piedmont Park. The Olmsted Brothers, sons of renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, were commissioned to redesign the park in the early 20th century. While not fully implemented, their plan significantly influenced the park's current layout, featuring broad grassy lawns, shaded woodlands, and scenic walking paths.

Today, Piedmont Park offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities and natural beauty. The park includes Lake Clara Meer, a picturesque body of water that adds to its tranquil atmosphere. The Active Oval area provides space for various sports and activities, while numerous trails cater to walkers, joggers, and cyclists.

Piedmont Park hosts several major annual events, including the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, Atlanta Jazz Festival, and Atlanta Pride. It also serves as the finishing point for the Peachtree Road Race. The park is home to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, adding another layer of horticultural interest to its already lush landscape.

Managed through a partnership between the City of Atlanta and the Piedmont Park Conservancy since 1989, the park continues to evolve and expand. Recent developments have added new amenities and green spaces, ensuring that Piedmont Park remains a vital part of Atlanta's urban fabric and a beloved destination for millions of visitors each year.