10 Things to Do at Stone Mountain Park

If you're planning a weekend getaway to Atlanta, Georgia, then spending your time in the Stone Mountains located near Atlanta can be worth your while. Stone Mountain is an isolated mountain (a monadnock) with a quartz monzonite dome, and is home to Stone Mountain Park. The park surrounds the summit and encircles a series of attractions. The mountain lies at a distance of 10 miles from Atlanta and is the world's most enormous piece of exposed granite. The Stone Mountain is also among one of the seven natural wonders of Georgia. Shifts in the earth's surface created intense heat and friction, causing a large amount of rock below the surface to melt. The heated magma rose halfway up to the surface of the earth. Over time, the magma hardened into granite. The top of the granite dome was eventually washed away due to erosion, leading to what is now known as Stone Mountain. The mountain is known for its famous carving of the Confederate Memorial Carving of three heroes of the Civil War. The three depicts, Confederate figures are of President Jefferson Davis, General Robert E. Lee, and General Stonewall Jackson. The tourist-attracting town of Stone Mountain covers an area of 583 acres; and features family-friendly attractions, seasonal activities, festive celebrations, natural recreation areas, and more entertainment that will surely delight everyone.

Confederate Hall Historical & Environmental Education Center

This museum, run by the Stone Mountain Memorial Association (SMMA) and located at the base of the walk-up trail, educates the park guests and locals about the fascinating geology and environment of Stone Mountain as well as other historical aspects of the war in Georgia. A documentary on the history of Georgia's Civil War plays in a small theater, and visitors may also explore the gallery.

Scenic Railroad

The scenic railroad is a five-mile train ride with open carts that takes guests around the park to see the surreal view of the whole park and the nearby landscapes. The ride lasts for about twenty-five to thirty minutes; and t make the experience even more realistic, you can go to the train depot to see the exact departure time as the scenic railroad follows its strict schedule. The train is a full-size locomotive engine from the 1940s and is popular as a great attraction at the Stone Mountain amusement park.

Sky Hike

This obstacle course attraction is one of the largest in the nation. There are three different tracks which vary in terms of height and difficulty level. The trek starts from twelve feet and goes up to twenty-four and even forty feet for the courageous. These courses consist of leaping from one wooden slat to another, balancing on a single rope, and climbing vertical nets. Due to these heights, the park takes precautions; so you must be taller than 44 cm and weigh less than 300 lbs. Your shoes must be closed-toe, and an adult must accompany the children at all times if they are under the age of 16.

Songbird Habitat and Trail

In addition to adventure attractions, the park offers natural beauty including a historic one-mile walking trail to the top of Stone Mountain. The two, Woodland trail and the Meadow trail, each takes you on a hike to the place where beautiful birds such as the Eastern Bluebird, Northern Cardinal, and White-Breasted Nuthatch rest. Along the way, you will encounter inscriptions in the rocks made by locals even before the park's setup. Reaching the top of Stone Mountain, you can enjoy the reward of the finest views in the Atlanta area.

The Washington W. King Bridge

This bridge is another historical landmark of the well-known park. The bridge is among the only four remaining structures constructed by Washington W. King. It connects the central park to a scenic island where you can enjoy a family picnic or relax. This pine and cedar trail bridge stands at the height of twenty feet.

Summit Skyride

The Skyride is a high-speed Swiss-built cable car to the summit. It carries individuals more than 825 feet above ground to the peak of the mountain. The Summit Skyride cable car is a means of transport that leads to Confederate Memorial Carving and ensuring you relish the Atlanta skylines.

Great Locomotive Chase Adventure Golf

You can enjoy the unique golf course made for all ages. You will have to make your way through 18 holes while on the lookout for the lost General locomotive.

Dinosaur Explore

You and your family can experience over 20 life-size dinosaurs here along with a few paleontology tents offering information about the different dinosaur species.

Carillon

The 732-bell Carillon originates from 1964. The park's carillon holds a daily concert; and for about thirty years, its melody has been enchanting the park.

Historic Square: A Collection Of Georgia Homes and Antiques

A trip to a new location introduces you to new cultures, and this historic square is a collection of original building structures from around the State of Georgia constructed between 1793 and 1875. This area still houses the vast collections of southern vintage furniture and accessories representing the distinctive lifestyles of Georgia natives of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Located just outside the West Gate of Stone Mountain Park, you can easily enjoy over forty local shops and restaurants with indoor and outdoor seating available. There are general stores that feature the best local jams, candy, and fudge available. You can find antiques, collectibles, fine art, jewelry, and several souvenirs to take back home. Moreover, you can get to experience pottery making. The open-style marketplace at Stone Mountain provides delicious food and snacks for you to take along on the go. There are other attractions in Atlanta that include golf courses, the Georgia Aquarium, and the world of Coca-Cola. Most people don't know that how much money they will be spending on their vacation, but Stone Mountain Park promotes its One-Day Adventure pass that permits access and uses to all the attractions. The prices vary accordingly from $20 to $25. So, if you're seeking an adventure and got captivated by the beauty of Stone Mountain, plan your visit soon.