Roswell, Georgia is a beautiful suburb just north of Atlanta with loads of history. Located in Fulton County, Roswell is best known for it being the site of an alleged alien spacecraft crash in the 1940s, although this has never been officially confirmed by the United States government.
Aside from its extraterrestrial fame, Roswell is well-known for its colonial times, with colonial-style homes, a vibrant downtown, and a plethora of microbreweries.
The city also offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and the Chattahoochee Nature Center. It’s no wonder those who visit are immediately charmed by the small-town feel of Roswell!
With its rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and vibrant community, it’s no wonder that Roswell has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
In this blog, we’ll explore what makes Roswell so special and answer the question, “What is Roswell, GA known for?” From its historic homes and museums to its bustling downtown and outdoor recreation, Roswell has something for everyone.
Interesting & Unknown Facts About Roswell, GA
Here are 15 interesting and unique facts about Roswell, GA:
- Roswell was founded in 1839 by Roswell King, a businessman who helped develop the state’s cotton industry.
- During the Civil War, Roswell was home to a major textile mill that supplied fabric for Confederate uniforms.
- The mill was destroyed by Union troops during the war, and the ruins can still be seen today.
- Bulloch Hall, one of the city’s most famous historic homes, was the childhood home of Theodore Roosevelt’s mother.
- Barrington Hall, another historic home, was used as a hospital during the Civil War.
- Roswell is home to several famous residents, including U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson and former NFL player Hines Ward.
- Roswell is the eighth-largest city in Georgia, with a population of over 95,000.
- The city has been recognized as one of the best places to live in the United States by both Money Magazine and CNN.
- Roswell has a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues.
- The city is home to the Southern Trilogy Historic House Museums, which include the Bulloch Hall, Barrington Hall, and the Smith Plantation.
- The Roswell Ghost Tour is a popular attraction for those interested in the paranormal.
- The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area runs through Roswell, offering visitors access to hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities.
- The Roswell Mill Covered Pedestrian Bridge, which spans Vickery Creek, is one of the city’s most popular landmarks.
- Roswell has a rich culinary scene, with dozens of restaurants offering cuisine from around the world.
- Roswell is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Roswell Arts Festival, the Roswell Beer Festival, and the Roswell Roots Festival, which celebrates African-American history and culture.
These are just a few of the many interesting and unique facts about Roswell, GA. The city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery make it a fascinating destination for visitors and residents alike.
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Top 10 Best Things Roswell, GA is known For
Here are the top 10 best things Roswell, GA is known for:
- Historic Homes and Museums: Roswell is famous for its historic homes, many of which date back to the Civil War era. Visitors can tour the Bulloch Hall, the Barrington Hall, and the Smith Plantation to learn more about the city’s past.
- Vickery Creek Trail and Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: Roswell offers outdoor enthusiasts the chance to explore the Vickery Creek Trail, which leads to the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Along the way, visitors can hike, bike, fish, or even picnic.
- Roswell Farmers and Artisans Market: The Roswell Farmers and Artisans Market offers visitors the chance to browse a wide variety of locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and unique artwork.
- Alive in Roswell: This monthly street festival offers visitors a chance to experience the best of Roswell’s food, drinks, music, and art. With dozens of vendors and performers, Alive in Roswell is always a lively event.
- Archibald Smith Plantation Home: This historic home, which dates back to the 1840s, was once the center of a large cotton plantation. Visitors can tour the home and learn more about life in Roswell during the Civil War era.
- Roswell Mill Ruins: The Roswell Mill Ruins are a must-see for history buffs. The ruins are all that remains of the Roswell Manufacturing Company, which played a vital role in the Civil War.
- Chattahoochee Nature Center: The Chattahoochee Nature Center is a 127-acre nature preserve that offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty. The center features hiking trails, gardens, and wildlife exhibits.
- The Roswell Cultural Arts Center: The Roswell Cultural Arts Center is home to a variety of performing arts events, including concerts, plays, and dance performances.
- Roswell Ghost Tour: For those who love a good ghost story, the Roswell Ghost Tour is a must-see. The tour takes visitors to some of the city’s most haunted locations, including historic homes and cemeteries.
- Canton Street: Canton Street is the heart of downtown Roswell and is home to dozens of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visitors can stroll along the tree-lined street, sample local cuisine, or browse through unique boutiques.
Things to do in Roswell, GA
Here are some of the top things to do in Roswell, GA:
- Tour the Historic Homes: Roswell is home to several historic homes that offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s past. The Bulloch Hall, Barrington Hall, and Smith Plantation are all open for tours.
- Visit the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: The Vickery Creek Trail leads visitors to the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, where they can enjoy hiking, fishing, and boating.
- Check out the Roswell Farmers and Artisans Market: Held on Saturdays, this market offers a variety of locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and unique artwork.
- Explore Canton Street: The heart of downtown Roswell, Canton Street is home to dozens of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
- Visit the Roswell Mill Ruins: The Roswell Mill Ruins are all that remains of the Roswell Manufacturing Company, which was destroyed during the Civil War.
- Go on the Roswell Ghost Tour: This tour takes visitors to some of the city’s most haunted locations, including historic homes and cemeteries.
- Attend Alive in Roswell: Held on the third Thursday of each month, this street festival features food, drinks, music, and art.
- Visit the Archibald Smith Plantation Home: This historic home dates back to the 1840s and was once the center of a large cotton plantation.
- Explore the Chattahoochee Nature Center: This 127-acre nature preserve offers hiking trails, gardens, and wildlife exhibits.
- Attend a Concert or Play at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center: This venue hosts a variety of performing arts events throughout the year.
History & Information of Roswell, GA
Roswell is a city in north Fulton County, Georgia, United States. In the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 88,346. As of 2019, the estimated population was 94,372, making Roswell the seventh largest city in Georgia.
The motto for Roswell is “Historic, Creative, Uniquely Our Own.” Located in the heart of Fulton County, Roswell is easily accessible to nearby Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Sandy Springs.
Roswell was named after Roswell King, a business tycoon and slaveholder. Roswell King established a cotton mill and plantation near Vickery Creek in the 1840s. He also helped found the Roswell Manufacturing Company, which became the largest cotton mill in the area. In 1854, he donated land for the construction of a railroad line, called the Georgia and Alabama Railroad. This greatly increased the growth of the town and earned him the nickname “The Father of Roswell.”
Roswell became a popular summer resort for affluent Atlantans. The town continued to grow as several manufacturing plants moved in throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s. During the 1950s, Roswell developed into a large residential community for middle and upper-middle class individuals. The city was known for its historic churches, antebellum homes, and beautiful landscapes. The city is also home to the famed Roswell Mill, which dates back to the early 19th century.
Today, Roswell is a booming suburban community with an award-winning historic district, upscale retail and dining centers, numerous parks, golf courses, and festivals. Residents also have access to many recreational activities, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, and camping. The city enjoys a temperate climate, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
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