Freedom Park
“It is a scientific fact that the occasional contemplation of natural scenes of an impressive character, particularly if this contemplation occurs in connection with relief from ordinary cares, change of air and change of habits, is favorable to the health and vigor of men… beyond any other conditions that can be offered them.” — Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr.
At 200+ acres, Freedom Park is one of Atlanta’s largest public parks. In addition to is size and natural beauty, Freedom Park is significant for several reasons including:
- The western "leg" of the park connects many of the historical sites on the Atlanta Freedom Trail, including the Carter Center, the Carter Library and MLK National Historical Park.
- The park, itself, exists because of a proposed freeway that was never constructed. This explains its unique "X" shape, which you can see in the illustrated map below.
- The southern "leg" of the park, which runs through the historic neighborhood of Inman Park, was the site of the Battle of Atlanta, which took place on July 22, 1864.