Smyrna is one of the metro Atlanta’s most desirable locations, thanks to plenty of outdoor living opportunities, a number of local businesses, proximity to Truist Park and Smyrna Market Village, the city’s “downtown.” Read on to find out more about what makes Smyrna special, as told by Andrea Worthy, Smyrna’s Director of Economic Development.
What is your town known for?
Smyrna Market Village. Whether it’s the fountain, the colonnade, or one of the local restaurants which have welcomed generations of birthday celebrations, first dates, and out-of-town visitors — Smyrna Market Village is what people mean when they say “downtown.” It’s not a town square and it’s not a main street; it is uniquely Smyrna. Here, a park green is steps from dining, celebrations are part of everyday life, and you’re guaranteed to see a neighbor when you go “downtown.” And even as Smyrna has grown, the pace and our small-town spirit is all the same.
What is a new/exciting destination people will want to visit?
Smyrna is quickly becoming one of metro Atlanta’s most connected outdoor destinations. At the crossroads of the Silver Comet Trail, the Mountain to River Trail, regional access to the Chattahoochee River, and future trail connections extending toward the Atlanta Beltline, Smyrna Market Village is evolving into a regional trailhead experience — a place where rides begin, afternoons slow down, and visitors gather before or after exploring the region.
From downtown Smyrna, visitors can bike to a Braves game at Truist Park, connect to neighboring downtowns, spend the afternoon exploring trails and parks, or make an all-day adventure out of the Silver Comet Trail. But what makes Smyrna unique is the experience between the rides: local restaurants, shaded greenspaces, community events, and the small-town energy that encourages people to stay awhile. Smyrna offers something increasingly rare — the ability to move seamlessly from trail to downtown, from nature to neighborhood, and from regional adventure to local connection.
What is the first thing about your town that a visitor or new resident should know?
Live Well Connected. This is our city’s tagline, and it’s real. Smyrna is a city where people find their regular place — the coffee shop barista that knows their order, the restaurant patio where neighbors gather every Friday night, the trail they return to every weekend. Around our city, business owners often say “we’re loyal” because connection here extends beyond places to the people who shape them.
What makes your city the best place to have a business or start a nonprofit?
From locally owned storefronts to major employers, Smyrna is home to 1,500 commercial businesses generating over 20,000 jobs and $4.8 billion in annual revenue — offering opportunity and networking at every scale. What makes Smyrna especially strong for businesses and nonprofits is connection. The city is supported by a highly educated workforce, strong household incomes, and immediate access to major employment centers across Metro Atlanta. Through partnerships with the Smyrna Business Association, Cobb Chamber, Metro Atlanta Chamber, and Cobb Travel & Tourism, organizations gain access to regional relationships, visibility, and support systems that help accelerate growth. When you choose Smyrna, you’re not simply selecting a location — you’re joining a coordinated network designed to open doors and strengthen long-term success.
What aspects of living in your city have changed the most over the past decade?
Over the past decade, Smyrna’s identity has evolved from a suburban community into a fully realized destination city with a regional presence. Investments in parks, trails, hospitality, mixed-use development, and downtown placemaking have elevated both the visitor experience and quality of life for residents. And — with our new, downtown redevelopment project on its way — we’re just getting started. The future is bright for residents and business owners in Smyrna.
Where do you see your city in the next 10 years?
Smyrna will be one of metro Atlanta’s clearest examples of how a suburban community can evolve into a connected, walkable small city. It is part of our history — and continues to shape our future through intentional investments that strengthen the city’s character, where residents move seamlessly from their neighborhoods to downtown and from local connection to regional adventure. The result is a premier small-city model: connected, walkable, economically vibrant, and unmistakably itself.
