Finding the stops

The city says an event map will mark candy stops and game locations. Check the official Candy Crawl page for the latest map and any changes before heading downtown. The city’s event details reviewed for this article did not include a complete list of participating storefronts, so use the map when it is posted rather than assuming every downtown business will hand out treats.

Public parking is available throughout downtown, according to the event listing. It does not specify which spaces are free or guarantee a spot near a particular stop. Allow extra time to park and walk between businesses, especially if you arrive in the middle of the five-hour window.

The map should also help visitors decide which stops are close together and where optional games fit into their route. Organizers do not promise a specific number of participating merchants or a candy supply at each business. If arriving late in the afternoon, check the latest event update rather than assuming every location will still be serving treats near 5 p.m.

Families watching costs can focus on the free crawl and the Scarecrows on Main display, then decide separately whether to pay for any optional attractions. The official event description does not list individual prices or say that every game carries a charge.

Make an afternoon of downtown

Scarecrows on Main gives families another reason to look around between candy stops. Downtown Kennesaw’s autumn events guide also places Candy Crawl among other seasonal activities, which may help visitors plan the rest of their day. Check each activity’s schedule and admission details before adding it to the trip; those details won't match Candy Crawl’s.

For a straightforward plan, start with the official event map, choose a few nearby stops, and leave time for games or photos if the family wants them. Bring a bag for treats and ask participating businesses about any allergy concerns. The practical details are simple: Saturday, October 24, noon to 5 p.m., in Downtown Kennesaw, with free crawl participation and possible charges for optional activities.

Know the road, shuttle and fee rules

The park's current hours page says the road to the mountaintop has been closed to personal vehicles since January 2026. Visitors can hike or use the park's free shuttle. The shuttle operates seven days a week according to the NPS, but check its latest departure schedule before planning around it. Weather or operations can affect a trip.

The park fee page lists a $5 daily private-vehicle pass and a $40 park annual pass. A pass does not guarantee a parking space. Fees apply across park parking lots even though the shuttle ride itself is free. The park is for day use, and each lot posts its own gate hours. Check the sign where you park to avoid returning after closing.

Build a visit that fits your time

If you have an hour or two, start with the visitor center and choose one short walk. If you have more time, connect the mountain with Pigeon Hill or Cheatham Hill using the official map. Those places add context beyond the summit, but distances add up quickly. The park's calendar is the place to check for ranger programs on your date.

Before heading out, confirm the visitor center hours, parking rules, shuttle status and trail route on the NPS pages. Give the battlefield enough time to be more than a scenic overlook.