Atlanta, Georgia, is known for its Southern charm, buzzing arts scene and rich cultural history. When planning a trip to Atlanta, take into account that there is a lot to do and see, so you’re going to have to make some tough decisions. From interesting museums to the city’s world-famous zoo, Atlanta is the ultimate cityscape.
Museums
Atlanta is rich in culture and diversity, and you’ll find museums to fit every taste and age group.
The World of Coca-Cola is the ultimate place to explore the history of the world’s most popular beverage brand. You can take a VIP guided tour of the facilities to see the vault where the secret formula is kept and taste more than 100 beverages from all over the world.
The Center for Civil and Human Rights links the important part that Atlanta played in the American Civil Rights Movement to global human rights today. One of the highlights of the museum is the chance to view personal papers and items of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The four-story, porcelain-enameled High Museum of Art is considered one of the best in the United States. The stunning building incorporates some 11,000 pieces from the Americas, Europe and Africa. Decorative art and photography sections also make up this museum.
Kids of all ages will love the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. The goal of the museum is to spark imagination and discovery through interactive displays.
Theaters and Casinos
The Fox Theatre has recently been restored to its former 1920s glory, with a gilded look and nostalgic flair. Take in a Broadway musical, comedy or dance show in this lavish theater. Look out for Mighty Mo, a classic Moller organ with more than 3,500 pipes.
The magical Center for Puppetry Arts introduces visitors to the world of puppetry from a local and international perspective. Highlights of the center include the Jim Henson Collection of the master puppeteer most famous for his Muppet characters such as Kermit and Miss Piggy. The Global Collection takes a look at puppetry traditions from around the globe.
While gambling isn’t a legal pastime in Georgia, that doesn’t mean casino fans need to miss out on the action. Take your pick of four casinos within driving distance of the city. Among them is Harrah’s Cherokee Hotel and Casino in North Carolina. Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, the casino boasts 3,300 Vegas-styled slot machines and video poker, as well as hundreds of table games. If you prefer online over offline casino action, you can grab some amazing real money no deposit offers at NoDepositRewards.
Historic Areas
Oakland Cemetery is a historical park where many Atlantans (military and non-military) were laid to rest. Besides the graves of Civil War soldiers, you will also find those of Gone with the Wind author Margaret Mitchell and golfing icon Bobby Jones.
Atlanta built the Centennial Olympic Park for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games. Today, the park hosts free weekly concerts and is a popular spot for picnics and sporting activities. Kids love the dancing water fountain.
One of the most affluent communities in Atlanta is Buckhead. Take a walking tour of this neighborhood to goggle at the multimillion-dollar mansions, upscale galleries and world-famous restaurants. Head to Buckhead after dark for one of the best nightlife scenes in the city.
Natural Wonders
Three stories of indoor exhibits greet visitors to Fernbank, Atlanta’s Science and Nature Experience. Wander through 75 acres of nature adventures, take part in science explorations and experiments, discover the world of dinosaurs and be blown away by 3D movies shown on a giant screen.
Zoo Atlanta is one of the oldest zoos in the country, having opened its gates in 1889. Today, the zoo offers visitors close encounters with more than 1,000 animals—from local wildlife to extremely endangered species. The 111,000 square-foot complex is home to giant pandas, a huge population of apes, 70 species of reptiles and amphibians and much more.
Georgia Aquarium is home to thousands of marine life species displayed in six galleries. Visitors get to marvel whale sharks, dolphins, exotic fish, sea otters and more. Take in the AT&T Dolphin Tales show or swim/dive with the whale sharks and manta rays in their massive 6.3 million-gallon aquarium.
Center for Civil and Human Rights by Lee Howard; Fox Theatre by Broadway Tour and Oakland Cemetery by Chris Lexow from Flickr Creative Commons; and gallery window courtesy of Georgia Aquarium.
