Heading down to Hotlanta? If so, you might be surprised at just how many things there are to see, do, and experience in town. Atlanta is more than just the home of the world’s busiest airport (Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport). It’s a truly international city with an amazing wealth of experiences just waiting for you to enjoy them. Whether you’re into history, food, culture, or something completely different, you’ll find plenty to love inside the perimeter (ITP to the locals).
Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta has been attracting adults and children for over a century. It was founded back in 1889 and has remained a vibrant part of Atlanta’s culture since that time. You can spend time viewing the park’s pandas, get up close and personal with African elephants and big cats, play with the monkeys, and so much more. Whether you love birds, amphibians, reptiles, exotic animals, endangered animals or something else, you’ll find it here. There are even volunteer opportunities that let adults and children learn more about animals, work with keepers, and even interact with many of the animals within the zoo.
Cyclorama
Are you a Civil War history buff? If so, then the Atlanta Cyclorama and the Atlanta History Center are ideal options to add to your itinerary. Today, the Cyclorama has a new home – a 23,000-square-foot building at the History Center itself. The massive cyclorama painting (and moving viewing area) give you a unique perspective on the entire Civil War, as well as the Battle of Atlanta. Note that the Cyclorama is currently being restored, and is expected to be complete by fall 2018. However, there is a great deal to enjoy here – art, science, entertainment and a lot more. Explore the Cyclorama, and then visit the rest of the Atlanta History Center, where you’ll find the stunning Goizueta Gardens and countless exhibits, including one honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Georgia Aquarium
Love the creatures of the deep? Want to get up close and personal with octopi, fish, and even aquatic birds? Then make it a point to visit the Georgia Aquarium. More than just another aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium is actually both a nonprofit organization and a scientific institution. It holds 10 million gallons of water and is home to an incredible diversity of ocean life, including whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. In addition to their animal exhibits, you’ll find a range of web cams available, plus ongoing events throughout the year.
The Fox Theatre
More interested in culture and entertainment than exploring history or the natural world? If so, then The Fox Theatre is the place for you! It was a movie palace once upon a time, but today it is a performing arts venue located in the heart of Atlanta. The Fox Theatre regularly hosts plays, musical performances and other performing arts presentations, including hit Broadway shows and top-name talent. A sampling of the venue’s upcoming shows and events for 2018 includes:
- The Russian Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty
- Disney’s The Lion King Musical
- The Illusionists
- Rent
- Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles
- Yanni
World of Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola was born in the South, and the World of Coca-Cola is its showroom where you can go to get a look at the iconic soft drink’s origins, history and future. The World of Coca-Cola is technically a museum, but it differs from others you might have visited. It includes a beverage lounge where you can sample standard Coke formulations, as well as versions sold around the world and not available in retail stores here in the US.
The Varsity Atlanta
The Varsity has been a hallmark of Atlanta since it opened back in 1928. Billed as the world’s largest drive-in restaurant, The Varsity serves up hamburgers, hotdogs, chili dogs, chili burgers, slaw dogs and more. Feeling particularly famished? Check out the triple stack bacon cheese burger. Want a real taste of the south? Go for a pimento cheese sandwich. Whether you’re a carnivore or a vegetarian, there’s something delectable to tempt your palate here.
CNN Center
CNN is the world’s largest news network, and it’s headquartered right here in Atlanta. You can actually tour the CNN Center and get a behind the scenes look at how everything comes together, from news and reporting to sports coverage. The CNN Center is more than just a news production facility, though. You can actually dine in the in-center food court, or shop with a number of retailers. Of course, touring the center is the most popular activity. You can take a self-guided tour, or you can take advantage of an organized tour through the area.
Centennial Olympic Park
Atlanta was the host city for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games. While you can’t revisit those days, you can still visit Centennial Olympic Park. It covers a full 21 acres in downtown Atlanta, and plays host to a number of exciting events throughout the year. In addition to viewing historic icons, like the actual Olympic Rings and Olympic Torch, you can also visit world-class retailers nearby, dine with a range of restaurants, running the gamut from fast casual to fine dining, and even find luxurious hotel accommodations. Be sure to make time to see a show at the Fountain of Rings, which is one of the most iconic landmarks in Georgia. Visit the Fountain of Rings website for more information and a full schedule.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is one of the most popular spots in Atlanta for a number of reasons. One of those is that it is home to Atlanta’s biggest film screen within the onsite 3D theater. There’s also a lot to love going on at the museum throughout the year. Many exhibits are permanent, but the museum has a rotating list of visiting exhibits that run the gamut from dinosaurs to internal human anatomy to ancient Roman history. For grownups, the museum offers Fernbank After Dark, which includes history, education and libations to enjoy as well.
Stone Mountain Park
Another Civil War-themed destination, Stone Mountain Park features more than just history. Sure, the massive carving of Confederate generals on the side of the mountain is a huge draw, but the park actually hosts a full amusement park, complete with bumper boats. If you’re more into fitness and hiking, there’s a trail that runs from the base all the way to the top of the massive mountain. If you’re not that into strenuous physical activity but want to enjoy the view anyway, you can take the gondola up and down the mountain. Make sure to stick around for the Laser Show, which takes place after dark.
In the End
Whether you’ll be visiting Atlanta for a few days, a full week, or just for a layover on a flight, you'll find no shortage of things to see and do in town. There's something for everyone in the exciting city of Atlanta: whether your love theater, prefer to people watch, crave burgers or gourmet food, are fascinated by the rich history of Atlanta and the South, or you just want to indulge in a day of shopping, Atlanta won't disappoint. Your last step is to make sure you’re ready to explore Atlanta by getting your cheap car insurance in Georgia here.
