Atlanta is a city that is known for its buzzing energy, southern charm, and a stellar music scene, Atlanta is a city where everyone can find their niche and fit in. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Sweet Auburn, indulging in the food, or taking in the natural beauty of Georgia, Atlanta is a city that welcomes all with open arms.
This article will guide you through ten of the top things that make Atlanta such a desirable place to call home, shedding light on the things locals love about the city.
1. The Birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr.
Atlanta is famously known as the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Visitors can explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, which includes his childhood home, the church where he and his father pastored, and his final resting place. This area serves not only as a historical site but also as a source of inspiration, reflecting on the powerful impact of King’s life and teachings on the fight for racial equality in America.
2. CNN Center
The CNN Center is the global headquarters of the Cable News Network, offering visitors a unique look behind the scenes of one of the world’s largest news organizations. Through studio tours, guests can witness the live production of news broadcasts, learn about the history of news media, and even try their hand at being a news anchor. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the inner workings of journalism and broadcast media.
3. Trap Music Museum
Known as “the world’s first hip hop museum,” the Trap Music Museum offers an immersive experience into the world of trap music through art installations, memorabilia, and one-of-a-kind exhibits that depict the history, evolution, and cultural significance of trap music. The museum has sections dedicated to influential trap artists and producers, showcasing their contributions to this relatively new but extremely popular genre.
4. World of Coca-Cola
Atlanta is the birthplace of Coca-Cola, the world’s most famous soft drink. The World of Coca-Cola museum offers a rare experience into the brand’s history, featuring a variety of exhibits that showcase the drink’s secret formula, its global impact, and its memorable advertising campaigns. Visitors can also taste over 100 different beverages from around the globe, making it a fun and fizzy adventure for all ages.
5. The Varsity
The Varsity is an iconic fast-food restaurant located in the heart of Midtown and is famed for being the world’s largest drive-in. Opened in 1928, it has become a landmark and a beloved institution in the city, serving classic American fare like hamburgers, hot dogs, fries, and its famous frosted orange milkshake. The impact of The Varsity on Atlanta goes beyond its menu; it is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, drawing people from all walks of life, including students, tourists, and celebrities.
6. Georgia Aquarium
Home to tens of thousands of animals, including 500 species from around the world and more than 60 habitats, the Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. It provides a breathtaking look into the underwater world, featuring massive tanks, interactive exhibits, and educational programs. Highlights include the Ocean Voyager exhibit, where visitors can walk through an acrylic tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and other massive sea creatures. It’s an aquatic experience like no other.
7. Atlanta Botanical Garden
Situated in the Ansley Park area, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a serene oasis that showcases a spectacular collection of plants and flowers from around the world. With its stunning landscapes, seasonal exhibits, and the Canopy Walk, a 600-foot-long skywalk that allows visitors to explore the treetops of the Storza Woods, the garden is a tranquil retreat from the city surrounding it.
8. The Atlanta BeltLine
The Atlanta BeltLine is a comprehensive revitalization effort that transforms the city’s former railway corridors into a network of public parks, multi-use trails, and transit options. It connects neighborhoods, supports sustainable growth, and provides a unique space for outdoor activities, art installations, and community events. The BeltLine is not only a place to get your steps in but also a living example of Atlanta’s commitment to urban renewal and green space.
9. Centennial Olympic Park
Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park is now a hub of activity for those in downtown Atlanta. This 21-acre park serves as a legacy of the games, offering visitors interactive fountains, walking paths, and a calendar filled with concerts and festivals. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike come to relax, play, and celebrate the city’s spirit of unity and achievement.
10. The High Museum of Art
The High Museum of Art is one of the top spots to see the works of famous artists in the Southeast, housing an impressive collection of classic and contemporary pieces. Its many exhibits span various mediums and cultures, from Renaissance paintings to modern sculpture and from African art to works by Southern artists. The museum’s striking architecture, designed by Richard Meier and Renzo Piano, provides the perfect backdrop for its extensive collections. The High Museum of Art is not just a place to check out some art; it’s a place to experience the power of creativity and inspiration in its purest form.