The most populous city in the U.S. state of Georgia—Atlanta is situated at the foothills of the majestic Appalachian Mountains and has the densest urban tree coverage of any U.S. city, so dense that it’s sometimes called ‘the city within a forest.’
Atlanta has an unshakeable grip on US, and even world culture, having inspired the names of many bands, singers, music albums, and even a Golden Globe-winning TV show.
However, exploring these densely-populated 340 square kilometers of urban cityscape might seem daunting. So, we have organized a list of 8 things to do when you find yourself in the New York of the South.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
This site pays tribute to one of the most prominent figures in the civil rights movement, MLK Jr., and celebrates both his life and his legacy. A visit to the museum is a must for history buffs. The site also houses Dr. King’s final resting place and even a tribute to another well-known civil rights leader, MK Gandhi. The “I Have A Dream” rose garden is another must-see. You can learn even more about the man through a guided tour of his hometown and a 3D tour of his church.
Fox Theatre
This incredible building is acclaimed for its beautiful architecture that blends Egyptian and Islamic styles to create a truly breathtaking space. The auditorium, with its 96 crystal-starred ceilings, replicates the feeling of an Arabic Courtyard, with the mezzanine lounge and ballroom taking inspiration from Egyptian Temples. A must-visit for lovers of theatre and architecture.
Civil Bike Tours
Civil Bike tours allow you to experience Atlanta from a different perspective—the ground level—and truly understand the way the city feels, something that can’t be done through reading pamphlets and guided tours.
Georgia Aquarium:
The largest aquarium in the world for 7 consecutive years, and currently the fifth-largest, the Georgia Aquarium has a jaw-dropping 43,000 cubic metres of volume, which hosts thousands of species, from sea otters to whale sharks, at the Georgia Aquarium, you can see it all.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History:
Have you ever wanted to grasp the size of a 243-meter-tall Argentinosaurus?
Well, if that’s the case, I have just the venue for you- The Fernbank Natural History Museum is famous for its dinosaur fossil exhibits and its extensive list of activities and programs to participate in.
The Goat Farm Arts Center:
Treat your artistic side with a visit to the Goat Farm Arts Centre, and enjoy the wide-ranging artistic endeavors shown. Housed in an industrial complex, witness captivating performances, music concerts, traditional and experimental theatrical performances, film screenings, contemporary dance performances, art exhibitions, artist residency programs, professional ballet and contemporary dance classes, and many other thought-provoking endeavours, What more could one want?
Atlanta Botanical Garden:
Escape to an urban oasis at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, where nature’s beauty blooms in every corner. Stroll through enchanting gardens featuring plant life from around the world. From lush tropical rainforests to serene Japanese landscapes, nature lovers will have no shortage of nature to love. Marvel at the stunning seasonal displays and explore the Conservatory. The Atlanta Botanical Garden offers an unforgettable botanical adventure for all to cherish.
High Museum of Art:
As the largest art museum in the south-western U.S., the High Museum of Art, also known simply as “The High,” stands as Atlanta’s premier art museum. It boasts over 18,000 works of art from 19th and 20th-century America, including the widely-known “Whistler’s Mother.”
The architecture of the museum is an artwork unto itself, consisting of buildings designed by great names in architecture such as Annabelle Selldorf, Richard Meier, and Renzo Piano. If you fancy yourself a connoisseur of fine art, do visit this esteemed establishment and lose yourself in its halls.
Conclusion
Atlanta is one of the U.S’s largest cities, forming much of the country’s DNA, thus, truly getting a feel of the city, and seeing all it has to offer is so important, by simply visiting the places mentioned, you can be sure that you succeed in doing so, and can have an enriching, entertaining, and worthwhile trip to Atlanta.
What are the main transportation options in Atlanta?
Atlanta city’s official Public transport operator MARTA operates its subway system, bus system, and even its new street-car system. The subway system and bus system in particular are some of the most extensive in the U.S., so transportation need never be an issue in the ATL. Alternatively, with over 45 miles of bike paths, renting a bicycle may prove to be another feasible mode of transport.
Are there any festivals or events happening during my visit?
Depending on whether you plan on going in the summer, winter, or fall, the answer is yes, yes, and yes!
Atlanta hosts a wide range of festivals throughout the year, be they music, art, or film festivals, Whenever you go to Atlanta, someone is sure to be celebrating something!
With fall festivals, the Sweet Auburn Music Fest, Pride festivals, Taste of Atlanta, Oktoberfest events, and more, the fall season might be the busiest time of year, however, in the winter, one can look forward to events like the holiday lights show at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, the big Children’s Christmas Parade in Midtown, and events for Martin Luther King Day and Black History Month.What is the best time of year to visit Atlanta?
The peak of tourism in Atlanta is during the hot summer months from May to August, however, one might enjoy milder weather when visiting from March to May, as well as decreased tourist rush.
What safety tips should I be aware of while visiting Atlanta?
Other than the basics, like walking in groups, avoiding night-time strolls, not taking lifts from strangers, not using public transport at night, etc., there aren’t too many safety tips specific to Atlanta. 2 things to keep in mind, however, are pickpockets and cab-driver scams; the latter presents itself as cab-drivers pretending to have a broken odometer, thus over-charging you for the journey.
What are the popular nightlife spots in Atlanta?
Pour Taproom, Atlanta Magic Theatre, Dad’s Garage Theatre, Laughing Skull Lounge, Hippin Hops Brewery & Distillery, Monday Night Brewing, and Monday Night Garage are just some of the places you can visit in Atlanta to experience its bombastic night-life.
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