Atlanta, USA

Ultimate Travel Guide to Atlanta, USA

Introduction

Atlanta, the capital city of Georgia, is a thriving metropolis with a rich history, vibrant culture, and numerous attractions. This guide will help you navigate your way through this exciting destination.

Places to Go

  1. Centennial Olympic Park: Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, this park is a great place to relax and enjoy events like the Friday Night Flicks movie series in the summer.
  2. The Georgia Aquarium: Home to thousands of animals across hundreds of species, it’s the largest aquarium in the world.
  3. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site: This includes his boyhood home, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and The King Center where the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech is on display.
  4. Atlanta Botanical Garden: With over 30 acres of gardens, this peaceful oasis offers a variety of plants from around the world.
  5. World of Coca-Cola: Learn about the history of this iconic brand and even taste some of their products from around the globe.
  6. Piedmont Park: One of Atlanta’s largest city parks, it hosts events like the Atlanta Pride Festival and Dogwood Festival.
  7. Fernbank Museum of Natural History: With a giant dinosaur outside and exhibits on natural history, this is a must-visit for families.
  8. High Museum of Art: The leading art museum in the southeastern U.S., it houses an impressive collection spanning various periods and styles.
  9. Atlanta History Center: Explore the history of Atlanta and the American South through exhibits, historic houses, and gardens.
  10. Six Flags Over Georgia: For thrill-seekers, this amusement park offers a range of roller coasters and attractions.

Activities

  1. Street Art Tours: Discover Atlanta’s vibrant street art scene with guided tours in the Historic Fourth Ward and Cabbagetown neighborhoods.
  2. Food Tours: Explore Atlanta’s diverse food scene through guided tours focused on specific cuisines or neighborhoods.
  3. Skyview Atlanta: Take a ride on this Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city.
  4. Civil Rights Sites: Visit sites like the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Sweet Auburn District, and Morehouse College to learn about the civil rights movement.
  5. Falcons or Braves Games: Catch a game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium or Truist Park and experience the Atlanta sports atmosphere.

Where to Eat

  1. The Varsity: Known as “the world’s largest drive-in restaurant”, it’s a must for a classic Atlanta meal.
  2. Mary Mac’s Tea Room: Enjoy Southern comfort food in this historic restaurant.
  3. Jim ’n Nick’s Bar-B-Q: Dig into some delicious Southern barbecue.
  4. Staplehouse: For a fine dining experience, try this James Beard Award-winning restaurant.
  5. Krog Street Market: A food hall featuring a variety of local eateries.
  6. Food Truck Park: Gather at this park to enjoy food from a rotating selection of Atlanta’s best food trucks.

Where to Stay

  1. The Westin Peachtree Plaza, Atlanta: This iconic skyscraper offers luxury accommodations and a revolving restaurant.
  2. W Atlanta - Midtown: Modern and stylish, this hotel is located in the heart of midtown Atlanta.
  3. Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton: A historic property renovated to offer contemporary comfort.
  4. Atlanta Evergreen Line Hotel: This hotel offers convenient access to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
  5. Airbnb: For a more local experience, consider renting an apartment or house through Airbnb.

Things to Know

  1. Weather: Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are mild but can see occasional snow.
  2. Public Transportation: MARTA provides public transportation throughout the city. Consider a Breeze Card for discounted fares.
  3. Tipping: Tipping is expected in restaurants, bars, and for services like taxi rides.
  4. Safety: Like any major city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in less touristy areas.
  5. ATL Airport: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. Plan accordingly to navigate the crowds.

Transportation

  1. MARTA: Atlanta’s public transportation system, offering trains and buses throughout the city.
  2. Uber/Lyft: These ride-sharing services are widely available in Atlanta.
  3. Streetcar: A free streetcar runs through downtown Atlanta, connecting popular destinations like Centennial Olympic Park and Piedmont Park.
  4. Bike Rental: DecoRides offers bike rentals for exploring the city.
  5. Car Rental: If you prefer to drive, there are several car rental companies located at the airport and throughout the city.

Tips

  1. Parking: Street parking can be challenging in downtown Atlanta. Consider using a parking deck or app-based parking services.
  2. Festival Schedule: Check local event calendars to avoid visiting during major events that may affect traffic and hotel prices.
  3. Civil Rights Tour: If you plan to visit multiple civil rights sites, consider the Atlanta Civil Rights Pass for discounted admission.
  4. Day Trips: Explore nearby destinations like Stone Mountain Park or Savannah with a day trip.