Best things to see and do when visiting Atlanta

Atlanta began as a railroad town that was pivotal for the Civil Rights movement back in the 1950s and 1960s. It was also the home of our beloved and historical Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Atlanta has always been a historic place to visit, but its popularity picked up quite a bit when the city hosted the Summer Olympics in 1996. Atlanta is currently known for its contributions to the film industry, magnificent architecture, and locations like the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. If you’re heading to Atlanta for business or pleasure, there are many things that you can add to your list of things to do. Hopefully, you’re headed there between March and May. This is when the weather is the mildest and beautiful. However, there is plenty to do for the rest of the year as well.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

If you travel just outside the downtown Atlanta area, you’ll be able to stop by the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in the Sweet Auburn area. There is so much to take in here, and it's one of the best things you can do when it comes to history. You’ll learn a lot about the civil rights movement and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. You can even stop to see Dr. King’s tomb, as well as that of his wife, Coretta Scott King at The King Center. There is a reflecting pool nearby with an eternal flame that makes for the perfect photo opportunities and sightseeing. There are also exhibits that focus on other key contributors to the civil rights movement. The home where King was born is located nearby at 501 Auburn Avenue. Not far from there is the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King delivered sermons.

The World of Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola was invented in 1886 by John Stith Pemberton. The World of Coca-Cola was opened up in 1990. It moved to its current location in 2007. With Coca-Cola being such a national treasure, you’ll want to stop by here to see how the drink is made. While you're there, check out the 4D movie experience and grab some souvenirs for the road. You can even taste test over 100 different beverages that are currently being produced and distributed internationally by the Coca-Cola Company.

The Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the world. It currently has a whale shark on-site, in a 24,000 cubic meter tank. The entire building construction was focused around this shark’s exhibit because of his size. There are a couple of whale shark talks each day that explains all about the animal. You can’t miss the 8-meter deep tank that has a giant beluga whale in it. In total, there are over 100,000 animals from 700 different species at The Georgia Aquarium. It’s a great place to take the kids, but adults also find this aquarium interesting.

Centennial Olympic Park

In 1996, Centennial Olympic Park was the centralized location of the Atlanta Olympics. Once the Olympics were over, 21 acres became a busy section where Atlanta’s most popular attractions are now located. On Wednesdays throughout the summer, there is WindDown. WindDown is a series of concerts that you can visit, including Atlanta’s 4th of July concert and fireworks event. You'll definitely want to check out Skyview Atlanta. It is a 200-foot tall ferris wheel that offers some of the best views of the city.

The Woodruff Arts Center

This is one of the top art museums in this part of the United States. There is a massive collection of art from many different periods. You’ll find Italian Medieval paintings, contemporary sculptures and modern art as well from artists like Chuck Close, Monet, and Tiepolo. Rodin’s: The Shade on the Lawn is featured here. It was gifted to The Woodruff Arts Center back in 1962. There are moving pieces that come and go from The Center as they pass to different locations.

The High Museum

Adjacent to The Woodruff Arts Center is The High Museum. The High, as locals call it, is home to spectacular traveling exhibits. Among the recent exhibits on display include the works of Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol. The Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors was wildly popular and sold out within minutes. 

Piedmont Park

If you crave the great outdoors, peace, quiet, and miles of paved trails, then Piedmont Park is for you. This gem is nestled in the heart of Midtown, just outside of Atlanta’s main business sector. This is an urban park that stands out when you travel to Atlanta. It was redesigned at the turn of the century. Frederick Law Olmstead did the work. He’s responsible for Central Park’s landscaping in New York. You can rent a bicycle if you want to travel through the area faster. There are even playgrounds along the way if you have your family in tow. During the summer months, there are plenty of markets, food events, music festivals, and much more. The Atlanta Dogwood Festival in April and Music Midtown in September draw tens of thousands of people each year.

The Atlantic Botanical Garden

The Atlantic Botanical Garden is located near Piedmont Park. If the weather is beautiful the day you’re in the area, you can spend the whole day going for a stroll through this area. There are several different gardens with themes and various attractions. There is the most extensive collection of orchids in the United States located here, and this is one of the best things you can do in the spring. In December, it is decked out in Christmas lights for beautiful displays. The Dorothy Chapman Fuqua Conservatory has live animals to view. Turtles, birds of different varieties, and poison dart frogs are fun to watch if you’re bringing the kids along for the trip.

The Fox Theatre

You might not be in New York City, but Atlanta offers a number of touring Broadway shows throughout the year. You can also catch the Atlanta Ballet, various movie screenings, and concerts. Kids' entertainment shows are also scheduled often. The theatre itself is a sight to be seen. It was built in 1929, with 4,665 seats. It has a glorious dome, minarets, and stonework. The interior is decorated with styles from Islamic and Egyptian cultures. Just some of the past shows that have come through The Fox Theatre includes the Allman Brothers, James Brown, Elvis, comedian Jerry Seinfeld and the national tour of "Hamilton."

If you're feeling adventurous and want to explore outside of the Downtown and Midtown areas, other popular attractions include upscale shopping at Phipps Plaza and Lenox Square in Buckhead and the laser light show at Stone Mountain Park.

Over the past 30 years, downtown Atlanta has seen a lot of development and change. It is now the center of so many exciting locations, tourist sights, and historical spots. Atlanta is an excellent location for business, family vacations, or quick weekends away. There’s plenty to do with the kids, but adults can make a great vacation here, as well. Don’t forget to consider the weather before you plan your trip. Atlanta is beautiful throughout the year, but you should think about the activities you want to do when you arrive. There may be a specific time of year that you would prefer. Check the weather forecast before your trip. You’ll be able to pack accordingly to prepare for any inclement weather.

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