Popular Georgia Vacation Cities

What to Know

Home to CNN, Coca-Cola and the 1996 Olympics, Atlanta is the South’s most sophisticated city. Despite a population surpassing 5 million people, this friendly city retains its Old South charm. Don’t expect to see antebellum homes, however, thanks to Sherman’s orders to burn Atlanta to the ground during the Civil War. Instead, tour the Margaret Mitchell House and Museum, where the author captured this historic event in Gone With the Wind.

The birthplace of Martin Luther King, Jr., Atlanta has long been associated with the Civil Rights movement. Pay your respects at MLK’s gravesite at the King Center, where his Nobel Peace Prize is also displayed.

If possible, try to avoid driving during your visit. Traffic in and around Atlanta is intense, and getting around can be tricky-there are more than 40 streets in the area named Peachtree. Fortunately, there’s MARTA: Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. Rail stations are located at the airport, near every major attraction in the city and out in the suburbs.

Where to Go

Many of Atlanta’s top attractions are located downtown, including the world’s largest aquarium. Visit during the week to avoid crowds and reserve tickets in advance to guarantee admission to this popular attraction. Next door at the World of Coca-Cola museum, sample more than 70 Coke products from around the world. Then stroll through the adjacent Centennial Olympic Park, site of the ’96 games, to the nearby CNN building for a behind-the-scenes tour of the news headquarters.

Venture north of Downtown to explore artsy Midtown. The area is packed with cultural attractions like the majestic Fox Theatre, which has hosted musicals, concerts and events since the 1920’s. A few blocks north, the sprawling Woodruff Arts Center is home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Alliance Theatre and the celebrated High Museum of Art.

Avid shoppers shouldn’t miss Buckhead. This posh neighborhood, located just north of Midtown, is home to some of the South’s best shopping. In addition to boutiques, galleries and antique shops, there are two major shopping Mmccas: Lenox Mall and the upscale Phipps Plaza.

When to Go

Atlanta is a gorgeous city thanks to widespread trees and greenery. Visit in the spring, when dogwood-lined streets are in full bloom and temperatures are mild. Plan a trip for April to catch the annual Atlanta Dogwood Festival in Midtown’s beautiful Piedmont Park. A rite of spring since 1936, the festival features food, an arts market, live music and one of the world’s biggest Frisbee competitions for dogs.

Located adjacent to the park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is especially gorgeous in the spring. Top off a sunny day in Piedmont Park with a handcrafted brew from Park Tavern. Located on the edge of the park, this favorite local meeting place features a sprawling, dog-friendly patio. If it rains, draft beer is discounted to one dollar.

If you visit in May, don’t miss the Sweet Auburn SpringFest. The festival takes place in downtown’s Sweet Auburn Historic District, an area rich in African-American heritage. Live music, art and soul food are just a few of the highlights.