Welcome to Atlanta, a city that is home to the civil rights movement, Centennial Olympic Park, the splendid Georgia Aquarium and, of course, Coca-Cola, among other treasures. This is a city where rich history and a range of music, modernity, sports and Southern charm are present in equal measure. Then there are the gorgeous green spaces, unique neighborhoods and the “World’s Busiest Airport,” Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport-2018 marked the 21st year in a row that the hub has held on to that title. In a city bustling with tourists, those ready to explore will find famous names and hidden gems around many a corner. No matter what you’re looking for-great food, one-of-a-kind finds, top-notch shopping destinations or a wealth of cultural attractions-Atlanta is waiting to serve it up. So, whether you have visited before or are new to the city, the beauty about a place where change is a constant is that it never ceases to amaze. So, let us lead the way to the Empire State of the South’s stunning sights, layered history and cutting-edge experiences.
ATLANTA BELTLINE
Born from a student’s thesis, the Atlanta BeltLine is transforming 22 miles of abandoned railroad tracks into trails, parks, art and transit. the trails lined wisit. Explore with restaurants, shops and art. Guided bike, walking, bus and arboretum tours avail- able. Visit its website for more information and access points. 404.477.3003. www.beltline.org
CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS
The center’s perfor- mances dazzle audiences with puppets and sets crafted on-site by talented artists. 1404 Spring St. NW, Midtown, 404.873.3391. www.puppet.org
CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
Hiking trails and picnic areas dot a 48-mile stretch of Georgia’s gorgeous and scenic Chattahoochee River. 1978 Island Ford Parkway, Sandy Springs, 678.538.1200. www.nps.gov/chat
FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
Experience a world of adventure filled with dinosaurs, live animals, cultural artifacts and hands-on science explorations. Take a walk on the wild side through 75 acres of outdoor nature adventures in Wild- Woods and Fernbank Forest, or discover new worlds in 2-D and 3-D formats on Fernbank’s Giant Screen Theater. 767 Clifton Road NE, Druid Hills, 404.929.6300. www.fernbankmuseum.org
HISTORIC OAKLAND CEMETERY
Atlanta’s oldest cemetery and park includes gardens, an arboretum and art gallery. It is home to local luminaries-including Bobby Jones and Margaret Mitchell- interred alongside Confederate soldiers. 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Grant Park, 404.688.2107. www.oaklandcemetery.com
INSIDE CNN STUDIO TOUR
Step inside the world of 24-hour news and see the fast- paced newsrooms of CNN’s global headquarters. Tours de- part every 20 minutes. Check website for tour options and prices. 9 am-5 pm (daily). 190 Marietta St. NW, Downtown, 404.827.2300. www.cnn.com/tour
JIMMY CARTER LIBRARY AND MUSEUM
Learn about former President Jimmy Carter’s Navy career, explore a replica of the Oval Office and examine the humanitarian and diplomatic work Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter have done since leaving the White House. 441 Freedom Parkway, Poncey- Highland, 404.865.7100. www.jimmycarterlibrary.gov
SERENBE
The vision for the community of Serenbe was born in an effort to protect the beautiful rural land just beyond the Atlanta airport. While Serenbe has grown to include more than 400 residents, it’s also a beautiful place to retreat for just an after- noon-although you may not want to leave. Wine dinners in the garden, animal feedings, hayrides, outdoor theater, shopping from local purveyors and culinary classes are just the beginning. Weekenders can immerse themselves longer with a stay at the Inn at Serenbe. 770.463.1110. www.serenbe.com
ZOO ATLANTA
More than 1,500 animals call the zoo home, most notably gorillas and giant pandas. Zoo Atlanta is directly involved in field conservation programs for wildlife and wild places around the globe, including work in Africa, Asia, Central and South America, and right here in Georgia. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Grant Park, 404.624.9453. www.zooatlanta.org
More to See in Atlanta
