The city of Atlanta goes back to the Civil War era. The city was surrendered to the Union Army, and General Sherman ordered the city to be burned to the ground, sparing only a few churches and hospitals. Since then, the city has been rebuilt, and it has grown and thrived as a hotspot of progressive development and has exerted a significant influence on areas like commerce, technology, art, educations, media, finance, and research to name a few. The city is now home to one of the busiest airports in the U.S. called the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Atlanta has a great mix of variety in demographics and culture, and there are some interesting things to do when you visit.
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Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is an impressive feat, as it is the largest aquarium in the world for several years before it was surpassed by one in Singapore. 10 million gallons of water can be found inside in the aquarium, and the most popular exhibits include the beluga whales, manta rays, dolphins, and whale sharks. The aquarium is well laid out, clean and spacious. Visitors leave rave reviews about the place and say they would visit again. Enjoy an amazing dolphin show in an auditorium inside, and visit the “tunnel” where a moving walkway takes you through a glass tunnel with water overhead where sharks, manta rays, and other marine animals swim right overhead. The seal show is another treat to see and is held in the same auditorium as the dolphin show. Allow at least a few hours to explore as there is so much to see! This is a top-notch aquarium filled with healthy, happy animals and guests visiting Atlanta love it.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. This site consists of several buildings and about 35 acres. See the childhood home of Martin Luther King Jr. and the famous Ebenezer Baptist Church where he was a pastor, as well as his father. There is an excellent visitor center to see and a museum within that King’s movements through history as well as a gift shop. Take a guided tour of the King home and learn about King as a child. The guide can answer any questions you may have after the tour. See some of the personal effects of King and his wife, and see some great exhibits. The tours and visit are all free; just make sure to reserve your place in advance. The visit is educational and inspiring and is well worth your time while in Atlanta.
Swan House
The Swan House is an absolute stunning historic house located in Atlanta. It is one of the most photographed landmarks in the city, and upon arrival, guests will see why. The massive mansion was created in 1928 for the Inman family who was wealthy and considered the elite of their time. The mansion provides a glimpse into the 1920s and 1930s eras. Famed architect Phillip Shutze constructed the beautiful mansion, and guests today are allowed to explore many of the rooms, the gardens, fountains, grounds and lovely views surrounding the historic landmark. Staff dressed as characters from the period may be seen in the house, acting as though they live or work there which adds a unique ambiance to the tours. This was also a production site used in the popular film “The Hunger Games.” The mansion is a masterpiece of Atlanta, and the beauty and size of it will leave you impressed.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Thirty acres of gardens delight visitors to Atlanta Botanical Garden every year. This is a photographer’s paradise, with meticulously cared for gardens combined with footpaths, gates, water features and much more to enjoy. Marvel at the creations made of glass by sculptor Dale Chihuly that is conveniently placed around the gardens. Dusk provides the amazing skyline and the lights displayed around the garden areas will leave you in awe. Christmas light exhibits are a crowd favorite during the holidays, and there is something here for everyone to appreciate. The gardens are stunning, well-done, and a must-see attraction while in Atlanta.
High Museum of Art
The High Museum of Art is one of the top-ranked museums in the southeastern U.S. The building itself is magnificent, not to mention a top-notch restaurant inside, excellent exhibits and activities and something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate. The museum has special exhibits that change throughout the year as well as a fantastic and impressive permanent collection. Visit the permanent collection exhibits such as the European art collection, the African art collection, photography, modern and contemporary, and American as well as several others. Family programs are offered, and there are some activities to keep the kids interested. The museum has everything from paintings, sculptures, furniture, statues, and many other items. This is a great stop while in Atlanta to one of the top museums.
Fox Theatre
The historic Fox Theatre was originally built as a movie palace and is currently a performing art venue that has over 4,000 seats. The theater hosts a variety of events such as the Atlanta Ballet, a summer film series, and many others. It is also home to the largest theater instrument known as “Mighty Mo.” Mighty Mo is a 42-rank pipe organ that was custom built in 1929. The pipes of Mighty Mo range in size from 32 feet to the size of a pen and imitates the sound of a full orchestra. Tours of the famous theater are offered, and they include 60 minutes of over ten different locations in the building, led by a knowledgeable guide. The theater’s website has a large schedule of events planned, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Check out this amazing and historical stage while you’re visiting Atlanta.
Center for Civil and Human Rights
The Center for Civil and Human Rights is a must-see while in the city. Whether you’re a history buff or not will matter because visitors love their visit to the center. The exhibits are one of the main attractions, as they are well-done, moving, and interesting. There is no political agenda behind any of the displays or exhibits, strictly interesting facts that you may not have known. The center covers all aspects of Civil and Human Rights. The wall showing the Freedom Riders is a favorite of visitors, as is the short movies of historical events and the original sermon notes of Martin Luther King Jr. Be prepared for an emotional and beautiful experience at the center that you won’t want to miss.
This is a well-compiled list, I have not been to Atlanta but I hope to be there sometime soon, some the places listed here are on my list already.