Things to do in  Atlanta

Rich in history and sunny in disposition, the southern city of Atlanta, Georgia mixes family fun with big-city amenities. While visitors flock to the most popular things to do—such as the Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Olympic Park, World of Coca-Cola, CNN Center, and Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site—they would be remiss to overlook the city’s charms, expressed in the distinct character of each of Atlanta’s 242 neighborhoods. From historic Buckhead’s grand homes and tree-lined boulevards to the skyscrapers etching the skyline of the industrial downtown, Atlanta’s flavors are as complex as the soul food binding the city together.

Although sometimes still looked upon as the sleepy southern town of Gone With the Wind fame, contemporary Atlanta has more to offer visitors than bevvies of Southern belles. Today’s sightseeing tours emphasize Atlanta’s core character, as expressed through street art, public parks and gardens, and civil rights history.

You might recognize some areas of the city from the many movies and TV shows filmed around town, such as The Walking Dead and Captain America, leading some to call Atlanta the new “mini-Hollywood.” And even though it was filmed here, don’t expect the streets to look like they did in 8Driving Miss Daisy;* it’s easier to have a guide navigate the city’s massive highway system for you.