Atlanta is a bustling metropolis in the heart of Georgia, offering gorgeous scenery, historic attractions, delicious Southern food, and genuine hospitality. Atlanta vacation rentals put you in the center of all the action, especially since there’s always something to do in this amazing city. Whether you want to learn about local history by touring one of the many museums, do some shopping at the market square, or simply take in the scenery on a long, leisurely walk, there are plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. If you’re gearing up for a visit to Atlanta, this top 15 list of things to do is a great way to get a jump-start on your itinerary.
1. World of Coca-Cola
A day at World of Coca-Cola is a must for anyone visiting Atlanta, as this popular attraction has everything from the famous Coca-Cola bear to the legendary vault where Coke’s secret formula is stashed away for safe keeping. Take a guided tour, sample over 100 different beverages, and pick up a souvenir or two in the Coca-Cola store.
2. Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, housing thousands of marine animals in approximately 10 million gallons of water. Whales, sharks, and manta rays are merely the tip of the iceberg at this massive attraction, and you can even get up close and personal with dolphins and sea lions during interactive shows.
3. CNN Center
If you’ve ever wondered about the action-packed process of live news, taking a tour of the CNN Center is a great way to spend the day. The 50-minute walking tour takes visitors through the newsrooms and stages of this headquarters, while knowledgeable guides provide in-depth information on how live newscasts are produced.
4. Six Flags Over Georgia
For a fun, adrenaline-packed day, head over to Six Flags Over Georgia. If you’re traveling with kids, they’re sure to enjoy the Georgia Scorcher, an 11-story coaster with lots of twists and turns. If roller coasters aren’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other rides and attractions to enjoy, including the Marthasville Railroad train that travels through the park, Sky Buckets cable cars, and water slides.
5. Zoo Atlanta
Spend time with some of the most beautiful animals on the planet at Zoo Atlanta. Visit with Yang Yang, the zoo’s resident panda, then stroll the grounds and get up close with giraffes, gorillas, koalas, and more. If anyone in your travel group is interested in snakes and other critters, make sure to stop by the reptile exhibit.
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6. College Football Hall of Fame
For the sports fans in your group, the College Football Hall of Fame is a must-see on your itinerary. Each visitor receives an all-access pass for an interactive tour of the complex, where you can kick footballs like the pros, sing fight-song karaoke, and sit in on a broadcast with the ESPN crew.
7. Margaret Mitchell House and Museum
If you’re a movie buff or simply enjoy the all-time favorite movie ‘Gone With the Wind,’ stop by the Margaret Mitchell House and Museum. This historic home is where author Margaret Mitchell wrote the literary classic, and she actually referred to the modest space as ‘The Dump.’ Tour the museum to learn more about the author, and check out the rotating exhibits that honor the book and movie.
8. Center for Puppetry Arts
For a fun day with adorable puppets, head over to the Center for Puppetry Arts. Many of Jim Henson’s lovable Muppets call the museum portion of the center home, and you can also catch a live puppet show in the theater area.
9. Jimmy Carter Library and Museum
Learn about one of the most beloved U.S. presidents at the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. Check out a life-size replica of the Oval Office, skim through documents and photos, and view an interactive map exhibit to learn more about President Carter’s humanitarian efforts.
10. Skyview Atlanta
View Atlanta from 20 stories above ground by taking a ride on the Skyview Atlanta Ferris wheel. Climate-controlled gondolas keep riders comfortable while you ride up and above the glorious city, taking in the many sights and sounds from a panoramic point of view.
11. Ponce City Market
Take a trip back in time with a modern twist by spending an afternoon at Ponce City Market. Housed in the historic Sears, Roebuck and Co. building, Ponce City Market features a variety of shops and the Central Food Hall, where you can pick up souvenirs and enjoy a meal while taking in the historic architecture.
12. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Childhood Home
Spend the day honoring the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the historic 1895 home where he was born. Dr. King spent the first 12 years of his life in this home, and today it serves as a museum honoring his legacy.
13. Millennium Gate Museum
Absorb local culture at the Millennium Gate Museum, a 12,000-square-foot museum offering a variety of exhibits dedicated to Georgia heritage. In addition to world-class works of art and historical artifacts, the museum’s architecture is also a sight to behold. Roman-style arches welcome visitors to the museum, and each gallery represents a specific period in history.
14. Georgia State Capitol
Learn what makes the capital of Atlanta tick with a visit to the Georgia State Capitol. Sign up for a guided tour to learn the history of Georgia government, or use the Capitol app to take a self-guided tour at your own pace.
15. Atlanta Botanical Garden
Spend the day with nature at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, a beautiful 30-acre outdoor space filled with lovely flowers, carved statues, and picturesque fountains. Walk along the grounds and take in the views, then head over to the adjacent Piedmont Park for a picnic on the grass.
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