Atlanta is Georgia’s Capital and offers plenty of attractions, exciting outdoor activities and historic sites, most of them within walking distance. You will get all the southern hospitality you crave as well as some good dining options. This is definitely one of those few cities in America that have both big city and small town vibe.
Without further ado, here is my Atlanta travel guide for you! You can do this itinerary easily within 1-2 days.
Jackson Street bridge
I would suggest to start your day visiting the Jackson Street Bridge. There is a sidewalk along the bridge where you can walk and get the best views and of course pictures of the Atlanta Downtown Skyline.
Lanes of traffic stretch out beneath you, as if you’re floating 30 feet above. And don’t be surprised when you see it’s an iconic image from “The Walking Dead” series
World of Coca cola
This is a place to experience the fascinating story of the world’s most famous beverage brand and getting little closer to the secret formula. You can taste over 100 plus flavors of Coke from all over the world and there is a 3-D theater where you will be taken on a breakneck quest to discover just what it is that makes Coke, well, Coke.
Stone Mountain Park
Stone mountain park is one of Atlanta’s most popular locations for outdoor recreation. The park attractions include the Scenic Railroad, Antique Car and Treasure Museum, Skyride cable car and a Laser show.
Stone mountain depicts three Confederate figures (Jefferson Davis, Robert E. Lee, and Stonewall Jackson) galloping on horseback throughout eternity . The carving’s initial design was sculpted by Gutzon Borglum of Mount Rushmore fame but he abandoned it after 10 days and then it was completed by Walter Kirtland Hancock and Roy Faulkner.
You can follow(highly recommended) the one mile trail up the mountain to get to an amazing view from the top of Stone Mountain. While the trail is just one mile, there are some very steep spots. After reaching the summit, you can walk around and check out the great views of the Atlanta skyline and the Appalachian Mountains.
The Lasershow at Stone Mountain
You can end your day of exploring things at Stone Mountain Park with a picnic on the Great Lawn. If the Laser Show is in season, definitely stay into the evening as this was one of the highlights of my visit to that place. For 45 minutes, we watched the mountain carving come alive as images dance across it. There were drones, flame cannons, fireworks, and iconic music the Stone Mountain Laser show is something not to be missed!
More Places to See
- Georgia Aquarium – is the second largest aquarium in the world and the biggest in the United States. It houses over 500 species, such as whale sharks, dolphins, penguins and many more. You can buy advanced tickets here, I would recommend to buy in advance to not have to wait as long to go in.
- Centennial Olympic Park– free to visit and right in front of both the Aquarium and Coke Factory. There are several studios, news rooms, restaurants and stores are located within this gigantic building.
- Botanical Gardens– The Botanical Garden in Atlanta is a 30 acres of lush green garden with several exhibits and beautiful flowers that are waiting to be explored.
- Atlanta Belt Line and Ponce City Market– the food is incredible, it’s super hipster and such a great way to see the city.
Final Words
I hope this little travel guide gave you some ideas for your trip to Atlanta! This place is easy to fall in love with as it has something for everyone here, from street art and classic architecture, Museums, Sports, Nature trails and gardens.
Atlanta’s location is also ideal for day or overnight trips to nearby cities such as Charlotte, Charleston, Savannah, Jacksonville, Birmingham, Nashville, Chattanooga, Asheville, Panama City, Myrtle Beach, and Hilton Head Island. So, get up, put your mask on and head towards this jewel of southern America.
Have you ever been to Atlanta? If it wasn’t on your radar, I hope this post helps change your mind! Tell me what you think in the comments below!
