Clay and I have never vacationed in Atlanta but we’ve driven through there several times. It is a busy but beautiful city! And, it’s huge! Did you know that more than 40 million people visit Atlanta every year? Known as the Big Peach, Atlanta is one of the US’ most visited cities, but what’s so special about it? If you’re planning to find out for yourself, here are some top travel tips to help you plan the perfect tour.
When To Go
Atlanta is a year-round destination, but if you have a preference for warmer or cooler climes, this may dictate when it’s best to visit. The summer can be hot and humid, which isn’t ideal for everyone. Winter tends to be relatively mild, but it’s quieter and there’s less going on. This may be a draw for some visitors, but if you’re keen to visit when the cultural scene is in full swing and people are out and about, the spring and summer months are best. There are lots of festivals and events, and al fresco dining is very popular.
Where To Stay
There are accommodation options to suit all budgets in Atlanta. From luxury hotels at the heart of the action to budget-friendly guesthouses, there’s something for everyone. Snap up one of the beautiful rooms at FORTH Hotel in the historic Fourth Ward or opt for a budget-friendly guesthouse in Downtown Atlanta. Head to the popular suburbs of Buckhead and Emory if you’re not desperate to be within walking distance of the main attractions. Midtown is an excellent choice if you’re a fan of museums and galleries.
What To See And Do
You could easily spend weeks exploring Atlanta, but if you only have a few days, highlights include Georgia Aquarium, Martin Luther Jr. National Historical Park, the World of Coca-Cola, Centennial Olympic Park, the BeltLine and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Stroll through the Atlanta Botanical Gardens, grab a quick bite to eat at Ponce City Market and book a show or a concert for the evening at the Fox Theatre. Watch the Atlanta Hawks in action at State Farm Arena or head to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons.
Atlanta is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a very modern skyline, but it provides easy access to green spaces and natural beauty spots. Just a stone’s throw from the city, you can enjoy activities like hiking, paddleboarding, fishing and tubing on the Chattahoochee River. Getting out into the great outdoors is the perfect way to relax, discover stunning scenery and enjoy the best of both worlds during your trip to Atlanta. If you love an adrenaline rush, don’t miss the opportunity to hurtle down ziplines at Chattahoochee Nature Center or go rafting on the river.
A packed itinerary needs adequate fuel so be sure to sample some local delicacies and classic, much-loved Southern cuisine. Favorites include chicken and waffles, barbecue meats, shrimp and grits, pimento cheese and sweet fresh peach cobbler. Ask for local recommendations to find the best brunch and dinner spots and discover hidden treasures.
If you’re traveling to Atlanta, planning ahead is a great idea to make the most of your time. Research places to stay, think about what kind of weather conditions you prefer and explore popular attractions as well as places that are popular among locals.
