Top Rated Attractions in Atlanta

Atlanta History Center is a great spot for history buffs. This comprehensive museum complex was founded in 1926 and chronicles the region's history, including sections on the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, Southern folk crafts, Atlanta's expansion, and much more. Spread across 33 acres (13.5 hectares), the complex consists of the Atlanta History Museum, Swan House, Tullie Smith Farm (Smith Family Farm), Margaret Mitchell House, Lee Playhouse, Victorian Playhouse, McElreath Hall, Kenan Research Center, and beautiful gardens. It has various programs, festivals, and events throughout the year. Considered to be among the biggest history museums in the country, each space is unique and distinct, giving a glimpse of an era bygone and stories to enthrall everyone.

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is one of the largest spectacles of plant life in the Southeast. Sprawling over 30 acres (12.14 hectares), this natural oasis was established in 1976 and is located within stumbling distance of the famous Piedmont Park. It is home to the Fuqua Conservatory and Japanese gardens, both rich in globe-spanning flora. Follow a walking trail, which is a favorite of couples, and admire exotic rose plantations and carnivorous specimens. In addition, guided tours and seasonal shows guarantee an entertaining botany lesson.

The Rialto Center for the Arts is an acoustically splendid, 833-seat, state-of-the-art theater. It is situated in the historic Fairlie-Poplar district of downtown Atlanta. The Rialto's seasonal series runs from early October through May and boasts an eclectic array of dance, music and theater performances and comedy shows. Tickets for all events can be ordered by phone, mail or fax, or by visiting the Rialto box office at the corner of Forsyth and Luckie Streets.

The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in the country. Surrounded by 140 acres (56 hectares) of forests, it is located a short distance from downtown and is a must on itineraries to Atlanta. Natural history buffs can marvel at intriguing exhibitions in the Great Hall. A landmark in itself, this splendid building features a 123 feet (37 meters) tall skeletal structure of the largest dinosaur ever classified in the world. Interactive programs at the planetarium promise an entertaining astronomy lesson, while a one of its kind Giant Screen Theater showcases brilliant films for visitors. Moreover, the museum organizes outdoor exploration programs and science demonstrations for the youth on every second Friday of the month.

The Georgia Aquarium opened in 2005 as one of the largest aquariums in the world. Located in downtown Atlanta, it is undoubtedly a breathtaking experience for all its visitors. A generous endowment from Bernard Marcus, the co-founder of Home Depot, made this dynamic aquarium possible. It showcases exotic sea creatures such as giant groupers, beluga whales and whale sharks. With 500 species, you will see something new and different no matter when you visit. One can opt for sleepovers with friends and enjoy a night-time experience in the aquarium. In addition, it also offers an expansive educational program for students of all ages and several interactive animal experiences.

Just minutes away from downtown Atlanta, located in the historic Grant Park, the exciting Zoo Atlanta features the Southeast's most impressive collection of wildlife from around the globe. Legend has it that the zoo got its start when the owners of a traveling animal show went bankrupt and suddenly fled town. Today, popular exhibits include daily elephant demonstrations, giraffe feedings, and a meet-and-greet with Chinese pandas. Various spots within the zoo make for wonderful locations to host private celebrations too.