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Best Historic Locations in Atlanta

, 11 Options Found

One of the largest cemeteries in Atlanta, the Oakland Cemetery is located in the heart of downtown. This bucolic expanse serves as a constant reminder of the city's history. Dating back to the 1850s, the cemetery was the final destination for all Atlantans until 1884, when private burial grounds began appearing throughout the city. The oldest section is near the main entrance, where legendary golfer Bobby Jones and author Margaret Mitchell are interred. This expansive 48-acre (190,000-sq meter) beautiful garden now houses sculptures, an art gallery, a green space and serves as a prominent wedding venue for the city.

A few blocks to the east of downtown, the Sweet Auburn neighborhood is home to the birthplace of America's most influential Civil Rights leader. Operated by the National Park Service, the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park comprises Dr. King's boyhood home, his tomb and the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King and his father were both pastors. The park, along with much of the surrounding district, was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977. This collection of historic monuments invokes poignant memories of Martin Luther King Jr., and the indelible mark that he has left on the American Civil Rights Movement. Visitors will also find other fascinating monuments here such as the King Center, the Prince Hall and a statue of the world-revered Mahatma Gandhi. The Visitor Center of the site shelters an insightful museum, which sheds light on the legacy of Dr. King.

Created mostly with land granted by Colonel Lemuel Grant, the "Father of Atlanta," Grant Park is the oldest surviving park in the city. Its landscape was part of the defensive line against Union forces in the Civil War, and the breastworks of Fort Walker remain as evidence of the Confederacy's defeat. The Cyclorama, a circular building filled with the world's largest painting, tells the story of the battle. The park's other main attraction is Zoo Atlanta, one of the only places in the country that you can see a set of giant pandas.

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum spread across 30 acres (12.14 hectares) lies next to John Lewis Freedom Parkway in Atlanta. The complex consists of interconnected pavilions that house the offices of the former President, research and foundation facilities, and the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. The Presidential Library and Museum has an extensive collection of papers, photographs, films, and videos about the Carter administration and the President’s family life. Visitors can opt for the docent tour or a self-guided tour of this wonderful place.

Swan House is yet another notable creation of the famous city architect Philip Trammel Shutze. This historic structure, which boasts a mention in the National Register of Historic Places, served as the abode of Edward and Emily Inman, the affluent heirs of a massive cotton fortune. Occupying an unmissable spot within the Atlanta History Center, this striking mansion is a designing marvel. One can witness a peculiar mélange of architectural styles in the structure. Primarily designed per Renaissance revival style, the abode does showcase inspirations from Italian and English classicism too. No matter whether you are a history buff, do consider taking a leisurely stroll along the exquisite premises of the Swan House to appreciate the beguiling, old-school beauty of the cascading fountains and the well-manicured gardens here.

Atlanta BeltLine began as an ambitious public redevelopment project. Today, however, this expansive city feature stands a prominent tourist attraction and an alluring recreation hub. Comprising close to 22 miles (35 kilometers) of unused railroad tracks, Atlanta BeltLine circles the heart of the city. Right from sinuous trails and verdant walkways to massive parks and an art exhibit, this magnificent hub packs in a whole lot. Pick between the numerous trails here and explore the peculiar offerings of each. While you meander along the seemingly endless labyrinth of trails, you will certainly work up an appetite. This is when the host of fine restaurants dotting the Atlanta BeltLine will come to your rescue, leaving you spoiled for choice.

A rolling oasis nestled in the heart of downtown Atlanta, this lush park is interspersed with sprawling rock gardens. Built to enhance the infrastructure for the 1996 Summer Olympics, this park is fringed by a tapestry of buildings significant to the city, like the CNN Center, Philips Arena and the Georgia World Congress Center. The nearly 500,000 commemorative bricks that make up its main walkway were a part of fundraising efforts for the Games. During scorching Atlanta summers, children frolic in the ground-level Olympic Rings, which periodically shoot streams of water through their five rings. One of the most promising features of the park is the fascinating 'Fountain of Rings', a technology-controlled fountain complete with music, light towers and a splash pad; not only is the fountain a hive of fun and frolic, but it is also a great architectural feat. The park is also home to several other water features and is a massive locus for live music in the city's downtown. Bearing stunning semblances of natural wonders and an iconic Olympic legacy, Centennial Olympic Park is a site that Atlanta holds close to its heart.

This National Historic Landmark was built in 1929 as a Shrine temple, but through most of its history, it has served as Atlanta's premier theatrical venue. The Fox Theater is a marvel of Middle Eastern Revival architecture that spans a full city block. It is one of the largest theaters built in America during the golden age of the movies. Today, the theater maintains a steady schedule of Broadway shows, operas, symphonic performances, and rock concerts. Tours are available, but the best way to experience the Fox Theatre is through the city's nightlife.

This 24,000-square-foot (2230-square meter) modern mansion has been home to the state's governors since 1968, when the mansion was rebuilt in the Greek Revival style. The two-story home features a library and a ballroom that comfortably seats 150 for dinner. Furnishings and paintings are neoclassical and feature many collections from Georgia artists. The second floor is the family's private residence and includes a large suite for visiting dignitaries. The free tour is self-guided, although hosts are available in each room to explain items of special significance. A virtual tour is available on the website.

Standing tall over Capitol Square, The Georgia State Capitol commands historic and architectural significance. Colored in rich white, the building displays a blend of neoclassical and classical revival architecture. It features elements like detailed pilasters and Corinthian columns, which support a four-story front porch, or portico. The towering dome is laden with gold leaf, with a statue of the Goddess of Liberty perched as its crowning glory. The monument features a museum that chronicles the history of the state through various historic artifacts like portraits, statues, relics and fossils. It serves as the primary legislative building of the government of Georgia and houses several office chambers, where the General Assembly meets annually. Students, tourists and locals alike can indulge in guided tours of the building to learn about the state’s and the country’s important historic events.

Located in the northeast part of Atlanta, Virginia-Highland is one of the popular neighborhoods of the city. The area is has a variety of restaurants and is home to many shopping and fine dining destinations. Many of the buildings still retain their historic architecture. A must-visit attraction when in Atlanta.

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