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.
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.
Housing the history of the world's most popular soda, the World of Coca-Cola is one of Atlanta's premier attractions. See pieces of historic Coke memorabilia, visit the 3D theatre for a unique cinematic experience, and lay eyes on the vault that holds the secret recipe. Visitors can also sample an array of coke, send letters to friends and family from the famous Coke polar bear, take home authentic Coke gifts from the museum shop, and visit the pop culture gallery to learn about the advertising history of this renowned brand.
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.
This modest turn-of-the-century home is an architectural find in itself, but most notable because it houses the apartment where Margaret Mitchell, the recipient of Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1937, penned most of Gone with the Wind. Once funnily referred to as 'The Dump' by Margaret Mitchell due to its sorry condition, he house has been completely restored to its initial glory making it possible for you to visit this gem of a place and learn about one of the best writers the world has seen. Guided tours feature a wealth of historical and anecdotal information on Mitchell, the house and Atlanta in general. A museum shop is also on site.
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.
The Millennium Gate beautifully punctuates Midtown to give Atlanta its "Gate City" nickname. The Latin inscription on the facade indicates the structure is a dedication to peaceful accomplishments. The architecture is quintessential of classic Roman triumphal arches replete with sculptural accents and a picturesque landscape. It houses a museum that sprawls over 12,000 square feet (1,100 square meters) and showcases a well-preserved collection of Georgian memorabilia and historical evidence. The period rooms lend a glimpse into life in the 18th Century while digital and technologically interactive displays make for a sophisticated history lesson.
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.
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.