01 Oct Six Can’t-Miss Local Atlanta Attractions

Atlanta, Georgia is one of the most vibrant cities in America, full of fun things to see and do. If you’re visiting Atlanta for the first time (or if you have family or friends coming to visit and want to “show them the town”), here are six “can’t-miss” local Atlanta attractions to help you get started.

THE GEORGIA AQUARIUM

Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta across from the Olympic Center, the Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest in the world, boasting over 100,000 living aquatic creatures in 8 million gallons of water. Featuring amazing exhibits, live shows and a 4-D theatre, the Georgia Aquarium is especially popular with kids. For an extra charge, encounter and interact with dolphins, penguins or sea otters, or even swim with whale sharks!

ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN

Whether you’re a flora enthusiast or just enjoy a nice walk in the park, this 30-acre facility has something for everyone, with numerous indoor and outdoor displays year-round, plus classes, kids’ programs, meeting space for special events, and even a weekly evening cocktail party during the spring and summer months.

ATLANTA CYCLORAMA AND CIVIL WAR MUSEUM

A history buff’s dream, this must-see attraction is located in Atlanta’s historic Grant Park and features the largest oil painting in the world: a 360-degree panorama depicting the Battle of Atlanta in 1864. Be sure to allow time to explore the 2-story Civil War museum filled with historic artifacts and interactive displays.

WOODRUFF ARTS CENTER

Located in the Midtown district, the Woodruff Arts Center is the cultural apex of the city, home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Alliance Theatre and the High Museum of Art (http://www.high.org/). Explore the museum’s outstanding permanent and traveling exhibits during the day, and take in a show in the evening!

INSIDE CNN STUDIO TOUR

Visit the place where 24-hour news was born! Located in downtown Atlanta, the CNN Center features a shopping area, a food court, and regular guided tours of the CNN studios. The tours start every 10 minutes through the day, but they are very popular, so you’ll want to make reservations ahead of time.

WORLD OF COCA-COLA

Located at Pemberton Place in downtown Atlanta, this unique attraction features the largest display of Coca-Cola memorabilia in the world, including pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Enjoy the 4-D theater experience, the functioning bottling line, and of course, a free bottle of Coke!