Top Things to do in Atlanta, Georgia

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Atlanta is a thriving metropolis where southern and soulful intertwine. It's known for its hip-hop influence, having birthed T.I., Ludacris, Gucci Mane, and Future. Within walking distance, you'll find yourself at the largest aquarium in the world, a handful of beautiful greenspaces, and several great museums. There's tons to see and do, but with time and determination, you'll be able to make your way through the top things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.

World of Coca-Cola

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Coca-Cola was invented in 1886 Atlanta, so it only makes sense its museum is in the same city as its headquarters. It's also no surprise it made our list of the top things to do in Atlanta, Georgia. The World of Coca-Cola explores the history of the company with walls of memorabilia and outdated ad campaigns. After seeing the vault of the secret formula and posing for a photo with the Coca-Cola polar bear, you'll enter a tasting room where you can try flavors from around the world.

Zoo Atlanta

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Zoo Atlanta houses more than 220 animal species from clouded leopards and lions to tortoises and crocodiles. Its great-ape population is the largest in the United States, with western lowland gorillas, drill monkeys, orangutans, and lemurs. Conservation is at the forefront of Zoo Atlanta, as it's teamed up with field programs in Africa, Asia, Central and South America, and locally. In fact, a portion of each ticket sold goes to helping one of these efforts.

The zoo offers a range of experiences for those wishing to get closer to their favorite animal. During these encounters, zookeepers will provide education and show you how they care for elephants, lemurs, tortoises, warthogs, and others. Additional activities include giraffe feedings and wildlife presentations.

Georgia Aquarium

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The largest in the world, Georgia Aquarium provides something many of its competitors don't. It's one of only six aquariums to house a beluga whale and the only place outside of Asia with a captive whale shark. Beyond the incredible exhibits, your ticket includes a dolphin and sea lion show, and for an additional cost, you can partake in a swim or dive. Read for more on why you should visit Georgia Aquarium.

Centennial Olympic Park

This 21-acre public park offers a bit of solace from Atlanta's bustling downtown. The park was built nearly 30 years ago for the 1996 Olympic games, now commemorated by the Fountain of Rings - an interactive water fountain displaying the iconic symbol. Each year, it's the site of the Sweetwater420 Festival and the Shaky Knees Music Festival. Not only is it a scenic greenspace - it provides views of the city as you stroll through.

CNN Studio Tours

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Whether you're a fan of CNN itself or news production in general, the CNN Studio Tour is sure to extend your knowledge. The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes and takes you through every step required to broadcast news around the clock. Although you must pay for a tour, entry to the CNN Center to browse the shops and restaurants is free.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

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Another place to escape the craze of the city, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is 30 acres of bliss. Its conservation section contains the rare White Fringeless Orchid, the nearly-extinct Florida Torreya, and impressive Venus Fly Traps. Its Conifer Garden showcases the best in cone-bearing plants, while its Children's Garden provides hands-on opportunities. Perhaps the most awe-inspiring sight is the Earth Goddess - a 25-foot art installation made of 17,000 plants.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

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Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Martin Luther King Jr. was monumental to the Civil Rights movement. This national park named in his honor stretches 35 acres and encompasses his birth home, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and he and his wife's gravesites. The park, as well as other relevant sites, can be visited via walking tour to learn additional history from a guide. A three-minute drive from the park, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights provides an even more in-depth look.

Accommodation Recommendations

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The downtown area is where to be when staying in Atlanta. That's why I recommend the Hilton Garden Inn, which sits adjacent to the Georgia Aquarium. If you feel like splurging, you can also choose the highly-rated Four Seasons, complete with an indoor pool, sauna, and restaurant.

Like other big cities, there are infinite opportunities in Atlanta. By staying right in the heart of it all, you'll be able to walk among the top things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.