Atlanta is the capital and most populous city of the state of Georgia in the United States. It is known for its Southern hospitality, rich history, and cultural attractions. The Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the busiest in the country, serving as a primary airport and rail hub for the Southeast region of the US. Due to it’s bustling airport there is almost always a flight from any major city in the US to Atlanta, making it the perfect long weekend destination. A long weekend in Atlanta is the perfect way to experience the city and it’s attractions. Below are the top five things you have to do when visiting Atlanta.
1. Visit the atlanta botanical garden
This 30-acre oasis in the heart of the city offers a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden and a canopy walk that allows visitors to walk among the treetops. One of the highlights of the garden is the Fuqua Orchid Center, which features over 4,000 orchids from around the world. The garden also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as concerts and light shows. One of the most popular events is the annual “Garden Lights, Holiday Nights,” during which the garden is decorated with thousands of lights and illuminated sculptures.
When visiting the garden, you can feel free to stop by one of their snack stands and enjoy a beverage, alcoholic or otherwise, as you walk around and enjoy the foliage. Wild Heaven Brewery has collaborated with the garden for over 10 season supplying a special Garden Beer that varies based on the time of year, and I highly recommend trying it during your visit. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal while visiting the garden, I recommend the Longleaf Restaurant which offers full-service dining as well as a grab-and-go cafe. Longleaf won the 2020 Open Table Diners’ Choice award for its stunning Garden views.
2. Take a walk on the atlanta beltline
The Atlanta BeltLine is a 22-mile network of public parks, trails, and transit that circles the city. It’s a great place to hike, bike, or run and offers a unique perspective on the city. The Eastside Trail is a popular spot for a group hike and features street art, public art, and several access points to local restaurants and bars. The BeltLine is a redevelopment project that aims to transform a historic railroad corridor into a sustainable, multi-use trail and transit greenway. The goal of the project is to connect 45 neighborhoods, providing much-needed greenspace and encouraging sustainable living in the city.
One way of exploring the Beltline, and getting excellent food and drinks along the way, would be starting at the iconic Ponce City Market. Starting at Ponce City Market itself, there are a variety of food options, including a food hall with local vendors and a rooftop terrace with great views of the city. Heading east on the Eastside Trail you can stop at Two Urban Licks (a popular restaurant known for its wood-fired cuisine and live music) or Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall (a casual outdoor spot with a camp/BBQ inspired menu and a wide selection of beer and cocktails). You can then continue on the Eastside Trail until you reach the Krog Street Tunnel, which is known for its street art and is a popular spot for photography. After leaving the tunnel, you can continue to the Inman Park neighborhood where you can find a plethora of other great restaurants and bars.
3. Visit the georgia aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is a public aquarium located in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. It is one of the largest aquariums in the world, with over 10 million gallons of fresh and saltwater and more than 100,000 animals representing 500 species.
The Georgia Aquarium features a wide variety of exhibits, including the Ocean Voyager exhibit, which is home to the aquarium’s whale sharks and manta rays, and the Cold Water Quest exhibit, which features beluga whales, sea otters, and other aquatic animals from colder climates.
The Aquarium also has a large collection of species from the Amazon River, including piranhas and electric eels. In addition, there are several interactive exhibits, such as a touch tank where visitors can pet stingrays and a 4D theater that offers an immersive experience with 3D films and special effects.
The Georgia Aquarium also offers a variety of animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the animals and learn more about their care and conservation.
It is a popular tourist spot and visited by millions of people every year and is known for its marine and freshwater exhibits, conservation and research efforts, and interactive experiences.
4. go to an atlanta sporting event
Atlanta has a dedicated sports fan base and they are passionate about their teams, and the city is known for being a great sports town. The city also host several important sports events such as the Super Bowl, the NCAA Final Four, and the Olympic games. Getting tickets to any of the four major Atlanta sports teams below is a must for any visitor!
The Atlanta Braves are a Major League Baseball team that plays at Truist Park, which is located in the Cumberland area of the city. The Braves are one of the oldest professional baseball teams in America, and have a storied history, including winning the World Series as recently as 2021.
The Atlanta Falcons are a National Football League team that plays at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in the downtown area. The Falcons have made several appearances in the Super Bowl, but as any Atlanta resident will tell you, the ‘Dirty Birds’ have yet to win the championship.
The Atlanta Hawks are a National Basketball Association team that plays at State Farm Arena in downtown Atlanta. The Hawks have a rich history, including winning the NBA championship in 1958.
The Atlanta United FC are a Major League Soccer team that plays at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The team was founded in 2014 and quickly became one of the most successful expansion teams in league history, winning the MLS Cup in 2018.
5. Explore piedmont park
Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s version of Central Park, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, and swimming in the park’s pool. The park also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as the annual Atlanta Dogwood Festival and the Atlanta Arts Festival. Piedmont Park has a rich history, dating back to the late 19th century, and was originally created for the 1895 Cotton States and International Exposition. The park has since been used for a variety of events and activities and is now a beloved greenspace in the city.
Overall, Atlanta offers a wide range of activities for a group of adventurous friends, from visiting world-class attractions to exploring the city’s beautiful parks and trails. Whether you’re interested in nature, sports, culture, or history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Atlanta. The city has a rich cultural heritage, and many of the attractions and activities in the city are rooted in that history. From the iconic Coca-Cola factory to the civil rights landmarks like the King Center, Atlanta is a full of endless options and is a great destination for your next long weekend trip!
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