Welcome to Atlanta, a city where Southern charm meets vibrant modern culture. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, an adventure-seeker, or just looking for a unique city getaway, Atlanta has something special for everyone. We recently visited Atlanta, Georgia for a fun-packed condo vacation getaway. Based on the best of what we experienced, here's a guide to planning your own EXTRA-suite vacay and discovering the best of what this dynamic city has to offer. Get ready to explore popular attractions, hidden gems, family-friendly activities, and delicious cuisine — all while soaking in the spirit of this lively destination. Atlanta Travel Guide Overview Why Visit Atlanta? Atlanta is more than just a stopover destination — it's a place with heart that is rich in culture and full of history that still resonates today. Whether you want to explore iconic attractions like the World of Coca-Cola or dive into Atlanta's Civil Rights legacy, you'll find that the city combines its past with a forward-thinking vibe. During my first visit to Atlanta, I was struck by how friendly and welcoming the locals were. Everywhere I went, from cafes to museums, people were eager to share stories about their city, which only added to the excitement of exploring it. Atlanta has the vibe of a small town with all the amenities of a big city — perfect for any traveler looking for a unique urban experience. Brief History and Cultural Significance From its role in the Civil War to being a major center for the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, Atlanta holds a unique place in American history and continues to be a cultural hub. The city's diversity, along with its history, has shaped Atlanta into a progressive and welcoming community where everyone can feel at home. Top Attractions in Atlanta Popular Tourist Attractions Whether you're a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, Atlanta has several must-see attractions that should be at the top of your list. College Football Hall of Fame For sports enthusiasts, this place is a must. Interactive exhibits and a massive indoor field bring the college football experience to life. Even if you're not a hardcore fan, the College Football Hall of Fame offers fun, hands-on activities that everyone can enjoy. World of Coca-Cola Did you know Coca-Cola was born in Atlanta? This attraction provides a fascinating journey through the history of one of the world's most famous brands. You can sample Coca-Cola flavors from around the world, take a peak at the Vault of the Secret Formula, and experience rotating fun, interactive fun exhibits. Centennial Olympic Park Originally built for the 1996 Olympics, this park is a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. It's a perfect place for a stroll, enjoying the fountains and sculptures and learning about the city's Olympic history and legacy. It's also home to many events throughout the year, including the Look Up Atlanta Independence Day Celebration. Historical Sites and Tours As the epicenter for the Civil Rights Moment, Atlanta offers a powerful journey through African American history and culture, and you can visit where history was made then, and still being made today. Auburn Avenue African American Half Day Human Rights/Civil Rights Tour Designed to give visitors an overview of Black life and culture, the Auburn Avenue African American Half Day Tou r is one of our top recommendations for a trip to ATL. On your tour you'll pass by numerous rich historical sites, businesses, and monuments and visit historic spots such as: The King Center and Martin Luther King Jr.'s birth home Booker T. Washington High School, Georgia's first Black public high school Ride through HBCU (Historic Black Colleges and Universities) campuses Family-Friendly Activities and Adventures Atlanta is packed with family-friendly attractions that offer fun for kids and adults alike. Children's Museum of Atlanta This museum is full of hands-on exhibits that make learning fun. With a selection of permanent and featured interactive exhibits designed for children ages 0-8, including arts and crafts options and a mini grocery store to “shop” and play pretend, there's something for all children to enjoy. It's a great stop if you're traveling with younger children. Atlanta Braves An Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park is another must-do. Baseball fans of all ages will enjoy the energy of the crowd, the stadium snacks, and cheering for the home team. Even if you're not a sports fan, the atmosphere of Truist Park and the surrounding area called The Battery makes it a fun day out. Georgia Aquarium The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, and it lives up to the hype. We spent hours here, mesmerized by the whale sharks, manta rays, and playful dolphins. This is a must-see attraction for both adults and kids of all ages that will create lifelong memories. Where to Stay in Atlanta Finding the perfect place to stay is essential to any trip, and Atlanta has plenty of options to suit every type of traveler. Margaritaville Vacation Club - Atlanta, which offers comfortable accommodations right in the heart of the city, is our top pick for a well-appointed home-base for your getaway. Accommodations and Amenities at Margaritaville Vacation Club - Atlanta Margaritaville Vacation Club - Atlanta has everything you need for a memorable stay. Relax at the rooftop pool with views of the cityscape, grab a cocktail from the on-site Margaritaville restaurant, or cozy up in your huge suite. Plus, take advantage of an unbeatable central location with easy access to nearby attractions. Choose a suite that fits your party size without comprising space. Here you can find studios through three-bedroom condos which all feature partial or full kitchens, dedicated living space, private bedrooms/bathrooms, and a washer and dryer. We especially love the Presidential Suites! Watch a full room tour on Instagram. Culinary Delights of Atlanta If you're a foodie, Atlanta is the vacation destination for you. Here are a few of the spots we found to be EXTRA delicious. Top Restaurants and Dining Experiences Mary Mac's Tea Room An Atlanta institution, Mary Mac's serves up classic Southern dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and peach cobbler. It's a spot where you'll experience true Southern hospitality and flavors that feel like a warm embrace. Ponce City Market This trendy food hall offers a variety of dining options, from international cuisine to local Southern fare. It's a perfect place to sample different flavors in one spot, and the bustling atmosphere makes it a fun stop. Atlanta Breakfast Club Stop by for a classic southern breakfast coupled with top R&B jams served by warm and friendly staff. Buena Vida Tapas In an EXTRA photo-worthy aesthetic, you can savor delicious Spanish Tapas paired with beautifully crafted cocktails. Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall Atlanta Located in the Historic Fourth Ward, try this local favorite for a unique take on “campfire cuisine.” Local Cuisine and Must-Try Dishes When in Atlanta, you've got to try some local favorites like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and pecan pie. And of course, while in the Peach State, be sure to try dishes made with this iconic fruit like peach cobbler and peach ice cream. Food Festivals and Culinary Events For food lovers, Atlanta hosts numerous culinary festivals throughout the year. Events like the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival and the Taste of Atlanta showcase the city's top chefs and local restaurants and allow you to sample a variety of dishes. If you time your visit right, these festivals are the perfect way to experience Atlanta's food scene. Tips for Planning Your Trip to Atlanta Best Times to Visit Atlanta Spring and fall are the best times to visit Atlanta, thanks to mild temperatures and lower humidity. In the spring, you'll also catch the city in bloom, with dogwoods and azaleas putting on a beautiful display. How to Get Around the City Atlanta's MARTA public transportation system is a convenient option for getting around the city. There are also plenty of rideshare options, and if you're up for a bit of exercise, many neighborhoods are walkable and great to explore on foot. Money-Saving Tips for Travelers To save money in Atlanta, consider purchasing the Atlanta CityPASS, which offers discounted admission to top attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. Dining at local cafes and food trucks is also a great way to experience authentic Atlanta flavors without breaking the bank. Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Atlanta How Many Days in Atlanta is Enough? Three to four days is ideal for experiencing the highlights of Atlanta. This gives you enough time to see the major attractions, enjoy some good food, and soak in the city's culture. What is the #1 Tourist Attraction in Georgia, Atlanta? The Georgia Aquarium is often considered the top tourist attraction in Atlanta and Georgia as a whole. Its size, interactive exhibits, and impressive marine life make it a hit with all ages. Is Atlanta a City Worth Visiting? We absolutely loved Atlanta. This vibrant city is full of life, history, and culture. We don't think you could go wrong with a visit to the ATL but with these recommendations we're confident you'll also fall in love with this city. For more travel guides to top destinations, explore our Stories section. To see video content from this #TravelTakeover, check out the “Highlights” section from our Instagram.
