Atlanta Hotel Reviews

History of Atlanta, GA

Atlanta, Georgia, a city that beautifully intertwines its storied past with its bustling present, is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and modern explorers alike. Founded in 1837 as a transportation hub, Atlanta’s history is a testament to its resilience and evolution.

Early Days and Civil War: Atlanta’s early years were marked by its strategic location as a transportation center, with multiple railroads converging in the city. During the Civil War, Atlanta gained international recognition as a key battleground. General William T. Sherman famously captured the city in 1864 after a series of battles and a devastating fire. This event is often associated with the origins of the phrase “Atlanta rising from the ashes.”

Post-War Transformation: After the war, Atlanta emerged as a symbol of rebirth and renewal. The city played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, with leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. shaping the struggle for equality. Today, visitors can explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, which includes his childhood home and Ebenezer Baptist Church.

 Top 10 Tourist Attractions

1. The Georgia Aquarium: Dive into a world of marine wonders at one of the largest aquariums in the world. Encounter everything from playful dolphins to awe-inspiring whale sharks.

2. World of Coca-Cola: Discover the history and magic behind the world’s most famous soft drink. Explore interactive exhibits, taste Coca-Cola products from around the globe, and meet the Coca-Cola Polar Bear.

3. Centennial Olympic Park: Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, this park is a green oasis in downtown Atlanta. Stroll through lush gardens, cool off in the Fountain of Rings, and learn about Olympic history.

4. Atlanta Botanical Garden: Escape to a 30-acre urban oasis filled with beautiful plant collections, including a tropical rainforest and a Japanese garden.

5. Piedmont Park: Atlanta’s “Central Park” offers green spaces for picnics, walking trails, and even a dog park. It’s a great place to relax and people-watch.

6. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site: Pay homage to the civil rights icon by visiting his birthplace, church, and the King Center, where his Nobel Peace Prize is displayed.

7. Zoo Atlanta: Get up close to a diverse range of animals from around the world, including giant pandas.

8. Atlanta History Center: Immerse yourself in Atlanta’s history with comprehensive exhibits, historic homes, and gardens.

9. High Museum of Art: Explore an impressive collection of art, from classic to contemporary, in a stunning architectural setting.

10. Fox Theatre: Experience world-class entertainment in a lavishly decorated historic theater. Check the schedule for concerts, Broadway shows, and more.

Top 10 Things to Do

1. Foodie Adventure: Savor Southern cuisine and international flavors in Atlanta’s vibrant food scene. Don’t miss the chance to try fried chicken, BBQ, and farm-to-table dishes.

2. BeltLine Exploration: Walk or bike along the Atlanta BeltLine, a former railway corridor turned urban trail. Discover public art installations, parks, and trendy neighborhoods.

3. Sweet Auburn Curb Market: Taste local treats and explore diverse food stalls in this historic market.

4. Sports Fanaticism: Catch a game featuring the Atlanta Braves (baseball), Atlanta Hawks (basketball), or Atlanta Falcons (football) depending on the season.

5. Shopping Spree: Stroll through unique neighborhoods like Little Five Points and Virginia-Highland for boutique shopping and eclectic finds.

6. Nightlife: Experience Atlanta’s nightlife by visiting bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city’s music scene is especially renowned.

7. Oakland Cemetery: Explore the historic Oakland Cemetery, the final resting place of notable figures and a serene green space.

8. CNN Studio Tour: Take a behind-the-scenes tour of CNN’s global headquarters to see how news is made.

9. Escape to Nature: Head to the nearby North Georgia mountains for hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures.

10. Cultural Experiences: Check out rotating art exhibitions, live performances, and cultural festivals happening around the city.

Atlanta, GA, is a city of captivating contrasts, where history mingles with modernity, and there’s always something exciting to discover. Whether you’re delving into its rich past, exploring its top-notch tourist attractions, or immersing yourself in its vibrant activities, Atlanta promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.