Atlanta

Those unacquainted with Atlanta will surely recognise it as the setting for the famous novel Gone With the Wind. The most predominant city in the state of Georgia, Atlanta is an influential business and economic centre. An entirely unique experience, Atlanta has managed to distinguish itself from the Southern American stigma. During the Civil Rights Movement the city refused to stigmatise people of other races, and as a result, today boasts a multicultural and accepting atmosphere. In 1996 Atlanta hosted the Olympic Games, which identified the city as a prime location for tourism. Legendary for its influence upon the music industry, in particular rap and hip-hop, artists such as Usher often pay tribute to this amazing city in their songs with the phrase ‘A Town’.

Attractions

Visitors with a particular interest in the Civil Rights Movement will find [http://www.thekingcenter.org/tkc/index,asp/ The King Center] fascinating. A tribute to Martin Luther King, all who visit will be moved by the evidence of his work and passion. Located in the [http://www.nps.gov/malu/ Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site], this area also allows patrons to explore the home in which he was born.

Fans of Gone With the Wind will enjoy exploring [http://www.gwtw.org/ Margaret Mitchell’s House] where she wrote this iconic novel. Artefacts and memorabilia from the legendary film can also be found here at The Gone With The Wind Movie Museum.

The world’s largest painting can be viewed at Cyclorama. Visitor’s should then go next door to [http://www.zooatlanta.org/ Zoo Atlanta] and appreciate the natural beauty which the city has to offer. Many endangered species are cared for within this zoo, including giant pandas, elephants and gorillas. More beautiful animals can be viewed at [http://www.georgiaaquarium.org/ Georgia Aquarium], the largest aquarium in the world which is home to two beluga whales as well as approximately 100,000 other forms of sea life. The [http://www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org/ Atlanta Botanic Gardens] are a beautiful retreat for those looking to escape the city for an hour or so. The perfect place for a picnic, [http://www.piedmontpark.org/ Piedmont Park] occupies a space of 189 acres and provides a quiet, relaxing oasis in the middle of this thriving metropolis.

In 1886 Atlanta’s most famous export was created; Coca-Cola. Today fans can visit the [http://www.woccatlanta.com/ World of Coca-Cola], a tribute to the international emporium which houses an extensive collection of memorabilia. This museum is surely the best place in Atlanta to stop for a refreshing drink. Nearby is the Centennial Olympic Park. Constructed for the Summer Olympic Games in 1996, the site is now the centre for tourism in the city.

Those looking to learn more about the history behind Atlanta should visit the [http://www.ngeorgia.com/attractions/atlanta_history_center.html/ Atlanta History Center] which ensures that the city’s past is kept alive so that lessons may be learnt in the present. Former residents of Atlanta are remembered at [http://www.oaklandcemetery.com/ Historic Oakland Cemetery]. Stunning gardens and breathtaking pieces of architecture make a fitting final resting place for individuals such as Margaret Mitchell and others who played a pivotal role in the development of Atlanta.

Shopping

Underground Atlanta is where shopaholics will feel most at home. A variety of stores greet those who visit, selling a vast variety of goods such as clothes, gifts and souvenirs. There are also many entertaining activities for when a break from shopping is required; Aeroballoon is a permanent favourite with children. The [http://www.cnn.com/StudioTour/ CNN Center] is not only home to the mass media mogul; here visitors can also discover an enormous shopping centre and a vast food court. This is the perfect place to purchase souvenirs and appreciate the many different meals available for sampling. Special tours of the studio whisk patrons around the newsrooms of CNN.

There are many shopping malls situated in Atlanta. Some of the best are the Mall of Georgia, Lennox Square Mall and Phipps Plaza Mall.

Nightlife

Atlanta has a fantastic assortment of restaurants, offering both classic American cuisine and a wide selection of exotic dishes inspired by the multicultural surroundings. Little Five Points is a district situated on the east of the city which boasts a mixed array of establishments to suit all palates. Vortex Bar and Grill is the perfect place to visit for an authentic burger.

The Hard Rock Café is a testament to the music industry and American style; the food is delicious and the atmosphere is fun. The perfect place for pizza is Fritti; large portions and reasonable prices make the delicious food taste even better.Fans of American breakfasts will appreciate the Flying Biscuit Café. Here breakfast is not confined to the morning; their delicious and extensive menu can be enjoyed all day long.

Those searching for sophistication should look no further than Pacific Kitchen. The menu stays faithful to local, organic produce and the menu is constantly updated in order to provide patrons with a fresh and exciting mix to choose from. Crave serves revolutionised American cuisine. Heavily inspired by the rich and varied surroundings, Crave remains faithful to the spirit of Atlanta by refusing to confine itself to one cultural influence.

Atlanta is stacked with fun and sophisticated bars for the perfect night out. [www.eleven50.com/ Eleven 50] is a stylish venue, which combines elegance with comfort. A wide selection of beverages, a vast dance floor and an admirable art gallery provide patrons with a special evening’s entertainment. Krog Bar is home to an extensive wine collection for those searching for a quiet drink in a relaxed environment.

Tourist Information

Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau 233 Peachtree Street, NE Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30303

Tel. 404.521.6600 Website: [http://www.atlanta.net/ www.atlanta.net]

Airport

[http://www.atlanta-airport.com Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport] is situated eight miles from the city centre. Reliable links to Atlanta ensure that any arrival at Hartsfield-Jackson is sure to be stress free. Dealing with both national and international flights, this airport is extremely busy yet aims to make travelling to Atlanta as simple as possible.