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With Atlanta being one of the largest metropolitan cities in the south, thousands flock to the city every year for vacation getaways, as well as business trips. And for those that have had a chance to see the Coca-Cola Museum, King Center, Margaret Mitchell House and Underground Atlanta, it’s time to see the non-tourist attractions where the Hotlantans play.
Things to do in Atlanta
Fernbank Museum
The Fernbank Museum is one of the coolest museums in Atlanta. Containing ancient fossils and showcasing travelling exhibits, you get a lot more than you bargained for at Fernbank. The museum hosts a “Martinis at IMAX” night once a month, featuring live swing music, a variety of martinis and a film. This is a hidden jewel to locals. FYI: Wear your dancing shoes to “Martinis at IMAX” because the locals really cut a rug to the live swing music. Some even wear Rockabilly attire.
Six Flags
Six Flags Amusement Park features a wide variety of rides for to satisfy kids, families and adults. And they frequently host various concerts and live shows. FYI: If you’re travelling just before Halloween, be sure to catch Fright Fest when the park turns into a horror attraction.
Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta began in 1889 when a circus came to town and never left. Since then, it has become a world-class attraction, winning awards along the way. Even if you aren’t visiting the zoo with kids, there’s plenty of fun for adults.
Medieval Times
With only nine castles throughout the U.S. and Canada, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament has been around for over 25 years in North America. The show features astonishing replicas of costumes and weapons and is fun for the whole family.
Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park is located on 3,200 acres of land and offers tons of fun featuring, the Yellow Daisy Festival, Stone Mountain Christmas, Indian Festival, Sky Hike, a scenic train around the mountain, a campground, a laser light show and a resort.
Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is a state-of-the-art facility with more than eight million gallons of fresh and marine water and loads of aquatic life. It even draws celebrities such as Martha Stewart, Rosie O’Donnell, Monique, Usher, Chris Tucker, Demi More and Wolfgang Puck, as well as cast members from The Bad Girls Club and American Idol.
Trader Vic’s
With most of their locations abroad, and only nine within the U.S., Trader Vic’s is a hidden treasure in Atlanta. While tourists do frequent the restaurant and bar that’s located in the Downtown Hilton, it’s definitely a non-tourist spot. Trader Vic’s features occasional live music, hula dancers and a yearly Lavapalooza. FYI, go easy on the Mai Tais. I’ve seen many a guest carried out at the end of the night.
Starlight Drive-In
As one of the last drive-in theatres standing, the Starlight Drive-In is open 7 nights per week, 364 days a year. It is also home to the Starlight Flea Market on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as special events hosted throughout the year.
Botanical Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a beautiful attraction with numerous gardens of spectacular nature. They also host events such as Concerts in the Garden, Guided Exhibition Tours, High Teas and Gently Used Plant Sales.
Civic Center
The Atlanta Civic Center is a prominent event and entertainment space in Atlanta. Whenever you plan to visit the city, or even in you live here, there’s something going on. In the past, museum exhibits such as Bodies, King Tut and America I Am have called the Civic Center their home. The space is also home to many music concerts and is a favourite of both tourists and locals alike.
