Atlanta

The towering high-rises that dominate the Atlanta skyline reflect its reputation as a progressive, modern city. It’s the headquarters for large multinational companies, such as the Coca-Cola Company, and has one of the busiest airports in the country. Atlanta has produced big-name acts in hip-hop, and is known as the center of gospel music.

The Capital of the South prides itself on its history. Martin Luther King Jr. was born and raised in Atlanta, and his birthplace has been turned into a museum. The Martin Luther King Junior National Historic Site celebrates one of the most influential figures in U.S. history. Author Margaret Mitchell wrote the great American novel Gone with the Wind in an apartment in midtown. Visit the Margaret Mitchell House and Museum to learn about her life. The Atlanta History Center is an excellent introduction to the history of the Civil War and Atlanta’s growth into a center of commerce.

Atlanta lies at the bottom of the Appalachian Mountains and its landscape is characterized by rolling hills. Getting around is easy with a well-priced bus and train system. Rent a car to explore outside the city limits.

Locals make the most of the city’s hot summers and mild winters in city parks and surrounding forests. Piedmont Park features 180 acres (73 hectares) of green space right next to bustling midtown. Stone Mountain Park has walking trails and historical exhibits just a short drive northeast from the city.

Families will find a host of attractions aimed at younger visitors, from theme parks to museums. Georgia Aquarium in the heart of downtown is one of the biggest of its kind in the world and one of Atlanta’s most popular attractions. The Fernbank Science Center next door has a planetarium and observatory. At Zoo Atlanta enjoy the antics of America’s largest population of orangutans. Head further out of town to the Six Flags Over Georgia and Six Flags White Water theme parks.

Atlanta’s live music scene centers around midtown and the outer suburb of Buckhead, which is packed with bars, clubs and restaurants. End the day watching a Broadway musical at midtown’s famous Fox Theatre.

Best time to visit AtlantaSpring and autumn are ideal times to visit; you'll love the moderate temperatures, lush vegetation in the neighborhoods, and beautifully landscaped parks. The best time to see the colorful display of blooming dogwoods and azaleas is during April. May and October are also great times to enjoy walking tours spotlighting the city's luminous natural beauty. Atlanta is a major convention and trade show destination, so try to find out what events will be occurring before you choose your travel dates; large conventions can increase hotel rates.

Peak Season: Autumn is a nice time to visit Atlanta, but it’s also one of busiest. Atlanta is a major convention and trade show destination, which keeps the city busy throughout the year.

Value Season: During the summer months (July and August), when the weather's warm and steamy, you may find some hotels offering discounts. You may also find reduced hotel rates during the holiday season.