by Tom Bastek
Last updated: 9:30 AM ET, Fri November 14, 2014
Photo courtesy of Thinkstock
We Say:
Atlanta is sometimes referred to as being in the "Dirty South" but this couldn't be farther from the truth. Rooted in rail, Civil War and civil rights history, raised on Southern hospitality and pride, and grown into one of the busiest cities in the south, Atlanta has a little bit of everything for everyone.
Comfortable for most, but tolerant of all, the city is just large enough to give you that big-city vibe and just small enough to keep its hometown feel.
Downtown provides arts, entertainment, shopping and restaurants to satisfy the cultured crowd while the suburbs bring you the convenience of every chain store and restaurant known to man. Festivals, sporting events, and plenty of green space make the outside activities desirable. Atlanta is great for a long weekend trip or a few things to do while you're stuck at a convention.
They Say:
Atlanta may have birthed "Gone with the Wind," but today's big, bustling city is more New South than old. This diverse population of 4 million residents is decidedly youthful and quick to greet everyone with a big helping of "How y'all doing" hospitality.
More than 80 percent of the U.S. population is within a two-hour flight of the city, making Atlanta one of the most accessible destinations in the country. The city's rich history is complemented by its award-winning dining scene, shopping and entertainment. With a city as energetic and alive as Atlanta, new developments are always on the horizon. - Atlanta Convention and Visitor's Bureau
Weather:
Current Traffic:Google Traffic
Airport:Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Public Transit:Metropolitan Area Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA)
Bikeshare: Coming Soon
Walkability Score: 46 at Walk Score
Parking Options / Expense:ParkMe, Best Parking
Best Accommodations: (Expedia.com Highest Guest Rated w/ at least 50 Reviews)
Boutique: Stonehurst Place
High End: Mandarin Oriental Atlanta
High End: The St. Regis Atlanta
Mid Range: Twelve Centennial Park Hotel
Bargain: Hyatt Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina
Foods to seek out: (Staff's Picks: Tom Bastek - Atlanta Resident)
Hole in the Wall Bar-B-Que: Daddy Dz BBQ Joint
Peach Cobbler: Mary Mac's Tea Room
Fried Chicken: Busy Bee Café
Pecan Pie: South City Kitchen Midtown
Known For:
Civil Rights: Martin Luther King, Jr National Historic Site
Civil War: Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum
Coca Cola: World of Coca-Cola
Sports Teams:
NFL: Atlanta Falcons
MLB: Atlanta Braves
NBA: Atlanta Hawks
NASL: Atlanta Silverbacks
Cool attractions:
Single
1. Go for a stroll through Centennial Olympic Park and check out the view at Skyview Atlanta.
2. See global news in the making at the Inside Studio Tour at CNN Center.
3. Go to West Midtown to Atlantic Station and eat, shop and be entertained.
Couple
1. Have a sunset cocktail or dinner at The Sundial Restaurant at the top of the Westin.
2. Cruise one of the most beautiful collections of flora at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
3. Hit the Historic Fox Theater for a show.
Family
1. Check out the hands-on Georgia Aquarium.
2. See America's only twin pandas at Zoo Atlanta.
3. Take in a show at the Center for Puppetry Arts.
Nightlife
1. Mixology Bar - H. Harper Station
2. Concert Venue - Smith's Olde Bar
3. Dance Club - Opera Night Club
Atlanta is:
Adjectives courtesy Atlanta CVB, cloud graphic courtesy worditout.com
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