Arts and culture
The city was founded in 1837 when it was the end of the Western & Atlantic railroad line. While modern life has had a major impact on the city's culture and its skyline, the old ways remain. Learn about the history of the state at the Atlanta History Centre, before checking out the galleries at the High Museum of Art.
Discover the story of the city's world famous civil rights leader at the Martin Luther King National Historic Site, or get hands-on with a visit to the city's Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Here you'll find more than 100 interactive exhibits designed to bring the natural world to life for visitors of all ages.
Attractions
There's always plenty happening in Altanta. The main problem will be fitting everything in. Pay a visit to see the animals at Zoo Atlanta or head to World of Coca-Cola and have a go at making your own fizzy drink recipe.
Take the Inside CNN Studio Tour if you're keen to learn about what goes on behind the scenes at the news broadcaster, or perhaps find time to take a walk through Stone Mountain Park where you'll be treated to excellent views of the city.
Shopping
When it comes to finding independent boutiques and top-name brands in Atlanta, you'll be spoilt for choice. Excellent shopping options can be found across the city, from the fashion outlets of the city's Virginia-Highland neighbourhood to Underground Atlanta shopping mall in the downtown area.
You might also want to travel a few miles north of downtown Atlanta to visit the affluent district of Buckhead. Here you'll find more outstanding malls, antique shops and a huge number of boutiques and galleries. Be sure to find time to fit in Lenox Square Mall and Phipps Plaza.
Eating and drinking
Food lovers will be in their element in the city, thanks to the huge selection of independent restaurants and Atlanta hotels offering top notch dining options. No matter whether you're keen to find American, French, Italian or Japanese cuisine, you're sure to find something to suit.
Bone's Restaurant is a superb steakhouse specialising in prime beef and seafood, while Fandangles in the Sheraton Atlanta offers an unforgettable fine dining experience. Consider trying the exceptional sushi menu at One Flew South if you're passing through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, or try and find the dessert of your dreams at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams.
