Atlanta Attractions

Escape Midtown's "hustle and bustle" at this "soothing" 32-acre "oasis" that's an "educational and entertaining" stop, whether you're there for a "relaxing stroll" in the woods or to explore the "truly awesome conservatory"; "numerous gardens, statuary and fountains" plus a "fun" interactive garden for kids and a "not-to-be-missed" orchid center put this "stunning" attraction on many surveyors' "must-see" lists; N.B. check out the open-air summer concert series.

"One of the most unusual ways" to learn about the Civil War is this "outstanding period piece" in Grant Park, a "huge circular painting" (viewed from a 360-degree rotating platform) that's been on exhibit since 1893 and depicts the Battle of Atlanta complete with music, narration and sound effects; there's also two floors of photographs and artifacts (most notably a Confederate locomotive), so although the "low-tech" effects have "zero appeal for small children", it remains an "old-school" stop for "kitsch" crusaders and "war buffs."

Get a "behind-the-scenes look" at "how the world gets its news" courtesy of this "fascinating" interactive studio tour at CNN headquarters Downtown; visitors can check out a re-creation of the cable giant's main control room, view video clips and even participate "in a (simulated) newscast", plus there's also an "enormous food court" and stores full of network-related merchandise; P.S. tours leave every 10 minutes or so, but "reservations are recommended", especially when bringing young children.

To some it's a "lovely reminder of the 1996 Olympics", to others "just a park", but either way it provides 21 acres of walking paths, water gardens and pavilions that are "ultraconvenient" to Downtown's central business district, offering a "refreshing change from the high-rise scenery"; kids love to "run through" the Fountain of Rings on hot days, while "free concerts" and fireworks in summer and ice skating in winter make it a generally popular "hangout."

Not far from Downtown in "historic" Poncey-Highland is this "beautiful" natural history museum, a "favorite for all ages" given its "delightful" "hands-on exhibits" geared for children (it's "a must for dinosaur-lovers") plus adult-friendly options like Friday "martinis & IMAX" nights that "rock"; there's also a "wonderful planetarium" at the nearby Science Center (on Heaton Park Drive), not to mention a 65-acre old-growth forest.

Not far from Downtown in "historic" Poncey-Highland is this "beautiful" natural history museum, a "favorite for all ages" given its "delightful" "hands-on exhibits" geared for children (it's "a must for dinosaur-lovers") plus adult-friendly options like Friday "martinis & IMAX" nights that "rock"; there's also a "wonderful planetarium" at the nearby Science Center (on Heaton Park Drive), not to mention a 65-acre old-growth forest.

A local "treasure", this "well-crafted" art museum in Midtown is deemed "one of the best" around thanks to its "diverse permanent collection" (ranging from European Impressionism to Southern folk art to photography), "worthwhile" visiting exhibits (don't miss the revolving Louvre treasures) and jazz Fridays that are a "blast"; plus, Richard Meier's "clean, modern" design makes a visit here "both an art and architectural experience", especially now that the addition by Renzo Piano – who dreamed up Paris' Pompidou Center – has opened.

Atlanta's "own mini–Central Park" (designed by scions of Frederick Law Olmsted) is a "beautiful oasis in Midtown" that's "great for pets, kids, families" and anyone looking for lakes, playgrounds, festivals, concerts and "lots of space to run", "throw a Frisbee", "people-watch", go fishing or picnic; significant improvements made over the past decade have "helped boost its stature" as one of the city's "favorite gathering points."

"If you like baseball", you'll love this Grant Park field that has an "old-time feel" but is nevertheless modern, offering "lots to do behind the scenes", including a museum, a "fabulous stadium tour" and "interactive games" (swingers say the "virtual reality" batting cage is "super-cool"); better yet, there's "not a bad seat in the house", the "grounds are always sparkling clean" and there are "ample" if "overpriced" concessions; N.B. limited hours off-season.

"Big enough to spend an afternoon" exploring but small enough to be "manageable", this "easy-to-navigate" attraction not far from Downtown appeals to fauna fans with "well-displayed" animals housed in "carefully crafted habitats" (the "pandas are a must" and the gorillas "second to none"); a "helpful staff" oversees the facilities, and there are "great shows" and "beer carts to boot", prompting some to wonder "who wouldn't want to go to the zoo?"