Atlanta, Georgia is a thriving metropolis that offers a splendor of delectable eats, trendy neighborhoods, and world-class attractions. There’s more to the self-proclaimed “capital of the south” than meets the eye, and to get you started, here’s a look at 3 of the best things to do in Atlanta that you have to go check out.

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Where to stay in Atlanta?

  • For the best prices on accommodations and the most choices, Booking.com has been my go-to choice especially once you reach Genius tier and you can find an additional 10-15% off places to stay.

Top 3 Things To Do in Atlanta

If you’re coming to Atlanta for a vacation and curious about the best things to do in the city, make sure you catch these top 3 attractions.

1. The Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium
Image via Flickr by pankcho

This is the world’s largest aquarium and is a serious show stopper because it makes every other aquarium look like child’s play. Inside, you’ll find a massive array of marine life that ranges from the majestic whaleshark to belugas, jellyfish, stingrays, and penguins. They even have an impressive “Pirates of the Caribbean” meets dolphins action-packed show that’s included with your ticket. Another highlight is the Ocean Voyager Exhibit which has a moving conveyor belt you can stand on as you’re transported through a glass domed tunnel.

One word of caution is that the aquarium draws in mega crowds so my best recommendation is to head there when it first opens. Also make sure you buy your tickets online beforehand to help speed things up. You’ll need roughly three hours to see everything so plan accordingly.

2. World of Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola World
Image via Flickr by kordian

If you didn’t know before, Coca-Cola is actually headquartered in Atlanta and so right across from the aquarium is the mecca of everyone’s favorite soft drink. This multi-media rich experience takes guests through the history of the company from the beginning, and includes a fully functioning bottling line, a 4-D theater, and just tons and tons of memorabilia. The best part about the whole experience is when you make it to the Taste It beverage lounge where you can sample 100+ different flavors of Coca-Cola from all over the world.

General admission to World of Coca-Cola is $16 for adults but you can upgrade to the VIP experience, which comes with a dedicated guide, for $28.

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3. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

Martin Luther King Jr NHS
Image via Flickr Jared625

Atlanta is where it all began for one of America’s most pivotal figures in the fight for civil rights. Being his birthplace and final resting place, a 35-acre area was turned into a national historic site in 1980. Today visitors have a chance to take a tour with a National Park Service ranger to see Martin Luther King Jr.’s home where he grew up in, his church, and final resting place.  The site is both moving and inspirational as you get to walk in his footsteps and even get to hear his voice in the church that sparked a revolution.

Don’t forget to start at the visitor center first as this is where you can sign up for tours and walk through the featured exhibit which does an amazing job at providing the overview of the history and the events of that time period that fueled King’s work.  Keep in mind that there are a limited number of tours to the house so try to sign up as early as possible in the day.

These three sights are really only the tip of the iceberg.  From restaurants, outdoor activities, museums, shopping, and affordable hotels in Atlanta, there’s really something for everyone.

Travel Resources For Your Next Trip

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Rideshare: For new Lyft users, use code WILLIAM4825 to get 50% off your first 2 rides (max $10 USD per ride). Offer valid for 14 days after you take your first ride. For new Uber users, use code psuqbjg4d7rn for the same offer except it’s valid for 30 days.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.

  • AmigoSIM – Use GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 25% off. Code is re-useable.
  • Gigsky – Use TANG149 to get $3 USD when you sign up, then use code GOINGAWESOME to save 20% on all eSIM orders.
  • KnowRoaming – Use code GAP10 to save 10%.
  • AloSIM – Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 15%.
  • Airalo – Use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase.
  • UbigiAWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key).

Tours and Activities: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

  • HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks. By booking through our link to get a 15% discount (from June 19-29)!
  • RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
  • SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
  • Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
  • InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

William Tang of Going Awesome Places
About The Author

Will Tang

Will Tang, founder of Going Awesome Places, has traveled to 51 countries. He shares his insanely detailed itineraries, travel guides, and packing lists. Will’s travels have been featured on Huffington Post, Men’s Journal, and Entrepreneur.

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