Atlanta: the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. and the home base of CNN and Coca-Cola. Millions of passengers pass through this busy airport hub on their way to another destination, but this southern city is definitely worth a stop-over.
A vibrant city with a relaxed southern vibe: the capital of Georgia has an unrivalled character. The city is also known as A-Town, or even shorter: The A. Impressive skyscrapers tower over the busy streets below the dense foliage of the trees. With its young and energetic population, Atlanta is always in motion and on the go.
Atlanta is the birthplace of Coca-Cola. It was here in 1886 that pharmacist John S. Pemberton unwittingly created the world’s most famous soft drink. And Atlanta has the Coca-Cola museum to prove it: World of Coca-Cola. This amazing interactive museum takes you on a journey through the history of this legendary brand.
One of the most popular exhibits is the Vault of the Secret Formula. The secret Coca-Cola recipe is said to be locked inside this safe. The top floor of the museum houses a tasting room where you can sample more than a hundred different beverages produced by the Coca-Cola Company around the world. Anyone up for an Inca Kola from Peru?
After exploring Atlanta’s major attractions, it’s time to soak up the local vibe at Little Five Points. ‘Hipster meets bohemian chic’ is perhaps the most fitting description of this compact neighbourhood. People watching has been elevated to a sport in ‘Little Five’ and the streets are packed with vintage stores, tattoo parlours and independent book shops. Another characteristic of Little Five Points is the great street art that literally brightens up the area.
Don’t miss The Vortex: a burger bar with a huge skull as the entrance. Locals claim that these burgers are the best in Atlanta. With names such as Freaky Tiki and Zombie Apocalypse, these will certainly spark your curiosity, if not your appetite.
Just east of Atlanta lies Stone Mountain. This is where Atlantans flock on the weekend to get away from the city. Three of the important generals from the American Civil War in 1861 have been carved into an enormous granite rock. The surrounding park boasts numerous trails that lead past historic sites such as the Grist Mill.
In summer, Memorial Lawn in front of the giant rock is the place to be. Hundreds of American families gather here, armed with picnic blankets and snacks, to enjoy the sultry summer evenings and watch a spectacular laser show projected onto the rock face. The classic tune ‘Proud to be an American’ serves as the soundtrack. Come and soak up the 'All American Spirit'.
