Cultural & Historical Destinations in Atlanta, United States

Atlanta, United States, Atlanta, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Cultural & Historical Destinations

Cultural & Historical Destinations in Atlanta, United States

1. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

Birthplace and final resting place of Martin Luther King Jr., offering insights into his life and the Civil Rights Movement.
  • Historic Home: Visitors can tour the house where Dr. King was born and raised.
  • Eternal Flame: A eternal flame burns at the tomb of Martin Luther King Jr., symbolizing his enduring legacy.
  • The King Center: Includes The King Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching peace, nonviolence, and social change.

2. Fox Theatre

A historic movie palace featuring ornate décor and hosting a variety of performances.
  • Movie Palace Architecture: Beautifully designed with an exotic Middle Eastern motif, the Fox Theatre is often called the 'Mighty Temptress.'
  • Performance Venue: Offers a diverse lineup of events, from Broadway shows to concerts.
  • Historic Restoration: Meticulously restored after falling into disrepair in the mid-20th century.

3. Atlanta History Center

An expansive museum complex presenting the history of Atlanta and the American South.
  • Swan House: Features the Swan House, a stunning example of Tudor Revival architecture.
  • Gathering Spot Museum: Explores the Civil Rights Movement through the lens of Atlanta's historic club, The Gathering Spot.
  • Museums and Exhibits: Includes various museums and exhibits covering topics such as agriculture, transportation, and African American history.

4. Sweet Auburn District

Historic neighborhood once home to many African American-owned businesses and civil rights leaders.
  • Martin Luther King Jr.'s Boyhood Home: The Sweet Auburn District is where Martin Luther King Jr. grew up.
  • Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History: Houses extensive collections related to African American history, culture, and life in the South.
  • Businesses and Restaurants: Offers a variety of restaurants and shops that showcase the area's rich cultural heritage.

5. Margaret Mitchell House

The former home of author Margaret Mitchell, where she wrote her Pulitzer Prize-winning novel 'Gone with the Wind'.
  • Writing Studio: Visitors can tour the writing studio where Margaret Mitchell wrote 'Gone with the Wind'.
  • Historic Preservation: The house has been meticulously restored and is now a museum dedicated to the author's life and work.
  • Gone with the Wind Exhibit: Features exhibits related to the novel, including costumes, props, and historical artifacts.

6. Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum

A museum featuring a huge cyclorama painting depicting the Battle of Atlanta during the American Civil War.
  • Cyclorama Painting: The circular painting wraps around the viewer, providing an immersive experience of the battle.
  • Battle of Atlanta Reenactment: Features live reenactments of the Battle of Atlanta on weekends during certain times of the year.
  • Civil War Museum: Includes artifacts, exhibits, and interpretive displays about the Civil War era.

7. Gullah Grassroots Festival

A cultural event celebrating the Gullah people, an African American community with roots in West Africa.
  • Performances and Workshops: Offers music, dance, craft demonstrations, storytelling, and cooking workshops.
  • Gullah Heritage: Highlights the unique culture, language, and customs of the Gullah people.
  • Community Engagement: Provides opportunities for visitors to learn from and engage with local Gullah community members.

8. Centennial Olympic Park

Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, this park now serves as a gathering place and event venue.
  • Olympic History: Contains artifacts and exhibits related to the 1996 Summer Olympics.
  • Event Venue: Hosts concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year.
  • Fountain of Rings: The Fountain of Rings, designed to represent the Olympic rings, is a popular attraction.

9. Georgia Aquarium

One of the world's largest aquariums with a focus on marine life conservation.
  • Whale Shark and Manta Ray Exhibit: Features the world's largest collection of whale sharks and manta rays.
  • Conservation Efforts: Supports various conservation projects around the world, focusing on marine life.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits and encounters with animals for visitors.

10. World of Coca-Cola

A museum dedicated to the history and popular culture surrounding the Coca-Cola brand.
  • Coca-Cola Artifacts: Includes artifacts, advertisements, and memorabilia related to the brand's history.
  • Tasting Room: Offers visitors the chance to taste over 100 varieties of Coca-Cola products from around the world.
  • Pop Culture Connection: Explores the role that Coca-Cola has played in popular culture and advertising throughout history.

11. Piedmont Park

A large urban park featuring greenspace, walking trails, and event venues.
  • Greenery and Trails: Offers ample opportunities for picnicking, jogging, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
  • Event Venues: Hosts concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year.
  • Dog Park: Includes a dedicated off-leash area for dogs.

12. High Museum of Art

A leading art museum with a focus on American and modern art.
  • Permanent Collection: Features works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Jackson Pollock.
  • Special Exhibitions: Hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary and historical art.
  • Architecture: Designed by Richard Meier, the museum's sleek design is a work of art in itself.

13. Atlanta Botanical Garden

A beautiful garden featuring a variety of plants from around the world.
  • Gardens and Exhibits: Includes gardens showcasing tropical plants, carnivorous plants, and native Georgia flora.
  • Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts through research, education, and habitat restoration.
  • Stunning Landscape Designs: Features unique landscape designs such as the Storza Woods and the Fuqua Orchid Center.

14. National Center for Civil and Human Rights

An educational institution dedicated to exploring civil rights movements and human rights issues.
  • Exhibits: Offers immersive exhibits on the Civil Rights Movement, human rights, and social justice.
  • Interactive Learning: Provides opportunities for visitors to engage with exhibits through interactive activities.
  • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Influence: Features artifacts and exhibits related to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and work.

15. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

One of America's leading orchestras, performing a variety of classical music concerts.
  • Concerts and Performances: Offers a diverse concert schedule featuring classical music, pops concerts, and educational programs.
  • Talent and Innovation: Features world-renowned musicians and innovative programming.
  • Educational Programs: Provides educational programs for students, including classes, workshops, and performances.