02 May Stepping Out: Atlanta

Posted at 04:00h in DW Life, New Articles, Stepping Out by

By Eddie Lee

With the third-largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies in the United States, Atlanta has long been an important corporate hub. But it’s not all business. Atlanta is also a bustling city with a vibrant culture, standout attractions, deep history, and distinctive dining. All of which means that a trip to the ATL is sure to leave you entertained, enlightened, and eager to return.

What to see

The largest aquarium in the United States, the Georgia Aquarium—located downtown—contains more than 11 million gallons of water and is home to thousands of marine animals; for an extra fee, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour or even meet a penguin, an otter, or a dolphin. At the High Museum of Art, take in a special exhibition of abstract quilts by Black women, including several Gee’s Bend quilters, or enjoy the permanent collection—the museum is particularly strong in photography and the decorative arts. Trap Music Museum is an interactive experience that guides visitors through the history and culture of hip-hop, and specifically trap music, which has deep roots in Atlanta.

For an outdoorsy experience, walk through the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s 30 acres of beautiful plant collections and exhibits. The garden offers special events and classes (botanical drawing, orchid growing, cooking from the edible garden, and more). Make sure you plan ahead, as they regularly sell out. You can also stroll through Centennial Olympic Park, built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, in the heart of the downtown. Snap a picture at the Olympic rings sculpture or take a ride in the 20-story SkyView Ferris wheel to get a breathtaking view of the city.

Honor past giants

In the 1950s and 1960s, Atlanta played a major role in the civil rights movement and was the home of prominent movement leaders, such as Martin Luther King, Jr. and John Lewis. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights examines this crucial time in American history, as well as human rights movements around the world. Among the items on display are Dr. King’s letters and other personal effects, while an interactive exhibit recreates a lunch counter sit-in. Be sure to take time to visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. Sitting on 35 acres, the park honors Dr. King’s enduring legacy and includes Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he was a pastor, and the grave sites of both Dr. King and his wife, Coretta Scott King.

Where to dine

Atlanta’s impressive restaurant scene represents the diversity of the region. Named the city’s finest steakhouse by Atlanta magazine and best steakhouse in America in 2018 by Zagat, Bones, in Buckhead Village, features a wide selection of premier steaks and seafood. Poor Calvin’s, located downtown, has been serving unique Asian fusion for nearly 12 years. Popular dishes include the lobster fried rice and seafood curry. One of the hottest new restaurants in the area is Owens and Hull, which serves both Texas- and Carolina-style barbecue. On the west side of town, and open only Thursday through Sunday, the casual-but-serious-about-its-BBQ establishment showcases specific meats on each day. For a nightcap, check out Bar Margot at the Four Seasons in midtown. Its signature cocktails are the Lady Victoria, a vodka-based drink, and the Gin Margot, a take on the classic gin and tonic. DW



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