Destination Spotlight: Atlanta

From visiting the birthplace of Martin Luther King to indulging in some of the great local cuisines, Atlanta is one of the American cities that you should have on your radar in 2020 and beyond. It’s a part of Olympic history and a stroll around Centennial Olympic Park is an absolute must.

Atlanta boasts fascinating tourist attractions such as the Georgia Aquarium which is the largest in the world with over 100,000 aquatic animals and species. As well as the unique and eclectic dining scene where you can find restaurants with some of the world’s most renowned chefs at the helm. Atlanta is most definitely one of the top cities that you should be visiting in 2020 and beyond.

If you are looking for a fusion of cosmopolitan elegance and southern hospitality, you will find it at the Omni Hotel where you can enjoy unrivalled views of the spectacular downtown skyline or Centennial Olympic Park. From its sundeck and fitness centre to the expansive and luxurious rooms, you can be sure to take advantage of the luxurious amenities.

Love a boutique hotel? We live the Ellis in downtown Atlanta. This historic hotel exudes southern sophistication and is situated close to Atlanta’s iconic landmarks and attractions.  The rooms are elegant, modern and comfortable and you can even treat yourself to a stay in the wellness room where you can find an impressive shower system with microbubble technology to remove impurities.

The W Midtown has the wow factor – just two blocks from Piedmont Park, this hip Atlanta accommodation tocks all the boxes and more for those looking for a hotel that is totally 'instagrammable'. There is also a rooftop pool where you can relax in the sun with a cooling cocktail.

When you think of Atlanta, surely the renowned and visionary civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr springs to mind. A trip to the Peach State would not be complete without a visit to the Martin Luther King, Jr National Historic Site and the inspiring King Centre where King’s iconic speech is transmitted as you make your way around the exhibition.

Want to explore the city but are also mindful of your carbon footprint? Why not take a driving tour of Atlanta’s top attractions in an eco-friendly electric car? This tour will take you to see the city’s top sights and historic neighbourhoods while learning fun, local facts from your experienced guide.

Did you know that Atlanta is the filming location to several TV shows and films to include the Oscar-nominated Black Panther, the Hunger Games, Jumanji and The Walking Dead. Why not take a film tour and see some of these familiar filming spots for yourself?

Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Sway at the Hyatt Regency in the heart of Downtown Atlanta. Executive Chef Thomas McKeown’s menus are a joy at any time of the day, but their brunch is something else. Expect an array of regional favourites such as shrimp & grits, banana french toast, buttermilk biscuits and gravy.

TWO Urban Licks is a great introduction to Southern cuisine. Set in an achingly cool yet industrial setting, this restaurant which is on Atlanta’s BeltLine (a revitalised area of the city) is a firm favourite of Atlantans

Umi in Buckhead is Atlanta's see-and-be-seen sushi spot and is located on one of the many Peachtree Streets within the city (in fact there are 71 of these streets). Its celebrity clientele includes Sir Anthony Hopkins and Jennifer Lawrence. Make sure you dress to impress as they have a strict dress code and don't forget to ask for one of their custom cocktails.

Ponce City Market is a true treasure trove – located in a renovated historic building, the market has a great selection of boutique shops where you can find jewellery, clothes and more. If you start to feel a bit fatigued, head over to the food hall which is widely considered to be one of the most vibrant food halls and markets in the Southeast. Grab a cocktail at the 18.21 Bitters or try some of the region’s wines at the City Winery – cheers!

One of the biggest outdoor malls is worthy of a road trip to Buford which is around 30 miles north of the city. It is home to over 250 different shops which ranges from prestigious luxury brands to department stores.

If you love all things vintage, head to the Clothing Warehouse on Moreland Avenue where you will find a treasure trove of handpicked vintage finds. From antique cowboy hats and vintage denim to 70’s prairie dresses and band tee shirts, this is a dream destination for those who hanker after days of yore.

One of our favourite things to do is to take a stroll around some of the lesser-known neighbourhoods. As with most cities, each area has its own distinct personality – we love Little Five Points which is where you can find the best vintage clothing, vinyl stores and intimate gig venues.

The Sweet Auburn Curb Market and the Atlanta Food Truck Park are great places to find some delicious treat and a trip to either is a great way to mix with the locals. As well as an array of food trucks serving every kind of dish imaginable, visitors can also browse local art and crafts too.

Despite its urban sprawl, Atlanta has a plethora of beautiful green spaces which includes Piedmont Park in Midtown, Grant Park which is situated on the Eastside and the uber-trendy Freedom Park which is full of intriguing sculptures and art.

Are you ready to discover Atlanta? Get in touch with your Personal Travel Consultant today.