A summary of fun things to do in Atlanta alone, from famous tourist attractions to beautiful outdoor destinations to relaxing retreats.
Atlanta is a great city to explore solo. There are plenty of interactive tourist attractions in Atlanta, as well as serene spots to simply enjoy the scenery and have moments of quiet reflection.
Perhaps you or your loved one is in Downtown Atlanta attending a conference. What tourist attractions can one attend with a few hours to kill? CNN Center is an excellent way to get your tour of Atlanta off to a fast-paced start. Get a behind-the-scenes peek at what really happens at a 24-hour news network. Group tours fill up quickly, so you'll probably have a better chance of getting in at the last minute if you go solo.
Keep the high energy pumping by visiting the World of Coca-Cola. The world famous beverage was created in Atlanta, and this museum illustrates the interesting history of the famous soda. The best part is that patrons get to sample different Coke formulas from around the world. There are some big differences, and it's fun to see which country's version you prefer.
Work off that caffeine buzz by touring Atlanta's cool sports complexes. From the Georgia Dome, where the Atlanta Falcons football team plays, to Turner Field, where the Atlanta Braves baseball team plays, to Phillips Arena, where the Atlanta Hawks basketball team and the Atlanta Thrashers hockey team plays, there are plenty of exhibits to keep the sports fan happy.
Just east of Downtown Atlanta is Zoo Atlanta, which is another great Atlanta tourist attraction. Don't miss the giant pandas, on loan from China. They love to frolic and munch on bamboo!
For a sobering and inspirational landmark in Atlanta, make your way through the King Center. A monument honoring the life of civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr., his tomb is located here, as well as his birth home, and a museum displaying many of his speeches and letters.
Another tourist attraction in the Downtown Atlanta area that allows one to reflect on the city's rich and diverse history is Oakland Cemetery. One can spend hours winding their way through the sprawling, peaceful grounds, while locating the gravestones of such Atlanta notables as former Mayor Maynard Jackson or "Gone with the Wind" writer Margaret Mitchell.
Speaking of the world famous author Mitchell, the Margaret Mitchell House in Midtown is another fun place to tour by yourself in Atlanta. Tours are conducted throughout the day, and the tour guides provided interesting tidbits about Mitchell's life, as well as about life in Atlanta during her time. Get a peek into Mitchell's basement apartment, which she referred to as "the dump." The quaint unit is where Mitchell began writing the novel that may be one of the most famous in the world.
Strolling through the winding paths of Piedmont Park is another great way to appreciate Atlanta on your own. Check out the gorgeous view of the Midtown Atlanta skyline, as well as Lake Clara Meer, and the fenced-in dog park. Another fair-weather destination in Atlanta is the Atlanta Botanical Garden. This is a great place to take a stroll, and literally take time to stop and smell the roses.
If you prefer your works of art indoors, the High Museum is a must-see. The High has a terrific permanent collection, and superb travelling exhibits, so you can see something new each time you visit. The Fox Theatre is another arts related attraction in Atlanta that is one of the city's most treasured landmarks. Go on a tour of the art deco designed performance venue, or catch a show, which vary from concerts to Broadway productions.
Shopping is the perfect solo activity, and Atlanta has no shortage of shopping opportunities. For hardcore mall shopping, Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza in Buckhead are hard to beat. For an eclectic vibe, head to Little Five Points, and browse through the variety of fun collectibles and club clothing at Junkman's Daughter. The neighborhood is also home to a host of clothing boutiques. For antique shopping, the Virginia Highland neighborhood and Miami Circle are the best bets. For souvenirs, head to Underground Atlanta, where you can find a bevy of Atlanta souvenir items at reasonable prices.
Perhaps the best way to spend time alone in Atlanta is at one of the city's relaxing day spas. Key Lime Pie Salon in the Virginia Highlands is a local favorite. Other great Atlanta spas include Cortex Spa and Salon, Natural Body Spa & Shoppe, the Hammam- A Medical Day Spa, and Quintessence Day Spa. For the guys, there's Joq, dedicated to all of the personal grooming and relaxation needs of today's man.
Atlanta is a great city to visit alone. There are plenty of activities to participate in and attractions to visit all on your own. Make sure to take pictures of your visit. No doubt others will be jealous!
