Georgia Travel Guide
Atlanta
The major conurbation in Georgia and one of the most important cities in the South. Atlanta first came in to being in 1847 but was little more than a railroad halt until the war. Its location made it an obvious choice as the location of major Confederate war industries and transport networks. Which is why Sherman hit it so hard.
After the war the 'boosters' -prominent local people- talked the city up to encourage inward investment. Coca-Cola is one of the major companies to be sited here.
Since the war Atlanta has become a magnet for black immigration and whilst its racial position is very modern and forward looking there are undeniable tensions. Atlanta is driven by its freeways and tall office blocks occupy the skyline, the population is very mixed, the suburbs are sprawling and business is booming. Atlanta now, is some distance from the city depicted in Gone with the Wind.
Where to Go and What to See
Underground Atlanta
A vast shopping Mall in a subterranean setting. This has been built as a regeneration project, the need for which was caused by continually layering new roads and railways over the old. Into this sunken world has been put this labyrinth of shops bars and restaurants.
Nearby is the World of Coca-Cola, which is a museum, dedicated to the famed fizzy drink.
Sweet Auburn and Dr King
'Sweet Auburn' was a prosperous Black area of town until the depression, since then it has become a rather down at heel business district remarkable for only one thing. Dr Martin Luther King Jr was born here. There is much in the area (the Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site) that is devoted to the memory of this great man. There is a Center for Non Violent Change, his grave and memorial, his birthplace and the Baptist Church where he, his father and Grandfather all preached. Stop for a moment and consider what courage and the power of personality achieved.
Elsewhere in the city, there is the African American Panoramic Experience.
Museums
Atlanta has a number of half-decent museums that are worth a look. The Atlanta History Center provides a good background into all aspects of the city's history. There is a High Museum of Art that includes exhibits from all over but especially prominent is the contribution of African art. The same can be said of the Michael C Carlos Museum.
The Carter Presidential Center is devoted to that most famous 'good ole boy' Jimmy Carter. This includes a reproduction of Carter's Oval Office.
For Gone with the Wind fanatics, there is the Margaret Mitchell House and Museum. Frankly my dear...
Grant Park
A large open green space that is remarkable for its Cyclorama. This is a huge (50 by 350ft) painting depicting the battle of Atlanta. It was produced in 1886 and is the worlds largest painting. The idea is to sit inside the painting as it slowly revolves around you. There is also a Civil War museum to accompany the painting.
Elsewhere in the park is the Zoo Atlanta which has decent African and Asian habitats for the animals.
Six Flags over Georgia
A theme park. You know the drill. Turn up, pay your money and they then offer many different ways to scare yourself into losing your breakfast.
There is also a White Water theme park. This is the same deal as Six Flags except you get wet.
Eating, Drinking and Sleeping
As long as you are not there on a business convention weekend there is good availability of rooms though some can be a little expensive.
There are many places of different types all over Atlanta. Try the 'Soul Food' in the Sweet Auburn district, the Catfish is also to be recommended.
The bars and clubs are great fun but make sure your credit card is in good health before commencing a big night.
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