I’ve been wanting to go to Atlanta in the worst way, but the stars may have FINALLY aligned for a trip! Contrary to my friend’s opinions, I honestly can’t wait!
I’ll be the first to admit, my last trip to the city was somewhat disappointing, but after being named on of Lonely Planet’s Top Cities of 2022, I’m excited to check out everything I missed. To us Floridians, Atlanta is merely a place for con certs that don’t want to make a pitstop in the peninsula. Visiting the city only to see a pop star prance around a stage would be a CRIME, as there’s so many cool things! Here are a few that have been pulling me towards the city.
Truett’s Luau
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not the biggest fan of Chick-Fil-A, but what’s not to love about this quirky Hawaiian themed location?! I love nothing more than a kitschy tropical theme. They have a Hawaiian influenced menu, including Lava Cake, a Frosted Pineapple drink, and intriguing ‘I’a Makana Tacos’. Being an Atlanta local, the restaurant also, of course, draws southern influence. Don’t ask me how they fused southern and Hawaiian, but I’ve heard good reviews! It’s even Hawaiian themed, with tropical decor around the space and grass huts for outdoor eating. As it’s on the outskirts of town, I missed it on my last trip, opting instead for a disappointing normal branch of the chain. My friend and I waited half an hour in the drive through line, only to get a subpar chicken sandwich and underwhelming fries. Technically, the rumors of a different menu across the Atlanta area were true, but it was literally one frosted beverage.
Georgia Aquarium
Don’t ask me how I missed this monster of an aquarium on my last trip. Actually, I can almost promise it was the steep price tag. Regardless of the bank account suction, testaments from my friends all rank this as an incredible time. No one I’ve talked to has regretted their debts for the aquarium. Aside from the Epcot one, it’s been YEARS since I stepped foot in an aquarium. I’m so excited to see the Whale Sharks (ethics aside), belugas and dolphins. The Ocean Voyager webcam somewhat shows these giants floating through the water, I can only imagine what seeing them in person would be like.
Piedmont Park
So I did stop here on my last visit in the city, but I really want to explore this park more, especially in winter. I’m looking forward to devoting a chunk of time to go for a run and find every hidden corner. …I like city parks ok.
Busy Bee Cafe
I HAVE HEARD SO MUCH ABOUT THIS PLACE! Busy Bee Cafe has conjured up quite a following, being named in major publications and even winning a 2022 James Beard award. They’re still operating a to-go only menu, but I’m dying to try their fried chicken and Mac-and-cheese. No one does southern better than ‘Hotlanta!’ The little shack marked with neon lights spelling out the restaurant’s name seem nothing but charming.
Nightlife
I’m honestly still in shock that I’m finally 21. I can’t wait to check out the nightlife scene in Atlanta! I would’ve never guessed it’s as popping as it is. From themed clubs to rooftop bars, I’ve been compiling a list of all the places to check out. I also am really excited to try the Roof at Ponce, as touristy as it is. More to come on this, but I’m always excited to party in a new city! Atlanta also has a ton of wine bars. I’m a sucker for an ambiance rich room filled with wine, but then again, who wouldn’t be?
Stone Mountain
Orlando’s hiking options are a bit… limited to say the least, and I’ve been wanting to climb this granite mountain forever! After a failed attempt to visit last time I was in the city, my friend promised me all the secrets to getting to the peak. It was torture enough to stare at it from the hotel window:
I don’t support, no, I DESPISE the confederate values behind the mountain’s memorial, but the natural side of this site is gorgeous. I couldn’t care less about the lifts and attractions designed to support the racist monument, but the granite created by god himself commands my full attention. In fact, whenever I need background noise to study, I watch this guy walk through the park in the rain. It’s such a peaceful video and is the perfect anecdote to school induced stress.
Krog Street Market Area
Overshadowed by the nearby Ponce City Market, I can’t wait to try this food hall! Last time I was in the city, I must’ve walked RIGHT by it without realizing. It’s a few blocks away from the Martin Luther King Jr. NHS, Krog Street, the area around, has expanded into a hip enclave of restaurants and shops. There’s a ton of options I want to try, from Suzy Sio’s Bao Buns to the fruity pastries at The Little Tart Bakeshop. Orlando-based Hawkers even has an outpost outside the market! I’m going to go ahead and clump the Greenway into this category since it cuts through the neighborhood. It’s been GREATLY expanded in the few years since I’ve been in the city!
National Civil Rights Center
I love American History, but I feel like Civil Rights are a topic frequently brushed over. This museum talks about the fight for equal rights, both in America and around the world. I’m incredibly passionate about pushing for basic rights, and honestly if you don’t believe every person should have the same rights, then you should re-examine everything about yourself. Being as Atlanta was a pivotal place in Martin Luther King’s career and fight to equality, I’m sure this museum has a lot on him.
More to come on this article after I actually go to Atlanta, but for now this is a summary of the great city! I’m genuinely so excited to go, but everyone’s been confused as to why — here is my answer for all the future “why Atlanta” questions I will get, always accompanied by a confused face. If I have differed you to this article after asking me…
Turquoise Skies 