Queen Meranda

Atlanta is one of the most well-known and active cities in the southeast. Not only is Atlanta the home of Coca-Cola, but my hometown also hosted the 1996 Olympics. The capital of Georgia also has world-class museums, nostalgic restaurants, and beautiful views. 

That’s why staying local when you live a short drive away isn’t a downer. There’s so much to do downtown and in the metro area that you’ll be glad you saved money by not going anywhere else. So, to inspire your staycation, I’ve come up with a list of things to keep you feeling like you flew out to a new city. Or, if you are from out of town, these are some great local spots to check out.

In the words of Petey Pablo, “Hot Atlanta, come on and raise up!” If he had known better, he wouldn’t have said Hot Atlanta. Everyone local knows the term is Hotlanta. Okay, back to the list of the most exciting things to do!

World of Coca-Cola

You can’t really go to where Coke was invented and not experience the attraction dedicated to it. This bubbly beverage is enjoyed all over the world. The theme song you’ll hear throughout is actually, “I’m on top of the world,” and that’s how it feels.

So, whether you’re going as part of your staycation or have friends coming from out of town, it’s worth the trip.

Before getting into the building, there is a photo-op statue of John Stith Pemberton, inventor of Coca-Cola. The story of how the drink came to be is playing on the overhead as you walk to the ticket window.

They offer annual passes at the window. That might be fun if you plan to bring guests, but you don’t need to go that often. It’s a treat but there are not a ton of new things to do after the first visit.

Upon entrance, there’s a Coke can choice to take on the tour. Then, the group walks into a room with the most cola memorabilia ever seen while waiting to be let into the theater. There, you’ll watch an informative video about the journey Coca-Cola takes in several countries. 

After that, it’s freedom!

Take a photo with the Cola Bear, watch a movie about the history of Coke advertising, take a 4D adventure ride, get a history lesson, see a visual representation of how Coke is made, and everyone’s favorite, the tasting room! There are a plethora of Coke flavors from around the world. Don’t miss banana soda!

It’s also right across the street from the Centennial Olympic Park. This park is a reminder of when we were on the worldwide stage of athletic greatness. It’s a huge area smack dab in the middle of downtown, including the scenic ride, Eye of Atlanta.

There are events here throughout the summer as well. Feel free to visit World of Coke early, then head across the street for a night in the park. 

Adult admission online is $19, children are $15. If you pay in person, it’s $1 more.

Fernbank

There are currently two Fernbanks in Atlanta that serve different purposes. You will want to go to both but I’ll explain each one so you can pick which to go to first.

Fernbank Science Center

This is a great amount of fun for kids with enough to keep parents interested as well. First of all, it’s free to get in! Immediately after stepping over the threshold, it’s science immersion. There’s a make-a-tornado interactive stand, space rocks, and an array of earth facts on the walls. 

Kids get to touch things and learn at the same time. Perhaps the biggest draw of the science center is the planetarium. It’s $10 to watch a show for adults and $5 for students.

Fernbank Museum

This is a kid’s time machine. Within the museum walls is an ancient forest and dinosaurs. It feels like a museum when you walk in, but one that is more tangible for little hands with cool stuff like fossils and Critter Corner. Let’s not forget the massive 3D theater that really makes incredible documentaries and movies come to life.

There are even events just for adults, like after-hours wine or adult summer camp. General admission is $24.95 for ages 13+ and $22.95 for children. 

Stone Mountain Park

Want to get out of downtown? A short drive east will take you to one of the most notable landmarks in Georgia. Aside from being a literal mountain of stone, the larger-than-life carving on the side is a lot to wrap your head around.

The mountain has really come alive in the last couple of decades as they are continually adding things to do. Stone Mountain Park is busy all year round.

Here’s a list of available activities once you arrive:

• Scenic railroad
• Summit Skyride
• Geyser Tower
• Memorial Hall Museum
• Dinotorium
• Dinosaur Explore
• Golfing
• Historic Home Square

There are several big events on the mountainside throughout the year. The biggest is the Fantastic Fourth Celebration, which includes a laser show and an enormous fireworks display. The lawn in front of the mountain has room for thousands. You can go just for the show or you can come early and have a whole day of doing stuff.

The parking pass can get you in for the show, museum, a covered bridge, and the home square for $20 or $40 for the year. You can purchase an attractions pass for $19.95 that will get you into each attraction for the day or take the skylift for $12 round trip, or $7 if you want to walk down.