What is Atlanta, GA Known For? 15 Ways to Get to Know the Big Peach
Are you thinking about calling Atlanta, GA your new home? From its rich history and cultural landmarks to its thriving food and music scenes, living in Atlanta offers something for everyone. Home to professional sports teams, renowned universities, and a growing job market, this southern city is a hub of activity and opportunity.
Known for the Georgia Aquarium, Ponce City Market, and the iconic Peachtree roads, but what else is Atlanta known for? From beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, a thriving street art scene, and a range of festivals and events, you’ll quickly discover countless more reasons why Atlanta is such a desirable place to live.
Whether you’re new to the city and renting an apartment in Atlanta or looking to buy a home, there’s plenty to explore. We’ll take a closer look at some of the things that Atlanta is also known for and explore what makes this city such a unique and exciting place to live.
1. Rich history and cultural landmarks
Atlanta’s history is one of the defining features of the city, and it has played an important role in shaping the culture and identity of the region. The Civil Rights Movement was a pivotal moment, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park is a powerful reminder of the struggle for equality and justice. Visitors can tour Dr. King’s birth home, explore his final resting place, and learn about the history of the movement through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
The Atlanta History Center provides a broader look at the city’s past, with exhibits and artifacts ranging from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. The museum’s gardens and historic houses provide a glimpse into life in Atlanta during different periods in its history, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone interested in learning more about this vibrant southern city.
2. Atlanta’s neighborhoods
Atlanta, Georgia, boasts a diverse array of charming neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. From the upscale atmosphere of Buckhead to the historic charm of Inman Park and Grant Park, the city offers a wide range of living experiences. For example, neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, West Midtown, and East Atlanta Village provide vibrant nightlife, culinary scenes, and local art, while Decatur, Old Fourth Ward, and Cabbagetown offer a mix of history, culture, and rapid growth. These distinct communities contribute to Atlanta’s rich cultural heritage, making it a dynamic and attractive city for residents and visitors alike.
3. The music scene
Atlanta has a vibrant and diverse music scene that has been influential in shaping popular culture in the United States. The city’s hip-hop scene is particularly noteworthy, with Atlanta being widely recognized as one of the epicenters of the genre. Hip-hop artists from Atlanta have dominated the music charts, with superstars such as Outkast, Ludacris, and Ciara hailing from the city. Atlanta’s music scene also has deep roots in gospel music, with the city being home to many influential gospel musicians and choirs. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, one of the country’s leading orchestras, is based in the city and regularly performs classical music concerts to sold-out audiences.
In addition, Atlanta hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including the popular Atlanta Jazz Festival and the Atlanta Music Festival, which showcase a wide range of musical genres and talent. Whether you’re a music aficionado or just looking to explore the city’s rich cultural offerings, Atlanta’s music scene is not to be missed.
4. Sports
For sports fans, Atlanta is a city that offers plenty of opportunities to catch professional games and cheer on local teams. The Atlanta Braves are the city’s beloved baseball team, and fans can enjoy watching games at the state-of-the-art Truist Park stadium. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons are the city’s NFL team, playing their games at the impressive Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which also hosts major events such as the Super Bowl and NCAA Final Four.
Basketball fans can catch the Atlanta Hawks in action at State Farm Arena, which offers a range of seating options and a lively atmosphere. In addition to these major league teams, Atlanta also has a thriving soccer scene with Atlanta United FC, which plays its home games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium as well.
5. The variety of cuisine
For food lovers, Atlanta is a city that offers a range of culinary delights to satisfy any palate. Southern comfort food is a local specialty, and you can enjoy classics like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy at many of the city’s restaurants. But Atlanta’s food scene is not limited to southern cuisine. The city has a diverse array of international restaurants, ranging from Mexican and Vietnamese to Ethiopian and Korean, reflecting the city’s multicultural background.
Atlanta is also home to a growing farm-to-table movement, with many restaurants sourcing their ingredients from local farms and highlighting the bounty of the region’s agriculture. And for a uniquely Atlanta experience, stop by The Varsity, the world’s largest drive-in restaurant, where you can indulge in classic fast food fare while taking in the restaurant’s iconic neon signage and nostalgic atmosphere.
6. Parks and outdoor activities
Atlanta’s green spaces are a cherished part of the city’s landscape, offering residents a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Piedmont Park, located in the heart of the city, is a sprawling green space that features walking paths, picnic areas, and recreational facilities, including tennis courts and a swimming pool. The Atlanta Botanical Garden, located adjacent to Piedmont Park, is a beautiful oasis that showcases a variety of plant species, including orchids, roses, and tropical plants. The garden also features a canopy walk, a children’s garden, and a special events space.
Just outside the city, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area offers miles of hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic views of the river.
7. Festivals and events
Atlanta is a city that values community and cultural diversity, and this is reflected in the many festivals and events held throughout the year. One of the most well-known events is the Atlanta Jazz Festival, which takes place annually over Memorial Day weekend and attracts jazz musicians and fans from around the world. The Atlanta Film Festival is another popular event, featuring screenings of independent and international films, as well as workshops and panels with industry professionals.
The Atlanta Pride Festival is a celebration of the city’s LGBTQ+ community and features parades, concerts, and other activities that promote inclusion and acceptance. Other notable events include the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, which celebrates the arrival of spring with art, music, and food, and the Atlanta Food and Wine Festival, which showcases the city’s vibrant culinary scene. These events offer a chance to connect with others, explore new cultures, and celebrate the unique spirit of Atlanta.
8. Higher education
Atlanta is a hub for higher education, with several highly-ranked colleges and universities located in and around the city. Emory University, a private research university, is consistently ranked among the top 25 universities in the United States and is particularly well-regarded for its programs in the humanities and social sciences. Georgia Tech, a public research university, is a leading institution in engineering and technology education and has produced many notable alumni in the fields of science, engineering, and business. Morehouse College is one of the most prestigious institutions of its kind in the United States and has produced many prominent leaders in politics, business, and civil rights.
These institutions offer a wide range of academic programs, as well as opportunities for research, professional development, and community engagement. For students and scholars alike, Atlanta’s colleges and universities are an important part of the city’s intellectual and cultural landscape.
9. Business and job opportunities
As one of the largest cities in the southern United States, Atlanta is a major economic hub with a thriving business community. The city is home to several large corporations and businesses, including Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, and Home Depot, which contribute to the city’s robust economy. Atlanta’s diverse business community spans a wide range of industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance, providing job opportunities for workers with a variety of skill sets and backgrounds.
The city’s status as a transportation hub, with the world’s busiest airport located in Atlanta, has also contributed to the growth of its economy. In recent years, Atlanta has become a hub for the film and television industry, with many productions filming in the city and contributing to the growth of the local entertainment industry.
10. Ponce City Market
Ponce City Market is one of Atlanta’s most popular attractions and a must-visit for residents and tourists alike. Located in the historic Sears, Roebuck & Co. building, the market is a mixed-use development that features a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. You can explore the market’s many offerings, which range from high-end boutiques to artisanal food stalls, while taking in the building’s impressive architecture and history.
Ponce City Market is also home to a rooftop amusement park, The Roof, which features a variety of activities including mini-golf, carnival games, and a slide. The market regularly hosts events such as food festivals, holiday markets, and live music performances, making it a vibrant and dynamic destination year-round. For those seeking a unique and memorable experience in Atlanta, Ponce City Market is a must-see.
11. Atlanta BeltLine
The Atlanta BeltLine is a popular and innovative urban development project that has transformed the city’s landscape and connected communities throughout Atlanta. The Beltline is a network of multi-use trails and parks that encircle the city’s core, providing a safe and accessible space for pedestrians, cyclists, and joggers to enjoy. The project has also spurred a boom in new residential and commercial development along its path, revitalizing neighborhoods and attracting new businesses and residents to the area.
The Beltline is also home to a wide range of public art installations, including murals, sculptures, and other installations that reflect Atlanta’s diverse cultural heritage. In addition to its recreational and economic benefits, the Beltline has helped to promote sustainability and environmental conservation by encouraging alternative modes of transportation and providing access to green spaces in the heart of the city.
12. Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the world’s largest aquariums and a must-visit attraction for anyone living or visiting Atlanta. Located in the heart of downtown, the aquarium features an impressive collection of aquatic life from around the globe, including whale sharks, beluga whales, and manta rays. You can explore the aquarium’s many exhibits and learn about the diverse ecosystems that exist beneath the ocean’s surface, while enjoying up-close encounters with some of the world’s most fascinating marine creatures.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the Georgia Aquarium also offers a range of educational programs and interactive experiences, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and immersive 4D theater experiences. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational outing, the Georgia Aquarium is a must-see destination in Atlanta.
13. Atlanta’s awe-inspiring street art
Atlanta’s street art scene is one of the most vibrant and awe-inspiring in the country. The city is home to countless murals and street art installations, with new works popping up all the time. Some of the most popular street art destinations include the Krog Street Tunnel, which features an ever-changing array of colorful murals, and the Atlanta Beltline, a multi-use trail that showcases a diverse range of art installations and sculptures.
Other notable street art destinations in Atlanta include the Living Walls project, which commissions artists to create large-scale murals throughout the city, and the OuterSpace Project, an annual event that brings together street artists from around the world to create new works in Atlanta.
14. Fox Theatre
The Fox Theatre is a historic landmark and one of the most beloved performing arts venues in Atlanta. Built in 1929, the theater boasts a stunning and opulent interior design that features intricate decorative elements like ornate ceilings, plush seating, and elaborate chandeliers. The Fox Theatre was originally designed as a movie palace, but it has since become a popular venue for live performances, including concerts, ballets, Broadway shows, and more. Many famous performers have graced the stage at the Fox Theatre over the years, including Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and Prince.
In addition to its impressive entertainment offerings, the Fox Theatre also plays an important role in the community as a nonprofit organization that supports arts education and outreach programs.
15. “Peachtree”
Atlanta is often called the “city of trees” due to its abundance of tree-lined streets and parks, but it is also known for its many roads with the name “Peachtree.” In fact, there are more than 70 streets in the Atlanta metropolitan area with the word “Peachtree” in their name. This can be a bit confusing for newcomers to the city, but it also adds to the unique character of Atlanta. One of the most famous of these Peachtree-named roads is Peachtree Street, which runs through the heart of downtown Atlanta and is home to many of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Fox Theatre and the World of Coca-Cola. Other notable Peachtree roads include Peachtree Battle Avenue, Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, and Peachtree-Dunwoody Road. Despite the potential for confusion, the abundance of Peachtree roads has become a point of pride for many Atlanta residents and a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture.
What is Atlanta, GA known for? Final thoughts
Atlanta is a vibrant and dynamic city with much to offer. Whether you’re interested in history and culture, sports and entertainment, or food and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in this exciting southern metropolis.
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