Photo / Ferran Traité

The one true capital of the South, Atlanta sits at the epicenter of an electrifying energy that is transforming the region. On the one hand, it is a metropolis writ large, with arts, culture and a spirit that is second to none. Ask anyone this side of the Mason Dixon how to get to “The City” and they’ll point you here. On the other, it still carries that timeless Southern authenticity and hospitality that sets the South apart. Carrying the best of the past into a dazzling future it is creating for itself, Atlanta is the standard bearer for the new South, with so much to explore.

Stay

Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead

Located in the bustling Buckhead fashion district, the Waldorf Astoria is the perfect accommodation for an upscale stay in Atlanta. Luxury amenities include a spa, yoga studio, pool, sauna and steam room. The hotel is also close to Atlanta’s High Museum of Art and Botanical Garden. hilton.com/en/hotels/atlwawa-waldorf-astoria-atlanta-buckhead

The Westin Peachtree Plaza

One of the most iconic fixtures in the Atlanta skyline, the Westin Peachtree Plaza hotel offers phenomenal downtown views and is conveniently located near many of Atlanta’s main attractions ​​including AmericasMart, Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Centennial Olympic Park and the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. marriott.com/hotels/travel/atlpl-the-westin-peachtree-plaza-atlanta

The Whitley

Also located in the Buckhead neighborhood, The Whitley hotel is a family favorite due to its proximity to Legoland. While a more upscale option, the hotel’s family friendly amenities are unmatched. Enjoy family suites, babysitting services, children’s activities, and an indoor pool and hot tub to keep the kids entertained. marriott.com/hotels/travel/atllu-the-whitley-a-luxury-collection-hotel-atlanta-buckhead

Play

Meghan Glove Leather Hobo Bag, a hobo bag born of the diamond. @Baseballism

Shop While You Chop

Located in the Cumberland area of Atlanta, The Battery is a hub for baseball fans and casual visitors alike. To balance out the sports attractions, The Battery offers visitors a variety of different retailers from small, independently owned boutiques to name brands. Names include Baseballism, DressUp, Mizuno, Sugarboo & Co., River Street Sweets, and more, from gifts to outdoor gear and everything in-between. Snag all the Atlanta Braves gear your heart desires at the pro shop. There’s no need to shop till you drop, since visitors have plenty of dining options—American, Italian, Vietnamese, casual, upscale, sweets—to fuel their spree. batteryatl.com

Photo / Appalachian Views

Skyview Atlanta

Towering nearly 20 feet over Centennial Park, SkyView boasts some of the city’s most exceptional views. The vibrant, neon SkyView Ferris Wheel features 42 climate controlled, private gondolas with panoramic views of downtown Atlanta. Riders can add more romance to their experience by choosing a VIP gondola, outfitted with Ferrari-style seats, glass floors and extended ride time. skyviewatlanta.com

Photo / D. Paul Graham

The Van Gogh Exhibit

Van Gogh’s works are brought to life in this immersive, 360-degree art experience. The 20,000-square foot, two-story exhibit showcases priceless works via projection, creating a near tangible sensation as everything is covered in color and light. Follow along with “A Day in the Life of the Artist” and walk alongside Van Gogh to gain a deeper insight to the artist’s inspiration and experiences that contributed to some of his most iconic and compelling works. vangoghexpo.com/atlanta

Eat

by Toren Anderson

Get Thee To Banshee

Shining in the midst of East Atlanta Village is the jewel that is Banshee. This eclectic hotspot serves seasonally informed food with dishes inspired by global cuisine. Ingredients are consistently fresh since they are based on what’s available, and they always come with a little spice. banshee-atl.com 

Bahn Mi Station

Located on the Westside’s new Chattahoochee Food Works, Bahn Mi Station sets the bar for best Vietnamese fare anywhere with a casual, upbeat vibe. Favorites included brisket pho, brisket Bahn Mi, and egg rolls (pork or vegetarian). This comfort food will surely heal what ails you. banhmistationatl.com

Leon’s Full Service

Service is at the forefront of the Leon’s experience. Reminiscent of old-school full-service gas stations, Leon’s aims to pull out all the stops. With an emphasis on Southern hospitality, guests sit back and enjoy Southern favorites with an imaginative spin. leonsfullservice.com

Meet Under the Cork Tree

This Sandy Springs eatery is home to Spanish-inspired tapas and Mediterranean entrees, and a superb weekend brunch. Come for the woodfired oven flatbreads and scratch-made pastas and stellar wine program, and stay for live entertainment on the weekends. corktreerestaurant.com

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