5 Ways To Skip The Games In Atlanta

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As the capital city of Georgia, Atlanta is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant cultural scene, rich history, and exciting attractions. However, the city is also known for its notorious traffic, long lines, and crowded tourist spots. If you're looking to skip the games in Atlanta and experience the city like a local, here are five ways to do so.

Experience Atlanta's Hidden Gems

Atlanta has a plethora of hidden gems that are off the beaten path. Instead of visiting the crowded World of Coca-Cola or Georgia Aquarium, head to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, which features exhibits on science and nature. You can also explore the street art scene in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood or visit the historic Oakland Cemetery, which is the final resting place of notable Atlantans like Maynard Jackson and Margaret Mitchell.

Discover Atlanta's Neighborhoods

Atlanta is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Instead of sticking to the touristy areas, explore neighborhoods like Inman Park, which features beautiful Victorian homes and a vibrant nightlife. You can also visit the trendy Virginia-Highland neighborhood, which is known for its boutique shops and restaurants. Other neighborhoods worth exploring include Decatur, which is just outside of Atlanta and features a charming downtown area, and Little Five Points, which is a bohemian neighborhood with a mix of shops, restaurants, and bars.

Take a Day Trip from Atlanta

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Atlanta, consider taking a day trip to one of the nearby cities or towns. Stone Mountain, which is just 30 minutes outside of Atlanta, features a giant granite mountain with a carving of Confederate generals on its side. You can also visit the nearby town of Helen, which is a charming Bavarian-themed town with shops, restaurants, and a picturesque river running through it. Other day trip options include the city of Savannah, which is known for its beautiful architecture and historic district, and the North Georgia Mountains, which offer hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views.

Explore Atlanta's Food Scene

Atlanta is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of cuisines to try. Instead of sticking to the chain restaurants in tourist areas, explore the city's many neighborhoods and try some of the local eats. In the Old Fourth Ward, you can find delicious Southern cuisine at restaurants like Mary Mac's Tea Room and the Busy Bee Cafe. In the Virginia-Highland neighborhood, you can find trendy restaurants like La Tavola and The Warren. Other neighborhoods with great food scenes include Decatur, which is known for its Southern comfort food, and Little Five Points, which features a mix of international cuisines.

Visit Atlanta's Local Markets

Atlanta has a thriving market scene, with many local markets selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Instead of shopping at the big-box stores, visit the Atlanta Farmers Market, which features local farmers selling fresh produce, meat, and dairy products. You can also visit the Ponce City Market, which is a historic market building that has been converted into a trendy shopping and dining destination. Other local markets worth visiting include the Little Five Points Market, which features handmade crafts and artwork, and the Decatur Farmers Market, which sells fresh produce, baked goods, and more.

Attend a Local Event or Festival

Atlanta is a city that loves to throw a party, with many local events and festivals happening throughout the year. Instead of sticking to the touristy events, attend a local festival like the Decatur Book Festival, which features author readings and book signings. You can also visit the Atlanta Jazz Festival, which features live music performances by local and national jazz musicians. Other local events worth attending include the Atlanta Film Festival, which showcases independent films, and the Virginia-Highland Summerfest, which features live music, food, and drinks.

Explore Atlanta's Outdoor Spaces

Atlanta is a city with many outdoor spaces, from parks and gardens to trails and waterways. Instead of sticking to the crowded tourist areas, explore the city's many outdoor spaces. Visit the Piedmont Park, which is a 189-acre park that features walking trails, a dog park, and plenty of picnic areas. You can also explore the Atlanta BeltLine, which is a former railway corridor that has been converted into a multi-use trail and park system. Other outdoor spaces worth visiting include the Chattahoochee River, which offers kayaking and canoeing, and the Fernbank Forest, which features hiking trails and a canopy walk.

Take a Guided Tour of Atlanta

If you're new to Atlanta or want to experience the city from a different perspective, consider taking a guided tour. Instead of sticking to the touristy areas, take a tour that focuses on the city's history, culture, or neighborhoods. You can take a guided tour of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, which features the civil rights leader's birthplace and tomb. You can also take a tour of the Atlanta Street Art scene, which features murals and graffiti throughout the city. Other guided tours worth taking include the Atlanta Food Tour, which features local eats and drinks, and the Historic Oakland Cemetery Tour, which explores the city's oldest cemetery.

By following these five ways to skip the games in Atlanta, you can experience the city like a local and discover its many hidden gems. From exploring the city's neighborhoods and outdoor spaces to attending local events and festivals, there's plenty to see and do in Atlanta beyond the touristy areas.