ABOUT ATLANTA AND AROUND

Atlanta is often referred to as the “City in a Forest,” a nickname earned thanks to its extensive tree canopy, which covers nearly half of the city – more than any other major metropolitan area in the United States. Atlanta is also the birthplace of Coca-Cola, created in 1886 by pharmacist John Pemberton. That history is celebrated at the popular World of Coca-Cola, one of the city’s most visited attractions. Adding to Atlanta’s global importance, Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport ranks among the busiest airports in the world, serving as a key gateway to the American South.

Atlanta holds a central place in U.S. history as a major hub of the Civil Rights Movement. It is the hometown of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose life and legacy can be explored at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, which includes his childhood home, church, and final resting place. In more recent decades, the city has earned the nickname “Hollywood of the South,” becoming a major filming location for television and film productions, including Marvel movies and the hit series Stranger Things.

Just beyond the city limits lies Stone Mountain, home to the world’s largest bas-relief carving and a popular destination for hiking and family activities. Roughly an hour to the north, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer scenic escapes with waterfalls, trails, and small mountain towns.

Atlanta is also a centre for education, innovation, and culture. It is home to leading institutions such as Georgia Tech and Emory University, alongside a vibrant arts scene featuring venues like the Fox Theatre and the High Museum of Art. Sports fans can follow teams across all major leagues, including the Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks, Atlanta Falcons, and Atlanta United FC.

With its Southern food traditions, diverse neighbourhoods, deep history, and modern creative energy, Atlanta offers a unique mix that makes it one of the most compelling cities in the United States.