ATLANTA (defeo.biz) — It’s interesting to look at where you live through the lens of a tourist. It’s equal parts eye-opening and adventurous; it might also be educational.
I think that often about Atlanta.
For many, Atlanta is merely a connection point on a flight, rather than a destination. Some may find the city a daunting one to visit, perhaps driven by its geographic footprint, necessitating the need to rent a car to travel anywhere beyond the city’s core.
Yes, you will probably need a car to visit. But, there are many reasons to explore the “Gate City.”
Deep in history
Whether it’s the Civil War or the Civil Rights Movement, Atlanta has always found itself at the forefront of global events.
Visitors can explore that history at some of the city’s world-class attractions, such as the Atlanta History Center.
Craft beer
I’m often amazed when I look at the lists of the best craft beer towns, and Atlanta doesn’t crack the list. Indeed, the “Gate City” is a craft beer powerhouse.
While breweries like Sweetwater have long topped the list of local breweries, there are many others worth sampling and touring.
Good eats
Perhaps even more than its craft beer scene, Atlanta is home to an abundance of top-tier restaurants, such as Miller Union, often considered the best in Atlanta.
If you’re in the mood for a New York City-style steakhouse, consider Bone’s Restaurant in the Buckhead section of Atlanta.
For breakfast, venture to Marietta north of the city to the Red Eyed Mule. For lunch, no one tops the sandwiches at Muss & Turner’s in Smyrna.
Explore the suburbs
Like any major city, Atlanta is home to a robust roster of suburbs. One mistake some visitors make is they believe everything worth seeing is inside the perimeter (“ITP,” as the locals call it), which is Interstate 285. The traffic-laden thoroughfare circles the city.
While there is a lot to see ITP, the area outside the perimeter (“OTP”) is also worth exploring. Consider the city of Marietta, about 20 miles northwest of Atlanta. Or, venture out a bit farther to an exurb like Cartersville.