AtlantaTravel

Catch the Spirit to Atlanta

By August 6, 2011 November 1st, 2012 No Comments

Georgia Aquarium, photo courtesy of georgia.org

So a couple of weekends ago, I made the trek to Atlanta to visit my daughter. I have to say, it sure is nice having an airport practically in my backyard. I didn’t have to pay a turnpike toll, fight traffic at every turn, pay to park, and wind my way through the airport security line. I just had a nice drive over to Latrobe, a quick stroll through security, and then onto the plane. I arrived in Atlanta via Myrtle Beach. After getting settled, we headed on out for dinner at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, voted as having Atlanta’s best sweet tea. After tasting it, I’d have to agree! This is a unique place (and they take groups!). I have never been to a restaurant where you fill out your own ticket for your meal. The service was great and so was the food. Next we headed on downtown to the Westin to ride up to the top for the Sun Dial view. I was hoping my pictures would have turned out so I could post a few, but they all were a little blurry. Ok, ok, so I had vertigo. Still, it was a nice way to end the evening.

The next day, we stopped at the CNN Building, walked through Centennial Olympic Park (I thought it would be so much bigger) and then over to the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. First we toured Coca-Cola and learned anything we’d want to know about it. We enjoyed the visit to the tasting room. Here, you can actually taste every single variety of Coke product made worldwide, create your own flavor, and try all the American versions as well. My daughter was more than up for the challenge; she tasted them all! When we were through there, we went over to the Aquarium. This aquarium is very nice with so many things to do. I particularly enjoyed walking through the tunnel and watching sharks and manta rays swim right over my head. The penguins were fun to watch too, although they swim much too fast to catch them in a photo! We then walked over to the Underground area to catch the MARTA back to Midtown. We relaxed for a while and then headed out for dinner at The Vortex. This place was voted as having Atlanta’s best burgers. My daughter ordered the Elvis burger. Curious? It consists of a burger, bacon, fried bananas, and peanut butter. Honestly, it was really good. Then we walked around the area for a while before heading back to her apartment.

All in all, I had a pleasant trip. As with any city, there are nice areas and not-so-nice areas. My daughter showed me both so I would have a well-rounded experience. And while I understand why they call the place “Hotlanta”, I was lucky that they were having a cool spell (high 80s) during my visit. I’m glad I got to go and see some of the sights.