The Inside CNN Center Studio Tour is a downtown Atlanta attraction that makes you feel like you're a journalist who is breaking news on set. It's a great indoor spot to visit once you have hit the other area attractions. Several tours are available based on what you are trying to get out of your visit. The Morning Express Tour and the VIP Tour are ages 12+.
Parking and public transportation at the CNN Center
Take the MARTA train to the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Station. There are multiple paid parking lots and parking decks in the area.
Best and worst time to go to the CNN Center
Weekends tend to be busy throughout the year and during holidays. Check Atlanta event calendars to see if there are sporting events/parades/other activities taking place as traffic will be heavy and parking will be more challenging.
Admission to the CNN Center
Tickets range from $13-$16 for the basic Inside CNN Studio Tour. For those guests who are 12+, the Morning Express with Robin Meade Tour (Thursdays at 8:30am) is $49 and the VIP Tour is $35. The VIP tours are offered Monday - Saturday at 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm. Reservations for the specialty tours are strongly recommended. If you are visiting several of the downtown attractions, look into purchasing the Atlanta CityPASS. Hotels often offer discount tickets as well.
Must see/do at the CNN Center
If you have the time and are with a group without children under the age of 12, the VIP Tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into CNN's live broadcast news programs.
Other places to visit near the CNN Center
The CNN Center is conveniently located in Downtown Atlanta amidst other attractions such as Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola. The Georgia Dome and Philips Arena are also nearby along with many restaurants and hotels.
Insider tip for visitors to the CNN Center
Don't forget your camera as you never know who you might run into! Try one of the restaurants in the CNN Center (Dantanna's, Prime Meridian, McCormick & Schmick's) or nearby to experience the Atlanta culinary scene.
Author's bio: Hastings Malone is an Atlanta, GA local who manages the Marketing, Events and Writing consulting business Southern Charm Communications. She is a freelance contributor to a variety of publications.
