Go below the bustling streets of Downtown Atlanta to visit the eclectic shopping and entertainment hub of Underground Atlanta, otherwise known as the "City Beneath the Streets". The district boasts more than 100 years of history and has activities for the whole family.
Parking and public transportation at Underground Atlanta
There are two adjacent paid parking garages on Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive with parking rates up to $8 for the day. Underground Atlanta can be directly accessed via public transportation from the Five Points MARTA Station.
Best and worst time to go to Underground Atlanta
Underground Atlanta gets very hot during warmer months, but is a worthy and convenient stop on the way to an Atlanta Braves game at Turner Field or other downtown attractions. Families should visit during the earlier part of the day/evening as it does get fairly rowdy after dark. Check the event calendar for specific activities during the year, such as New Year's Eve and Black History Month, which will draw much larger crowds.
Admission to Underground Atlanta
Admission is free and visitors can pick up a brochure at the information desk in order to lead themselves on a walking tour. Guided, paid tours are available through several destination management companies in the area for history buffs who would like more insight into the attraction and surrounding areas.
Must see/do at Underground Atlanta
Stop by the vendor booths to find hidden treasures made by local merchants, such as jewelry, paintings, beauty products and Atlanta souvenirs. Wander around the six city blocks to check out the various restaurants, live music and retail stores.
Other places to visit near Underground Atlanta
Underground Atlanta is conveniently located in Downtown Atlanta close to other attractions such as Centennial Olympic Park, the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium and CNN Center.
Insider tip for visitors to Underground Atlanta
For those with a sweet tooth, try one of Southern Candy Company's fresh treats, which are made daily.
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.
The Atlanta Botanical Gardens are located in Midtown Atlanta adjacent to Piedmont Park. Visitors can enjoy weaving through the trails of seasonal flowers and blooming plants, taking educational courses and experiencing family friendly special events in this serene attraction.
Parking and public transportation at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
Paid parking is available in the SAGE parking deck onsite and street parking can sometimes be found on nearby residential roads. MARTA Bus #27 drops off at the entrance and the red or gold line MARTA trains can be taken to the Midtown MARTA station which is a short roughly half mile walk to the park.
Best and worst time to go to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
The Gardens are stunning during November through early January when over 1 million lights are on display. The Gardens are open rain or shine and are predominantly outside, so dress accordingly and be aware that refunds for inclement weather are not available. Check the Gardens calendar for exhibits, displays, classes and other events throughout the year. The Gardens can be enjoyed year round when dressed appropriately and get very busy during holiday season.
Admission to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
During regular business hours when there isn't a special event, children under 3 are free along with Garden members, adult admission is $18.95 and children ages 3-12 are $12.95. The Gardens are closed Mondays with the exception of special events and are open 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. Check the website for information on extended hours during events. Annual membership is also available.
Must see/do at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
For those visiting with small kids, the Children's Garden has a seasonal splash pad and many things to climb, touch and explore. Don't miss the Dale Chihuly's Parterre Fountain Installation, which is especially beautiful when lit up at night. The Lily Pond/reflecting pool is another beautiful sight to see.
Other places to visit near the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
Piedmont Park is adjacent to the Gardens and offers miles of walking trails and the great restaurant for people watching and outdoor dining, Park Tavern. Midtown Atlanta has tons of restaurants and shopping as does nearby Virginia Highlands. Several museums are also located close by.
Insider tip for visitors to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
For those visiting the Garden Lights during the holidays, consider going Christmas Eve when lines are typically much shorter than other dates leading up to it.
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.
The Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta offers entertainment for all ages with shows tailored to various audiences. Expand your horizons and your imagination during live performances, exhibits, films and more.
Parking and public transportation at the Center for Puppetry Arts
There is limited free parking on-site; arrive early for shows to take advantage of this. Public transportation is available by taking the MARTA North/South line to the Arts Center Station and walking 10 minutes to the Center. The entrance is located on the back side of the building.
Best and worst time to go to the Center for Puppetry Arts
The CPA is expanding with the new space scheduled to open fall 2015. It will feature extensive, interactive exhibits of the Global Collection and the collection of Jim Henson's work, which will be something to see and experience. As with other Atlanta attractions, Spring Break, summer and holidays stay busy.
Admission to the Center for Puppetry Arts
Exact ticket prices for shows vary and are listed on the performance pages. Most are between $16.50 - $25 with children under two free. Admission to the museum can be purchased separately if you do not want to attend a show. Membership is also available.
Must see/do at the Center for Puppetry Arts
Schedule your visit around one of the shows that is age appropriate for your group so you can enjoy the performance and the museum. Don't miss Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and the rest of the crew at the Jim Henson Collection, set to expand this fall.
Other places to visit near the Center for Puppetry Arts
Crescent Street in Midtown is one mile away, an easy walk to grab a bite at one of the many restaurants and bars. One mile west is Atlantic Station, with shops, restaurants and plenty of entertainment.
Insider tip for visitors to the Center for Puppetry Arts
Be sure to stay after the Family Series shows and take the fun home with a puppet from the Create-A-Puppet Workshop. The museum offers complimentary admission to visit the exhibits on Thursday from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
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.