Let's Take a Day Trip

ATLANTA, GA. — When I was a kid living in West Memphis, Arkansas, people used to say that Atlanta was just Memphis with a more prominent skyline. At the time, I understood that to mean that Atlanta wasn’t anything special.

Atlanta, a renowned global hub, has undergone a transformation in my eyes as an adult. I’ve come to appreciate its vibrant diversity and inclusive nature.

While the city boasts plentiful pine trees, sweltering summer heat, and distinctive southern accents, it defies regional stereotypes. Atlanta embodies the spirit of the “New South,” rejecting outdated notions of superiority to embrace all individuals, regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation.

In Atlanta, everyone can find their place. In the following discussion, we will explore the city’s public transit system, a diverse array of attractions, and areas for improvement.

Atlanta’s Public Transit Is Straightforward but Requires Upgrading

The public transit system plays a crucial role in defining the city’s identity. With Atlanta housing the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson International, accessibility through public transport is vital.

Although Atlanta’s transit system may not be as expansive as those in New York or Chicago, it adequately serves the city. The MARTA train system consists of four rail lines: Gold, Red, Blue, and Green. The Gold and Red lines run north and south, while the Blue and Green lines run east and west, converging at the Five Points station downtown.

When arriving in Atlanta, travelers often take the Red or Gold lines to Downtown Atlanta, both of which offer convenient access. The train’s PA system announces key points of interest along the route, making it easy for passengers to disembark at the right stop to visit attractions such as the Georgia Aquarium or Tyler Perry Studios.

When considering transportation options in Atlanta, it’s important to note that at present, there is limited access to public transit reaching The Battery area where the Atlanta Braves play. There is a bus (10- Marietta Transfer Center) that will take you to The Battery from the Arts Center MARTA Station via the Gold Line.

While the MARTA train serves the central areas, there is no other regional train network connecting outlying areas. If you’re visiting loved ones in metro-Atlanta but outside the city, a rental car may be necessary. It’s worth keeping this in mind when planning your travel. However, for travel to Downtown or Midtown, the existing train service is a viable option.

There’s Plenty to Do While in Atlanta

In Atlanta, the possibilities are truly endless. For sports enthusiasts, the city is home to the Braves, Atlanta United, Hawks, and Falcons. However, beyond the realm of sports, you can partake in a romantic evening at Centennial Olympic Park, enjoying a picturesque picnic with the stunning city skyline as your backdrop.

If shopping is your passion, you could easily spend hours exploring the upscale and diverse array of shops at Lenox Square. From high-end boutiques like Gucci, Burberry, and Neiman Marcus to well-known favorites such as Macy’s, there’s something for everyone. The mall’s convenient proximity to the Gold Line makes it even more appealing for a day of luxury retail therapy.

In my personal experience, I found the Georgia Aquarium to be a delightful destination with numerous exhibits and an outstanding dolphin show. For those interested in exploring multiple attractions, it may be worth considering the CityPass, which offers convenient access to the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and Zoo Atlanta.

Furthermore, the pass includes admission to two additional attractions of your choice, such as the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, College Football Hall of Fame, or National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

While nightclubs aren’t my thing, Atlanta is know for it’s nightlife and strip clubs. Feel free to click this Reddit thread to learn more.

You might be curious about dining options in Atlanta. Ever since I started following the keto diet, I’ve been restricted in my food choices. It’s been quite a challenge to find suitable options. However, I had a fantastic experience at Dos Bocas on Baker Street. The ambiance was delightful, and the food was absolutely delicious. I highly recommend trying their tacos.

Prior to my diet, I would have enthusiastically suggested a visit to your local Waffle House. It may sound unconventional, but I have a genuine appreciation for the place, and whenever I’m in the southern states, it’s my top choice for a meal.

My Final Thoughts About Atlanta

Before addressing the topic of the flying palmetto bugs, aka huge scary roaches which are prevalent in Atlanta, I believe it’s important to have a serious discussion about the importance of mutual respect.

I recently came across a video on Twitter that seems to depict a man shooting a paint gun at a gay man for complimenting another man. I usually approach such videos with caution until I can verify the information through a credible news source. In the video, I found it puzzling that someone would be carrying a paint gun without an apparent reason, and it’s unclear where this incident occurred.

Regardless, if the video accurately portrays an assault on a gay man with a paint gun, it raises serious concerns. It’s important to show respect while in Atlanta or anywhere for that matter. The city has become a safe space for the Black LGBTQ+ community, and we should all strive to ensure that they feel valued and embraced in their own hometown.

Whenever I travel, I approach each place as a guest and aim to provide fair and honest feedback based on my experiences. While it is important to acknowledge the presence of large flying cockroaches in Atlanta, often referred to as waterbugs by some, I believe that every location has its unique aspects like New York and Chicago for their rat problems.

Despite my unease with these insects, I continue to appreciate visiting Atlanta and would generously rate the city 8 out of 10.