40 Fascinating Facts About Atlanta, Georgia

40 Fascinating Facts About Atlanta, Georgia

Welcome to the heart of the South, where sweet tea runs like a river and peaches are legends as old as tradition. Atlanta, Georgia, a city rich in history, culture, and innovation, has its own story to tell.

Prepare to be intrigued by 40 incredible facts that will transport you beyond time and space as you delve into the secrets of this pulsating metropolis.

From civil rights heroes to fascinating forest cover, from exquisite soul cuisine to the birthplace of Coca-Cola, Atlanta captures the imagination while also challenging your perspective on what it means to be a part of the American experience.

So, grab your magnolia-scented hand fan and join us.

1. Atlanta is Home to the Georgia Aquarium, The World’s Largest Indoor Aquarium

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The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is famous for its massive size. It has nearly 10 million gallons of water and a rich assortment of aquatic life.

The sheer volume of water in the aquarium outnumbers any other indoor aquarium in the world, making it the largest in terms of capacity.

The Georgia Aquarium is home to an incredible variety of aquatic wildlife, including thousands of animals from hundreds of species.

The variety of marine life on exhibit is unsurpassed, with everything from whale sharks and manta rays to playful dolphins and gorgeous coral reefs.

2. Atlanta Is the Birthplace of Both Coca-Cola and Dr Pepper

Coca-Cola and Dr. Pepper, two well-known soft drinks, were created in Atlanta, where the city also had a special influence on their growth.

John S. Pemberton created Coca-Cola syrup in 1886 at Jacob’s Pharmacy in Atlanta’s downtown. Charles Alderton created Dr. Pepper in Waco, Texas, but Atlanta was where it was initially offered for sale to the general public.

Visitors can learn about the history of Coca-Cola at the World of Coca-Cola museum, which is a part of Atlanta’s diverse cultural legacy.

3. Atlanta is the Birthplace of Hip-hop Music

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Several early hip-hop pioneers who had a substantial impact on the development of the music were from Atlanta.

Atlanta produced notable artists like OutKast, Goodie Mob, and Dungeon Family in the 1990s who contributed to the development of the Southern hip-hop sound.

Atlanta was a key player in the development of the particular beats, lyrical styles, and regional influences that make up the Southern hip-hop sound.

LaFace Records, one of Atlanta’s well-known hip-hop record companies, was instrumental in supporting and fostering musicians like TLC, Usher, and OutKast.

These record labels and production companies had an impact on the music industry that extended beyond Atlanta.  Atlanta’s influence on hip-hop transcends national lines, demonstrating the city’s ongoing legacy.

4. Atlanta is Home to the World’s Largest Peach Cobbler

The Georgia Peach Festival is an annual celebration of the peach harvest that takes place in Fort Valley, Georgia, a city about 90 miles south of Atlanta. One of the joys is preparing a huge peach cobbler.

It takes 75 gallons of peaches, 150 pounds of flour and sugar, and 32 gallons of milk to make the cobbler, which is baked in a pan that is 11 by 5 feet in size. It can feed up to 5,000 people and weighs more than 2,000 pounds. 

One of the main draws of the well-known Georgia Peach Festival is the enormous peach cobbler.

Numerous media agencies have covered the dessert, which is commonly regarded as the largest peach cobbler in the entire globe.

5. The Busiest Airport in the World is Located in Atlanta

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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest airport in the world, with approximately 93.6 million passengers recorded in 2022.

Except for 2020, it has been the busiest airport by passenger traffic for 24 years in a row.

Atlanta International Airport is a significant hub for Delta Air Lines and is located in a central location in the United States, making it a handy connecting point for travelers going between different areas of the country and the world.

6. The Largest Indoor Theme Park in the World, “The World of Sid and Marty Krofft,” Was Located in Atlanta.”

Six Flags Over Georgia is an outdoor theme park that is now the largest of its kind. It is situated in Austell, Georgia, about 20 miles west of Atlanta.

But there have been a few bigger indoor theme parks constructed in the past. The World of Sid and Marty Krofft, which ran in Atlanta from 1976 to 1980, was the largest indoor amusement park ever constructed.

The World of Sid and Marty Krofft was a large amusement park that covered more than 300,000 square feet. The World of Sid and Marty Krofft had a number of rides and attractions, such as a carousel, a roller coaster, and a haunted house.

Even though it is no longer in existence, The World of Sid and Marty Krofft is still cherished in Atlantan history.

7. The Biggest Indoor Farmers Market in America is Located in Atlanta

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Located in Doraville, Georgia, roughly 15 miles northeast of Atlanta, is an indoor market called the Buford Highway Farmers Market.

The Buford Highway Farmers Market, which is located in Atlanta, is the biggest indoor farmers market in the country.

Over 100 vendors can be found at the market, which is more than 100,000 square feet in size and offers a wide selection of fresh fruit, meats, seafood, baked goods, and other food items.

Numerous restaurants and food stands are also located within the market.

8. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are Located in Atlanta

One of the most significant institutions for public health in the globe is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) which is located in Atlanta. It is in charge of looking into and halting the spread of illnesses both domestically and internationally.

The CDC is essential in creating and distributing knowledge regarding public health issues. The CDC is a significant economic force in Atlanta. Each year, it generates billions of dollars in economic activity for the city and employs over 10,000 people.

Atlanta is known as a global hub for public health thanks to the CDC, which also draws renowned scientists and researchers from around the world.

9. Atlanta is a Significant Financial Center and the Home of Several Fortune 500 Corporations

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Atlanta is home to the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, one of the United States 12 regional Federal Reserve Banks. SunTrust Banks, BB&T, and Truist Financial are among the largest financial institutions in Atlanta.

These organizations offer a variety of financial services to individuals and businesses in Atlanta and around the Southeast.

Atlanta is home to the headquarters of several Fortune 500 firms, including The Coca-Cola Company, The Home Depot, United Parcel Service, and Delta Air Lines, in addition to major financial institutions.

These businesses play an important part in the Atlanta economy and provide a significant number of employment opportunities.

10. Several Historical and Cultural Landmarks Are Located in Atlanta

Several historical and cultural landmarks Are Located in Atlanta which are evidence of the city’s rich history and culture. The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park is one of the landmarks.

The Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King gave sermons, as well as the residences and places of employment that he and his wife, Coretta Scott King, once occupied, are preserved in this park.

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is the next significant structure; it is a museum that chronicles the history of the civil rights movement and the ongoing fight for human rights throughout the world.

There is also the Georgia State Capitol.  In addition to housing a museum detailing Georgia’s history and governance, this structure serves as the location of the Georgia General Assembly.

The Atlanta History Center is a museum that chronicles Atlanta’s history from its beginnings as a railroad town to its significance as a key location for the civil rights movement.

Atlanta is also the location of a number of other significant historical and cultural landmarks, including the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, the High Museum of Art, and the World of Coca-Cola Museum.

11. The Waffle House Restaurant Franchise was Founded in Atlanta

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The story of how Waffle House was founded is one of creativity and enterprise. Tom Forkner and Joe Rogers Sr. launched the Waffle House chain in 1955. The idea for a restaurant that offered delectable meals fast and affordably came to Rogers and Forkner.

Additionally, they sought to design a restaurant with a pleasant atmosphere. Popular and recognizable restaurant chain, Waffle House is renowned for its delectable waffles, all-day breakfast menu, and helpful staff.

There are Waffle House restaurants all around the country, but the South is where they are most prevalent.

Waffle House is not only a chain of eateries. It serves as a cultural center as well. Restaurants like Waffle House are frequently considered gathering spots where guests can have a meal, mingle, and relax.

Waffle House restaurants are renowned for their distinctive ambiance and devoted clientele.

12. Atlanta is a Significant Hub for Research and Education

Numerous highly regarded universities, such as Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, and Georgia State University, are located in Atlanta. These institutions provide a comprehensive selection of undergraduate and graduate programs in numerous subject areas.

Along with these well-known institutions, Atlanta is also home to Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College. These universities are renowned for their commitment to social justice and intellectual success.

Atlanta is home to a variety of research institutions and centers in addition to its universities and schools. These organizations carry out state-of-the-art research in a range of disciplines, such as engineering, technology, and medicine.

Universities and research institutions in the city are essential to its economy and to its standing as a major international metropolis.

13. Atlanta is a Culinary Mecca

Due to its wide variety of exquisite cuisine, Atlanta is a foodie’s heaven. Restaurants serving anything from international dining to comfort food from the South may be found in the city. The city’s significant immigrant population is partly to blame for this diversity.

Since Atlanta is surrounded by farms, many eateries can source local, fresh products. Delicious and authentic foods result from this. The costs of Atlanta’s restaurants reflect the fact that the city is reasonably priced.

Delicious food is available to diners at all price categories, from fast food restaurants to fine dining facilities.

 14. Atlanta is Home to a Multitude of Breweries, Vineyards, and Distilleries

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Atlanta is home to a variety of breweries, wineries, and distilleries, making it an ideal destination for food and beverage enthusiasts.

The city’s brewers serve a wide range of craft beers, from IPAs and stouts to porters and sours. Atlanta’s wineries make award-winning wines from grapes cultivated in Georgia and other parts of the United States.

The city’s distilleries manufacture a variety of spirits, including gin, whiskey, and vodka.

One of the reasons Atlanta has such a robust craft beer sector is the city’s closeness to the Appalachian Mountains. The mountains provide the ideal temperature for cultivating hops, a fundamental ingredient in beer.

Atlanta also has a plethora of experienced brewers who are always inventing and creating new and fascinating brews.

Atlanta’s wineries are also doing well. Georgia has a rich tradition of winemaking, and Atlanta’s wineries produce some of the state’s best wines.

Wineries in the city provide a variety of wine-tasting experiences, and many of them also include restaurants where customers may enjoy their wine with a meal.

The distilleries in Atlanta produce some of the best spirits in the nation. The city’s distillers use cutting-edge techniques and ingredients that are easily accessible nearby to produce distinctive and delicious spirits.

 Many of Atlanta’s distilleries also feature cocktail bars where visitors can sip their spirits in a range of drinks. The distilleries in Atlanta provide a variety of tours and tastings.

15. Atlanta is a Significant Hub for Entertainment and Music

Successful record labels including Atlantic Records, Def Jam Recordings, and Motown Records are all based in Atlanta. Outkast, Usher, and Ludacris are just a few of the biggest musicians to come from these labels.

Atlanta is a significant center for hip-hop music. Numerous well-known hip-hop musicians reside in the city, including TI, 21 Savage, and Lil Baby. Numerous hip-hop clubs and venues, such as Club Crucial and Compound, are also in Atlanta.

Atlanta is a well-liked location for live music performances. The city is home to a variety of sizable concert venues, including Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena.

Atlanta is a significant hub for the production of movies and television shows in addition to its music scene. Numerous film studios, including Tyler Perry Studios and Pinewood Atlanta Studios, are located in the city.

A number of television networks, including CNN and TBS, are based in Atlanta.

16. Atlanta is An Important Sports City

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Atlanta is home to professional teams in all five major North American sports leagues, including the Major League Baseball Atlanta Braves, the National Basketball Association (NBA) Atlanta Hawks and  the National Football League (NFL) Atlanta Falcons.

Other notable teams include the National Hockey League (NHL) Atlanta Thrashers (formerly, now the Winnipeg Jets) and the Major League Soccer (MLS) Atlanta United FC.

 Numerous college sports teams, including the Georgia Bulldogs and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, have their home venues in Atlanta.

Atlanta has played home to a number of significant athletic occasions, including the 1994 Super Bowl, the 2021 World Series, and the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Atlanta is a well-liked location for sports enthusiasts, and the neighborhood is very supportive of its sports teams.

17. Atlanta was Crucial to The Outcome of The American Civil War

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Because it was a significant railroad hub and industrial hub, Atlanta played a crucial part in the American Civil War.

In addition, the city served as the Confederate state of Georgia’s capital. General William T. Sherman of the Union launched an offensive to seize Atlanta in 1864.

Georgia was traversed by Sherman’s army, which obliterated everything in its path. Sherman aimed to starve the Confederate army of supplies and demoralize the populace of the South in order to force it to submit.

The Sherman campaign was effective. On September 2, 1864, he won the Battle of Atlanta.

A significant turning point in the Civil War was the fall of Atlanta. It improved Northern morale and contributed to President Abraham Lincoln’s electoral victory.

18. Atlanta was Established in 1837 as the Western & Atlantic Railroad’s Terminus

In order to link Chattanooga, Tennessee, with the Atlantic coast, the Western & Atlantic Railroad was built, and Atlanta was established as its terminal in 1837.

The city’s name was taken from the railroad’s terminus, formerly called “Terminus.” Thanks to its location on the railroad, Atlanta swiftly developed into a significant transportation and economic hub.

19. The Civil Rights Movement Began in Atlanta in the 1950s and 1960s

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Due to the fact that many of the groups and leaders who spearheaded the fight for racial equality in the 1950s and 1960s called Atlanta home, it is considered as the birthplace of the civil rights movement.

The Montgomery Bus Boycott of 1955–1956 was one of the pivotal moments in the history of the civil rights movement. After Rosa Parks was detained for refusing to give up her seat on a bus to a white man, other civil rights activists helped organize the boycott.

The Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC)’s establishment in 1957 was a crucial turning point in the civil rights movement. Martin Luther King Jr. and other leaders in the civil rights movement established the SCLC to plan nonviolent demonstrations against discrimination and segregation.

Other significant civil rights organizations, such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), were based in Atlanta.

There are numerous historical locations and museums, like the King Center and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, that pay homage to Atlanta’s involvement in the civil rights movement.

20. Atlanta Successfully Held the Summer Olympics in 1996

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The Summer Olympics of 1996 were held in Atlanta. The Summer Olympics were a huge success for the country and the city. There were nearly 3.5 million spectators during the games, which were professionally run.

The competitors from Atlanta also did well, taking home 44 gold medals to take the top spot in the overall medal count. The 1996 Summer Olympics gave Atlanta a global platform and boosted its economy.

21. Atlanta has a Diversified Population

Atlanta has a diverse population, with residents hailing from all over the world. Atlanta’s population is 48.2% Black or African American, 41.0% White, 5.0% Asian, 0.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, and 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, according to the 2020 US Census.

Atlanta also has a sizable immigrant population, with the major immigrant groups coming from Mexico, China, India, and the Philippines.

Atlanta’s diversity can be attributed to a variety of elements, including its robust economy, its prime location as a transportation hub, and its standing as a hospitable city. One of Atlanta’s best qualities is how diverse it is.

The city’s diversified population helps to sustain its thriving business and culture. People from diverse backgrounds can call Atlanta their home.

22. Atlanta is Home to the World-famous Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

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Atlanta is home to the world-renowned Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO), one of the most distinguished orchestras in the United States.

The ASO is noted for its innovative programming, virtuoso musicians, and dedication to music education.

The ASO was created in 1928 and has since performed with some of the world’s most recognized conductors and soloists. The orchestra has also traveled widely throughout the United States and Europe.

The ASO is an important part of Atlanta’s cultural environment and a popular tourist site. The orchestra’s performances are frequently sold out, attracting people from all around the world.

23. Atlanta has been Home to the Filming of Many Popular Movies and TV Shows

Because of its diversified landscapes, tax incentives, and trained labor, Atlanta has been a favorite filming destination for movies and TV shows in recent years.

The city’s numerous neighborhoods and natural surroundings can reflect a variety of settings, ranging from rural America to major centers to other countries. As a result, Atlanta is a versatile filming site that can be used to create a variety of sets and settings.

Georgia also offers significant tax advantages to productions that film there, making it a more inexpensive option for filmmakers. This is a key factor in why Atlanta has grown to be a well-liked filmmaking site.

Atlanta also offers a sizable and skilled pool of crew people, performers, and directors in the film and television industry. Because of this, finding the talent required to produce high-caliber movies and TV series is simple for productions.

Gone with the Wind, The Hunger Games, Spider-Man: Homecoming, Avengers: Infinity War, Black Panther, The Walking Dead, Stranger Things, Ozark, Cobra Kai, and Love Is Blind are just a few of the well-known films and television shows that have been filmed in Atlanta.

Atlanta’s reputation as a cultural hub and economy has benefited from the city’s popularity as a filming destination. Atlanta’s businesses and citizens have benefited financially and economically from the film industry.

Additionally, Atlanta’s exposure via appearances in well-known films and TV shows has aided in drawing visitors and companies to the city.

24. Atlanta Is a Culinary Mecca

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Atlanta is home to a number of celebrity chefs who have helped to make the city a culinary attraction. These chefs are drawn to Atlanta by its vibrant food scene and proximity to fresh ingredients.

Kevin Gillespie, a James Beard Award finalist and “Top Chef” fan favorite known for his creative and innovative Southern cuisine, is one of Atlanta’s most well-known celebrity chefs. He owns several Atlanta eateries, including Gunshow and Revival.

Marcus Samuelsson is a world-renowned chef who has won numerous James Beard Awards. Marcus Bar & Grille is Samuelsson’s Atlanta restaurant. The restaurant serves elevated comfort staples as well as unique dishes including shrimp Piccadilly and M’s cornbread.

Ron Hsu and Aaron Phillips are the other chefs. Lazy Betty, a Michelin-starred restaurant featuring a six-course tasting menu, is the result of this collaboration. They also own Humble Pie, a more casual restaurant serving wood-fired pizza and other Italian-inspired dishes.

These chefs have won numerous awards and have appeared in national and international media. Their restaurants are well-liked by both locals and visitors, and they have helped to establish Atlanta as a culinary destination.

Aside from renowned chefs, Atlanta is home to a diverse range of other talented cooks who are creating innovative and delicious cuisine. The city’s gastronomic culture is ever-changing, and there is always something new to try.

If you’re seeking for a city with a rich history, look no further.

25. The Largest Drive-in Cinema in the World is Located in Atlanta

The Starlight Drive-In, which can accommodate 3,920 cars, is the biggest drive-in movie theater in the world and is located in Atlanta.

Built-in the year 1949, the Starlight Drive-In is situated on a 19-acre parcel of land. New releases and vintage movies are shown on the theater’s two screens.

Both families and couples like visiting The Starlight Drive-In. A distinctive and nostalgic moviegoing experience is provided by the theater.

Customers can enjoy a range of foods and beverages from the concession stand while watching movies in the comfort of their own vehicles.

Anyone seeking a distinctive and enjoyable moviegoing experience must pay a visit to Atlanta’s famed Starlight Drive-In.

26. Atlanta is Georgia’s Capital and The Ninth-largest City in the Country

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With a projected 482,386 residents as of 2023, Atlanta ranks ninth in terms of population among all American cities. It is the largest city in Georgia and a significant economic and cultural hub for the region of the Southeast.

Atlanta is a thriving, multicultural metropolis with a fascinating past and lively present. There are many parks, historical sites, and museums in the city.

The Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Falcons, and Atlanta Hawks all call Atlanta home, making it a popular vacation spot for sports enthusiasts.

Overall, Atlanta is a significant hub for commerce, transportation, and culture. It is a large, diversified, and energetic city.

27. Numerous Unusual Attractions can be Found in Atlanta

The Center for Puppetry Arts and the Fernbank Museum of Natural History are just two of the unusual attractions that can be found in Atlanta.

A museum specializing in puppetry is called the Center for Puppetry Arts. Numerous puppetry performances and seminars are available, in addition to a collection of more than 1,000 puppets from throughout the globe.

A museum that investigates the natural world is the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. There are displays there about dinosaurs, animals, plants, and the human body. Additionally, the museum contains an IMAX cinema and a planetarium.

These are just two of Atlanta’s numerous distinctive attractions. Everyone can enjoy the city’s diversity and history, which make it a fascinating destination to visit.

28. The Largest Black Middle Class in America is Located in Atlanta

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With 13% of Black people living in middle-income homes, Atlanta has the largest Black middle class in the country, outpacing the national average of 9%. This growth has been generated by various factors.

Opportunities have been created by the city’s strong economy, which acts as a key center for commerce, banking, and technology. Fortune 500 behemoths like Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, and Home Depot are also based in Atlanta.

Thanks to historically Black colleges and institutions like Morehouse, Spelman, and Clark Atlanta, a commitment to education is still another motivator.

Additionally, networking and support are fostered by a strong feeling of community that is promoted by Black churches and organizations.

Atlanta’s growing Black middle class makes a substantial economic and cultural contribution to the city and provides inspiration for Black neighborhoods.

29. Atlanta has the South’s Largest Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Population

With 4.6% of adults in Atlanta identifying as LGBT, more than double the national average of 4.1%, the city has the biggest LGBT population in the Southern United States.

This community’s success can be attributed to a number of elements. Due to its progressive LGBT rights laws and inclusive culture, Atlanta has become a friendly sanctuary.

The city’s thriving economy, which is supported by well-known companies like Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, and Home Depot, offers employment possibilities and a friendly atmosphere.

Midtown and other LGBT-friendly areas have a thriving nightlife, and organizations like the Human Rights Campaign and the Southern Equality Group work to promote inclusion. The significant LGBT community in Atlanta strengthens the city’s business, culture, and community.

30. Atlanta was Severely Damaged During the American Civil War

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Atlanta, a vital Confederate railroad and manufacturing city, was devastated by the American Civil War. It was the site of numerous conflicts, including the Battle of Atlanta in 1864.

Union General William T. Sherman’s campaign concluded in the city’s capture in September 1864, which was then ordered to be burned down. The Confederacy was debilitated as a result of this crime, which resulted in infrastructural destruction and a humanitarian disaster.

Atlanta’s population fell by more than half, infrastructure such as railroads and factories was destroyed, and the city’s once-vibrant cultural and economic landscape was in ashes.

Despite the devastation, Atlanta gradually rebuilt itself into one of the great cities of the United States.

31. Numerous Historically Black Schools and Institutions Can be Found in Atlanta

The historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) Morehouse College, Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University, Morris Brown College, and Interdenominational Theological Center are among the HBCUs that call Atlanta home.

As centers of academic achievement and social justice, these schools have a long tradition of educating and empowering Black students.

HBCUs were crucial in fostering Black leaders and culture since they were established in the 19th century to offer educational opportunities at a time when racial segregation was widespread.

HBCUs were attended by famous people like Maya Angelou, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Martin Luther King Jr. These schools continue to be diverse, offer a range of academic programs, and place a strong emphasis on volunteerism.

By creating successful graduates, luring talent, and boosting the economy, Atlanta’s HBCUs have made a substantial contribution to the community.

32. Martin Luther King Jr was Born in Atlanta

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As the city where Martin Luther King Jr. was born, Atlanta, Georgia, has a special place in the history of the American civil rights movement. King, who was born on January 15, 1929, was raised in Atlanta and later attended Morehouse College to study sociology and theology.

He also attended Booker T. Washington High School. He continued his education at Boston University and Crozer Theological Seminary, where he eventually graduated with a Ph.D. in systematic theology.

King returned to Atlanta and accepted a post as pastor at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church. He took part in the Montgomery bus boycott in 1955, which helped him gain national attention.

He was one of the first members of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), which was founded in 1957. He organized nonviolent activities such as the historic March on Washington in 1963, where he delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” address.

Tragically, King was slain in 1968, leaving a legacy of encouraging justice and equality around the world.

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta honors this relationship by maintaining his birthplace, home, and church.

The non-profit Martin Luther King Jr. Center maintains King’s ideas of nonviolence and social justice, reflecting Atlanta’s commitment to diversity.

33. Atlanta is Home to a Broad Collection of World-class Museums

Atlanta is home to a diversified collection of world-class museums that cater to a wide range of interests. The High Museum of Art, one of the region’s greatest art museums, has a comprehensive collection of over 17,000 paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, as well as numerous special exhibitions.

The Georgia Aquarium, the largest in the Western Hemisphere, is home to over 100,000 animals ranging from whale sharks to penguins, as well as interactive displays and educational events.

The World of Coca-Cola museum digs into the iconic beverage’s history and culture, allowing visitors to discover its evolution, sample global Coca-Cola products, and create personalized bottles.

Atlanta’s museums provide fascinating experiences for people of all ages and tastes, making the city a cultural hotspot.

34. The Fox Theatre is Located in Atlanta

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The Fox Theatre in Atlanta is one of the country’s finest and most lavish theatres. It was built in 1929 as a movie palace and vaudeville theatre and has stunning Moorish Revival architecture and lavish interior decor.

The famous building in Midtown Atlanta seats over 4,600 people and presents a variety of acts, from Broadway productions to concerts and ballets.

The lavish interior of the theatre includes marble, bronze, and stained glass, while the main auditorium contains a heavenly ceiling and a giant chandelier.

The Fox Theatre has a long history, having hosted legends such as Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. It exhibits Atlanta’s distinct charm and legacy as both a cultural institution and a tourism attraction.

35. Stone Mountain Park is Located in Atlanta

Stone Mountain Park, a large granite dome that is a famous tourist site, is located in Atlanta. The park is approximately 16 miles east of downtown Atlanta and spans over 3,200 acres.

Stone Mountain is the world’s largest exposed mass of granite, dating back over 600 million years.

Hiking, motorcycling, fishing, and camping are among the activities available to visitors of all ages at the park. Visitors can also take a cable car to the top of Stone Mountain for panoramic views of the area.

Stone Mountain Park also has a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the world’s biggest bas-relief carving, the Stone Mountain Confederate Memorial Carving.

There are also museums and exhibits about the history of Stone Mountain and the surrounding area in the park.

People from all over the world visit Stone Mountain Park, which is a renowned tourist site. It is an excellent location for enjoying the outdoors, learning about history, and experiencing the unique culture of the South.

36. Atlanta Carries the Nickname “The City in a Forest”

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Atlanta received the nickname “The City in a Forest” because of its impressive tree canopy, which covers approximately 48% of the city’s geographical area, much above the national average of 27%.

These trees provide several benefits to both the city and its residents. They improve air quality by filtering pollutants, lessen urban heat islands, reduce noise pollution, and reduce runoff. Aside from environmental benefits, they improve the aesthetics of the city, provide shade, and cut energy use.

Atlanta’s lush canopy protects wildlife habitats and promotes outdoor recreation.

The term reflects the city’s commitment to protecting its tree cover, as evidenced through tree planting and maintenance programs, as well as stringent tree protection regulations. It represents Atlanta’s devotion to sustainability and natural beauty.

37. The International News Network CNN’s Headquarters are in Atlanta

CNN, the Cable News Network, maintains its global headquarters in Atlanta, more precisely in the CNN Center. This landmark structure serves as a global hub for news reporting, broadcasting, and journalism.

CNN, founded in 1980 by media entrepreneur Ted Turner, has played a vital role in establishing the modern news scene. The CNN Center not only includes newsrooms and studios, but it also offers guided tours, allowing visitors to see how a major news network operates.

It represents Atlanta’s impact in the realm of media and communication, giving breaking news to millions throughout the world.

38. The Chattahoochee River is an Important Part of Atlanta’s Identity and Culture

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The Chattahoochee River is vital to Atlanta’s identity and culture, fulfilling a variety of functions for its citizens.

Notably, it provides over 70% of the city’s drinking water, irrigates over 100,000 acres of local farmland, and generates hydroelectric power via numerous dams, assuring essential services for the metropolitan area.

Furthermore, the river is a beloved recreational destination, filled with animals, and popular for fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking.

It’s also a popular tourist destination, with activities like tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding available.

The Chattahoochee River entices with its enticing blend of natural beauty, recreation, and usefulness, offering something for everyone while increasing Atlanta’s connection to nature.

39. Atlanta is Home to the World’s Oldest Zoo In the United States Southeastern Region

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Zoo Atlanta, which was founded in 1889, is the oldest zoo in the southeastern United States. It is a well-known zoological park in Atlanta, Georgia, spanning 16 hectares.

The zoo, which houses approximately 1,000 animals from 200 different species, is certified by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).

The park is divided into themed zones such as the African Savanna, the Ford African Rain Forest, the Pandamonium (home to gigantic pandas), the Winship Aquarium, and KidZone, which features interactive children’s exhibits.

Zoo Atlanta is not only a popular tourist attraction, but it is also an important educational resource. It is dedicated to assisting worldwide conservation efforts by providing activities and events for people of all ages.

The zoo is well-known for its gigantic pandas, huge collection of African species, conservation efforts, and a variety of educational programs, making it a significant asset for both the local community and visitors eager to discover the wonders of the animal kingdom.

40. The Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta is The Final Resting Place of Prominent Persons

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The historic Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta, founded in 1850, serves as the eternal resting place for numerous distinguished individuals from various fields.

Notable figures interred here include Pulitzer Prize-winning author Margaret Mitchell, golf legend Bobby Jones, civil rights leaders like Ivan Allen Jr. and Maynard Jackson and educator Selena Sloan Butler.

Other notable personalities interred in the cemetery include  Morris Brown College founder Wesley John Gaines, journalist Joel Chandler Harris, Atlanta Constitution editor Henry Grady, Coca-Cola inventor John Pemberton, Civil War generals, politicians, business leaders, and artists.

Located in Southeast DeKalb, covering over 400 acres, Oakland Cemetery is one of Atlanta’s oldest burial grounds. It stands as a testament to the city’s history, offering both tourists and families a place for reflection and remembrance.