Visiting Atlanta and Northern Georgia

Atlanta is the economic, education, and cultural center of the Southeastern US. A sprawling City, it welcomes travelers from across the globe with world class shopping, restaurants, and events. Business travelers, students, educators, and tourists can pick from seemingly endless options, to make their time in Atlanta spectacular.

For over 70 years, Atlanta has celebrated spring and the blooming of the dogwood trees at the Atlanta Dogwood Festival. Held mid April, the 2010 festival is more exciting than ever. Last years comedy club debut was so popular, it has been added to this years festival. The international stage is expanded this year to an International Village, highlighting the diversity of Atlanta's cultures. Bring the entire family, the kids village will be open with a climbing wall and a play land of huge inflatables.

Note for Families w/ children: Six Flags over Georgia opens for the 2010 season March 6th – a great add on if you are in the Atlanta area.

Sports fans, winter and spring brings a lot of action to Atlanta. Of course it's basketball and hockey season and the Hawks and Thrashers have full schedules, if you want to catch a game. There are a couple of spectacular events not to miss at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. NASCAR stars in the Sprint Cup Series have a qualifier for the Kolbalt Tools 500 the first week in March. The next day the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series drivers hit the track for the Atlanta 200. The Kobalt Tools 500 will be held Sunday, ending a thrilling week of racing.

Runners - plan for the ING Georgia Marathon and Half Marathon near the end of March. The day before there is a 5K and Kid's Fun Run, so the whole family can join the action.  The marathon start and finish are at Centennial Olympic Park in downtown – conveniently accessible with MARTA, Atlanta's rapid transit system. (If it's warm day, make sure to soak yourself in the Fountain of Rings).

The Georgia Aquarium is located across the street from Centennial Olympic Park. It is one of the largest aquariums in the world and features both fresh and marine water life. You know Usher and his family have been there, so has Chris Tucker, Martha Stewart and Al Roker – join the gang and visit when you are in town!

A must see exhibition in 2010 is Diana: A Celebration. The Atlanta Civic Center is hosting the exhibit through June. The exhibit showcases the life and works of Diana, Princess of Wales. Included in the display are her amazing wedding gown and accessories, as well as many of her dresses, suits and evening gowns. Diana was one of the most loved women of our time; this is a very popular exhibit - not to be missed when you are in Atlanta.

There is no better place than Atlanta's distinctive neighborhoods to enjoy some down time. Buckhead, Little Five Points, Midtown and recently revitalized Cabbagetown – all have unique personalities reflected in the restaurants and shopping. For accommodations, choose Best Western Hotels; conveniently located in and around Atlanta, facilitating your travel plans and schedule.

Atlanta and Northern Georgia Hotel Map