Atlanta is an easy stop south of the Mason Dixon, while it is not my favorite southern city, it boasts urban excitement and some great dining.  Atlanta lacks a central hub around water and the historic charm of other southern cities. If you make it to Georgia, try to squeeze in a visit to Savannah, it’s lovely. 

Almost exactly two years later (2017), I had the opportunity to spend another full week in Atlanta for work. I am updating this post with a few new spots that I enjoyed during this visit. I will donate these additions with a little different color text.

EXPERIENCE

There is a lot to do in Atlanta including well-promoted attractions like the Aquarium, Botanical Gardens and Coca Cola Factory. While visiting for work I also was able to check out some great shops and sensorial experiences in town. Favorites included a visit to the Sweet Water Brewery, Strippaggio Oil and Vinegars and Zen Tea. Another great place to check out is the Emory Farmer’s Market. It is right on campus and offers some fantastic local baked goods and other treats to students and locals as part of the Sustainable Food Project. 

This trip I made it to the Georgia Aquarium and it was an absolutely wonderful experience. This is called the best in the country and it seems well deserved I would be sure to visit again next time I am in town. Other than this I spent most of my time in Buckhead, can’t underestimate the Lenox Square Mall, I spent a little too much time there this trip.

STAY

While in Atlanta you have several options for where to stay by parts of town. Buckhead, Midtown and Downtown are distinctive areas, so start your search based on what your plans are. I stayed at the W Midtown, which was nice, but not my favorite hotel experience on the planet. If you have been in one W Hotel, you have been in them all and this one fits the bill. The nightclub atmosphere is fun for a night or two and this location has the Spice Market restaurant inside as well, which seems to have a more impressive menu than execution of it. 

This trip I stayed in Buckhead which was very convenient and in a great location to walk to many restaurants, bars and the mall. I’d highly recommend the Intercontinental Buckhead Hotel if business takes you to this part of town. I also stayed one night downtown at a hotel I cannot recommend. 

EAT

Atlanta seems to surprise me every time I have visited with the abundance of great restaurant options. I discovered a new spot this visit that I’d highly recommend, the Optimist. This seafood spot and oyster bar has a lively atmosphere, hip décor and al fresco dining on a put put green. Another favorite spot this visit was One Midtown Kitchen. I was traveling with a large group and their wood fire oven fare impressed us all. I’d recommend trying the calamari here! If you happen to visit this venue with a few friends, go generous on the appetizers and lighter on the main courses, they tended to be our favorite items. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to try a Columbus local favorite (transplanted in Atlanta), Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. They boast unique flavor profiles and collections to make even a health eater make an exception. If you have a hankering for a perfect breakfast, visit West Egg. They offer an especially indulgent signature Snickers coffee latte, it was a tad sweet for me in the morning, but quite a treat. Aside from that, the menu is fresh and healthy. Another great place for locavores is Parish Foods and Goods, I’d suggest dining in and planning to take some fun canned and pickled treats to go.  I happened to be in Atlanta with a friend who was formerly a resident, he led us on a bit of an adventure north of the city to his all time favorite barbeque joint. Swallow in the Hollow is worth the trip! The ribs and mac and cheese should not be missed. Note that the portions are huge, but be sure to leave room for a piece of homemade pie (it’s worth it!).

This trip I did much of my eating and not worth reporting spots in Buckhead. However, one night my team went out for an amazing dinner at Canoe. Here we samples interesting things like kangaroo and rabbit.