Centennial Olympic Park (Self Guided), Atlanta

If you want to capture the essence of Atlanta in one go, look no further than here! SkyView Atlanta, a “one-and-done” destination, will provide an thrilling panoramic view of the city and the surrounding metropolitan area, offering a fresh perspective – atop a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel – which is especially valuable if you are not afforded access to the city's towering structures.

Situated almost 20 stories high above Centennial Olympic Park and surrounded by other local attractions (including the Georgia Aquarium, the Tabernacle, or the World of Coca-Cola), this wheel boasts of 42 lavish, climate-controlled gondolas, with each able to accommodate up to 6 people. For those seeking an elevated, "private" experience, one can pre-book a VIP gondola, providing all the frills including Ferrari-style seats, tinted windows, clear glass floor, and a longer flight time. The wait time and ride duration are reasonable, and in addition to the breathtaking view, this attraction is great for families, couples, and cost-effective – unless you have a fear of heights.

Moreover, do not miss the light show at night! Check for Groupon and other local offers before purchasing on-site tickets to save on the cost. This attraction is the perfect complement to your downtown adventure, providing a fun experience for all ages.

The Visitor Center in Atlanta's Centennial Olympic Park provides a wealth of information about the park's history, as well as the city's role in the 1996 Summer Olympic Games. The exhibit includes interactive displays and artifacts from the games, including the famous torch used to light the Olympic flame. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour of the park and learn about its architecture, landscaping, and public art installations. The Visitor Center is staffed with knowledgeable guides who are happy to answer questions and provide recommendations for other attractions in the area.

If you are into college football or just want to gain a better understanding of the sport, this is a great place to kill an hour or two taking it all in. After being founded by the National Football Foundation in 1951, to immortalize the players and coaches of college football, the Hall was decided to be moved to Atlanta in 2009. The new building broke ground on January 28, 2013, and on August 23, 2014 the $68.5-million museum opened its doors for the first time.

Sections of the structure are reminiscent of a football in shape. The facility contains approximately 50,000 square feet (4,600 m2) of exhibit and event space. They have plenty of impressive artifacts on display and informative/interactive exhibits, along with an authentic 45-yard indoor football field in the middle of it all, where you can kick a ball or throw a touch pass.

Additional reasons for a visit are the huge welcoming wall with helmets of every college team in the country, the displays of football equipment and accessories through the years, the gift shop stocked with lots to choose from, and the 3rd-floor Hall of Fame itself, which is a large circle of glass columns with etched names of the inductees. As of 2018, there are 997 players and 217 coaches enshrined in the Hall, representing 308 schools. Thirteen players, two coaches and one inanimate object (the Goodyear Blimp) were slated for induction in 2019.

Everyone working here is super helpful and will point out a few things that you might not discover on your own – things that people of all ages can enjoy!

The Fountain of Rings is the primary attraction of Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta, and is renowned worldwide. Originally designed for the Centennial Summer Olympics in 1996, it comprises computer-controlled lights and jets of water synchronized with music played from speakers in light towers surrounding the fountain. The fountain forms a splash pad for children to play in, as well as for concertgoers and joggers to cool off on hot Atlanta summer days.

The waterplay area comprises 251 jets that shoot water 12 to 35 feet (4 to 10 m) in the air, creating a stunning water sculpture that serves as the front yard of the nearby museum. The fountain area is surrounded by flags of previous host countries of the Summer Olympics, and eight 65-foot-tall light towers reminiscent of classical Greek marker columns. Additionally, there are various sculptures scattered throughout the park, including a statue of Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the modern Olympic movement, and a small amphitheater located at the southern end.

The fountain is an essential formal architectural landmark that is also a fun and playful space. The concept of a computer-controlled fountain has since been replicated in other urban designs such as Dundas Square in Toronto and in commercial uses such as the Bellagio Fountains at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

There are fountain shows held at Centennial Olympic Park all 365 days of the year, four times daily, playing at 12:30PM, 3:30PM, 6:30 PM, and 9:30PM.

Why You Should Visit:
Whether you want to take a break from sightseeing or enjoy some family-friendly entertainment, the Fountain of Rings is a must-see attraction in Atlanta.

Centennial Plaza was created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the modern Olympics. The plaza showcases 23 national flags that symbolize the past Olympic host cities. At its heart stands the official flag of the Olympic Games; however, the most significant attraction are the striking 'Hermes Towers' consisting of eight towers that rise to 25 feet high. Named after the Greek god Hermes, they each represent an Olympic sport and are adorned with images related to that sport. The towers are made of stainless steel and are illuminated at night, providing a spectacular sight for visitors to the plaza.

The Quilt of Dreams is a symbolic landmark that captures the city's aspirational journey towards hosting the 1996 Olympic Games. This quilt is not made of fabric, but of memories and the collective ambition of a group of visionaries who believed in the potential of their city. The narrative begins as early as 1990 when a dedicated committee of local business leaders and influential figures, including Ivan Allen III, son of former Mayor Ivan Allen Jr., rallied to support the idea of bringing the Olympics to Atlanta. Their names and contributions are immortalized on a bench at the site, reminding visitors of the roots of this dream.

Central to the narrative of the Quilt of Dreams is the Atlanta 9, a volunteer group whose tireless efforts were pivotal in securing the Olympic bid. These individuals, from various walks of life, represent the community’s involvement and the grassroots support that fueled the bid. Their names proudly displayed on a plaque signify the democratic and collective effort that underpinned the city's campaign. This aspect of the quilt emphasizes that while influential leaders provided necessary support, the heart of the Olympic bid was powered by community spirit and volunteerism.

Dominating the center of the Quilt of Dreams is a statue of Billy Payne, whose role was crucial in transforming the Olympic dream into reality. As the visionary who first proposed Atlanta as an Olympic host in 1987, Payne mobilized support from key figures including Mayor Andrew Young. His leadership as president and CEO of the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games is commemorated with him holding an Olympic torch, symbolizing the light of aspiration and achievement that he brought to the city. Payne's idea and the collective effort it sparked led to a surprising victory when the International Olympic Committee awarded the bid to Atlanta in 1990, a testament to the power of conviction and collaboration.

The Quilt of Remembrance Plaza is a place of reflection and remembrance. Visitors can pay their respects to the victims of the 1996 Olympic bombing and other acts of domestic terrorism by viewing the Quilt of Remembrance, which consists of 71 panels featuring the names and photographs of those who lost their lives.

The plaza also features a memorial fountain, surrounded by a mosaic depicting the Olympic rings and the names of the 1996 Olympic sponsors, and serving as a place for visitors to sit and contemplate.

In addition to the Quilt of Remembrance and the memorial fountain, the plaza features a number of benches and seating areas, as well as informational plaques detailing the history of the bombing and the efforts to create the memorial. It is a peaceful and solemn space that honors the memories of those who lost their lives and serves as a reminder of the need for peace and understanding in society.

Founded on July 26, 1922, the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) was established amidst the backdrop of significant anti-Greek sentiment, exacerbated by groups like the Ku Klux Klan. The association was created to promote and protect Greek culture, particularly critical during such a turbulent period in American history. As part of its commitment to celebrating Greek heritage and its foundational ties to the Olympic Games, AHEPA commissioned a striking tribute that aligns the spirit of ancient competition with modern international camaraderie.

The centerpiece of this tribute is a dynamic sculpture by artist Peter Calaboyias, deliberately crafted to echo the Hellenic origins of the Olympics. Featuring three figures, each representing different eras of the games, the sculpture serves as a timeline of athletic endeavor from ancient times to the contemporary period. On the far right, an Ancient Olympian stands in homage to the original games of 776 BC, performed traditionally in the nude to celebrate the human form and physical prowess. The central figure draws from the first modern Olympics held in Athens in 1896, complete with a Victorian mustache, symbolizing the revival of these historic games in a modern context. To the left, a female athlete represents the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, illustrating the evolution and ongoing relevance of these games.

The Tribute sculpture not only connects the dots between different epochs but also stands as a guardian of history and protector of lives. During the tragic bombing at Centennial Park, the sculpture's fanlike structure shielded bystanders from the blast, its robust form absorbing much of the impact and shrapnel. Remarkably, marks from the shrapnel have been preserved on the statue as a deliberate choice by the artist, turning the sculpture into a living memorial. This decision ensures that the memory of the attack and the lives affected are never forgotten, integrating a layer of somber reflection into an otherwise celebratory monument.

The Quilt of Olympic Spirit stands as a poignant tribute to the 10,000 athletes who graced the city during the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games. This unique and artistic installation not only celebrates the international gathering of athletes but also immortalizes their achievements in a distinctive manner. Adorned with signature leaf stones and monuments, the quilt intricately weaves the spirit of competition with the essence of legacy. Each athlete's name is carefully etched into the surrounding stones, ensuring their feats are remembered long after the games have concluded.

This quilt resonates deeply with the traditions of the ancient Olympics, where victors were crowned with laurel leaves as symbols of honor and victory. The leaves on the Quilt of Olympic Spirit metaphorically echo this age-old practice, linking past traditions with modern achievements. It is a visual representation of the athletes' days of glory and the medals they won, serving as a permanent reminder of their dedication and triumph. The site is more than a mere memorial; it is a celebration of champions from around the world, symbolizing their hard-earned victories and the Olympic spirit that guided them.

Among the competitors honored on this quilt were notable figures such as tennis icon Andre Agassi, soccer star Mia Hamm, and boxing sensation Floyd Mayweather. Each athlete brought their unique prowess to the games, with Mayweather's journey marked by a controversial bronze medal win that would pivot his career towards professional boxing, leading to an unprecedented 50-0 record.

The Quilt of Nations in Atlanta, Georgia, serves as a vibrant tapestry of international unity and diversity, commemorating the unparalleled participation of 197 countries in the 1996 Olympic Games. This monumental event marked the highest number of competing nations in the history of the Olympics, surpassing the number of officially recognized sovereign states. The quilt, with its colorful and intricate designs, symbolizes the global spirit of the games and celebrates the variety of cultures that came together in Atlanta, reflecting not only the competition but also the camaraderie that defines the Olympic ethos.

The inclusion of more teams than the officially recognized countries stems from the Olympic tradition of recognizing "athletic geography," a concept articulated by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympics. This notion acknowledges that the realm of sports can extend beyond the strict definitions of political geography, allowing regions and groups to participate even if they are not independent nations. Throughout much of the 20th century, this meant that territories and regions could field teams in the Olympics, creating a more inclusive atmosphere at the games.

However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) revised these rules in 1996, stipulating that only internationally recognized states could participate. This change, while streamlining the participation criteria, has not been without controversy. Notably, the IOC recognizes some entities, such as Palestine, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, that are not universally acknowledged as sovereign states by other international bodies like the United Nations. This discrepancy highlights ongoing debates within international sports about representation and inclusivity. For instance, Native American tribes such as the Iroquois, who have a rich heritage of lacrosse—a sport they originated—are precluded from competing under their own flag, raising questions about the fairness and scope of Olympic representation.

Looking forward, there are efforts underway to address these complex issues by the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The Quilt of Nations not only stands as a reminder of the broad inclusivity of the 1996 games but also as a symbol of the ongoing dialogue about how best to balance international sports, political realities, and cultural recognition.

Androgyne Planet represents a modern artistic endeavor that was initially commissioned for the 1996 Olympic Games. Crafted by artist Enric Pladevall, this piece stands out for its contemporary style and abstract form, setting it apart from other installations within the city's park. Originally located in the center of a vast lawn, the sculpture was relocated in 2018 to a more secluded spot near a reflection pool. This move, though positioning it further from the direct view of park visitors, has enhanced its visibility and added a dignified backdrop that highlights its unique design elements effectively.

The artwork draws heavily on natural and mythological inspirations. Pladevall incorporated elements reminiscent of birds and wings, notably influenced by the iconic "Winged Victory" of Samothrace, housed in the Louvre. Additionally, the abstract bird sculptures of Constantin Brancusi served as a profound influence on the form and spirit of Androgyne Planet. These influences converge in the sculpture to create a dynamic interplay of form and space, invoking a sense of motion and freedom that contrasts sharply with its solid, metallic structure.

Despite its artistic merits, Androgyne Planet has been a subject of division among viewers, an outcome ironically at odds with the artist’s intentions of unity and harmony. Its placement in the park, now near a reflective pool, offers a mirror-like surface that complements its abstract shapes, creating an interplay of reflection and form that invites viewers to engage with it from multiple perspectives. The pool not only enhances the visual impact of the sculpture but also contributes to a deeper contemplation of its thematic complexities.

A fun and educational destination for families with young children, the Children's Museum of Atlanta offers a variety of interactive exhibits that are designed to promote learning through play, exploration, and creativity. Exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from science and technology to art and culture.

One of the most popular exhibits is the "Gateway to the World," which invites children to explore different cultures and traditions from around the globe. Other exhibits focus on science & tech, including a hands-on robotics lab and a wind tunnel where children can experiment with the properties of air.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum offers a variety of programs and activities for children and families, including storytimes, art workshops, and science demonstrations. There is also a dedicated area for toddlers and infants called "Tiny Town," which features soft play areas and age-appropriate toys.

Overall, the Children's Museum of Atlanta provides an engaging and entertaining environment for children to learn, play, and explore.

Prepare to have your taste buds tickled and your senses stimulated at this classic Atlanta tourist destination that is a must-visit for anyone looking to understand the global impact of Coca-Cola on people's lives. For a very reasonable admission fee, you can enjoy a leisurely 2-hour exploration of the museum's exhibits spread over two floors. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted with a free can of Coke and an introduction to the historical artifacts of the company, as well as a video – essentially a long Coca-Cola ad – which acts as a nice segway into the next portion – the entrance into the main hall.

On the first floor, you'll get to explore "The Vault" (rumored to hold the physical copy of the top-secret Coca-Cola recipe), the "Milestones of Refreshment" walk-through exhibit, where you'll learn about the company's history, see the manufacturing process at "Bottle Works," and even take a selfie with the ever-jovial Polar Bear mascot. On the second floor, you'll be treated with a 4D theater that offers a wild roller-coaster-like sensation as the seats move in sync with the short film, plus various galleries, massive gift shop, and of course the most exciting portion: the Tasting Room!

In the Tasting Room, you can sample over 100 different flavors of drinks from all over the world, produced under Coca-Cola license, as well as some drink specials from the bar. A very cool way to end the tour!

Why You Should Visit:
Tons of Coca-Cola paraphernalia and memorabilia, and you are given a virtually unlimited supply of Coca-Cola beverages from around the world to taste (naturally, you won't find any Pepsi drinks or merchandise here!).

Tip:
Try to book online or buy the City Pass to jump at least one or two queues for entrance.

The Paralympic Games Monument stands as a testament to the profound journey and impact of the Paralympic movement, which originated from a small yet transformative event in 1948 in England. This event was initially organized for World War II veterans with spinal cord injuries who sought an avenue for competition. By 1952, the scope of these games expanded when the Netherlands introduced its own competitors, setting a precedent for broader international participation. The first official Paralympic Games then took place in Rome in 1960, marking a pivotal moment in the recognition and inclusion of athletes with disabilities on a global sporting stage.

Fast forward to 1996, the Paralympiad X held in Atlanta was ambitiously dubbed as aiming to be the best Paralympic Games in history. The monument's pillars capture the essence and achievements of these games, highlighting the unprecedented success measured by various metrics. A record-setting 268 world records were broken during the games, underscoring the high level of competition and excellence among the athletes. Moreover, the participation of over 100 nations and an impressive attendance of nearly 400,000 people illustrated the growing importance and appeal of the Paralympic Games on the world stage.

One of the most significant milestones reached during the 1996 Games was the unprecedented level of worldwide corporate sponsorship, a testament to the increasing visibility and viability of the Paralympic movement. This support not only enhanced the games' operational success but also bolstered public engagement and awareness regarding the capabilities and achievements of people with disabilities. The pillars at the monument are inscribed with these facts, inviting visitors to reflect on the strides made towards inclusivity and recognition of athletes with disabilities.

The Children's Garden and Playground in Atlanta's Centennial Olympic Park is a great place for families to visit. Designed specifically for children, it offers a range of activities to keep them engaged and entertained. The garden features interactive fountains and sprays, a playground with slides, swings, and other fun equipment, a maze, and a reading area. There are also shaded areas where parents can relax while their children play. The garden is open year-round and is free to the public, making it a great budget-friendly option for families looking for a fun day out.

Since it bills itself as the largest in the world, the Georgia Aquarium should definitely be on most visitors' lists of things to do while in Atlanta. It's a well designed aquarium with exhibits broken down by habitat and the only water tank big enough to accommodate several whale sharks, which is reason alone to buy tickets, especially if you've never seen them live.

Of course, while the whale sharks are the star attraction, the Aquarium has so much more! Their many smaller tanks feature an array of interesting species with everything from freshwater fish to penguins, otters, and beluga whales. Sea lion and dolphin shows are a part of the admission fee, but just watching the several species of jellyfish in their individual tanks can keep you mesmerized for hours as they move gracefully up and down with their flowing hairlike tentacles.

Everything is beautifully presented with large walls of thick glass so visitors can feel close to the sea life, separated by mere inches from the most amazing coral and fish, both large and small. In some places aquarium windows glitter with fish moving overhead, and at the entrance there is even a watery wall of schooling fish reflecting changing shades of blue light.

Why You Should Visit:
To experience all the world's major marine ecosystems in a single place – mostly via spectacular large displays and sometimes pop-up viewing stations/crawl spaces. From the Arctic waters where you'll see beluga whales and penguins to tropical seas where there is everything from seahorses to stingrays and sharks.

Tip:
Buy your tickets online as it is a better deal – some discounts there cannot be purchased in person.
Consider paying a little extra to do the backstage tour – well worth the money and great for all ages.