Atlanta 101

441 Freedom Pkwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 (map)

While Jimmy Carter remains in Planes, teaching Sunday School and winning Nobel Peace Prizes, there is plenty to see and learn about the only Georgian president in Atlanta, at the Carter Center.

450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 (map)

Because Martin Luther King Jr. is such an international and global icon, sometimes we forget that he called Atlanta his home. See the house where he grew up, the church where he preached and the chilling exhibits in the visitor's center.

1 CNN Ctr NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 (map)

Ever wonder what all goes into a television news broadcast? Go behind the scenes at the world headquarters of one of the most-watched news channels, and even take in a live broadcast.

660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 (map)

Tour the stunning backdrop for Atlanta's best musicals, concerts and plays. Better yet, take in a production at this famed Peachtree Street theatre that has been in operation since the 1920's.

Hwy 78 E (Exit 8), Stone Mountain, GA 30087 (map)

Walk through original Georgian plantation houses and enjoy a spectacular view of Atlanta. Those too lazy to climb the giant rock can take the tram. But we frown on that and suggest hike up, tram down, at worst.

225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 (map)

Shaped like a giant ark and boasting the "world's largest aquarium" tag, look at underwater life at this nautical tourist trap. Highlights include giant Japanese spider crabs and an underwater spectating tunnel.

3434 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 (map)

If you are staying in Buckhead, might as well go all out. A classic choice for the high-rolling crowd, the Ritz is lodged within walking distance of Phipps and Lenox and is exactly what you'd expect from a luxury hotel in the city's poshest neighborhood.

111 Perimeter Ctr W, Atlanta, GA 30346 (map)

Travelers who need to stay closer to the perimeter but still want that hip, big-city vibe should hit the W hotel. It boasts chic intown style, yet is conveniently close to the shopping and dining at Perimeter Mall. You'll be the cool kid in corporate land.

644 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 (map)

Lodged in the heart of the uber-popular Virginia Highland neighborhood, this cheap-indie hotel allows visitors options for shopping, eating, drinking and entertainment--all within walking distance. Booya.

659 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 (map)

If you don't stay at the 1911 landmark, at least stroll by for a look at its gorgeous architecture. Lodged directly across from the Fox Theatre, this Midtown jewel has plenty to see and do within walking distance. Plus, it looks like it came out of a movie.

1200B Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 (map)

With three locations around town, Taqueria has become an Atlanta tradition. Scarf cross-cultured tacos that include fillings like fried chicken and barbecue pork, or go standard-style with carnitas. All for $2 a pop.

61 North Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30308 (map)

You aren't an Atlantan if you've never chowed on the throwback fast food at the V. From the curbside service to the unique ways to order, (an FO anyone?) everyone needs to try this greasy-good destination once.

421 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312 (map)

This little earthy cafe might not show up on some culinary maps, but it's a hidden gem. The hippy-dippy breakfast items with tofu and Mexican influence are good, but the pancakes are spectacular. So much so the NY Times called them the best in the country.

3073 Piedmont Rd, Atlanta, GA 30305 (map)

Tough not to love this high-end ode to Southern dining. Don't miss the homemade potato chips with maytag blue cheese and Sunday's fried chicken dinner. This is Buckhead dining from a different era.

112 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 (map)

The first Atlantan chef to win on Food Network's Iron Chef America, Kevin Rathbun's namesake digs in Inman park have become the standard in modern Atlantan dining. If steak is your thing, Kevin Rathbun Steak is just down the street.

401 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 (map)

For the most colorful of all the Atlanta drinking spots, the Brewhouse wins going away. This Little Five Points pub is good for game-scoping, people-watching and patio lounging. Try the Painkiller to cure a hangover, or get the day started off on the right note.

905 Juniper St, Atlanta, GA 30309 (map)

The best place to get an exotic cocktail in the city, Ricardo Ullio's Brazilian-cool Midtown restaurant shines with inventive concoctions and a loungy bossa nova vibe. Look for interesting DJ's and the occasional live jazz combo.

3377 Peachtree Rd, Atlanta, GA 30316 (map)

Resurrecting the Buckhead drinking scene, Randy Gerber's second bar in Atlanta is one part rock 'n' roll and one "it" Hollywood. Though bring your wallet, this seen-and-be-seen hot spot will cost you.

602 N Highland Ave, Atlanta, GA 30307 (map)

Home to politicos and plumbers, this friendly half-century-old tavern is an Atlanta institution. Every visiting major politician swings by the Va-Hi staple, while Atlanta left-wingers still frequent the place to talk shop.

125 East Court Square, Decatur, GA 30030 (map)

While there are plenty of fancier bars out there, those on the inside track to good beer know the best spot for a pint is found at Decatur's Brick Store Pub. Known for their massive selection, head upstairs to their Belgium bar for a real hops treat.