A good mix of the new and old makes for a compelling take on Atlanta's history.

by Erin Behan

The Scene
The modern museum takes you through Atlanta's history, from Indian settlements to the Civil War to the Civil Rights movement and the 1996 Olympic Games. Atlanta's best museum of local interest contains four major sections: the largest, most comprehensive Civil War exhibit in the South, a colorful time capsule of Atlanta through the decades, a folk art gallery, and a tribute to golf great Bobby Jones. Nationally touring exhibits complement the permanent collection.

The Facts
Two historic houses, the Swan Coach House--a 1928 Georgian mansion-turned-gallery and lunch spot--and the 1845 Tullie Smith Farm plantation home are open for touring. Both are on the National Register of Historic Places. The 33 acres of gardens, woodlands and nature trails allow visitors to learn more about plants native to the state. The center's research archives hold books, journals, manuscripts and visual materials that aid in Atlanta and Southern history studies.

10/13/02

Go here first; bring out of towners too

by DaveFromDuluth

There are great 'natural history' museums, and there are great art, or science or other museums. I think this is the best museum I've seen that is just about the local area. It is incredible that you could spend a whole day just learning about the heritage of the south, of Georgia, and Atlanta. This museum includes a view of the city from past to present, starting in the early days when it was just a railroad link, up to today when it is the capital of the southeast with transport, commerce, and a great culutural center.

Civil war section is probably the best I've seen. Make sure to go out back and check out the mini-farm, and the beautiful mansion owned by one of the coke founders.

• Pros: Comprehensive, Varied, Changing Exhibits
• Cons: Location (no marta), some exhibits worn, more kid stuff

06/03/02

Educational trip back in time

by erinbehan_citysearch

As a northerner and relative newcomer to the area, I found the Atlanta History Center to offer a comprehensive history of the area. It's one thing to "know" about Atlanta history and another to immerse yourself in the artifacts and stories of the time. The portions on segregation were particularly sobering.