Story and photos by Scott Kendall
Seeing Atlanta with the Atlanta CityPASS
When we made plans to visit Atlanta in mid-July, my first thought was to check out the Atlanta CityPASS. We have used CityPASS in New York, Houston, Dallas, and Denver, and knew it was a bargain. In buying the CityPASS, visitors can save money, have easy entry, and have the convenience of tickets saved on their mobile phones.
In a nutshell, the Atlanta CityPASS offers admission at a 44% savings to five great Atlanta attractions: The Georgia Aquarium, The World of Coca-Cola, and the Atlanta Zoo, plus any two of of The Fernbank Museum of Natural History, The College Football Hall of Fame, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
I want to thank CityPASS for hosting me on my recent visit to Atlanta.
Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the US, and the fifth largest in the world. Visitors are educated and entertained by over 120,00 animals representing more than 200 species of water creatures displayed in over 11 million gallons of water.
Note that timed reservations are required for the ever popular Dolphin and the Sea Lion Presentations. And be wary – the first several rows may be in the Splash Zone, so expect to get wet if you sit there.
There is so much to see at this huge aquarium. We loved the sharks, of course! We were also amazed by the giant manta rays, the Beluga Whales, and the crocodiles. The jellyfish, evil eyed eels, ornate lion fish, and the whimsical seahorses also caught our imaginations. The aquarium does have a large cafe and seating area when you want to take a break.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta was founded in 2014. This impressive modern building highlights the important movement to ensure civil and human rights are part of our social fabric for each and every person in our country. Dr. Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, the Freedom Riders, and so many more influential figures are chronicled along with the civil rights movement in America as well as worldwide.
In addition to the many exhibitions and displays throughout the building, the center provides educational services for students and teachers, and even offers training to law enforcement and other professionals to promote civil and human rights. It is so important that we understand and recognize all types of discrimination and take whatever actions to uphold the tenets of equal justice for all.
Chick-Fil-A College Football Hall of Fame
The Chick-Fil-A College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta is the home of all things college football. Visitors learn fascinating facts about their favorite college players, coaches, and teams in this 94,000 square foot college fan paradise.
The College Football Hall of Fames makes the most of the latest in technology for a great selection of interactive exhibits, games, and activities. Sing your favorite fight song karaoke style, learn about your favorite player on the interactive screens, or take center stage as the newest Game Day host.
Wannabe sports stars of all ages can partake in a plethora of hands on football skills on the large playing field. Test you skills throwing, kicking, and running through various experiences laid out on the field.
As stated at their website, “Our mission is to use our position as a trusted authority within college football to educate, inspire, entertain, and connect audiences while honoring the people, traditions and passion of the game.”
World of Coca Cola
World of Coca Cola is an homage to everything Coke, the world’s most popular beverage. Located just north of Centennial Park and adjacent to the Georgia Aquarium and The Center for Civil and Human Rights, visitors can visit all on the same day.
Coca Cola is one of the most well known brands in the world, and the museum chronicles the fascinating history of this iconic brand. The current World of Coca Cola building was completed on May 24, 2007. Recent attractions include two new installations opened in the Pop Culture Gallery entitled Magic Murals and Ghost Signs.
In addition to tasting the many products of Coca Cola, visitors can sample beverages from around the world. Scent Discovery, The Coca Cola 3-D Theater, the Coca Cola Polar Bear, and other great attractions will keep you entertained for hours. Take a break at the Bottle Top Cafe for a healthy snack, lunch, or treat just across from the main building.
Plan Your Ideal Trip to Atlanta With CityPASS
Atlanta is the largest city in Georgia, and has so much to offer visitors. Check out Atlanta CityPASS to maximize your time and money in this treasure of the south!
Thanks to CityPASS for hosting our visit to special CityPASS attractions in Atlanta. All opinions are my own.
