Clyde’s family visited us for Spring Break this week, giving us an opportunity to do all those touristy-type things that we always mean to do, but that we never make time to do, because we actually live here now. Some related observations:
The Georgia Aquarium. This was my second visit to the world’s largest aquarium, and it was just as much fun as the first. Spectral jellyfish … glass ceilings granting upside-down views into overhead aquariums … monstrous glass walls that give the place all the visual impact of an IMAX movie … even packed with screaming second-graders, the GA is well worth the price of admission. Just go.
Zoo Atlanta. Nice pandas. Nice panda pavilion. Otherwise? There’s nothing here you haven’t seen a dozen times at any other zoo on the planet. Don’t get me wrong; the zoo isn’t bad … it’s just unremarkable. Unless your children are very young, put it down on your “see only if you have spare time” list.
Inside CNN. Absolutely, totally, embarrassingly l-a-m-e. With the exception of a ride on the world’s longest escalator, the entire CNN tour is a classic example of an overpriced, over-hyped, must-miss attraction. Visitors spend more time tromping down endless flights of stairs (to get back down to the ground floor) than they do in presentations — which is a good thing, really, since the presentations (like sitting in a darkened theater watching CNN) are about as engaging as a trip to the dentist.
Regrets. Time didn’t allow us the opportunity to hit the Botanical Gardens, which everyone had looked forward to.
Restaurants. Hands down, our best meal was the early bird dinner at Colonnade (thanks, P.!). Our out-of-town crowd also liked: Little Azzio, Hong Kong Harbour, Fiesta Plaza, Yoforia, Six Feet Under, and — urk! — Einstein’s. (I’m happy to report the food was, for once, perfectly edible.)
Shopping. After a sweep through Perimeter Mall and Lennox Mall, other winning destinations included Ikea, Kohl’s, Fry’s Electronics, and Bennie’s Shoes.
How about you? When people visit you here in the ATL … what spots are on your must-see list?
Mark,We often found the problem with “touring ATL” is that its best stuff, as with most cities outside SF and NY C, is in the culture of everyday life.
Before I mention my favs: I must point out that I am still surprised that you have not mentioned one of our favorite restaurants in the world. Tierra. It’s on Piedmont in a non-descript tiny strip mall just down from the, yes, Botanical Gardens. The husband and wife team are now recognised by zagats, etc. but it has not ruined the charm of a small restaurant. It is the best of eating: great food, interesting menu, friendly staff and owners, and most importantly: relaxed atmosphere that says “I know I am good, but I don’t have to pretend to be a church rectory to prove how serious I am about my food”. Type of food: Pan South American. Best dishes: Scallops and TRES LECHES CAKE! YOU MUST EAT THIS! IT IS REQUIRED BEFORE ENTERING THE GATES OF HEAVEN.
On with my tour tips:First, you have to get your head around OTP v. ITP. (Outside/Inside the Perimeter for those readers afar)ITP:Places:1. Botanical Gardens! J&J will tell you this is a must.2. Piedmont Park on Sunday morning. Relaxed, beautiful, peaceful spot in the bussling city. Gives folks from the deep south a feel (albeit small) for what Central park feels like in NYC.3. Eddies Attic (if its still there). Great for acoustic music and you will be one of only 20 guests!4. Chattahoochee Park(s): any of the nature reserves just inside the perimeter. Could get a boat and get in the water.5. House strolling: Big Box gaudiness: Brookhaven. Charm: virginia highlands. We like to go on a saturday morning and gawk or find intrigue with how people keep their houses.6. Top of the plaza. A good place to start and point out where you are going.7. Ritz Carlton Downtown. A very posh bar worth having a civilised conversation in the plush seating in the afternoon. Forget the food, etc. over priced.8. What about the antique mart? It happens every other weekend i think. Not sure where it is..but its big and really great place to find some real values on antiques.
Food:1. What about that trendy bfast spot of ponce that J&J used to haunt. 50s and 60s vibe. Cup of Joe?2. Tierra. noted above3. £1 sushi at PRIME on Sunday Night. Makes a great time in cool restaurant even if you are paying crazy prices for a glass of wine!4. Mellow Mushroom pizza!!!5. Wings at $3 cafe (did this place close in Sandy springs as well?
and of a good creep out: go to any visiting fair for model trains.
Cheers,Todd