When I think back to my trip to Atlanta, my heart still swells with gratitude for the unexpected moments, the encounters, and the genuine connections that made this journey so special.
The weekend trip with my husband was a brief, yet transformative escape that not only allowed me to explore a vibrant city but also reshaped my perspective on what it means to find the guts to get away and explore a city, and to take time to really take in a city’s personality and charm.
Atlanta offers a nice escape, one that is quick to get to from South Florida, and that offers different and exciting experiences that you’ll be eager to share with others upon your return.
The Moxy Experience: A Bold and Welcoming Start
My adventure began as soon as my husband and I stepped into the Moxy Hotel Midtown, a place where modern design meets playful charm. The lobby’s vibrant energy and artful décor immediately captivated me; creativity and comfort coexisted. And, how cool is it that the check-in station is at the bar? And there’s also the offering of a welcome cocktail, just to ease you into the stay. We loved it!
One of the highlights of my visit to the Moxy was the dining experience. It was simply the epitome of southern hospitality and comfort. That evening, I dined at the High Note Rooftop Bar, where the fusion of local flavors with modern twists on classic comfort food was an absolute delight. I still remember the stunning view of the Atlanta skyline as the sun dipped below the horizon.
Sipping on a carefully crafted cocktail while digging into the yummy meal, it was so fun to take in the atmosphere, one that was electric yet intimate. Even on that chilly night, we enjoyed the perfect blend of casual fun and great food and drinks, and the quiet gave us the chance to really get to know the staff, and to learn from them as well. The bartender was talented, and she did not shy away from making us cocktails based on our preferred spirits and flavors. She took her time, and we could see that she took pride in making us happy.
And everyone at the hotel was kind, caring and so sweet. From managers to the front desk attendants, bartenders and everyone there, we felt right at home being away from our own.
Discovering Midtown: A Mosaic of History and Modernity
Midtown Atlanta offers a variety of gems. One is the Ponce City Market, an architectural marvel housed in a renovated 1925 Sears, Roebuck & Company building. The spot offers a variety of known shopping brands and local boutiques. It’s a vibrant place where you can expect freshly prepared meals, and the creative displays of artisan crafts. It’s a place that represents Atlanta’s innovative spirit when it comes to offering visitors unique places to shop at and enjoy a day with friends and loved ones.
I recommend a leisurely stroll along the Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail. Once a series of historic rail segments, the trail has been transformed into a lively public space adorned with colorful street art, quirky sculptures, and the genuine voices of residents. Every step feels like a conversation with the city with murals and installations that tell the story of Atlanta’s past, present, and hopeful future.
Then there’s the High Museum of Art in the heart of Atlanta’s arts district. Please do not leave the city without visiting. It’s a true gem. The museum itself is a masterpiece. Its architecture, designed by Richard Meier and Renzo Piano, stood as a testament to the city’s commitment to art and culture. Wandering through the galleries, I was enveloped by exhibits that ranged from classic masterpieces to contemporary works.
Each piece of art seemed to speak a language of its own, inviting me to pause, reflect, and see the world from a new perspective. It was a quiet yet powerful reminder that art has the unique ability to connect us with the deepest parts of our humanity, and how art connects us and tells stories in different ways, and how many of us connect through this type of storytelling.
Coca-Cola’s Immersive History
After a quick lunch, my husband and I made our way to the World of Coca-Cola. This attraction, dedicated to Atlanta’s iconic beverage, was a vibrant homage to the world of flavor and innovation. I was charmed by the multi-sensory theater and the nostalgic 1880s soda fountain that brought a delightful piece of history to life. Sampling over 100 beverages from around the globe, I couldn’t help but marvel at how a simple drink could encapsulate innovation, culture and the spirit of unity.
The museum is not only one where you can explore Coca-Cola bottle installations, but also get close to the vault with the beverage’s secret recipe, shop for unique souvenirs, and take the time to walk through a curated exhibition of the brand’s iconic history. You can also explore the brands that have been inspired by Coca-Cola.
Yet, there was one moment that super stood out to me. Yes, we took a picture with the brand’s iconic polar bear mascot. I recommend it, and it’s now been printed to be exhibited in our home. How fun is that?
The Magic of the Georgia Aquarium: A Dream Realized
The most emotionally stirring part of my journey unfolded at the Georgia Aquarium. Known as North America’s largest aquarium, the facility is home to an astounding array of marine life that leaves visitors awestruck. For my husband, Sebastian, this was a day he had dreamed of since childhood.
Ever since he was little, he’d been fascinated by sharks, imagining what it would be like to see some amazing ones up close, in a gorgeous setting. Standing before the massive tank in the “SHARKS! Predators of the Deep” exhibit, I watched as Sebastian’s eyes lit up with an intensity and wonder that was impossible to ignore. And it was all partly thanks to the aquarium’s Whale Sharks, an aquarium staple, and the fact that they are the only aquarium in the United States to have these lovely sea creatures on display.
His lifelong passion for these gentle giants was finally being fulfilled right before my eyes. Witnessing his joy was a profound reminder of the magic that lies in pursuing one’s passions, and it made that day at the aquarium one of the most unforgettable experiences of our trip.
It truly made me happy to be there with someone that was appreciative of the magic, and marine exhibits, that the Georgia Aquarium provides.
A Heartwarming Reunion with an Old Friend
No journey is complete without the unexpected warmth of reconnecting with old friends. In Atlanta, I was able to reconnect with my friend Paradise after the various attraction visits. My dear friend and former colleague from the Miami Herald, we hadn’t seen each other in years, and the joy of our reunion was palpable.
Sitting together over drinks, our conversation flowed effortlessly, as if time itself had folded in on us. Paradise spoke passionately about her love for Atlanta, sharing how the city has an innate ability to connect people and has given her a chance to enjoy some life-changing career experiences. As I spoke to her, and after meeting so many people along the way, I realized that a place like Atlanta is one where many could find themselves calling home. The city’s energy buzzes with entertainment offerings, but it’s also the locals and transplants that make up the city’s heartbeat.
A City That Connects and Inspires
As I packed my bags and replayed the whirlwind of experiences in my mind, I was ready to come home, but also ready to write this story and share my experiences with others. From the bold welcome at the Moxy Hotel Midtown and its exquisite rooftop, the lively corridors of Ponce City Market, the creative energy along the Beltline, and the dreamlike moment at the Georgia Aquarium, I realized that Atlanta had woven itself into the very fabric of my heart, just like many destinations that we travel to do.
Atlanta isn’t merely a destination. It’s a living narrative of connection, creativity, and resilience. Its diverse neighborhoods, eclectic markets, and cultural landmarks all contribute to a visitor’s journey, and it’s one full of lessons and fun.
Visit discoveratlanta.com or call 404/521-6632
