Thanksgiving is not just a time for gratitude and good food but also a perfect opportunity to take a break from the usual routine. This year, my family and I planned an exciting trip from Cary, North Carolina, to Atlanta, Georgia—a city brimming with attractions, culture, and experiences. Covering 600 kilometers, our journey was well worth the five to six hours on the road. Here’s a detailed account of our adventure, perfect for anyone planning a similar trip!
Day 1: Discovering Atlanta’s Gems
Arrival and Check-In
We started our journey on November 28th and reached Atlanta in the late afternoon. Our home for the weekend was the Marriott Hotel in downtown Atlanta, offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to key attractions. After settling in and resting, we were ready to explore the city the next day.
Georgia Aquarium: A World Beneath the Waves
Our first stop on November 29th was the Georgia Aquarium, a marvel of marine life and the world’s largest aquarium. This attraction is a must-see, especially for families with kids. The vast variety of marine animals, including sharks, colorful fish, and the majestic whale shark, left us in awe.
One of the highlights was learning about the incredible logistics of transporting a blue whale from Taiwan to Georgia. The process involved a special container, air travel, and a train to ensure the whale’s safe arrival. The kids were fascinated by the story and loved the dolphin show, which was like a circus act on water! Watching dolphins perform synchronized jumps and respond to trainers’ commands was truly mesmerizing.
Centennial Olympic Park: A Walk Down Memory Lane
Next, we headed to Centennial Olympic Park, a beautifully maintained public space that served as the heart of the 1996 Summer Olympics. This park is perfect for a leisurely walk on a sunny day. With its green spaces, fountains, and historical significance, it’s a refreshing escape in the middle of the city.
World of Coca-Cola: A Nostalgic Moment
Though we didn’t visit the World of Coca-Cola museum this time, we couldn’t resist stopping by its outdoor park for some pictures with the iconic Coca-Cola symbols. The long queue at the entrance reminded me of my visit 11 years ago—I found it less captivating back then, so we decided to skip it this time.
SkyView Atlanta: A Bird’s Eye View
As the evening set in, we visited SkyView Atlanta, a Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city. Though the ride cost $78 for four people—quite steep for a short experience—the views from the top were stunning. If you’re on a budget, I’d recommend taking pictures in front of the SkyView instead of splurging on the ride.
Parking in Downtown Atlanta
Navigating downtown Atlanta can be tricky due to parking challenges. Public parking options range from $20 to $30. We found a spot that charged $20 for 10 hours, which worked well for us.
Day 2: Parks, Artisans, and Thrills
Piedmont Park: Nature and Creativity
On November 30th, we started our day with a visit to Piedmont Park, a serene green space showcasing the best of Atlanta’s fall colors. The trees, dressed in vibrant autumn hues, created a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities.
To our surprise, the park hosted a Thanksgiving artisan market, featuring over 50 stalls of handmade crafts. It was a rare treat to see so many skilled artisans displaying their creations. From jewelry to paintings, every piece reflected talent and passion. Entry to the park was free, and parking cost us $11 for about 2.5 hours—a small price for such a delightful experience.
IKEA Atlanta: A Shopping Stop
Since there’s no IKEA store in Cary, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to explore the one in Atlanta. The massive store offered endless inspiration for home decor. While we didn’t make any big purchases due to space constraints, the visit itself was fun.
Six Flags Over Georgia: A Festive Wonderland
The highlight of the day—and perhaps the entire trip—was Six Flags Over Georgia, a fantastic amusement park. Decked out in Christmas decorations, the park was a winter wonderland. We saved big on tickets by using Groupon, paying only $25 per person instead of the usual $80.
The park offered rides for all ages. While the kids enjoyed gentle train rides, I couldn’t resist trying a few daredevil attractions. The evening lights added a magical touch, making the entire park feel like a hill station. If you’re visiting Atlanta, Six Flags and Georgia Aquarium should be at the top of your list!
Travel Tips and Takeaways
1. Plan Smart with Coupons: Platforms like Groupon can save you a lot on tickets. For instance, we saved 66% on Six Flags tickets. I later realized I could’ve saved $20 per ticket at Georgia Aquarium too!
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