5 Under-the-Radar Attractions in Atlanta, GA

Atlanta is well-known for its aquarium, with Georgia Aquarium the world’s largest until Chimelong Ocean Kingdom came along in 2014, as well as being home to the headquarters of the Coca-Cola beverage company which offers public tours. But there are quite a few under-the-radar attractions that both visitors and those new to the city having moved into one of the houses for rent in Atlanta, GA, really should discover. 

The Gone with the Wind (GWTW) Trail

Fans of “Gone with the Wind” won’t want to miss exploring the GWTW trail. It includes magnificent homes, hotels, and museums that are linked to Margaret Mitchell’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel and film.

Visit the Margaret Mitchell House, a red brick home with a museum on the ground floor that includes the apartment where the author wrote most of the novel. It looks just as it did when she lived there from 1925 through 1932. A guided tour will tell you about her childhood as well as how she managed to bluff her way into journalism.

Other notable stops include the Atlanta-Fulton Central Library which replaced the original Carnegie Library that Mitchell’s father co-founded. The Remington typewriter she used is on display here with artifacts like her 1937 Pulitzer prize and photos. You can also pay your respects at the Oakland Cemetery where Mitchell was buried following her death in 1949 when she was killed by a speeding car on Peachtree Street.

Local Markets

Mingle with the locals while browsing or buying local foods and other products at the city’s markets. Dekalb Farmers Market is a sprawling attraction with eye-popping sights and aromas, international delights, fresh organic produce, fish, and meat.

There’s even a section dedicated to every country across the globe. You’ll find other markets throughout the city like the Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market which are both fun to walk around, shop, or grab a meal.

Little Five Points

Little Five Points is the most eclectic neighborhood in Atlanta, a hipster/alternative community that’s been likened to Haight-Ashbury as a melting pot of subcultures. Enjoy the South’s Bohemian center, complete with street performers, crystal shops, thrift stores, and plenty of organic, vegetarian fare.

Meat lovers can try a burger at the city’s most famous burger joint, Vortex Lounge. It’s also a great place just to relax outside with a drink at any one of the local eateries to do some people watching.

Plus you can get a taste of Atlanta’s artsy side as this is one of the best places to view street art, with many works tucked away on the backsides of buildings, in parking lots and alleyways. 

Antique Row

If you want to go antiquing, head to the suburb of Chamblee with its pseudo-Antique Row District featuring antique emporiums and vintage shops with everything from exquisite furniture to bizarre odds and ends.

Antique Factor covers more than 8,000 square feet, bringing the possibility of discovering all sorts of treasures.

The Beltline

The BeltLine is a massive urban redevelopment project that includes pedestrian trails that connect the city’s neighborhoods. When you’re up for a walk, it offers 22 miles of old railways that were converted into hiking trails and walkways, but it’s still evolving and will continue to expand through 2030.

If you pass Old Fourth Ward Park along the way, you might be able to catch a food or music festival with the events often held year throughout the year.

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