best things to do in atlanta helen ga
Atlanta and Helen, GA, are two popular destinations in the state of Georgia, offering a mix of urban excitement and natural beauty. Here are some of the best things to do in both places:
Atlanta, GA:
- Georgia Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring thousands of aquatic animals from around the globe.
- World of Coca-Cola: A museum showcasing the history of the iconic beverage brand, with interactive exhibits and tastings.
- Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park: A historic site commemorating the life and legacy of the civil rights leader, featuring his birthplace, the Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change.
- Centennial Olympic Park: A 21-acre park built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, featuring a large fountain, walking paths, and various events and concerts.
- Piedmont Park: A 189-acre park in Midtown Atlanta, offering walking and biking trails, a dog park, and plenty of picnic areas.
- Fernbank Museum of Natural History: A museum featuring exhibits on science, nature, and culture, with an IMAX theater and observatory.
- Zoo Atlanta: A 40-acre zoo home to over 1,000 animals, including giant pandas, gorillas, and elephants.
- Ponce City Market: A historic building turned into a shopping and dining complex, with a rooftop park offering stunning city views.
- Atlanta BeltLine: A former railway corridor turned into a multi-use trail and park system, connecting many of Atlanta’s neighborhoods.
- Fox Theatre: A historic theater hosting various performances, including concerts, Broadway shows, and comedy acts.
Helen, GA:
- Tubing down the Chattahoochee River: A fun and relaxing activity, where you can float down the river on an inner tube.
- Anna Ruby Falls: A beautiful twin waterfall located just outside Helen, offering hiking trails and picnic areas.
- Unicoi State Park: A 1,050-acre park featuring hiking and biking trails, a lake, and a zip line canopy tour.
- Helen Festhalle: A large event space hosting various festivals and events throughout the year, including Oktoberfest.
- Downtown Helen: A charming alpine-style town with shops, restaurants, and bakeries, offering a taste of Germany in the heart of Georgia.
- Kaya Vineyards: A winery and vineyard offering wine tastings and tours, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Smithgall Woods Conservation Area: A 5,500-acre nature preserve with hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway: A scenic driving route taking you through the beautiful mountains and countryside of North Georgia.
- Helen Arts and Heritage Center: A museum showcasing the art, history, and culture of Helen and the surrounding area.
- North Georgia Zoo: A small zoo featuring a variety of animals, including tigers, bears, and monkeys.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Atlanta and Helen, GA. Both destinations offer a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making them perfect for a fun and memorable vacation.