As a marine biology major in college, the Georgia Aquarium is a place near and dear to Laura's heart. Laura and her dad dived with the whale sharks and manta rays in 2019 for her birthday (before she got to see them in the wild). A great place for children and adults alike, there are plenty of exhibits to learn about different marine mammals, oceanic research, and see these amazing creatures up close and personal.
Because of its age and location, the cemetery directly reflects the history and changing culture of the City of Atlanta and the significant events it has seen. Names of Atlanta streets, buildings, parks, subdivisions, and more can be found within the cemetery gates. Notable burials include Bobby Jones, Margaret Mitchel, and Kenny Rogers.
Established in 1968 by Coretta Scott King, The King Center is the official, living memorial dedicated to the advancement of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., leader of America’s greatest nonviolent movement for justice, equality and peace.
Only about 30 minutes from Atlanta, Stone Mountain is one of three large granite outcroppings in the Atlanta Area, with miles of running and hiking trails. We met her for our second date with Fenway and continue to spend most of our Sunday mornings on a 5 mile run on the Cherokee Trail ( followed by a pup cup and coffee at Starbucks).
Home of the Dogwood Festival!. Piedmont Park was redesigned by the sons of Fredrick Law Olmsted, who designed Central Park in New York City. A large green space close to midtown, Piedmont Park host numerous festivals in the spring, a Saturday morning farmer's market, a dog park, hot air balloon festivals, and the finish of the Peachtree Road Race on the 4th of July. It provides a wonderful space for walking, running, or playing on the oval or large fields.
Another stop along the beltline to stop by and grab some ice cream at Jennie's or local craft beer.
A sidewalk that goes through Atlanta neighborhoods. Plenty of restaurants, shopping, artwork to check out on your way.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a 2,965 acre National Battlefield that preserves a Civil War battleground of the Atlanta Campaign. Opposing forces maneuvered and fought here from June 19, 1864 until July 2, 1864. Although most famous as a Civil War battlefield, Kennesaw Mountain has a much richer story. Tons of hiking trails will take you to one of the highest points in Atlanta.
A great hike to the top of the falls or the Len Foote Inn to the start of the Appalachian Trail. Laura insisted on hiking to the Len Foote Inn on a weekend off in January. We ended up hiking 8 miles in the cold rain, but he kept a smile on his face!