Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Atlanta, DeKalb County, United States of America

Date: 13/08/2024

Captivating Introduction

Welcome to Atlanta, a city where every street echoes with the footsteps of history, every bite of food tells a story, and every festival beats with the heart of Southern culture. Envision a place where you can trace the steps of civil rights leaders, savor the aromatic flavors of soul food, and immerse yourself in vibrant, eclectic festivals—all in a single day. Atlanta, often referred to as ATL, is a captivating blend of history, modernity, and culture that promises an unforgettable journey.

Start your adventure in a region once inhabited by the Creek and Cherokee tribes. These early settlers left an indelible mark on the area, which was later transformed by the Georgia Land Lottery Act of 1821, leading to the creation of DeKalb County (Wikipedia). The settlement, initially known as Terminus, evolved through various transformations, becoming the bustling metropolis of Atlanta we know today (Georgia Archives).

Atlanta’s pivotal role in the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement has cemented its place in American history. From the Battle of Atlanta to the influential leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the city’s past is a testament to its resilience and progress (Battlefields, Britannica).

Today, Atlanta and DeKalb County are thriving centers of culture, education, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the historic Oakland Cemetery, marveling at the exhibits in the Atlanta History Center, or hiking the trails of Stone Mountain, there’s something here for everyone (Discover Atlanta). So, let’s dive into this comprehensive guide to visiting Atlanta and DeKalb County, where every corner has a story, and every experience is a new adventure.

Table of Contents

Historical Background

Early Native American Presence

The area now known as Atlanta and DeKalb County was originally inhabited by Creek and Cherokee Native American tribes. The Creek War, which began in 1813, saw the Creeks, allied with the British, attack Fort Mims in Alabama. In response, the United States established a series of forts along the Ocmulgee and Chattahoochee Rivers, including Fort Daniel and Fort Gilmer. Fort Gilmer, located near the Creek village of Standing Peachtree, was later renamed Fort Peachtree (Wikipedia).

Systematic Removal and Land Lottery

From 1802 to 1825, the systematic removal of Native Americans from northern Georgia culminated in the Creek ceding the area that is now metro Atlanta in 1821. The Georgia Land Lottery Act of 1821 created five new counties, including DeKalb County in 1822, with Decatur as its county seat (Wikipedia). The land lottery distributed land to settlers, including Archibald Holland, who received a grant for 202.5 acres near present-day Coca-Cola headquarters (Georgia Archives).

Establishment of Terminus and Marthasville

The settlement that would become Atlanta was initially known as Terminus, designated as the southern end of the Western & Atlantic Railroad in 1837. The name was later changed to Marthasville in 1843, and finally to Atlanta in 1847, a name invented by railroad superintendent J. Edgar Thomson (Georgia Archives).

Civil War and Reconstruction

Atlanta played a significant role during the Civil War, serving as a major railroad hub and supply depot for the Confederacy. The Battle of Atlanta on July 22, 1864, was a pivotal engagement in the Union’s Atlanta Campaign. Union Major Generals William Tecumseh Sherman and James B. McPherson successfully defended against a Confederate offensive led by Lieut. Gen. John Bell Hood. Despite heavy casualties, the Union forces eventually captured Atlanta on September 1, 1864, leading to Sherman’s infamous March to the Sea (Battlefields, Britannica).

Post-War Growth and Development

Following the Civil War, Atlanta underwent significant reconstruction and growth. In December 1853, the Georgia legislature created Fulton County, with Atlanta as the county seat. By 1868, Atlanta had become the capital of Georgia. The city’s strategic location as a transportation hub facilitated its rapid growth, with new railroads, highways, and eventually air transportation contributing to its development (Georgia Archives).

20th Century Expansion

The 20th century saw Atlanta continue to expand and modernize. In 1928, the city annexed residential areas in western DeKalb County, further extending its boundaries. The Great Depression and World War II brought economic challenges, but the post-war era saw a resurgence in growth and development. The construction of new infrastructure, including highways and the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, positioned Atlanta as a major transportation and economic hub (Wikipedia).

Civil Rights Movement

Atlanta played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. The city was home to several key figures, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose birth home and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park are significant landmarks today (Discover Atlanta). The movement’s impact on the city is commemorated through various museums and historical sites, highlighting Atlanta’s role in the struggle for racial equality.

Modern Era and Gentrification

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Atlanta experienced significant gentrification, revitalizing many of its intown neighborhoods. The 1996 Summer Olympics brought international attention to the city, leading to the construction of new facilities and infrastructure. By the late 1990s, Atlanta’s airport had become the busiest in the world, further cementing the city’s status as a global transportation hub (Wikipedia).

Key Historical Sites and Attractions

  • Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park: Located at 450 Auburn Avenue, this park includes Dr. King’s birth home, church, and final resting place (Discover Atlanta).
  • Oakland Cemetery: Established in 1850, this historic cemetery is the final resting place of many notable Atlantans, including Margaret Mitchell and Maynard Jackson (Discover Atlanta).
  • Atlanta History Center: Located at 130 West Paces Ferry Road, this center offers extensive exhibits on Atlanta’s history, including the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement (Discover Atlanta).
  • Centennial Olympic Park: Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, this park is a central gathering place in downtown Atlanta and features the iconic Fountain of Rings (Explore Georgia).
  • The Krog Street Tunnel: A graffiti-covered art haven that’s a favorite among locals.

Discover the Charm of DeKalb County, Atlanta

A Bold Beginning

Welcome to DeKalb County, where history meets diversity, and every corner tells a story! Did you know that Clarkston, a city within DeKalb, is often dubbed the most diverse square mile in America? Let’s dive into what makes DeKalb County a gem in the heart of Georgia.

Historical Significance

DeKalb County, born in 1822 and named after Revolutionary War hero Baron Johann de Kalb, is a mosaic of American history. Decatur, the county seat, was a bustling trading post as early as 1823, nestled at the crossroads of two ancient Native American trails (DeKalb History Center).

The Civil War left its mark here, too. In July 1864, the Battle of Atlanta raged around the courthouse and what is now DeKalb Avenue. This battle was pivotal for the Union’s conquest of Atlanta, a crucial Confederate transport hub (DeKalb History Center).

Cultural Kaleidoscope

DeKalb County radiates cultural diversity. Clarkston exemplifies this with its vibrant mix of ethnic restaurants, festivals, and community events. It’s a melting pot of flavors and traditions (Discover DeKalb).

The Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University boasts an impressive collection of ancient art, while the Fernbank Museum of Natural History captivates with its natural history exhibits (Discover Atlanta). And don’t miss the DeKalb Farmers Market, a foodie paradise offering a global array of flavors (Discover DeKalb).

Economic Powerhouse

Strategically located along major interstates and near Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, DeKalb County is a magnet for businesses. Its economy thrives on healthcare, education, and manufacturing, with giants like Emory University and the CDC enhancing its profile (DeKalb History Center).

Natural Wonders

Nature enthusiasts, rejoice! DeKalb County is home to Stone Mountain, Georgia’s top attraction. This colossal granite monadnock has been a ceremonial site for Native Americans for centuries (Arabia Alliance). Despite its controversial Confederate carving, the mountain remains a natural marvel.

Explore Arabia Mountain and Panola Mountain, where hiking and biking trails reveal the region’s unique flora and fauna (Arabia Alliance).

Education Excellence

DeKalb is a hub of academic excellence. Home to Emory University, Georgia State University’s Perimeter College, and Agnes Scott College, the county fosters learning and innovation. Emory’s Michael C. Carlos Museum and the CDC Museum offer enriching educational experiences (DeKalb History Center).

Recreational Haven

DeKalb County is an adventure playground. Stone Mountain Park offers hiking, a scenic railroad, and seasonal festivals. The park’s laser light show and the Skyride to the summit are must-sees (Discover DeKalb).

History buffs will love the DeKalb History Center’s walking tours, while art enthusiasts can indulge at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center (DeKalb History Center).

Transportation Hub

Getting around is a breeze with MARTA, Atlanta’s rapid transit system, providing easy access to downtown and beyond (Discover Atlanta). Peachtree DeKalb Airport (PDK), Georgia’s second-largest airport, caters to general aviation and corporate flights.

With major interstates and proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, DeKalb County is perfect for both businesses and residents seeking connectivity (Discover Atlanta).

Conclusion: Your Adventure Awaits

DeKalb County is a tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its diverse landscape, rich history, and vibrant community make it a must-visit destination. Ready to explore? Download Audiala, the tour guide app, to unlock the secrets and stories of this remarkable county. Your adventure in DeKalb County starts now!

Visitor Tips and Must-See Attractions in Atlanta, DeKalb County

Welcome to Atlanta: A City of Stories and Surprises

Ready to dive into the heart of the South where history meets hipster vibes? Atlanta isn’t just a city—it’s an experience. From its rich Civil Rights history to its buzzing arts scene, there’s something here for everyone. So, buckle up and let’s explore Hotlanta, where every corner has a story to tell.

Key Attractions: The Must-See Marvels

Atlanta History Center

Step into a time machine at the Atlanta History Center.

Visitor Tips

  • Transportation: Navigating Atlanta: Think of MARTA as your trusty old friend—reliable but occasionally quirky. The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a major hub for domestic and international flights (Discover Atlanta).
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal times to visit Atlanta, with mild weather and numerous outdoor events and festivals. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is generally mild with occasional cold snaps (Explore Georgia). Spring brings the blooming dogwoods and the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, while fall is all about the pumpkin patches and football games. Winter? Mild and perfect for exploring without the summer crowds!
  • Local Cuisine: Atlanta offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Southern cuisine to international flavors. Don’t miss trying local favorites like fried chicken, peach cobbler, and grits (Discover Atlanta).

Cultural Context and Etiquette

In Atlanta, a friendly ‘Hey y’all!’ goes a long way. And remember, when in doubt, always hold the door open—Southern hospitality is no joke!

Myth Busting and Surprises

Myth Buster: Atlanta is not just about peaches! Did you know it’s also home to the largest drive-in restaurant in the world?

Call to Action

Atlanta and DeKalb County are more than just destinations; they are experiences that weave together the threads of history, culture, and innovation. From the early days of Native American settlements to the bustling modern metropolis, Atlanta’s story is one of transformation and resilience. The city’s rich historical tapestry is complemented by its role as a cultural and economic powerhouse, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a blend of the old and new.

DeKalb County, with its diverse communities and natural wonders like Stone Mountain, offers a microcosm of the broader Atlanta experience. Whether you’re savoring the global flavors at the DeKalb Farmers Market or exploring the educational treasures of Emory University, DeKalb County is a testament to the region’s diversity and dynamism (Discover DeKalb).

As you explore, remember that Atlanta is not just a place—it’s a feeling, a rhythm, a story waiting to be discovered. Download Audiala, your expert guide to the city’s hidden gems and fascinating tales. With Audiala, you’ll uncover the secrets and stories that make Atlanta and DeKalb County truly unique. Your adventure awaits—immerse yourself in the heart of the South and let the journey begin.

References

  • History of Atlanta. Wikipedia. Retrieved from Wikipedia
  • Atlanta Area Research Resources Handout. Georgia Archives. Retrieved from Georgia Archives
  • Battle of Atlanta. Battlefields. Retrieved from Battlefields
  • Battle of Atlanta. Britannica. Retrieved from Britannica
  • Discover Atlanta. Discover Atlanta. Retrieved from Discover Atlanta
  • Guide to Atlanta. Explore Georgia. Retrieved from Explore Georgia
  • DeKalb County History. DeKalb History Center. Retrieved from DeKalb History Center
  • 10 Must-Dos in DeKalb County. Discover DeKalb. Retrieved from Discover DeKalb
  • Uncovering Native American History in DeKalb County. Arabia Alliance. Retrieved from Arabia Alliance

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Atlanta

1105 West Peachtree
1105 West Peachtree
1180 Peachtree
1180 Peachtree
999 Peachtree
999 Peachtree
Academy Of Medicine
Academy Of Medicine
|
  All Saints' Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
| All Saints' Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
Alliance Theatre
Alliance Theatre
Americasmart
Americasmart
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Antico Pizza
Antico Pizza
Antioch Baptist Church North
Antioch Baptist Church North
Apex Museum
Apex Museum
Atlanta Biltmore Hotel And Biltmore Apartments
Atlanta Biltmore Hotel And Biltmore Apartments
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Atlanta City Hall
Atlanta City Hall
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum
Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum
Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium
Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium
Atlanta History Center
Atlanta History Center
Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Atlanta Silverbacks Park
Atlanta Silverbacks Park
Atlanta Symphony Hall
Atlanta Symphony Hall
Atlanta Union Station
Atlanta Union Station
B. Mifflin Hood Brick Company Building
B. Mifflin Hood Brick Company Building
Bank Of America Plaza
Bank Of America Plaza
Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus
Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus
Bass Furniture Building
Bass Furniture Building
Besharat Museum Gallery
Besharat Museum Gallery
Big Bethel Ame Church
Big Bethel Ame Church
Bobby Dodd Stadium
Bobby Dodd Stadium
Brookwood Hills
Brookwood Hills
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
Carnegie Building
Carnegie Building
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Cathedral Of Christ The King
Cathedral Of Christ The King
Center For Puppetry Arts
Center For Puppetry Arts
Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University
Cnn Center
Cnn Center
College Football Hall Of Fame
College Football Hall Of Fame
Consulate-General Of Japan, Atlanta
Consulate-General Of Japan, Atlanta
Crum & Forster Building
Crum & Forster Building
Delta Flight Museum
Delta Flight Museum
Donna And Marvin Schwartz Center For Performing Arts
Donna And Marvin Schwartz Center For Performing Arts
Dramatech
Dramatech
Edward C. Peters House
Edward C. Peters House
Elbert P. Tuttle United States Court Of Appeals Building
Elbert P. Tuttle United States Court Of Appeals Building
Emory University
Emory University
Emory University Hospital Midtown
Emory University Hospital Midtown
Fairlie-Poplar
Fairlie-Poplar
Federal Reserve Bank Of Atlanta
Federal Reserve Bank Of Atlanta
Fernbank Forest
Fernbank Forest
Ferst Center For The Arts
Ferst Center For The Arts
Fire Station No. 11
Fire Station No. 11
First Church Of Christ, Scientist
First Church Of Christ, Scientist
First Congregational Church
First Congregational Church
First Presbyterian Church Of Atlanta
First Presbyterian Church Of Atlanta
Flatiron Building
Flatiron Building
Food Processing Technology Building
Food Processing Technology Building
Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
Fox Theatre
Fox Theatre
French Consulate General, Atlanta
French Consulate General, Atlanta
Garden Hills
Garden Hills
Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Dome
Georgia Dome
|
  Georgia Governor'S Mansion
| Georgia Governor'S Mansion
Georgia Institute Of Technology College Of Architecture
Georgia Institute Of Technology College Of Architecture
Georgia Institute Of Technology Historic District
Georgia Institute Of Technology Historic District
Georgia Mental Health Institute
Georgia Mental Health Institute
Georgia State Capitol
Georgia State Capitol
Georgia State University
Georgia State University
Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center
Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center
Georgia World Congress Center
Georgia World Congress Center
Glenn Building
Glenn Building
Glg Grand
Glg Grand
Goat Farm Arts Center
Goat Farm Arts Center
Grace United Methodist Church (Atlanta)
Grace United Methodist Church (Atlanta)
Grady Memorial Hospital
Grady Memorial Hospital
Grant Park
Grant Park
Gravity Research Foundation Monument
Gravity Research Foundation Monument
Healey Building
Healey Building
Herndon Home
Herndon Home
High Museum Of Art
High Museum Of Art
Historic Fourth Ward Park
Historic Fourth Ward Park
Homage To King
Homage To King
Hope Moving Forward
Hope Moving Forward
Hotel Ansley
Hotel Ansley
Hotel Aragon
Hotel Aragon
Hotel Indigo Atlanta Midtown
Hotel Indigo Atlanta Midtown
Hurt Park
Hurt Park
Hyatt Regency Atlanta
Hyatt Regency Atlanta
|
  Imagine It! The Children'S Museum Of Atlanta
| Imagine It! The Children'S Museum Of Atlanta
J. Mack Robinson College Of Business Administration Building
J. Mack Robinson College Of Business Administration Building
Jimmy Carter Library And Museum
Jimmy Carter Library And Museum
King Center For Nonviolent Social Change
King Center For Nonviolent Social Change
King Plow Arts Center
King Plow Arts Center
Krog Street Tunnel
Krog Street Tunnel
Lanier University
Lanier University
|
  Loew'S Grand Theatre
| Loew'S Grand Theatre
Majestic Hotel
Majestic Hotel
Margaret Mitchell House & Museum
Margaret Mitchell House & Museum
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
M.C. Kiser Company Building
M.C. Kiser Company Building
Mccamish Pavilion
Mccamish Pavilion
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Michael C. Carlos Museum
Michael C. Carlos Museum
Millennium Gate
Millennium Gate
Morningside Nature Preserve
Morningside Nature Preserve
Murder Kroger
Murder Kroger
Museum Of Contemporary Art Of Georgia
Museum Of Contemporary Art Of Georgia
Museum Of Design Atlanta
Museum Of Design Atlanta
National Center For Civil And Human Rights
National Center For Civil And Human Rights
Oakland Cemetery
Oakland Cemetery
Olympia Building
Olympia Building
Omega Chapter Of The Chi Phi Fraternity
Omega Chapter Of The Chi Phi Fraternity
Omni Coliseum
Omni Coliseum
Peachtree Station
Peachtree Station
Pemberton Place
Pemberton Place
Phipps Plaza
Phipps Plaza
Plaza Theatre
Plaza Theatre
Ponce City Market
Ponce City Market
Prince Hall
Prince Hall
Promenade Ii
Promenade Ii
Regal Tara Cinemas
Regal Tara Cinemas
Regions Plaza
Regions Plaza
Rhodes Hall
Rhodes Hall
Rialto Center For The Arts
Rialto Center For The Arts
Robert C. Williams Paper Museum
Robert C. Williams Paper Museum
Roxy Theatre
Roxy Theatre
Rufus M. Rose House
Rufus M. Rose House
Russ Chandler Stadium
Russ Chandler Stadium
|
  Saint Joseph'S Hospital
| Saint Joseph'S Hospital
Saint Philip Ame Church
Saint Philip Ame Church
Shrine Of The Immaculate Conception
Shrine Of The Immaculate Conception
Six Flags Over Georgia
Six Flags Over Georgia
Spelman College
Spelman College
|
  St. Luke'S Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
| St. Luke'S Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
St. Mark Methodist Church (Atlanta, Georgia)
St. Mark Methodist Church (Atlanta, Georgia)
Statue Of Eugene Talmadge
Statue Of Eugene Talmadge
Statue Of Jimmy Carter
Statue Of Jimmy Carter
Statue Of Martin Luther King Jr.
Statue Of Martin Luther King Jr.
Swan House
Swan House
Sweet Auburn
Sweet Auburn
Taipei Economic And Cultural Office In Atlanta
Taipei Economic And Cultural Office In Atlanta
Terminal Station
Terminal Station
The Masquerade
The Masquerade
The Tabernacle
The Tabernacle
The Temple
The Temple
Trap Music Museum
Trap Music Museum
Turner Field
Turner Field
United States Penitentiary, Atlanta
United States Penitentiary, Atlanta
Utoy Cemetery
Utoy Cemetery
Variety Playhouse
Variety Playhouse
W. D. Grant Building
W. D. Grant Building
Washington Hall
Washington Hall
Westview Cemetery
Westview Cemetery
William Breman Jewish Heritage & Holocaust Museum
William Breman Jewish Heritage & Holocaust Museum
William-Oliver Building
William-Oliver Building
Winecoff Hotel
Winecoff Hotel
Woodlands Garden
Woodlands Garden
Woodruff Arts Center
Woodruff Arts Center
World Of Coca-Cola
World Of Coca-Cola