Atlanta, Hotlanta, the ATL, the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, home of the greatest hip-hop artists in the game, and the motherland of Coca-Cola. Atlanta is enriched in history, colorful, diverse, and full of culture. Which is why it is the perfect location for Imagine.
Imagine Atlanta is an EDM festival/aquatic fairytale and just like the city it’s based in, it’s full of adventure, thrills, and great music. This year Imagine Atlanta’s incredible lineup features headliners such as Above & Beyond, Tiesto, Deadmau5, and Datsik. While you’re in Atlanta, enjoy the sights, take your headphones, and we have curated the perfect soundtrack for you.
10. Buy a vinyl from Criminal Records
Photo by @thefreshonez
If Atlanta is the holy land of hip-hop, then Criminal Records is their Mecca. This 5,000 square foot space is a locally-owned independent record store located in the heart of Atlanta’s trendiest district – Little Five Points. Their inventory is chock full of everything from local underground hip-hop to obscure reissues of 1970’s Prague rock bands. Pay homage to local artists/Imagine performers Ying Yang Twins as you skim through the records.
9. Check out the always evolving art at the Krog Street Tunnel
There is not an inch of unpainted space at the famous Krog Street Tunnel. Whether you want tag your own art (don’t worry, the company that owns the tunnel allows it to be tagged), take a dope selfie, or admire all of the local artists and their socially charged messages. There are many sights to see. Funk duo The Floozies will help inspire you become the next Banksy.
Photo by @slimbojimboyo
8. Take a stroll through the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Photo by @okjulo
Incorporated in 1976 to “develop and maintain plant collections for the purposes of display, education, conservation, research and enjoyment.” The Atlanta Botanical Garden is one of the most picturesque scenes in the U.S. The garden features tree sculptures, cascading canopies, intricate water fountains, and even pink trees. You’ll feel as if you’ve fell down the rabbit hole into Wonderland. Pretty Lights Live’s “The Hidden Shades” will give you all the feels as you stroll through the gardens.
7. Go on a Decatur ghost tour
Photo by @listed_by_libby
Atlanta is embedded with history. Much of the land was used as battlefields during the Civil War and many of the historical sights that remain today are rumored to be haunted. If you’re an adventurous soul, take a trip down the village of Decatur’s Historic Town Square and visit old cemeteries, buildings, and streets. “Waiting Too Long” by Imagine Atlanta performers Hippie Sabotage is atmospheric enough to really get you ready for what’s to come.
6. Eat the best BBQ Atlanta has to offer
Photo by @foursquare
There’s no doubt that no one does barbecue better than The South. Not only is Atlanta stocked with BBQ in quantity of restaurants, but in a city that has such a competitive market, all of the BBQ spots are also top notch in quality. “Somehow Someday” by Daily Bread will you yearn for the BBQ that you know is in your near future.
5. Catch an Atlanta Falcons game
Photo by @emma.mcevoyyy
Imagine Atlanta conveniently falls during football season. While you’re in town catch a game at the world famous Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
4. Step up your Instagram game at the Georgia Aquarium
Photo by @marvilouspez
This 13 acre space is the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, featuring more than 100,000 animals, over 500 species and 2.4 million annual visitors. Notable specimens in the aquarium include whale sharks, beluga whales, bottlenose dolphins and manta rays. Feel like a scientist as you stroll through the aquarium and see the many exhibits.
3. Visit the birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Photo by @mizzv_daexception
The site at the King Center in Atlanta features many tributes to the late Civil Rights leader, including: the crypt of Dr. & Mrs. King, The Eternal Flame, which symbolizes Dr. King’s dream of “beloved community,” the Freedom Hall exhibition, and Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. King preached. Electronic anthem “Walking With Lions” by Codeko.
2. See a show at the historic Fox Theatre
Photo by @mizzielarkson
Opening in 1929, The Fox Theatre (also known as the Fabulous Fox) is a former movie palace, and performing arts venue located in Midtown Atlanta and is the centerpiece of the Fox Theatre Historic District. The theatre hosts a variety of cultural and artistic events including the Atlanta Ballet, a summer film series, performances by national touring Broadway Shows, and featured performances from and was one of the last concerts from Diana Ross, BB King, and the venue was featured one of the last live performances of Soundgarden with the late frontman Chris Cornell. “Get on Up” by funky hip-hop/jazz group Big Gigantic will make you reminisce of the Fox Theatre’s hay day.
1. Shoot a photo of ATL’s skyline from Freedom Parkway
Photo by @z.mart
Said to be one of the best skyline views in the city, Freedom Parkway also offers wonderful walking, jogging, and biking trail through some of the cities in-town neighborhoods and pathways to many local attractions. Filled with greenery, spectacular views, and deep history, Leah Culver’s “Powerlines” will guide you as you explore this modern city-park landscape.
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