Culture and Neighborhoods
Morning
The Atlanta Botanical Garden, the most beautiful spot in Atlanta, is 30 acres of outdoor display gardens, the Children's Garden & Storza Woods, along with an incredible permanent display of tropical orchids in the Fuqua Orchid Center & Conservatory and home to rare and endangered tropical & desert plants.
The High Museum of Art hosts European and American paintings, special exhibitions, African, decorative, folk and 20th century art and photography. Past exhibitions have included works by Van Gogh, Michelangelo, Picasso, Degas and Elton John's private photography collection.
If you decide to visit the High, you will have the once in a lifetime experience of seeing two grand exhibitions: "The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army" and Louvre Atlanta. "The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army," an exhibition inspired by one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, features 100 works, including 15 full terracotta figures. With rarely seen and recently discovered objects from his famed tomb complex, the exhibition will provide insight into the legacy of China's First Emperor, Qin Shihuangdi. During your stay, Louvre Atlanta will feature "The Louvre of Today and Tomorrow" which highlights the present-day Louvre and its new relations with society and the world.
Lunch
Located on the main floor of a renovated warehouse, PARISH RESTAURANT serves a variety of New Orleans inspired dishes with modern twists, alongside a classic fully stocked raw bar, seven nights a week. Saturdays and Sundays boast an impressive New Orleans inspired brunch with live jazz piano music floating over diners from an antique upright. Also, PARISH Market is located on the lower level and offers a casual patio for relaxing, a communal table for a quick bite.
Afternoon
The neighborhood of Virginia-Highland is one of Atlanta's most popular areas for shopping, dining and nightlife. Noted for its renovations of 1920s homes, the area features tree-lined avenues dotted with unique ethnic and chef-owned restaurants, antique shops, art galleries, spas and salons, boutiques and a selection of bars and pubs.
Dinner
For a great meal, enjoy the Highlands' own Murphy's for a combination of upscale comfort food, unpretentious service, a cozy, high-energy setting and excellent value.
Evening
After dinner, stay in the Highlands to experience vibrant Atlanta nightlife. Check out the Blues scene at Blind Willie's or try the luck of the Irish at Limerick Junction Irish Pub. You can also relax at the outdoor patios of English-style pub Hand-In-Hand or next door at Neighbor's Pub.
For a funky, eclectic scene, venture to the next Atlanta neighborhood of Little Five Points, or L5P, as the locals call it. While in L5P, see what great music is playing at the Variety Playhouse or stop in for a souvenir at famed store, Junkman's Daughter.
If you're in the mood for theatrical entertainment, be ready to laugh at Dad's Garage Theatre Company in nearby Inman Park or travel the short distance to the Horizon Theatre Company to see what exciting show is playing this theatre season.