A Surprise Weekend Getaway to Atlanta

 

My amazing husband surprised me with a weekend away to Atlanta, Georgia! I had no idea where we were going until we were on our way to the airport. Unfortunately, our flight got cancelled, cutting our trip shorter than planned - but we still made the most of every moment! If you have less than 36 hours in Atlanta, you can still create some unforgettable memories.

Where We Stayed: 

We booked an Airbnb in East Point, conveniently located between the airport and downtown. A quick ride on the Red/Gold MARTA line got us wherever we needed to go. Thanks to our time living in New York City, we felt confident navigating public transportation. 

What We Did - Day One:

✦ Went for a stroll along the Atlanta Beltline - A former railway transformed into 33 miles of scenic walking and biking paths. Along the way, we passed a mix of shops and restaurants - perfect for a quick break. Needing a little afternoon refreshment, we stopped at New Realm Brewing Co. for a well-earned drink. 

✦ Buena Vida Tapas Bar - A Spanish-style tapas, restaurant designed to transport you to a charming coastal town, turned out to be the perfect lunch spot. With plenty of instagram-worthy spots (if that's your thing), it's as visually appealing as it is delicious. 

Highly recommend:

• Patatas Bravas (because anything with garlic aioli is an instant favorite)
• Panko-fried cauliflower
• Manchego meatballs. 

After indulging, we took a long walk to work it all off - no regrets!

✦ Ponce City Market - Just steps from the Atlanta Beltline, this vibrant marketplace offers a rooftop packed with entertainment. From mini golf and carnival games to delicious food and drinks, there's something for everyone. It's the perfect spot for a fun-filled evening!

What We Did - Day Two:

✦ Brunch at By George Restaurant & Bar - Feeling fancy and love brunch? Head to the restaurant and bar in the Candler Hotel. We told ourselves we should eat healthy until we read "tres leches brioche french toast" and "chicken and sweet potato waffle" - and, once again, no regrets!   

✦ Saw the Olympic rings in Centennial Olympic Park - The 1996 Summer Olympics were held in Atlanta, and the iconic rings mark the entrance to Centennial Olympic Park. After snapping a pic, we took a stroll in the park - because, let's be honest, after that brunch, we needed to walk it off! The park has plenty to explore, including fountains, towering skyscrapers, and even a Ferris wheel for a sky-high view of the city. 

✦ World of Coca - Cola Museum - Just north of Centennial Park, this interactive museum dives into the fascinating history of the Coca-Cola company. Whether you explore at your own pace or join a guided tour, it's a fun and engaging experience - even if you're not a big soda drinker!

Can't miss experiences:

• Test your senses with the "Scent Discovery" exhibit (I'm surprisingly very bad at this)
• Learn about Coca-Cola's earliest advertisements 
• Sample unlimited soda flavors from around the world 

✦Der Biergarten - After sampling as many sodas as we could handle, we made our way west of the Coca-Cola Museum to Der Biergarten, a lively German beer garden - because what better way to wash down all that sweetness than with a pretzel the size of your head and a beer stein that is so massive it makes you feel tiny? Throw in an energetic soccer match with passionate fans, and it was perfect way to wrap up our trip!

Even with a shortened trip, Atlanta did not disappoint! Whether you have a weekend or just 36 hours, this city is packed with things to see, do and eat! Until next time, ATL!