Atlanta

Atlanta is the capital of the American South — a sprawling city of over 500,000 (metropolitan area 6 million) that is home to Coca-Cola, CNN, the world's busiest airport, a thriving film and television production industry, and the most significant heritage sites of the American Civil Rights Movement. It is a city of contradictions and constant reinvention. The National Center for Civil Rights (formerly the Center for Civil and Human Rights) and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park — including his birth home, the church where he preached (Ebenezer Baptist Church) and his tomb — are essential and moving historical destinations. The World of Coca-Cola is a slick but genuinely interesting attraction. The Georgia Aquarium, one of the world's largest, and the Children's Museum of Atlanta are excellent for families. The BeltLine — a network of cycling and walking trails converting former railway corridors into a loop around the city — has transformed Atlanta's neighbourhoods and become its greatest urban planning success. Ponce City Market (a converted Sears building) and Krog Street Market are the best food halls. The Inman Park, Decatur, Little Five Points and Cabbagetown neighbourhoods are the most characterful. The Atlanta food scene has exploded — Bacchanalia, Staplehouse and dozens of excellent restaurants now give the city genuine culinary credibility. Stone Mountain Park (30 minutes) is a popular day excursion.