Atlanta Family Vacations

When I moved to Atlanta in the mid-90s, I was leaving behind the beaches of Florida and the culture and history of Boston; I didn't think Atlanta would be a place I would stay for long. But something about its Southern hospitality, long and gorgeous springs and falls, and its vibrant, youthful city located near mountains and parks for exploring grew on me like kudzu on a pine tree and I stayed longer than I expected, and miss it even more than I ever imagined I would.

Atlanta's place in American history is an important chapter. As a central hub for railroads moving through the southeast, Atlanta was a stronghold during the Civil War. When Sherman marched to the Sea, burning Atlanta along the way, the South was crippled and the war soon ended. Most famously, Atlanta's Civil War days are portrayed in the classic "Gone With the Wind." Its author, Margaret Mitchell, grew up in Atlanta, and today her home is a museum promoting literary events.

As a modern city, Atlanta is considered the "Capital of the New South." Businesses flocked to the city during the late 80s and early 90s to capitalize on its low costs, and with it families followed. The Summer Olympics truly put Atlanta on the map in 1996, and since the city has continued to grow -- and sprawl -- into an internationally friendly city filled with Southern charm. The growth also brought world-class museums, shops, attractions and restaurants, making Atlanta a great family vacation for both a bit of the old and new south.