Built by the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games (ACOG) as part of the infrastructure improvements for the Centennial 1996 Summer Olympics, this park plays host to millions of visitors a year as well as several events, including a summer popular music concert series (Wednesday WindDown) and an annual Independence Day concert and fireworks display. It covers 21 acres (85,000 sq m) and can be divided into The Great Lawn, Centennial Plaza, and the Visitor Center.

A key feature is the interactive Fountain of Rings which features computer-controlled lights and 251 jets of water synchronized with music played from speakers. An important formal architectural landmark that is also a fun and playful space, the computer-controlled fountain concept has since been replicated in other urban designs such as Toronto's Dundas Square and in commercial uses such as the Bellagio Fountains at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Apart from the light towers reminiscent of classical Greek marker columns, the fountain area is surrounded by flags representing the host countries of each Summer Olympics preceding the 1996 games. Scattered throughout are also several pieces of sculpture, including a statue of Pierre de Coubertin, father of the modern Olympic movement.

The park has shows at the fountain four times daily (12:30/3:30/6:30/9pm). In 2013, SkyView Atlanta, a 200-foot (61-m) Ferris wheel with 42 air-conditioned cars and great views of the park and surroundings, debuted across the street.

Why You Should Visit:
Relaxing environment, wide range of outdoor activities, clean restrooms, nice atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy picnics, play frisbee or other sports, or simply relax in the sun.
City views from the main lawn and nice shade by the waterfalls and rocks.
The fountains are great fun for kids and a favorite backdrop for photographers.

Tip:
If adventurous wear your swimming suit and cool off in the fountains. Your visit should otherwise start at the Visitor Information Center (pick up a walking tour map, or get the online version for your phone).

Centennial Plaza was created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the modern Olympics. The plaza showcases 23 national flags that symbolize the past Olympic host cities. At its heart stands the official flag of the Olympic Games; however, the most significant attraction are the striking 'Hermes Towers' consisting of eight towers that rise to 25 feet high. Named after the Greek god Hermes, they each represent an Olympic sport and are adorned with images related to that sport. The towers are made of stainless steel and are illuminated at night, providing a spectacular sight for visitors to the plaza.

The Fountain of Rings is the primary attraction of Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta, and is renowned worldwide. Originally designed for the Centennial Summer Olympics in 1996, it comprises computer-controlled lights and jets of water synchronized with music played from speakers in light towers surrounding the fountain. The fountain forms a splash pad for children to play in, as well as for concertgoers and joggers to cool off on hot Atlanta summer days.

The waterplay area comprises 251 jets that shoot water 12 to 35 feet (4 to 10 m) in the air, creating a stunning water sculpture that serves as the front yard of the nearby museum. The fountain area is surrounded by flags of previous host countries of the Summer Olympics, and eight 65-foot-tall light towers reminiscent of classical Greek marker columns. Additionally, there are various sculptures scattered throughout the park, including a statue of Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the modern Olympic movement, and a small amphitheater located at the southern end.

The fountain is an essential formal architectural landmark that is also a fun and playful space. The concept of a computer-controlled fountain has since been replicated in other urban designs such as Dundas Square in Toronto and in commercial uses such as the Bellagio Fountains at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

There are fountain shows held at Centennial Olympic Park all 365 days of the year, four times daily, playing at 12:30PM, 3:30PM, 6:30 PM, and 9:30PM.

Why You Should Visit:
Whether you want to take a break from sightseeing or enjoy some family-friendly entertainment, the Fountain of Rings is a must-see attraction in Atlanta.

The Visitor Center in Atlanta's Centennial Olympic Park provides a wealth of information about the park's history, as well as the city's role in the 1996 Summer Olympic Games. The exhibit includes interactive displays and artifacts from the games, including the famous torch used to light the Olympic flame. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour of the park and learn about its architecture, landscaping, and public art installations. The Visitor Center is staffed with knowledgeable guides who are happy to answer questions and provide recommendations for other attractions in the area.

Since it bills itself as the largest in the world, the Georgia Aquarium should definitely be on most visitors' lists of things to do while in Atlanta. It's a well designed aquarium with exhibits broken down by habitat and the only water tank big enough to accommodate several whale sharks, which is reason alone to buy tickets, especially if you've never seen them live.

Of course, while the whale sharks are the star attraction, the Aquarium has so much more! Their many smaller tanks feature an array of interesting species with everything from freshwater fish to penguins, otters, and beluga whales. Sea lion and dolphin shows are a part of the admission fee, but just watching the several species of jellyfish in their individual tanks can keep you mesmerized for hours as they move gracefully up and down with their flowing hairlike tentacles.

Everything is beautifully presented with large walls of thick glass so visitors can feel close to the sea life, separated by mere inches from the most amazing coral and fish, both large and small. In some places aquarium windows glitter with fish moving overhead, and at the entrance there is even a watery wall of schooling fish reflecting changing shades of blue light.

Why You Should Visit:
To experience all the world's major marine ecosystems in a single place – mostly via spectacular large displays and sometimes pop-up viewing stations/crawl spaces. From the Arctic waters where you'll see beluga whales and penguins to tropical seas where there is everything from seahorses to stingrays and sharks.

Tip:
Buy your tickets online as it is a better deal – some discounts there cannot be purchased in person.
Consider paying a little extra to do the backstage tour – well worth the money and great for all ages.

Prepare to have your taste buds tickled and your senses stimulated at this classic Atlanta tourist destination that is a must-visit for anyone looking to understand the global impact of Coca-Cola on people's lives. For a very reasonable admission fee, you can enjoy a leisurely 2-hour exploration of the museum's exhibits spread over two floors. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted with a free can of Coke and an introduction to the historical artifacts of the company, as well as a video – essentially a long Coca-Cola ad – which acts as a nice segway into the next portion – the entrance into the main hall.

On the first floor, you'll get to explore "The Vault" (rumored to hold the physical copy of the top-secret Coca-Cola recipe), the "Milestones of Refreshment" walk-through exhibit, where you'll learn about the company's history, see the manufacturing process at "Bottle Works," and even take a selfie with the ever-jovial Polar Bear mascot. On the second floor, you'll be treated with a 4D theater that offers a wild roller-coaster-like sensation as the seats move in sync with the short film, plus various galleries, massive gift shop, and of course the most exciting portion: the Tasting Room!

In the Tasting Room, you can sample over 100 different flavors of drinks from all over the world, produced under Coca-Cola license, as well as some drink specials from the bar. A very cool way to end the tour!

Why You Should Visit:
Tons of Coca-Cola paraphernalia and memorabilia, and you are given a virtually unlimited supply of Coca-Cola beverages from around the world to taste (naturally, you won't find any Pepsi drinks or merchandise here!).

Tip:
Try to book online or buy the City Pass to jump at least one or two queues for entrance.

The Paralympic Games Monument stands as a testament to the profound journey and impact of the Paralympic movement, which originated from a small yet transformative event in 1948 in England. This event was initially organized for World War II veterans with spinal cord injuries who sought an avenue for competition. By 1952, the scope of these games expanded when the Netherlands introduced its own competitors, setting a precedent for broader international participation. The first official Paralympic Games then took place in Rome in 1960, marking a pivotal moment in the recognition and inclusion of athletes with disabilities on a global sporting stage.

Fast forward to 1996, the Paralympiad X held in Atlanta was ambitiously dubbed as aiming to be the best Paralympic Games in history. The monument's pillars capture the essence and achievements of these games, highlighting the unprecedented success measured by various metrics. A record-setting 268 world records were broken during the games, underscoring the high level of competition and excellence among the athletes. Moreover, the participation of over 100 nations and an impressive attendance of nearly 400,000 people illustrated the growing importance and appeal of the Paralympic Games on the world stage.

One of the most significant milestones reached during the 1996 Games was the unprecedented level of worldwide corporate sponsorship, a testament to the increasing visibility and viability of the Paralympic movement. This support not only enhanced the games' operational success but also bolstered public engagement and awareness regarding the capabilities and achievements of people with disabilities. The pillars at the monument are inscribed with these facts, inviting visitors to reflect on the strides made towards inclusivity and recognition of athletes with disabilities.

The Quilt of Nations in Atlanta, Georgia, serves as a vibrant tapestry of international unity and diversity, commemorating the unparalleled participation of 197 countries in the 1996 Olympic Games. This monumental event marked the highest number of competing nations in the history of the Olympics, surpassing the number of officially recognized sovereign states. The quilt, with its colorful and intricate designs, symbolizes the global spirit of the games and celebrates the variety of cultures that came together in Atlanta, reflecting not only the competition but also the camaraderie that defines the Olympic ethos.

The inclusion of more teams than the officially recognized countries stems from the Olympic tradition of recognizing "athletic geography," a concept articulated by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympics. This notion acknowledges that the realm of sports can extend beyond the strict definitions of political geography, allowing regions and groups to participate even if they are not independent nations. Throughout much of the 20th century, this meant that territories and regions could field teams in the Olympics, creating a more inclusive atmosphere at the games.

However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) revised these rules in 1996, stipulating that only internationally recognized states could participate. This change, while streamlining the participation criteria, has not been without controversy. Notably, the IOC recognizes some entities, such as Palestine, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, that are not universally acknowledged as sovereign states by other international bodies like the United Nations. This discrepancy highlights ongoing debates within international sports about representation and inclusivity. For instance, Native American tribes such as the Iroquois, who have a rich heritage of lacrosse-a sport they originated-are precluded from competing under their own flag, raising questions about the fairness and scope of Olympic representation.

Looking forward, there are efforts underway to address these complex issues by the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The Quilt of Nations not only stands as a reminder of the broad inclusivity of the 1996 games but also as a symbol of the ongoing dialogue about how best to balance international sports, political realities, and cultural recognition.

The Quilt of Olympic Spirit stands as a poignant tribute to the 10,000 athletes who graced the city during the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games. This unique and artistic installation not only celebrates the international gathering of athletes but also immortalizes their achievements in a distinctive manner. Adorned with signature leaf stones and monuments, the quilt intricately weaves the spirit of competition with the essence of legacy. Each athlete's name is carefully etched into the surrounding stones, ensuring their feats are remembered long after the games have concluded.

This quilt resonates deeply with the traditions of the ancient Olympics, where victors were crowned with laurel leaves as symbols of honor and victory. The leaves on the Quilt of Olympic Spirit metaphorically echo this age-old practice, linking past traditions with modern achievements. It is a visual representation of the athletes' days of glory and the medals they won, serving as a permanent reminder of their dedication and triumph. The site is more than a mere memorial; it is a celebration of champions from around the world, symbolizing their hard-earned victories and the Olympic spirit that guided them.

Among the competitors honored on this quilt were notable figures such as tennis icon Andre Agassi, soccer star Mia Hamm, and boxing sensation Floyd Mayweather. Each athlete brought their unique prowess to the games, with Mayweather's journey marked by a controversial bronze medal win that would pivot his career towards professional boxing, leading to an unprecedented 50-0 record.

The Quilt of Remembrance Plaza is a place of reflection and remembrance. Visitors can pay their respects to the victims of the 1996 Olympic bombing and other acts of domestic terrorism by viewing the Quilt of Remembrance, which consists of 71 panels featuring the names and photographs of those who lost their lives.

The plaza also features a memorial fountain, surrounded by a mosaic depicting the Olympic rings and the names of the 1996 Olympic sponsors, and serving as a place for visitors to sit and contemplate.

In addition to the Quilt of Remembrance and the memorial fountain, the plaza features a number of benches and seating areas, as well as informational plaques detailing the history of the bombing and the efforts to create the memorial. It is a peaceful and solemn space that honors the memories of those who lost their lives and serves as a reminder of the need for peace and understanding in society.

The Quilt of Dreams is a symbolic landmark that captures the city's aspirational journey towards hosting the 1996 Olympic Games. This quilt is not made of fabric, but of memories and the collective ambition of a group of visionaries who believed in the potential of their city. The narrative begins as early as 1990 when a dedicated committee of local business leaders and influential figures, including Ivan Allen III, son of former Mayor Ivan Allen Jr., rallied to support the idea of bringing the Olympics to Atlanta. Their names and contributions are immortalized on a bench at the site, reminding visitors of the roots of this dream.

Central to the narrative of the Quilt of Dreams is the Atlanta 9, a volunteer group whose tireless efforts were pivotal in securing the Olympic bid. These individuals, from various walks of life, represent the community’s involvement and the grassroots support that fueled the bid. Their names proudly displayed on a plaque signify the democratic and collective effort that underpinned the city's campaign. This aspect of the quilt emphasizes that while influential leaders provided necessary support, the heart of the Olympic bid was powered by community spirit and volunteerism.

Dominating the center of the Quilt of Dreams is a statue of Billy Payne, whose role was crucial in transforming the Olympic dream into reality. As the visionary who first proposed Atlanta as an Olympic host in 1987, Payne mobilized support from key figures including Mayor Andrew Young. His leadership as president and CEO of the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games is commemorated with him holding an Olympic torch, symbolizing the light of aspiration and achievement that he brought to the city. Payne's idea and the collective effort it sparked led to a surprising victory when the International Olympic Committee awarded the bid to Atlanta in 1990, a testament to the power of conviction and collaboration.

If you want to capture the essence of Atlanta in one go, look no further than here! SkyView Atlanta, a “one-and-done” destination, will provide an thrilling panoramic view of the city and the surrounding metropolitan area, offering a fresh perspective – atop a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel – which is especially valuable if you are not afforded access to the city's towering structures.

Situated almost 20 stories high above Centennial Olympic Park and surrounded by other local attractions (including the Georgia Aquarium, the Tabernacle, or the World of Coca-Cola), this wheel boasts of 42 lavish, climate-controlled gondolas, with each able to accommodate up to 6 people. For those seeking an elevated, "private" experience, one can pre-book a VIP gondola, providing all the frills including Ferrari-style seats, tinted windows, clear glass floor, and a longer flight time. The wait time and ride duration are reasonable, and in addition to the breathtaking view, this attraction is great for families, couples, and cost-effective – unless you have a fear of heights.

Moreover, do not miss the light show at night! Check for Groupon and other local offers before purchasing on-site tickets to save on the cost. This attraction is the perfect complement to your downtown adventure, providing a fun experience for all ages.

If you're out and about in Downtown, this is a nice place to relax, enjoy a cup of tea in the shade, and people watch for a minute. A famous lunchtime spot for locals as well as tourists, it includes several nice and well-kept features such as two fountains, a performance pavilion, several monuments, and a chess court. Bordering the park are beautiful planters with plants and umbrella tables to provide a place where you can sit and enjoy lunch or just chill in the cool breeze.

This is where many GSU students go to relive themselves of the stress of everyday life. Mr. Woodruff, the founder of the Coca-Cola Company, understood very well the central location's importance. City leadership does as well, and historians can view the park as a testimonial to how fervently Atlanta leaders have tried to preserve a vital Downtown.

Known as "Atlanta from the Ashes", the most famous sculpture within the premises depicts a woman releasing a Phoenix, a symbol of Atlanta's rise from the ashes after being burnt to the ground by William T. Sherman's Union armies during the Civil War. A gift of the private Rich Foundation, it was originally located on a viaduct adjacent to the first Rich's Department store on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, but was restored and moved to its current location in 1995.

Located within the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, the Freedom Hall served as the original headquarters of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), the organization that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. co-founded in 1957.

Today, Freedom Hall serves as an exhibition space for visitors to the King Center. The exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and documents related to the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King's life and legacy. Visitors can view exhibits such as "Courage to Lead," which explores the leadership of Dr. King and other Civil Rights leaders, and "The Montgomery Story," which tells the story of the Montgomery bus boycott.

One of the notable features of Freedom Hall is the mural on the building's exterior, titled "Behold." The mural depicts a group of Civil Rights leaders, including Dr. King, gathered around a table. Visitors can also view the "International Civil Rights Walk of Fame" located outside of Freedom Hall, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement.

Overall, Freedom Hall at the King Centre offers visitors a unique and informative look into the history of the Civil Rights Movement and the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. All of this for no charge, but there are donation boxes to make a contribution.