Midtown Atlanta is home to approximately one-third of the city’s high-rise buildings and covers an area of roughly 4 square miles.
There’s always something going on in Midtown, from cultural activities at the Fox Theatre and Woodruff Arts Center to festivals at Piedmont Park in the summer. Located just south of Buckhead, this thriving area is filled with high-rise homes and some of the best restaurants in the city.
housing
Young professionals can find luxury condominiums at Colony House (404-892-6266) starting at around $125,000. Hanover House (404-8924231) offers condominium homes starting at $199,000. Apartments at 1660 Peachtree (404287-1660) start at around $900 for a one-bedroom, while one-bedroom units at Post Parkside (404-817-8030) begin at approximately $1,200. Historic homes are available along Piedmont Road and adjacent streets.
The Atlantic Station mixed-use development offers plentiful housing opportunities, including apartments at the lofts at Atlantic Station (404-815-0224) starting in the $1400s, and Park district (404-872-5542) starting in the low $1000s. The area surrounding the development also features townhomes and single-family homes ranging from the $130s to the $360s.
local treasures
Piedmont Park (404-875-7275) is the city’s most famous green space, with a dog park, biking trails, picnic areas and more. The Atlanta Botanical Garden (404-876-5859) features 30 acres of flowers, gardens and gorgeous greenery, and often hosts outdoor events. The Georgia Institute of Technology (404-894-2000), one of the nation’s leading research universities, attracts students from around the world.
Culinary treats
Midtown is filled with so many great restaurants, we can’t list them all. Antico Pizza Napoletana (404-724-2333) serves delicious oven-baked pizzas, made with ingredients imported from Italy. one Midtown Kitchen (404-892-4111) is one of Atlanta’s premier spots for seafood and American cuisine. South City Kitchen-Midtown (404873-7358) specializes in contemporary Southern classics. Try Bantam & Biddy (404-907-3469) for top-quality rotisserie chicken and other staples. Located in the Four Seasons Hotel, Park 75 (404-881-9898) offers fine dining and a superb wine list. Visit the Varsity (404-881-1706) for a slice of Atlanta history along with your chili cheese dog, onion rings and Frosted Orange shake.
arts and entertainment
The fabulous fox Theatre (404-881-2100), known for its beautiful architecture, is one of the city’s main performing art venues. A little more than a mile down Peachtree Street, the Woodruff Arts Center (404-733-5000) is home to the High Museum of Art, the Southeast’s leading art museum, as well as the Tony Award-winning Alliance Theatre and the Atlanta Symphony orchestra. The Center for Puppetry Arts (404-873-3391) hosts puppetry exhibits (including exclusive displays of the work of Jim Henson) and performances for children and adults. N
Fox theatre
South City Kitchen
the lofts at atlantic Station
Piedmont Park
PHOTO: LaCour Photography
HOW TO PREP FOR
College Success
What to Look for in a College-Prep High School
By RACHAEL MASON
When it comes to your child’s future, you can never be too prepared. That’s especially true when it comes to selecting a high school with a collegepreparatory curriculum. The competition for top private and public universities is intense, so finding the school that will best position your child for college is more crucial than ever.
There are many factors that go into choosing a high school to best prepare your son or daughter for college. Here are four important questions to keep in mind.
How Does the School’s Curriculim Prepare Students for College?
Not all schools that list themselves as collegepreparatory schools are the same. Different schools take different approaches to preparing their charges for college. Visiting school websites and following up with admissions personnel can give you a good grasp of a school’s academic focus.
The Rabun Gap Nacoochee School, a day and boarding school just north of Clayton, offers “a rigorous, traditional liberal arts-based curriculum centered on critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” says Director of College Counseling Cheryl Barber.
Charter schools, like independent schools, have varied approaches when it comes to getting students ready for college. “It is our view that not every child learns in the same manner,” says Andrew Lewis, executive vice president
of the Georgia Charter Schools Association.
“The most powerful aspect of a charter school is that it empowers parents with the ability to have options” when it comes to a public education. Those options include KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program) schools, which aim to provide underserved children with the skills to succeed
in college and beyond. The idea at KIPP schools in metro Atlanta, Lewis says, “is that all children will go to college.”
The Association’s website, www.gacharters. org, is a good place to begin your search for charter schools.
Does the School Have a Strong College Counseling Program?
Many schools offer college counseling departments that work closely with students to help them develop personalized plans for college preparation, from school selection to choosing the right extracurricular activities.
“I advise parents to find a place where students can thrive, primarily in the classroom, but also in other areas of school life,” says Gavin Bradley, director of college counseling at Pace Academy.
Counselors at Pace meet with students beginning in junior year to begin helping them prepare to take required standardized tests including the ACT and SAT. The counseling office works with students to help decide which colleges to apply to based on their academic
College counseling departments work closely with students to help them plan for college.
and personal profiles. They also help students complete and submit application requirements.
personal and concerned about the best fit for each student,” says counselor Lori Davis. “We also try to monitor the stress our students are under during this difficult process, and keep a close eye on their grades.”
How Does It Prepare Students for the SAT?
The SAT, a standardized test that measures critical thinking and mathematics and writing
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Aside from lending your college-bound teen a hand with his or her homework, here are some ways you can help nudge your student in the right direction.
• Check in with your child’s college counseling department or guidance counselor to ask about his or her academic progress.
• Encourage your child to polish her resume by pursuing community service opportunities, like a church mission trip to another country.
College counselors at Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) work closely with students and families throughout the high school experience. “Our counseling approach is intentionally
Rabun Gap counselors meet with students one-on-one throughout grades 9 through 12, and conduct weekly college seminars during junior and senior years. Counselors also travel with students on various trips to college fairs and college campuses.
• Likewise, help your child choose extracurricular activities that complement each other and illustrate personal growth and commitment.
Meeting with admissions personnel can give you a good grasp of a school’s academic focus.
skills, is a vital part of any student’s college application process. When compiling information on a prospective school, be sure to ask about its SAT scores and preparation resources. Does the school have a history of strong average test scores? Does it provide students with materials to help them prepare for this important test?
Rabun Gap offers an SAT prep workshop for a fee, and individual academic departments offer weekly tutorial sessions on standardized testing. GAC offers an elective SAT prep course.
“We also have really strong relationships with several tutors in the area,” says Davis, “and we try to make available to our students and families opportunities to work in group settings” as a less-costly alternative to one-on-one tutoring.
Students at Pace prepare for standardized tests by studying a wide range of subjects. “Pace students test above the state and national averages on the SAT, so we do not incorporate formal test preparation into our daily curriculum,” Bradley says.
What Else Does the School Do?
In addition to college counseling programs and SAT preparation, many schools offer specialized research labs or one-on-one programs to help give students an extra advantage.
The Academic Resource Center at Pace helps students develop strong study and timemanagement habits. GAC offers a learning center staffed with research specialists who work to address students’ different learning styles. Ultimately, a parent’s goal should be to find a school that helps the student present his or her best self to colleges and universities.
“What are colleges looking for?” asks Davis of GAC. “Strong grades in a challenging curriculum; often good performance on standardized tests; personal thoughts and values expressed in their writings; recommendations from teachers and counselors; and how have they spent their time. What matters to them? What have they done with the resources they have had?
“We offer students numerous opportunities that prepare them not only for the next steps, but to live as a confident, globally aware and responsible adult,” she continues. “We believe that we … are able to help guide them to places where they will be happy, challenged, and intellectually stimulated—where they not only succeed, but many times stand out among the best and brightest.”
HELPFUL RESOURCES
www.petersons.com
www.collegeboard.org
Mill Springs Academy Serving Students Who Learn Differently
By Cady Schulman
D
ifferent students learn in different ways—ways that don’t always fit neatly into the one-size-fits-all approach of traditional classrooms. That’s why the staff at Mill Springs Academy develops individual academic plans for each of its 330 students in grades 1 through 12.
“Our motto is, if a student can’t learn the way we teach, then we should teach the way they learn,” says Headmaster Robert Moore. “We’re very interested in how students learn.”
Mill Springs, an independent school nestled on 85 acres in the hills of Alpharetta, is dedicated to the academic, physical and social growth of students who have not realized their full potential in traditional classroom settings—where “you either get it or you don’t,” Moore says.
“We want all of our students to have a full educational workup,” he adds, “which will give us clues as to how best they learn and how [learning] might be more difficult, also. That helps us create an academic plan” tailored to individual students. Small class sizes (the student/teacher ratio is around 9 to 1) and an emphasis on technology (students in grades 4 through 12 are equipped with laptops) help students capitalize on their strengths and receive individual attention.
For instance, a student who has trouble taking notes can listen in class and have notes emailed to him or her. Or if a student has a hard time with writing, he or she can utilize voice-to-text software to write papers and complete other assignments.
Most of the students at Mill Springs Academy are dealing with some kind of learning disability, such as ADHD or dyslexia. Mill Springs Academy is one of 250 schools in the state participating in the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship Program, and accepts more special needs scholarships than any other school in the state, Moore says.
“We especially like [special needs] students because they’re so creative and vibrant, and a community wouldn’t be as good without them,” he continues. “This is why we have such a big fine arts program. … It’s a great thing for creative students who want more hands-on learning.”
The arts are an important part of the Mill Springs Academy experience. The school’s fine arts department includes a 70-member band, as well as chorus and drama offerings. “School should be an interesting, fun place,” Moore stresses, “not just a place to get red marks on your paper. That kind of thing is critically important to learning.”
And according to Moore, students do find Mill Springs fun. Students often tell him that school breaks are too long and that they can’t wait to return to class, he says.
“They should feel that way,” he adds. “If it’s a good school, why wouldn’t they want to be there?”
In addition to its academics and arts programs, Mill Springs offers a variety of athletic options including baseball, soccer, basketball, volleyball, golf, tennis, track and wrestling, as well as non-competitive sports. “We want our kids to have any experience they could have at any other school in the region,” says Moore. N
The SpecificS
Grades: 1-12
Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1
Tuition: $21,084-$$22,406
Location: Alpharetta
Contact: 13660 New Providence Road, Alpharetta, GA 30004 770-360-1336 Web: www.millsprings.org
If you’re looking for a new city to call home, there are many reasons why Atlanta should be at the top of your list. And if you’ve already made the move, congratulations! Either way, there’s a lot to learn about this great city and its surrounding metropolitan area. On the pages that follow, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about this capital city of the Southeast, from its top-flight arts scene to its stellar attractions, entertainment options and rising status as the Hollywood of the South.
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Atlanta is a hub of the arts. The Tony Awardwinning Alliance Theatre stages thoughtprovoking and crowd-pleasing works and has premiered shows that went on to the Broadway stage; the thriving theater scene also includes such acclaimed companies as Georgia Shakespeare, Theatrical Outfit, 7 Stages and True Colors The High Museum of Art, the Southeast’s leading art museum, houses such acclaimed exhibits as the recent Frida & Diego: Passion, Politics, and Painting and Girl with a Pearl Earring: Dutch Paintings from the Mauritshuis, featuring works from Vermeer, Rembrandt and other Dutch artists..
The Atlanta Ballet, Atlanta Opera and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra are all world-class performing arts institutions. Venues including
Chastain Park Amphitheatre, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, the Fox Theatre, the Ferst Center for the Arts, the Rialto Performing Arts Center, Spivey Hall and Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, among others, host big-name concert tours and high-caliber national theatrical productions. And last but not least, the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks professional sports teams draw thousands of fans each year.
ATTRACTIONS
Atlanta offers much for locals and visitors to see and do year-round. The Atlanta Botanical Garden is home to 30 gorgeous acres of themed gardens, including a Japanese garden and a rose garden, and often hosts events and outdoor art exhibits. Centennial Olympic Park is an oasis
Robert Spano conducts the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.
The Georgia Aquarium, hailed as the world’s largest, showcases more than 500 species.
in the heart of downtown that hosts concerts and events and is popular with children for its Fountain of Rings. The Fernbank Museum of Natural History spotlights the natural world with informative exhibits, IMAX films and giant dinosaur skeletons in its atrium.
The Georgia Aquarium bills itself as the world’s largest, with some 500 species frolicking in its more than 8 million gallons of water. The World of Coca-Cola takes visitors on a guided tour of the history of the world’s most famous soft drink company, which is headquartered in Atlanta. Zoo Atlanta is home to more than 1,500 animals, and is one of only a handful of zoos in the country to feature giant pandas.
FAMILY FUN
The city also offers many attractions of special interest to children. The Center for Puppetry Arts traces the history of this unique art form and houses exclusive exhibits spotlighting the work of Jim Henson. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers fun, informative exhibits for young children and preteens. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids is an interactive museum in Gainesville where children can role-play and climb aboard a real 1927 fire truck.
The LEGO Discovery Center is an interactive playground filled with the world-famous building blocks, designed to delight and inspire children ages 3 through 10. The Six Flags Over
Georgia theme park offers roller coasters, water rides and other thrills. The Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville makes learning fun with engaging exhibits and galleries as well as a planetarium and observatory.
BUSINESS
Atlanta boasts one of the highest concentrations of Fortune 500 companies, serving as global headquarters to corporations including CocaCola, The Home Depot, Delta Air Lines, AT&T Mobility and UPS Chick-fil-A and Newell Rubbermaid call the city home, as well.
Atlanta also enjoys a robust media industry. Turner Broadcasting, which includes
Riders thrill to the Dare Devil Dive at Six Flags Over Georgia.
LEFT TO RIGHT: Tigers at Zoo Atlanta; the Children’s Museum of Atlanta; the LEGO Discovery Center.
PHOTOS: (Left) Courtesy of Zoo Atlanta; (Center) courtesy of the Children’s Museum of Atlanta; (Right) Ben Evans/Photo Images by Ben.
CNN, TBS, TNT, the Cartoon Network and other properties, is headquartered here, and the Weather Channel makes its home in the metro area, as well. Which leads us to …
HOLLYWOOD OF THE SOUTH
In the past decade, a booming TV and film industry has grown throughout the state. In 2010, Georgia’s was the fourth-largest film industry in the nation. Lured by tax incentives, motion pictures and television shows, including “The Walking Dead” and “The Vampire Diaries,” are constantly filming here.
Two large production studios, Tyler Perry Studios and EUE/Screen Gems, are located in the metro area, and there are plans to expand existing studios and build new facilities in Fayette County and Covington.
EDUCATION
Atlanta is home to a wealth of notable independent schools, including Atlanta International School, Greater Atlanta Christian School and Woodward Academy, the largest private school in the continental United States.
In addition, several public school systems across the metro area boast magnet schools for students with special abilities, as well as charter schools, which are given more freedom in how they educate their students.
The area is also home to more than 40 colleges and universities of different sizes, including such nationally recognized higher-learning schools as Agnes Scott College, Emory University, the Georgia Institute of Technology, Oglethorpe University, Georgia State University and Kennesaw State University
The Savannah College of Art and Design maintains a presence in Atlanta, as does Macon-based Mercer University. The city is also home to several distinguished historically black colleges including Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Morris Brown College and Spelman College
HEALTH CARE
Atlanta is well known for its hospitals and medically related entities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, located near Emory University, heads a list of locally based organizations and research facilities that includes the American Cancer Society, the Emory University School of Medicine and Morehouse School of Medicine Grady Memorial Hospital is renowned for having one of the best trauma and burn centers in the nation, while Northside Hospital delivers more babies per year than any other community hospital in the country.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is regarded as one of the nation’s premier pediatric hospitals. The Shepherd Center, one of the country’s leading catastrophic care hospitals for patients with spinal cord injuries, brain injuries and degenerative and other such disorders, is headquartered here. Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, part of Piedmont Healthcare, has been recognized on U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Hospitals” list.
HISTORY
The metro area offers many links to Atlanta’s historic past. The 33-acre Atlanta History Center in Buckhead explores the city’s rich past with two museums, six gardens and two historic plantations. It also runs the Margaret Mitchell House in Midtown, where the author once lived and where she wrote much of Gone With the Wind. The Marietta Gone With the Wind
TOP: (Left) Students at Atlanta International School; (Right) Stone Mountain Park combines history and thrills. CENTER: The World of Coca-Cola.
Museum features an impressive collection of memorabilia related to the book and movie. The Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville showcases art and artifacts from and exploring the American West.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, stretching over more than 2,900 acres in Cobb County, commemorates an historic Civil War battleground. And Stone Mountain Park, said to be Georgia’s most popular attraction, boasts 3,200 acres of beautiful scenery, amusement rides, hiking trails, golf and much more, all of it surrounding Stone Mountain and its historic portrait of Stonewall Jackson, Robert E. Lee and Jefferson Davis.
TRANSPORTATION
Atlanta was conceived as a railroad town and is a major railroad spot. But its status as a major transportation hub is thanks largely these days to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Consistently ranked as the world’s busiest airport, it recently added a new international terminal that should keep it atop such lists for years to come. Three major interstates—20, 75 and 85—converge here, adding to the city’s convenience factor.
The city also boasts a number of publictransportation alternatives to automobile traffic, including MARTA, the area’s premier rail and bus service, as well as Cobb Community Transit, Gwinnett County Transit, and Xpress, a commuter bus service. Work has also begun on a downtown streetcar. The Atlanta BeltLine, a multi-use trail that will encircle the city and provide park space, is currently under development, with some parts already completed.
SHOPPING
As befits a metro area of Atlanta’s size, there are a great many shopping options to satisfy your every need. Super-sized shopping malls Cumberland Mall, Discover Mills, Lenox Square Mall, Mall of Georgia and Phipps Plaza offer hundreds of shops, as well as food courts, movie theaters and more. Atlantic Station, a Midtown mixed-use development, is home to such retailers as H&M, Target and Dillard’s. North Georgia Premium Outlets and Tanger Outlets, both a little outside the city, sport great brands and bargain prices. Meanwhile, the Buckhead neighborhood is your spot for high-end retail, while Little Five Points buzzes with record shops and thrift stores and Virginia-Highland is filled with charming clothing stores, homedécor boutiques and gourmet food shops.
TOP: The Booth Museum of Western Art. CENTER: Lenox Square Mall. BOTTOM: Boutiques abound in Virginia-Highland.
PHOTOS:
GorgeousGeorgia Beaches
Five Fantastic Spots for Sun, Surf and Sand
By Hope S. Philbrick
From remote island escapes to sandy getaways near the big city, dog-friendly banks ideal for splashing into the surf and romantic shores ideal for watching sunsets, Georgia has a beach for every occasion. Make sure to include these sunny spots on your summer to-do list for a long weekend or beach vacation sure to leave you with sand in your toes and a smile on your face. u
Lake Lanier Islands Resort
Located about an hour north of Atlanta, this sprawling resort is home to a half-mile stretch of white sand dubbed Big Beach. Lounge and get some sun, dig in the powdery sand or splash in the blue water secure in the knowledge that a lifeguard will keep watch. This 1,500-acre vacation spot, located on the 38,000-acre lake that gives the place its name, is Georgia’s most-visited lakeside resort.
The lakeside beach is only part of the fun: Get a wet adrenaline rush just steps away at the other attractions that make up LanierWorld, the resort’s water park. Thrills await kids of all ages, including nine water slides, a miniature golf course, beach volleyball, a ropes course, carnival rides, a cable park for water sports, and a wave pool where you can catch family-friendly outdoor movies on weekends.
Beyond the beach and water park, enjoy horseback riding, golf, boating, biking, dining, hiking, partying and more. Accommodation options range from villas to campsites, cabins and even houseboats for literal overnights on the water. 770-945-8787, www.lakelanierislands.com.
Elijah Clark State Park
On the western shores of Clarks Hill Lake on the border between Georgia and South Carolina is where you’ll find the white sand beach at Elijah Clark State Park. Hugging the blue waters of this 71,000-acre lake—one of the largest in the
Southeast—the beach is open yearround, although it’s most popular from Memorial Day through Labor Day. There are two other state parks on the same lake, but this 447-acre retreat, its beach nestled under tall trees, is especially peaceful.
The lake’s cool water lures swimmers, water-skiers and boaters, who can launch from one of four ramps or rent a canoe. Fish for striper and largemouth bass from the pier, deepen your understanding of history touring a Revolutionary Warera cabin, or test your skills at archery, geocaching, hiking, miniature golf and shuffleboard. All state park beaches are free, so the whole family can enjoy a day at the beach for a $5 parking fee. Stay overnight in one of 20 cottages or camp in a tent, trailer or RV. 800-864-7275, www.gastateparks.org/elijahclark.
Robin Lake Beach
The world’s largest manmade white sand beach loops a mile around the 65-acre Robin Lake in Callaway Gardens, a 13,000-acre resort and preserve in Pine Mountain, Ga., about an hour southwest of Atlanta. From June through early
PHOTOS: (Top)
Courtesy of Callaway Gardens/www.callawaygardens.com;
CENTER: (Top) Lake Lanier Islands Resort; (Bottom) Georgia Department of Natural Resources
TOP: Robin Lake Beach at Callaway Gardens. CENTER: (Top) Outdoor activities at Lake Lanier Islands Resort; (Bottom) The beach at Elijah Clark State Park.
August, the lake serves as the hub of summer fun in middle Georgia. Lounge in the sun, splash into the water, or test your skills at waterskiing, wakeboarding or just holding onto an inflated tube.
Miniature golf, ping pong, shuffleboard, giant chess and checker sets, a playground and more are included with general admission. Other activities and amenities are available for an additional fee, including access to a floating playground of obstacles, “blaster boats” with water guns that can spray up to 50 feet, laser tag, cabanas and individual waterskiing lessons. Some activities require advance reservation. 800-225-5292, www.callawaygardens.com.
St. Simons Island
The largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island sports four miles of beaches on its south side. During high tide, try kayaking, fishing or bird watching. Then run with your dog, nap on the soft sand or build sandcastles at low tide when retreating water expands the beach a couple of hundred yards, exposing sand bars and tidal pools. The island also boasts a charming selection of boutiques, restaurants and historic sites. Built in 1872, the St. Simons Island Lighthouse and keeper’s residence are Glynn
Give yourself the royal treatment at the King and Prince resort on St. Simons Island.
County’s oldest surviving brick structures. The Maritime Center offers insight into the area’s natural, maritime and military history.
For a regal experience, stay at the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a member of Historic Hotels of America. Guests have been lured to this location since it first
opened its doors in 1935, drawn by its reputation for elegance and warm Southern hospitality. 800-933-2627, www.goldenisles.com.
Tybee Island
Just 20 minutes from Savannah’s Historic District, Tybee Island is the northeasternmost of Georgia’s barrier islands. The party is on South
Visit BORO
Discover the many sights and amenities of Tybee Island.
Beach, with its wide stretch of sand, a pier for dolphin watching, and nearby shops and restaurants. For a more private setting, live the dream of owning beachfront property and rent accommodations from Oceanfront Cottage Rentals or Tybee Vacation Rentals: Options range from condos to cottages to mansions.
You can spend your entire stay lounging near the sea, or get up off that towel and discover what else Tybee Island has to offer. Charter a private eco-tour to explore the salt marsh that houses dozens of birds, turtles, dolphins, alligators, crabs and other creatures. Climb 178 steps to the top of the Tybee Island Light Station, a lighthouse that has guided sailors into the Savannah River since 1732. And see Fort Pulaski National Monument, where the brick walls were considered unbreachable until a two-day Civil War battle proved otherwise. Note that dogs are not allowed on the beach, since Tybee Island is an important nesting area for endangered sea turtles. 800-868-2322, www.tybeevisit.com.
FOUR MORE GEORGIA BEACHES
Cumberland Island National Seashore is on the state’s largest and southernmost barrier island, which boasts 17 miles of pristine beaches and is home to wild horses. www.nps.gov/cuis.
Don Carter State Park is Georgia’s newest state park (it’s set to open in 2013) and the first located on 38,000-acre Lake Lanier. Situated on the north end of the reservoir, the park boasts a huge sand swimming beach. www.gastateparks.org.
Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island is a camera-ready beach scattered with knobby, twisted tree trunks and root bulbs made gray by the sea. It’s a great spot to look for seashells while taking a leisurely stroll. www.jekyllisland.com.
East Beach on St. Simons Island is an ideal spot for bodysurfing at high tide and napping on the soft sand at low tide, when the beach expands to a couple of hundred yards wide. www.comecoastawhile.com.
PHOTO: Tybee Island Tourism Council
GETTING STARTED TO
HERE THERE GETTING STARTED
Mass Transit
One way to avoid long commutes is to take advantage of the city’s local transit system, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). Offering both train and bus service, MARTA is a convenient way to travel to downtown or the airport. The fee for traveling one way is $2.00 including transfers, and payment is even easier now with the Breeze limited-use and extendeduse cards. Weekly and monthly passes can be obtained at discounted rates. For fares, schedule and route information call 404848-5000 or visit www.itsmarta.com.
Driver’s License
Out-of-state drivers are required to obtain a Georgia driver’s license within 30 days. To obtain your license, you will need to provide the following: 1) Previous driver’s license; 2) Two pieces of identification; 3) An eye exam at the time of issue; 4) A $20 fee (in cash) for a five-year license, or a $35 fee for a 10-year license. Licenses are issued through the Georgia Department of Driver Services at several sites across Atlanta. Call 678-413-8400 or visit www.dds.ga.gov.
Car Tag
You must register your car within 30 days of residency. Bring with you the following information: 1) Car title, name and address of lienholder, or copy of lease agreement; 2) Current tag registration; 3) Mileage reading of vehicle; 4) Proof of insurance; 5) Emission certificate (if applicable). There is an approximate $20 fee for your tag. In January 2006, the state began charging sales tax on vehicles. Your tag office will
MARTA
MARTA Rail Service
provide the amount of sales tax on your vehicle. For information on a specific county, contact the appropriate county’s Tax Commissioner’s Office.
Vehicle Emission Inspection
Vehicles dating from 1985 through 2006 model year must be checked each year for emission standard compliance. Visit a statedesignated inspection station for the service. Call 800-449-2471 or visit www.cleanairforce.com.
Driving Tips
Georgia 400 is the only toll road in Atlanta. If you travel it daily, obtaining a Cruise Card is recommended. Purchased in advance, the Cruise Card allows drivers to bypass the tollbooth and avoid long lines. Call 404-893-6161 or visit www. georgiatolls.com to purchase a card.
The Georgia DOT provides daily updates of road work, road closings and traffic delays, which are helpful when commuting. Updates can be obtained by calling (toll free) 1-877-694-2511, by dialing 511, or by visiting www.georgia-navigator.com.
NEED TO KNOW
Voter Registration
Registration applies to U.S. citizens at least 18 years of age. You have up to 30 days before an election to register. Register at your local Voter Registration Office and most public libraries. Refer to the AT&T directory for locations, or download a registration form at www.sos.georgia.gov.
Making a Phone Call
All phone numbers in the metro Atlanta area include the area code plus the sevendigit number.
To make a phone call, dial one of the four area codes (404, 770, 678 and 470) and the seven-digit number. In general, 404 is designated for intown areas and 770 for suburbs; the 678 and 470 area codes overlay both areas. Cell phone subscribers can choose from any area code when signing up for service.
Registering for School
By law, children must be 5 years old on or before September 1 to enter kindergarten and 6 years old on or before September 1 to enter the first grade. To enroll your child in either kindergarten or first grade, you will need to provide the child’s social security number; a vision, hearing, and dental screening from a family practitioner or local health clinic; and immunization records on Georgia State Form 3231.
COUNTY INFORMATION
EDUCATION
public ScHOOlS
Cherokee County Schools Board of Education 770-479-1871
Elementary Schools 22
Middle Schools 7 Intermediate Schools 1 High Schools 6 Alternative 1
Evening 1
Per-pupil expenditures $8,578
School & bus information: 770-720-2112
Avg. SAT Scores
Cherokee Co. 1560
Georgia 1460
National 1509
pRivATE ScHOOlS
Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES & CONTACTS
HOME SERvicES
Cobb Energy (Electricity, Security, Telephone and Satellite TV) 770-429-2222
ElEcTRiciTy
Amicalola EMC 706-276-2362
Cobb EMC 770-429-2100
Georgia Power 888-660-5890
Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363
GAS
Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.
AT&T
TElEpHONE
888-436-8638
ETC Communications 678-454-1212
TDS Telecom-Nelson
Ball Ground 770-735-2000
Windstream 800-501-1754
WATER
Cherokee County Water Authority 770-479-1813
City of Ball Ground 770-735-2123
City of Canton 770-704-1500
City of Waleska 770-479-2912
City of Woodstock 770-926-8852
Charter Communications 888-438-2427
Comcast 404-266-2278
ETC Communications 678-454-1212
HOSpiTAlS
Northside Hospital-Cherokee 770-720-5100
Wellstar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000
Cherokee County
Located northwest of Atlanta, Cherokee County gets its name from the original inhabitants of the area, the Cherokee Indians. The county seat, then called Etowah, was established in 1833 and renamed Canton in 1834. Today, the city is enjoying its greatest economic boom in its history since more than $60 million was invested in residential and commercial development in 1998. Despite developing its own industrial base, Cherokee County remains idyllic and serene. Farming, especially poultry processing, remains a leading industry.
Canton and the neighboring community of Woodstock have seen tremendous growth as subdivisions crop up to accommodate newcomers. In fact, nearly 60 percent of the county’s population are commuters. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2006 was $194,900. Homes for well over $1 million can be purchased in such neighborhoods as Bradshaw Farms, Bridge Mill and Town Lake Hills.
Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92 traverse the county, affording residents easy access to Atlanta and the nearby attractions of Town Center Mall, Lake Allatoona and the North Georgia Mountains. Other great places to live,
Cherokee County 770-345-0400, www.cherokeechamber.com
property Taxes
Per $1,000 of assessed value is:
Unincorporated Cherokee County, $26.80; Incorporated Cherokee County, $24.06. Tax Commissioner: 678-493-6400
work and play in Cherokee County include the cities of Ball Ground, Holly Springs and Waleska.
Neighborhoods Canton
Canton was incorporated in 1833 and renamed in 1834 at the request of two founding fathers who had visions that the town might become a silk center similar to what existed in Canton, China. Canton did become famous for its “Canton Denim,” known worldwide for the high-quality denim produced by Canton Cotton Mills.
Today, Canton is attracting new industry and residents. As a result, the city is re-investing in its downtown. As part of its “Streetscapes” program, downtown Canton will be restored to its historic look and features a newly designed theater on Main Street. Located at the foothills of the Blue
Ridge Mountains and along the banks of the Etowah River, Canton is prime location for development.
Woodstock
Twelve miles south of Canton, Woodstock is the fastest-growing city in Cherokee County. With a growth rate of 70 percent over the past 10 years, the city has doubled in size. Residents enjoy easy access to Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92, allowing short commutes to Cobb and Fulton counties.
While affording convenience to big-city attractions, Woodstock still maintains its small-town appeal. Buildings dating back to 1879 characterize the downtown, where antique and other specialty shops are located.
Various golf courses are located in Woodstock, including Arnold Palmer’s Eagle Watch, a course with wooded countryside views that is considered to be one of the top places to play in Atlanta. The 11,860-acre Lake Allatoona provides additional recreation. Woodstock is also convenient to more than 13 state parks.
For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com
Cagle Dairy Farm, Canton Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development
Cobb County
Cobb County came into being in 1832 when the state redistributed land once part of the Cherokee Nation. Named after Thomas Welch Cobb, the county experienced a devastating setback during the Civil War when most of it was destroyed during the Battle at Kennesaw Mountain.
Today, Cobb County, located north of Fulton County, is one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation. With a diverse economic base that includes jobs in the service, retail, aerospace and technology sectors, Cobb County offers a quality of life unsurpassed in the Southeast. More than $770 million has been spent on transportation improvements in recent years, allowing residents easy access to Atlanta and the commercial districts of Vinings Overlook, Cumberland Parkway and the prestigious “Platinum Triangle” in the Galleria area.
Median age of residents: 35
Population: 698,158
Sales tax: 6%
chamber of commerce Cobb County 770-980-2000, www.cobbchamber.org
property Taxes
The property tax is $28.75 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-980-2000
One of Family Circle magazine’s “Ten Best Towns for Families,” Kennesaw takes pride in its small-town atmosphere and boasts abundant parks and green space, exceptional recreational programs and top-notch schools, including Kennesaw State University. Kennesaw’s Historic Downtown features shopping, dining and attractions such as the Smithsonianaffiliated Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, the Smith-Gilbert Arboretum and nearby Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.
Smyrna
A variety of housing options exist in Cobb County, including luxury
apartments and condos near Cumberland Mall, secluded subdivisions in East Cobb and horse ranches in the northwest corner of the county. The small towns of Marietta, Vinings, Smyrna and Austell still retain their Southern charm amidst urban settings. According to the Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2006 was $205,200.
Rapidly defining what’s new and progressive in quality of life and citizen services, Smyrna delivers an amazing sense of style and love of life. The new Market Village, home to fabulous restaurants, bars and upscale shops and services, is the final piece of a master plan for success. Call it “Main Street USA” or “Disneyland,” but don’t overlook its charm and ability to offer the best in fresh, trendy lifestyle options. N
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White Water
Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development
COUNTY INFORMATION
Coweta County
Neighborhoods Newnan
Georgia Power Company 770-253-2263 Coweta-Fayette EMC 770-502-0226
Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.
Coweta County, the 64th county in the state of Georgia, covers 443 square miles in the west central part of the state. The land on which Coweta County now sits was originally part of the Creek Nation, which chief William McIntosh Jr. ceded to the United States government in the Treaty of Indian Springs in 1825. The land was divided into five counties.
The settlement of Bullsboro became the first county seat in 1826, but the seat of government soon moved to Newnan, named for Georgia Secretary of State Daniel Newnan. This new city, the county’s largest, soon became the center of economic activity. During the Civil War, it was chosen to host a hospital for wounded soldiers, due to its location on two major railroad lines.
Attractions in Coweta County
QUICK INFO
770-253-8328
Piedmont Newnan Hospital 770-400-1000
Coweta County is filled with historic homes and buildings, some predating the Civil War, with more than two dozen landmarks throughout the county listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In addition to Newnan, Coweta County is home to the cities of Grantville and Senoia. Part of the city of Palmetto is located in Coweta County, with the majority residing in Fulton County. Coweta is also home to the towns of Moreland, Sargent,
county www.coweta.ga.us Neighborhoods www.ci.newnan.ga.us www.senoia.com
Schools wwww.cowetaschools.org
Median household income: $61,015
Median age of residents: 36.6
Population: 129,629 Sales tax: 7%
chamber of commerce
Coweta County 770-253-2270, www.newnancowetachamber.org
property Taxes
The property tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value is:
Newnan, the county seat, is steeped in history. The city survived the Civil War largely intact, due to its status as a hospital city for Confederate troops, and retains much of its original architecture. The city is known as the “City of Homes,” and boasts six historic districts. Attractions include Dunaway Gardens, a rock and floral garden that hosts weddings and special events, and the Ashley Park shopping development. The city is also home to the Heritage School, an independent college-preparatory school for children from age 4 through high school. Notable natives include country singer Alan Jackson, NFL wide receiver Calvin Johnson and former Georgia Gov. Ellis Arnall.
Senoia
For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com Downtown Newnan
include the historic courthouse in Newnan’s town square; Oak Grove Plantation; the Lewis Grizzard Museum and Erskine Caldwell Museum, both in Moreland; and Oak Hill Cemetery. In recent years, Coweta County’s growth has placed it among the top 100 growth counties in the nation.
Founded in 1860, Senoia is filled with historic architecture from the early 1900s and dating all the way back to the 1840s. The Senoia Historic District, comprising much of the city, is on the National Register of Historic Places. The city has twice hosted the Southern Living Idea House. Senoia is a popular location for film productions and has been seen in such pictures as “Driving Miss Daisy” and “Fried Green Tomatoes” and television shows including “The Walking Dead.” The city is also home to Raleigh Studios Atlanta (formerly Riverwood Studios), a production facility. N
Sharpsburg, Turin, Raymond and Roscoe. The town of Haralson is split between Coweta and Meriwether Counties.
Photo: Courtesy of the Georgia Department of Economic Development
DeKalb County
Located east of Fulton County, DeKalb County is the second largest county in the state with a population of about 705,000. DeKalb County contributes to Atlanta’s status as an “international city” with its businesses and residences representing more than 30 different countries and 120 languages.
Neighborhoods
Decatur
The county seat of DeKalb, Decatur is a charming historic city known for its recreation and pedestrian-friendly streets. Its beating heart
QUICK INFO
The square is also home to some beautiful public art, and hosts numerous festivals, town celebrations and neighborhood events. Decatur is home to a diverse population, attracting young professionals, families, retirees and bright young college students—the city is home to the prestigious women’s university Agnes Scott College, and world-renowned Emory University is just outside the city limits.
Older brick homes, smaller bungalows and cottage homes distinguish the community and the surrounding neighborhoods of Avondale Estates, Oakhurst and Candler Park.
Dunwoody
In the northern corner of the county is Dunwoody, a popular neighborhood among established professionals and young, upwardly mobile professionals raising families.
DeKalb County prospers in part due to its excellent transportation system. Five major road arteries traverse the county: Interstates 20, 85, 285, 675 and US Highway 78. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is only six miles from DeKalb’s southern border and the DeKalb Peachtree Airport, a general aviation field, is reported to be the second busiest airport in Georgia. DeKalb County is also a leader in the biomedical community with The Center for Disease Control headquartered there.
county www.co.dekalb.ga.us Neighborhoods www.decaturga.com www.druidhills.org www.dunwoodyga.org www.candlerpark.org www.stonemountaincity.org
Schools www.dekalb.k12.ga.us www.csdecatur.net
Median household income: $51,753
Median age of residents: 35
Population: 739,956 Sales tax: 7% chamber of commerce DeKalb County 404-378-8000, www.dekalbchamber.org
property Taxes
The property tax rate is $41.50 per $1,000 for unincorporated DeKalb County. Tax Commissioner: 404-298-4000
The median value of homes in 2006, according to the Census Bureau, was $190,100.
is the Courthouse Square, which features an eclectic mix of storefront boutiques and shops, restaurants and entertainment options.
It is often referred to as the “tennis set” neighborhood because of its numerous recreational outlets that include Lynwood Park and Recreation Center, as well as Blackburn Park and Tennis Center. Cultural attractions include the Dunwoody Nature Center and the Spruill Gallery.
A variety of housing is available in Dunwoody, including apartments, townhomes, ranch-style homes, bungalows and mini-mansions with manicured lawns. Nearby Perimeter Mall provides shopping, dining and family entertainment. With its proximity to all major expressways and North Fulton’s booming business opportunities, Dunwoody is a hot-spot for families. N
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Emory University
Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development
COUNTY INFORMATION
EDUCATION
Fayette
770-460-3535
Fayette County
Neighborhoods Faye tte vi ll e
Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES & CONTACTS
Georgia Power Company 888-660-5890 Coweta-Fayette EMC 770-253-5626
Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.
County www.fayettecounty.ga.gov Neighborhoods www.fayetteville-ga.gov www.peachtree-city.org
Schools www.fcboe.org
Median household income: $82,216
Median age of residents: 42.4
Population: 107,104 Sales tax: 6% Chamber of Commerce 770-461-9983, www.fayettechamber.org
Property Taxes
Per $1,000 of assessed value is: Unincorporated Fayette County, $30.70; Fayetteville, $31.64; Peachtree City, $34.54. Tax Commissioner: 770-461-3611
From1984to1994,Fayette Countywasthefifth-fastestgrowing county in the U.S. FayetteCountyboastsseveral golfcoursesandtwoamphitheaters, amongotherattractionsservinga family-orientedpopulationofmore than106,000residents.Single-family housinginFayetteCountyranges fromthe$50,000sinmoderateincomeareastomorethan$2million in affluent neighborhoods.
Pe ach tr ee
Ci ty
The area now known as Peachtree City was originally settled by Woodland Era Indians several thousand years ago, and ceded to the Federal government in 1821 by Chief William McIntosh, Jr. Comprising some 12,000 acres, Peachtree City was chartered in the 1950s as a masterplanned community of five separate villages. Today, the area is linked by a 90- mile network of trails and golf cart paths connecting homes, businesses, schools and parks. Gol carts, bicycles and walking are the preferred modes of transportation among its 35,000 residents, who enjoy its wooded scenery and wealth of parks, playgrounds and recreational areas. N
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Starr's Mill in Fayetteville
Fulton County
At the center of the Metro Atlanta area is Fulton County. Bordered on the west by the Chattahoochee River and encompassing Interstates 85, 75, 285 and Ga. 400, Fulton County is at the hub of the area’s financial, transportation, retail, communications and cultural services. Most Fortune 500 corporations maintain national or regional facilities in the area; many are headquartered here, including Coca-Cola, Equifax, United Parcel Service, Home Depot, Delta Airlines and Turner Broadcasting System.
More than 3 million live and work in Fulton County. Older, innercity neighborhoods, such as Inman Park, Candler Park and trendy Virginia-Highland offer eclectic living amidst unique boutiques and restaurants. Midtown is at the heart of the city’s cultural life, home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, High Museum of Art, Alliance Theatre and the historic Fox Theatre. Many outdoor festivals are held at Piedmont Park.
According to the Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2006 was $270,000. Homes in the millions can be found in such affluent neighborhoods as Buckhead, Sandy Springs and Alpharetta.
Neighborhoods
Buckhead
Buckhead is also the epicenter for the city’s entertainment and dining industries. With more than 200 restaurants,
Sales tax: 7%, Atlanta City: 8% Chamber of Commerce
Greater North Fulton 770-993-8806, www.gnfcc.com
Metro Atlanta
Considered Atlanta’s “silk stocking district,” Buckhead is “where old money lives and new money parties,” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With its one-of-a-kind Georgian and Neoclassical mansions and uniquely styled homes from the 1950s and 1960s, Buckhead is a favorite locale among architecture and history buffs. It is home to the Governor’s Mansion, the historic Swan House and the Atlanta History Center.
404-880-9000, www.metroatlantachamber.com South Fulton 770-964-1984, www.sfcoc.org
Property Taxes
The property tax rate per $1,000 is: $30.49 for the City of Atlanta; $28.03 for incorporated Fulton County; $33.69 for unincorporated South Fulton and $31.90 for unincorporated North Fulton County County. Tax Commissioner: 404-730-6100
Alpharetta
Once a small farming community, Alpharetta has greatly boomed within the last 20 years to become
one of Atlanta’s most affluent neighborhoods. Homes range from elegant subdivisions to those with acreage. The Country Club of the South is a planned community home to several sports stars, high profile executives and celebrities.
A successful combination of old and new, Alpharetta has become a haven for singles, families and professionals wanting a bit of country living with all the amenities that city dwelling offers. While many residents shop at nearby Northpoint Mall and Gwinnett Mall, many still enjoy the old stores on Main Street— a visit to the Alpharetta Soda Shoppe is a special treat N
For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Web site at www.newcomeratlanta.com
UTILITIES & CONTACTS
Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development.
Downtown Atlanta skyline
EDUCATION
678-301-6000
Gwinnett County
UTILITIES & CONTACTS
Visit our Web site at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county. ElEcTRiciTy
City of Buford 770-945-6761
City of Lawrenceville 770-963-2414
City of Norcross 770-448-2122
Georgia Power 404-395-7611
Jackson EMC 770-963-6166
Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363
Walton EMC 770-972-2917
GAS
Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit www.newcomeratlanta.com.
TElEpHONE
AT&T 888-436-8638 WATER
Buford 770-889-4600
Dacula 770-963-7451
Gwinnett City Water 678-376-6800 Lawrenceville 770-963-2414
Norcross 770-448-2122
cAblE Tv
Bellsouth Multimedia 770-360-5000
Charter Communications 888-438-2427
Comcast 404-266-2278
HOSpiTAlS
Emory Eastside Medical Center 770-736-2400
Joan Glancy Memorial Hospital 678-584-6800
Gwinnett Medical Center 678-312-4321
Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion 678-312-4770
Summit Ridge Center for Behavorial Health 770-822-2200
Originally part of Georgia’s Native American territory, Gwinnett County was created by the State Legislature in 1818 and named after Button Gwinnett, the third signer of the Declaration of Independence and a former state governor.
While the county was once largely rural with small towns, country stores, farms and forests, today it is home to more than 245 international companies and 450 high-tech firms. With an average of 260 new professional and industrial companies relocating to the county each year, attracting more than 6,000 new jobs, Gwinnett County remains in the top 10 ranking for growth nationwide. The county supports many cultural events, restaurants and shopping opportunities, including the Mall of Georgia.
QUICK INFO
Some of Duluth’s neighborhoods include Edgewater Estates, Sweet Bottom Plantation, and Riverbrooke. Affluent estates with antebellum architecture can be found as well as apartment communities, older brick, ranch-style homes and subdivisions. Duluth still retains some of its original small-town businesses, along with chain businesses, many accessible by Ga. 400 and I-85.
Sales tax: 6% chamber of commerce Gwinnett County 770-232-3000, www.gwinnettchamber.org
property Taxes
Gwinnett County remains affordable for renters and first-time home buyers, many of whom find homes in the communities of Doraville, Lawrenceville and Snellville. The median value of homes in 2006, according to the Census Bureau, was $193,100.
Neighborhoods
Duluth
Amidst the pristine setting of Gwinnett County, Duluth has some of the most exclusive neighborhoods
Suwanee is named after the Shawnee Indians who settled here in the latter part of the 18th century. Following the official founding of the city in 1837, Suwanee became a railroad stop along the Southern Railroad route. It remained a small country town well into the ’70s when construction of I-85 and U.S. 23 brought easy access to the region. Since then, Suwanee has experienced tremendous growth, from 2,000 residents in 1990 to more than 10,000 today. To help manage growth, the city has developed a comprehensive development plan that promotes pedestrian-oriented development and mixeduse zoning. Designated a Tree City USA for more than 10 years, the city is committed to preserving 27 percent of its land as green space.
The property tax in unincorporated Gwinnett County is $31.77 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-822-8800.
in Metro Atlanta and is home to some of the best golf courses and private tennis clubs. There are numerous parks for recreation and participatory sports, including Bunten Road Park and “Shorty” Howell Park. Two major malls, Gwinnett Place and Northpoint, are located near Duluth. The Southeastern Railway Museum, which preserves and operates old railroad equipment, is a must-see for any railroad aficionado.
Such foresight has allowed Suwanee to retain its old-fashioned charm while providing contemporary convenience. Only 35 miles from downtown Atlanta, Suwanee is close to big-city attractions, business districts and shopping. Many antique shops and historic structures, including several Victorian and regional farm-style homes, are located near downtown Suwanee. N
Photo: Georgia Dept. of Economic Development
Mall of Georgia
upcoming
EVENTS
Theater & Concerts
Vince Gill, Southern Ground Amphitheater
The multiple Grammy Award-winning country music singer and guitarist performs. June 7, 770-719-4173, www.southerngroundamp.
The Spinners, Southern Ground Amphitheater
The R&B group, known for such classics as “Working My Way Back to You” and “The Rubberband Man,” performs. June 15, 770-719-4173, www.southerngroundamp.
One Direction, Philips Arena
The world-famous U.K. boy band, made up of former contestants on the British version of the “X Factor” TV talent competition, performs as part of its world tour. June 21, 800-745-3000, www.philipsarena.com.
Bill Cosby, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
The comedian, actor and author makes a rare local appearance. June 28, 800-745-3000, www.cobbenergycentre.com.
Moonlight and Music Concert, Gwinnett Historic Courthouse
Bring your lawn chairs and a picnic dinner and enjoy free live music in an outdoor setting. The Beatles tribute band Abbey Road Live! performs on June 28, and the Randall Bramblett Band performs on July 26. June 28 and July 26, 678-226-2639, www.visitlawrenceville.com.
The Guess Who, Southern Ground Amphitheater
The Canadian classic-rock group, responsible for such hits as “American Woman,” “These Eyes” and “No Time,” performs. July 27, 770-719-4173, www.southerngroundamp.
Exhibits & Events
35th Annual Possum Trot, Chattahoochee Nature Center
This 10K race along the scenic Chattahoochee River in Roswell benefits the Chattahoochee Nature Center. The event includes a 1-mile fun run. June 1, 770-992-2055, www.chattahoocheenaturecenter.org.
BeerFest Duluth: Brews and Tunes, Duluth Town Green
Enjoy live music from the Acorns, Smokey’s Farmland Band and more while sampling more than 300 beers at this event promoting Georgia’s fine local breweries. June 1, www.beerfest-duluth.com.
Duluth Idol, Festival Center
Take to the Festival Center stage and share your singing talent with the city of Duluth. Auditions will be held from 3 to 8 p.m. on June 3. June 8, 770-476-3434, www.duluthga.net.
Movies Under the Stars, Town Center Park
Bring lawn chairs, a blanket and snacks while enjoying a screening of The Amazing Spider-Man June 8, www.suwanee.com.
RockFest, Tellus Science Museum
Enjoy a weekend for the whole family at one of the largest gem and mineral shows in the Southeast, featuring dealers, children’s activities, a rock wall, special planetarium shows, giveaways and more. June 8-9, 770-606-5700, www.tellusmuseum.org.
Atlanta Ballet Summer Day Camp, Cobb Centre
Keep your child engaged during the summer and let them explore their creative side! The Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education hosts a day camp for beginning and intermediate dancers ages 8 and up at its Cobb Centre studio in Marietta. June 10-28, 678-213-5000, www.centre.atlantaballet.com.
A Light in the Darkness: Magnetic Pizzazz, Tellus Science Museum
C.C. Culver, the only woman mission controller on the Lunar Prospect Mission, delivers a lecture about the mission’s detection of magnetic fields on the moon and how it affects the Earth. June 14, 770-606-5700, www.tellusmuseum.org.
Gwinnett Fire Five-Alarm 5K, Town Center Park
This fun 5K race along the greenway in Suwanee benefits the Gwinnett Fire Employees’ Benevolent Fund. The race finishes at Town Center Park in Suwanee. June 15, www.suwanee.com.
East Point Farmers Market, Downtown East Point
This monthly farmers market features locally grown produce and handcrafted goods, as well as the city’s first Food Truck Alley, featuring a number of food trucks offering quality, inexpensive fare. June 15 and July 20, www.downtowneastpoint.com.
Fayette Market Day, Downtown Fayetteville
Browse the wares of vendors of homegrown goods and homemade merchandise in an open-air market environment at the Gazebo in
Girl with a Pearl Earring: Dutch Paintings from the Mauritshuis, High Museum of Art
PHOTO: “Girl With A Pearl Earring” Johannes Vermeer
Frida and Diego: Passion, Politics, and Painting, High Museum of Art
Suwanee SculpTour, Suwanee
Downtown Fayetteville. The June 15 event also features a car show. June 15 and July 20, 770-719-4173, www.fayetteville-ga.gov.
Girl with a Pearl Earring: Dutch Paintings from the Mauritshuis, High Museum of Art
Highlighting the artistic genius of Dutch Golden Age painters including Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt van Rijn, Frans Hals and Jan Steen, this exhibit marks the first time Vermeer’s titular painting will be seen in the Southeast. June 23-Sept. 29, 404-733-5000, www.high.org.
Native Expressions: Dave McGary’s Bronze Realism, Booth Western Art Museum
View sculptures by one of the living legends of contemporary artists of the American West. Through June 30, 770-387-1300, www.boothmuseum.org.
Duluth Celebrates America, Scott Hudgens Park
Commemorate Independence Day with live music, games, face-painting, food and drink vendors and a fireworks display. July 3, 770-476-3434, www.duluthga.net.
11th Annual Fabulous Fourth Spectacular, Mall of Georgia
Celebrate the holiday with a fireworks display and a screening of the romantic comedy Playing for Keeps on a giant 55-foot screen. July 4, www.mallofgeorgia.com.
Pops on the River 2013, Chattanooga
Experience a free concert by the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera Orchestra at Coolidge Park in Chattanooga, Tenn. The event also includes a fireworks display. July 4, www.chattanoogafun.com.
Salute to the Red, White and Blue, East Point
This family-friendly tradition features a carnival complete with carousel, Ferris wheel and more. The event also includes a watermelon-eating contest, a food court, and the area’s largest fireworks display. July 4, www.downtowneastpoint.com/fourthofjuly.
Grand Opening, The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta
Attend the official opening of this new shopping center in Woodstock, featuring more than 85 of the best-known brands and designer outlets, including Adidas, American Eagle, Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, Kate Spade and many, many more. The ribbon-cutting ceremony begins at 10 a.m. in the center court. July 18, www.theoutletshoppesatlanta.com.
Chattahoochee River Summer Splash, Chattahoochee River
Kayak, canoe or raft your way down 6 miles of the beautiful Chattahoochee River during this annual summer event. An afternoon of live music, food and fun at Powers Island follows the float. July 27, 678-538-1200, www.visitsandysprings.org.
Covering America: The Saturday Evening Post in the 1950s and Early 1960s, Booth Western Art Museum
This exhibit showcases 30 original paintings that graced the cover of the Saturday Evening Post, the nation’s oldest magazine. These works depicting everyday life in post-WWII America, created by such renowned artists as Norman Rockwell and Richard Sargent, are shown alongside the covers on which they appeared. Through Sept. 29, 770-387-1300, www.boothmuseum.org.
Suwanee Farmers Market, Town Center Park
Browse and purchase fresh produce, baked goods and natural products at this popular market. On the first Friday in June, enjoy some of Atlanta’s best food truck vendors. Open 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 6 and 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays (except Sept. 21) through Oct. 5. Through October, www.suwanee.com.
Suwanee SculpTour, Suwanee
Downtown Suwanee’s walkable, outdoor public art experience returns with 15 new sculptures created by artists from across the country. Through March 2015, www.suwanee.com.
Fox Theatre Tours, Fox Theatre
Take a guided tour of this historic venue, including the orchestra pit, the Egyptian Ballroom and the “Mighty Mo” organ. Ongoing, 404-881-2100, www.foxtheatre.com.
Inside CNN Studio Tour, CNN Center
Get a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the world’s first and most famous 24-hour news network. Watch the CNN newsroom in action and have your picture taken reading the day’s news. Ongoing, 404-827-2300, www.cnn.com/tour.
Titanic: The Artifact Expedition, Atlantic Station
This stirring exhibit showcases more than 200 artifacts preserved from the wreck of the RMS Titanic, offering a one-of-a-kind look at the historic ship (then the largest in the world) and sharing the stories of its passengers Ongoing, 404-496 4274, www.titanicatlanta.com.
GONE WIND WITH THE
Scarlett on the Square
Original Gone With the Wind memorabilia on display from the private collection of Dr. Christopher Sullivan.
T Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center
Bringing the Natural World to Life
By Cady Schulman
here are nature centers, science centers and history centers throughout the Atlanta area. But the only place you’ll find a combination of all three is at the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center.
Situated on 233 sprawling acres, this oasis in the middle of bustling Buford, Ga., is dedicated to promoting sustainable environmental practices, fostering an appreciation of the area’s natural resources, and educating children and adults with programs, events and hands-on exhibits.
Those exhibits include Water Ways, which traces how water has shaped Gwinnett County from 1818 to the present; Blue Planet, a high-tech, multimedia display with video, audio and lighting effects that highlights the “power and fragility” of our ecosystem; and Discover H20, which shows how water affects us and how we affect water sources in North Georgia. The center also houses traveling exhibits such as the recent Peanuts … Naturally, which featured Charlie Brown, Snoopy and friends exploring the wonders of the natural world.
In addition to its exhibits, the center educates by example, showcasing a number of “green building” features and practices, from its 40,000-square-foot vegetative roof (one of the largest in the nation) planted with thousands of drought-resistant seedlings to energy-efficient lighting, recycled building materials and a water feature that serves as a cooling tower to naturally aircondition the building.
The center also hosts birthday parties and is available for rental for meetings, weddings and other special events. The building is surrounded by acres of green space and walking trails, just 2 miles from the Mall of Georgia.
The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center also presents educational programming at six heritage sites, including Chesser-Williams House, built in the 1850s; McDaniel Farm, which provides a look at turn-of-the-century farm life; the Isaac Adair House, built around 1827 and notable for its architecture; the Yellow River Post Office, a former farm property that also included a post office and general store, which served as a communications center for southern Gwinnett County in the mid-19th century; Freeman’s Mill, a grist mill constructed in the late 1800s; and the Lawrenceville Female Seminary, a former “finishing school” for girls in the area.
The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center is located at 2020 Clean Water Drive in Buford. For more information, call 770-904-3500 or visit www.gwinnettehc.org.
