Chic and fresh, what's not to love about a city that leads the nation with the title of “City in a Forest."
History is an important part of Atlantan culture, so let’s go back in time a little to explore some interesting facts about this place the National Forest Service has recognized as “the most heavily forested urban area in the country,” I love trees so the fact that they cover 47.9% of the city is wonderful news to me.
1 | Looking out amongst the trees, it’s hard to imagine that in 1864 Atlanta was burned to the ground by General Sherman as an act of war. It's the only city in North America to have been destroyed this way as only 400 buildings survived the razing. According to Georgia Public Broadcasting, Atlanta had a quick recovery and since then, Atlanta has rebuilt. Now, it's one of the lushest cities in the United States, earning the nickname, “city in the forest.”
2 | The Varsity in Atlanta is the world’s largest drive-in restaurant, serving more Coca-Cola (another Atlanta creation) by volume than anywhere else in the world. Find it downtown, alongside I-85 at the corner of North Ave and Spring St.
3 | There are over 55 streets named “Peachtree” in Atlanta. Historians suggest the name originated from the Native American Tribe “Standing Pitch Tree,” versus the common misconception that it is named after an actual peach tree. So take note for next time you hear Sinatra’s “Peachtree Street” duet with Rosemary Clooney or the album Peachtree Road by Sir Elton John.
Since we are talking music, what do Outkast, Ludacris, Gucci Mane, Childish Gambino, CeeLo Green, Waka Flocka, and Killer Mike all have in common? Atlanta! But not only do some of the most famous rappers and hip-hop artists call Atlanta home, other bands such as the Black Lips, Manchester Orchestra, and Deerhunter, have gotten their start here, too.
PHOTO CREDIT 'ATLANTA | WHATS IN A NAME,' GPB
4 | Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest airport in the world.
5 | The Georgia State Capitol is gilded with 43 ounces of Dahlonega gold, mined from the grounds of Georgia.