Gotta Love Atlanta

 Five Additional Reasons To Love Atlanta

• Pop into the World of Coca-Cola after its May 24 re-opening next door to the aquarium. New films, fun memorabilia, and samples of Coke products from around the world promise a sparkling visit. (www.woccatlanta.com)
• Splash and skip through the watery spouts at the Fountain of Rings in the 21-acre Centennial Olympic Park. After a recent face-lift, a new water and music show squirts up four times a day. (www.centennialpark.com)
• Feel much safer walking downtown's streets. Keep an eye out for the Ambassador Force, uniformed folks in pith helmets on foot and on bicycles, who help visitors find their way around. (www.atlantadowntown.com/ambassador.asp)
• Fall in love with Zoo Atlanta's most famous baby, Mei Lan. The panda cub frolics with her mom in the Grant Park attraction. (www.zooatlanta.com)
• Save up to 50% off admissions to attractions with the Atlanta CityPass. It includes the Georgia Aquarium, the High Museum of Art, Inside CNN Studio Tours, World of Coca-Cola, and Zoo Atlanta. (www.citypass.com/city/atlanta/html)

Traffic Tips

• Avoid interstates 7-9 a.m. and 3-7 p.m. on weekdays. Don't plan to drive 3-8 p.m. on Friday nights when you can avoid it. It's the busiest time on all the city's roads.
• If you're coming from out of state, pick up a city map at the visitors centers at the state lines to aid your navigation.
• Expect valet parking at restaurants all across town. Tip ($2-$5) when getting back into your car.
• Take the Atlanta Tourist Loop buses that make stops about every 30 minutes between major attractions and hotels in downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead. MARTA trains are safe and clean―especially between Five Points, Midtown, and Lenox Square. Visit www.itsmarta.com for train and loop routes.

"Gotta Love Atlanta" is from the May 2007 issue of Southern Living. Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.