The city of Atlanta once burned to the ground, but modern-day visitors will find little evidence of that storied era. The modern city features dazzling skyscrapers, bustling streets and the nightlife that you would expect to find in any major city. During Thanksgiving, the city typically experiences cool but not freezing weather, which means visitors can explore without fearing the elements.
The city of Atlanta hosts a number of professional sports teams, and visitors to the city can watch hockey, baseball, football or basketball. During Thanksgiving weekend, the NBA, NFL and NHL have games scheduled throughout the nation and the chances are high that Atlanta will host some games. The Atlanta Falcons play their games at the Georgia Dome, an indoor stadium also used for college football and other events. If the Falcons schedule takes them out of town, fans can still take a tour of the impressive venue. Basketball's Atlanta Hawks and hockey's Atlanta Thrashers share the smaller Phillips Stadium. In 2010, all three of the sports teams had home games scheduled during Thanksgiving weekend.
The day after Thanksgiving, known as "Black Friday," draws large crowds to stores all over the U.S. in search of deals. Atlanta provides shoppers with a huge variety of shopping destinations, both in the heart of the city and in the suburbs. Phipps Plaza on Peachtree Road tempts shoppers with high-end product lines from Gucci, Armani and Jimmy Choo. Lenox Square Mall offers more upscale stores including Louis Vuitton and Cartier but also popular department stores Bloomingdale's and Macy's. Peachtree Mall, conveniently located in the city center, allows people to go shopping without having to stray too far from the tourist sites.
CNN Atlanta allows visitors to go behind the scenes at the news network. The center closes on Thanksgiving Day but opens for the rest of Thanksgiving weekend. Guests undertake a 55-minute tour through the television studios. In 2010, general admission cost $13 and only guests ages 3 or older were permitted. A V.I.P. tour priced at $35 in 2010 gives guests additional access to the studios used for Headline News and CNN and on leaving, visitors receive a commemorative photo. After enjoying the CNN experience, participants can buy souvenirs at the news network's on-site retail store.
Inside CNN Studio Tours
190 Marietta St
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-827-2300
cnn.com/tour/atlanta/
