Atlanta is not only known for its Southern hospitality, but it is a city with significant historic importance for its role in the civil rights movement. Perhaps it is this contradiction of down-home charm and progressive integrity that makes Atlanta so special. The city is filled with beautiful places to see, great food to eat and wonderful hotels to be pampered in--but, if you're on a budget, there are also plenty of free ways to enjoy Atlanta.
The Atlanta Contemporary Art Center was founded in 1973 as a grass-roots artist's cooperative, and it exhibits the work of relevant regional, national and international artists in a wide range of media. The Contemporary features various public programs including talks and lectures, workshops and screenings. Admission to the museum is free every Thursday, and kids 12 and younger get in free every day. Closed on Mondays.
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center (The Contemporary)
535 Means St. N.W.
Atlanta, GA 30318
404-688-1970
thecontemporary.org
Atlantic Station is a city within the city of Atlanta. It is a 24-hour community, providing homes for 10,000 people, employment for 30,000 and shopping and fun for everyone. Located on 138 acres, this station was once a steel mill site and is now recognized as a national representation for a sustainable environment. The architecture is stunning and within you'll find wonderful restaurants, theaters and myriad stores for spending bucks or simply window shopping. Explore this revolutionary "green city" for free.
Atlantic Station
171 17th St. N.W.
Atlanta, GA 30363
404-876-2616
atlanticstation.com
The Woodruff Park Reading Room is an open-air "room" for reading. Because of a partnership with the Atlanta-Fulton Library, the northern area of Woodruff Park has carts filled with books, magazines and newspapers for your perusing pleasure. There are readings and other events often held at lunchtime, and furniture to make yourself comfortable. The reading room is free to everyone. No library cards or IDs needed. Monday through Friday. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April through October only.
Woodruff Park Reading Room
404-658-1877
atlantadowntown.com
The National Historic Site devoted to Martin Luther King Jr. offers tours year round of Dr. King's birth home, Ebenezer Baptist Church, his and Coretta Scott King's grave site, the church where his father preached, the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame and the Visitor Center featuring memorabilia from the Civil Rights era. Admission and parking are free. Touring Dr. King's home is handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Tours fill up very fast and only 15 people are permitted at one time, so get there early. This is a free event that you won't want to miss.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
450 Auburn Ave. N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30312
404-331-6922
nps.gov/malu
