TravelJunkii: Things to do in Atlanta

Ok so I come upon many lists about Atlanta of where one should go. I've seen The Varsity on many of them and personally if that restaurant is even on your list of where to visit in the city you are probably a tourist who visited for a week or haven't been living in Atlanta for that long. I also came upon one that seemed like it was written mostly for hipsters. So I decided to write a list for those who are tired of the ordinary Atlanta scene and isn't afraid to experience something a little different.

Atlanta Food Truck Park and Market: Howell Mill Road

One of my personal favorites which I'm sure Atlanta residents have been waiting on for a while is Atlanta Food Truck Park and Market. This is the first permanent food truck site in Atlanta offering food trucks to the community and visitors for lunch and dinner! Make sure to also check out the weekend farmers market, live music and artist farm!

Lullwater Park: Clifton Road

Despite being smack dab in the middle of the city, this place is a total retreat..You can't hear the cars buzzing down Clairmont over the quiet sounds of leaves rustling in the trees. It's hard to think about the insanity of work or school when you're miles away from your laptop with old water mills to explore. A shaky, swinging bridge awaits, daring you to throw caution to the wind and run across without ever looking down: perfect for kids and kids and heart... not so good for skiddish dogs. Bring friends to keep you company, or come alone and immerse yourself in solitude.

Canoe Restaurant: Vinings

Enjoy the delightfully varied menu of Canoe blends expertly-executed American and Continental fare with a view of the river. Every offering is characterized by innovative flavor combinations and only the freshest of ingredients. You can take a leisurely stroll through the garden outside before or after your meal. The garden has several wooden benches and chairs for you to relax and enjoy the scenery. Hidden behind one of the outdoor private party tents is Canoe's herb and vegetable garden which many people don't know about. It has an outdoor fireplace and additional seating. Needless to say, this is a great date or special occasion venue (or if you just want a nice brunch too).

BAPS: Lilburn, GA

Embrace yourself in this hidden gem in Lilburn. BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is a worldwide civic and religious organization dedicated to the spirituality of the individual while promoting harmony, between individuals, within families, and within diverse communities. All are welcome and must dress conservatively with shoulders and knees covered. Be sure to wear socks as you will be asked to take your shoes off and it is quite fun sliding on the marble floors. On Sundays you can enjoy a music session and learn Indian music as well as dancing.

High Museum: Midtown

CNN Center, Georgia Aquarium and Coca-Cola factory are very much overrated places to visit in what some would like to call a tourist trap. Of course because it's in the dead center of Downtown and there are many things to do in that one little spot, but lets venture out to Midtown for a bit and get lost in some Art History at the High Museum.

Belt Line: Reynolds Town

Think you know everything about Atlanta? Think again? We have all heard of the Atlanta Beltline, but not many people know what it is. ABL offers free and informative walking, bus and bike tours. You will be informed much of Atlanta's history and future projects for the Beltline, because the tour has become so popular, you are only able to sign up on the 15th of each month for a spot on the tour for the following month. After you register, they will send you an email with all of your registration information and where to meet. Wait till you see the breath taking view of Bellwood Quarry.

Micheal C. Carlos Museum: Emory University

Everyone Knows about the Body Exhibit because it's in a spot where a lot of people like to stay away from, but have you heard of the Micheal C. Carlos Museum of Emory University. It is one of Atlanta's best kept secrets. Typically quiet and rarely crowded, it is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon. Its collection focuses largely on both the ancient Americas and Egypt - is quite impressive. Open to the public, this museum houses many artworks from all over the world: Egyptian, Incas, Greek, Romans, and many others.

Atlanta Rollergirls: Old Fourth Ward

Watching Rollergirls is a fun experience and no worries if you've never been, there are program hand-outs that explain the rules, so you're not lost if it's your first derby. Watching the girls decked out in all kinds of fun outfits including fishnet tights, skirts, great nicknames on jerseys, stars on helmets and more, flying around the rink and occasionally elbowing or body checking their opponents. Not to mention you can bring coolers with booze, just no glass.