10 Things to do in Atlanta – Convergence 2014

As Convergence 2014 Atlanta approaches, it’s definitely time to nail down all your plans while you’re there, this includes some fun, touristy-type, activities that the city is very well known for.

Here, in no particular order, are 10 of the highest rated activities that you should experience while you’re in Atlanta this year.

10. The Fox Theatre – 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

Recently renovated and restored to its original look of the 1920s, the Fox theatre is not only visually stunning, but also packed each night with a wide variety of performances. If you’re looking for a great night on the town, the Fox Theatre is a great choice.

9. Georgia Aquarium – 225 Baker St, Atlanta, GA 30313 (Downtown)

If you love wildlife, you have to go and visit the Georgia Aquarium on your visit to Microsoft Convergence this year. The Georgia Aquarium features stunning displays of all types of wildlife, whales, sharks, sea rays, otters, penguins and even dolphins. Highlight? Make sure to check out the giant below-water glass surface  at the Ocean Voyager exhibition.

8. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site – 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 (Old Fourth Ward)

This historic site is a must see on your trip to Microsoft Convergence this year. Start off by taking a walk through the past at the the home in which the leader of the Civil Rights movement in America was born, the church where he preached and the memorial site where he is buried. Each year this incredible park draws more than 500,000 visitors.

7. East Lake Golf Club – 2575 Alston Drive, SE, Atlanta, GA 30317

If you’re a golfer, you’re definitely aware of the beautiful East Lake Golf club. Not only has this course been home to many professional Golf tournaments, but it’s also a dream destination on any golfers bucket list. If you’re lucky enough to have time to play the course, then it’s an absolute must-do.. hey, perhaps a meeting on the course?

6. Play (or play hooky) in Woodruff Park 

Located near beautiful beaux arts skyscrapers, Woodruff Park is Atlanta’s home away from home. Take an afternoon walk, sit back and enjoy a nice read as time passes, or take have lunch outdoors. Whatever you decide to do, Woodruff park makes for a great setting.

5. Drive fast at the Atlanta Motor Speedway

Let’s face it, who hasn’t dreamt about experiencing seat strapping g-forces at speeds of up to 165mph…. well, I know I have. If you’re up for an adventure this year at Convergence, why not try something new at the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Sit back in your seat as your driver blasts through three lightning laps at the legendary Atlanta Speedway. What can you do? Sit back, smile and enjoy the ride.

4. Porter Beer Bar

Who doesn’t love a couple of cocktails, a great atmosphere and interesting people… Well, we suggest that you stroll on over to the Porter Beer Bar, where there are over 430 beers to please even the most particular connoisseur. It’s not all about the beer however! The Porter Bar also features a delicious menu with tons of local, and classic, eats.

3. Lenox Square Mall

You knew that a mall was going to be part of this list! Take some time out of your hectic Microsoft Convergence schedule to visit the Lenox Square Mall and get shopping. The mall has endless shop options (both swanky and bargain), it tends to get rather crowded on the weekends, so try to get out during the week if you can. If you’re stuck in the weekend crowd – bright side: people watch! There’s a decent chance you’ll spot a celebrity (Beyonce coming out of Nicole Miller in ’08)!

2. Buy a bonsai tree—from a monk

In 1944 a handful of Trappist monks established a community in the woods outside of Conyers. Known as the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, it now is a Church, retreat house, visitors centre and also includes several workshops. Most importantly, the community has its own Bonsai Farm and you can own one for approx. $25.

1. See Atlanta’s 
biggest stars

Spend one of your nights at Convergence observing the stars and travelling through the universe. The Fernbank Science Center is home to the largest telescope in the Southeast, so there is plenty of opportunity to explore the vast skies. Admission is free and the sky is plentiful!