As these last few weeks in my hometown before I head off to college approach, I want to fill my time with adventures with friends and family. Atlanta is a vibrant city home to over 6 million people with a bustling art, food, and music city. Grab a few of your best friends or family and visit these events this summer to see what Atlanta is really about! (They're all under $15 too!)
1. Andy Warhol at the High Museum of Art
An exhibit full of prints by modern contemporary artist Andy Warhol opened on June 3rd, and it’s definitely a sight to see. The prints include his iconic Campbell’s Soup, as well as the portrait of Marilyn Monroe. Even if you’re not one for strolling through art museums (which you should be), this exhibit is a historical monument. Warhol revolutionized the way art was created and express, as well as changing America’s perception of art in the 20th Century to the present. Pop culture and modern art lovers alike will enjoy the day trip to view of 250 Warhol Prints curated by Jordan D. Schnitzer at the High until September 3rd. Tickets are available online at www.high.org.
2. Free yoga in the park with King of Pops
After strolling down the Beltline, find your zen every Sunday this summer by heading down to Old Fourth Ward Skate Park to get a little burst of exercise into your daily summertime nap schedule. Even if you’re not a yoga pro, you’ll be surrounded by amateurs and yogis led mainly by instructor Charlie Baxter Graham, but on occasion there’s guest instructors from all across Atlanta. Snag an Atlanta food classic, King of Pops, and you’ll be able to tackle the work week with mindfulness.
3. Fourth of July Celebration at Centennial Olympic Park
Celebrate your American pride on July 4th with your family or get your girl gang together to see one of the Southeast’s largest firework display for free. Centennial Olympic Park is not only a historical landmark, but in the heart of Downtown Atlanta, near Phillips Arena. You can catch a ride on the SkyView ferris wheel before enjoying a sunset with the backdrop of a cement forest. The finale of the evening is seeing fireworks synchronized with the top pop music hits right now. And if you’re saving money for college, guess what? It’s FREE!
4. Atlanta Ice Cream Festival
On July 27th, walk the lanes of Piedmont Park for the 7th Annual Atlanta Ice Cream Festival. You can fill your day with your inner child while snacking on America’s favorite dessert from local and regional businesses. Even better, each year the festival choose a health and wellness charity to support to raise awareness for fitness and wellness engagements, but it also hosts a 5K Fight Cancer Walk. Don’t be afraid to have some ice cream while playing games, making crafts, and listening to local artists, all while educating yourself on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
5. Piedmont Park Summer Arts & Crafts Festival
Atlanta is home to a number of arts and culture festivals, but this one stands out. In fact, Sunshine Artists Magazine says it’s one of the Top 100 Arts Festivals in the nation! Stop by Atlanta’s largest park on August 19th or 20th to walk the park and meet some of the Southeast’s best artists, photographers, and vendors. Whether you’re looking for some new dorm décor or just want a walk around the park with music, snacks, and art gazing, you’ll be witnessing a tradition of the Atlanta community.