Some of the “World’s largest…” things/places in Atlanta

by John Parker Traveler

Represented by the ‘Phoenix’, just like the mythological bird, Atlanta also rose from its ashes to become an important centre of culture and commerce in America. During the American Civil War in the summer of 1864, Maj. Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman and his army attacked and burned almost all of Atlanta to the ground sparing merely 400 buildings including hospitals and churches. Since then, Atlanta has developed as a major hub for commerce and arts. Several influential brands such as Coca-Cola and CNN have their origins in this city. Atlanta boasts to be one of the two cities in the world to be home to two noble laureates: Martin Luther King Jr. and President Jimmy Carter. Atlanta is well connected by several major airlines but airfare deals from Delta Airlines are a popular choice among tourists visiting the City.

Atlanta as a city has been host to several events which have shaped America’s history. Atlanta preserves its history proudly and embraces its present gratifyingly. Though there are several tourist spots spread across the City, here’s a specific list of some of the “world’s Largest…” things/places which attract lots of tourists visiting Atlanta:

1.Georgia Aquarium (World’s Largest Aquarium)

With 8.5 million-US-gallons of water in its tanks, the Georgia Aquarium is the world’s largest and an equally magnificent repository of exotic aquatic animals. The Aquarium houses around 500 different species of marine and freshwater inhabitants with a head count of 120,000. The aquarium is quite popular for it largest inhabitant which happens also to be the largest out there in the ocean, the whale shark. With several elaborate observation tanks, dolphin shows, a 4D theatre showing amazing films about the local marine life, touch tanks, etc., the Georgia Aquarium has something for people from every age group. Located nearby is the Centennial Park which houses the world’s largest interactive fountains featuring the Olympic Ring symbol.

2.Stone Mountain Park (World’s Largest Piece of Exposed Granite)

Built on and around the world’s largest piece of exposed granite rock, the Stone Mountain, the Stone Mountain Park is spread across an area of 3,200 acres. Carved on the surface of the stone are the faces of Robert E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson, and Jefferson Davis. Stone Mountain Park is quite well-known as Georgia’s most-visited attraction and the park offers large green patches, ideal for a family picnic or get-together with friends. People seeking to have some adventure could try their signature Summit Skyride, SkyHike, the Great Locomotive Chase Adventure Golf, and several other fun-filled activities organised by the park officials. Apart from physically strenuous activities, Stone Mountain Park also has a series of attractions ideal for kids and families, such as: the Scenic Railroad, 4-D Theatre, Ride The Ducks, Antebellum Plantation & Farmyard, Stone Mountain Museum, etc.

3.Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Atlanta (World’s Largest Hindu Temple Outside India)

Built on an area of 30 acres, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Atlanta is a beautifully built Hindu architectural wonder which also happens to be the largest temple of its kind, outside India. Crafted with 34,450 pieces of hand-carved Italian marble, Turkish Limestone, and Indian pink sandstone, The Swaminarayan Mandir is a reflection of the Swaminarayan branch of Hinduism. Filled with the fragrance of sandalwood, the interiors of the Temple depicts the way of living preached by Mahant Swami Maharaja, the pioneer of the Swaminarayan sect of Hinduism. Top attractions inside the Mandir complex include a large assembly area where daily prayers are offered, family activity centre, an exhibition on Hindu beliefs and culture, and the heavenly food in the Cafeteria.

Leisure options are abundant in Atlanta and the city receives a generous number of tourists each year. Summers are generally hot and humid and winters are mild in Atlanta. One of the most convenient ways of flying into the city is cheap Delta Airlines flights with world-class service and the most efficient fleet of regular flights to Atlanta, Georgia.