One of the country's hottest cities in terms of job growth, Atlanta is home to the Coca-Cola Company, Georgia Pacific, Turner Broadcasting, and Delta Airlines, among countless others. Among the city's accolades is the distinction of being ranked number four in Fortune magazine's list of "Best Cities in the World for Business" in 1994.

But Atlanta has always represented a mix of past and present. High-tech firms housed in skyscrapers thrive amidst historic plantations. The city's population, including its greater metropolitan area, is approximately 3,143,000. Interest in Atlanta, of course, surged leading up to the 1996 Summer Olympics, which took place here and spurred new construction and beautification efforts across the city.

The weather in Atlanta is often quite humid, and summers can be hot. During the months of June, July, and August, temperatures often hover just under the 90 degree mark. Add that to substantial humidity, and you've got one steamy climate. During the winter months, temperatures usually remain in the mid-30s to lower 50s, according to the time of day.

Local businesses are helped in large part by the wealth of top-notch universities in the area, a list that includes Georgia State University, Emory University, Morehouse College, Spelman College, the Georgia Institute of Technology, and Oglethorpe University. With so many institutions of higher learning in its own back yard, Atlanta has a built-in insurance policy for its future economic vitality. The universities groom the next generation of skilled high-tech workers, many of whom remain in Atlanta upon their graduation, tempted by the diverse array of businesses and available jobs.

Atlanta's attractions, aside from the obvious (and perhaps even infamous) Centennial Olympic Park, include tours of local businesses: the World of Coca-Cola and the Cable News Network Center, for example. Both are located in downtown Atlanta. Stone Mountain Park appeals to lovers of Civil War history. The park is the world's largest granite monolith. Carved into a portion of that monolith are the likenesses of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, Gen. Stonewall Jackson, and Gen. Robert E. Lee, all of them on horseback. Visitors may view the sculptures by a train which circles Stone Mountain. The park also contains nature trails, additional biking and hiking trails, several historic plantations, and is the site of nightly laser shows during the summer months. At the west gate of the mountain sits a historic gem: Stone Mountain Village, a restored 19th century railroad town lined with shops and plenty of relics.

The Auburn Avenue historic district pays tribute to its most famous resident: Martin Luther King Jr. The district includes both the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where the late Rev. King preached with his father, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. Alongside King's tomb burns an eternal flame.

And for those who want to spend money, Atlanta will be pleased to accommodate you at Underground Atlanta, a three-level, six city block-large shopping-fest with more than 100 stores. Underground Atlanta opened in 1970 and closed in 1980 for refurbishing. Nine years later, the center opened its doors to the public and welcomed shoppers once again -- not before millions of dollars were spent on its face lift. If presidential history interests you, check out the Carter Center, home to both the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. Here you'll find plenty of memorabilia and documents from the Carter administration.

The historic Alonzo Herndon Home is a 15-room mansion dating back to 1910. Its former owner, Alonzo Herndon, was the founder of Atlanta Life Insurance, considered among the United States' largest African-American-owned insurance companies. Also worth exploring is Piedmont Park, Atlanta's largest park, which commands a breathtaking view of the city skyline. Adjacent to the park is the Atlanta Botanical Garden, home to several species of tropical, desert, and endangered plants from throughout the world.

Considering Atlanta's explosive growth, it goes without saying that the city's real estate market is reaping the benefits. Prices here remain comparatively lower than in other parts of the country, boosting sales still higher. Surrounding suburbs, like Marietta, are experiencing an unprecedented increase of new residents. Atlanta represents the perfect mix of Deep South charm and hospitality and the steady growth of technological progress. It's little wonder that the city's growth continues at Olympic proportions.

Published: October 8, 1998

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Editor's Note: This article reflects the opinions of Courtney Ronan only and not necessarily the views of this or any other publication, organization or Website owner.