The United States is a massive melting pot of experiences, cultures, and wonders, and as the country celebrates its 250th birthday, the Smithsonian is highlighting some of the spots that capture the spirit of the country.
Grouped into 10 categories, each with 25 locations across the country, the Smithsonian has created an interactive guide to all the best spots to celebrate the American spirit: from acts of bravery and innovation to wonders of nature and artistic brilliance. And of course, we’re thrilled to see that three Atlanta gems have made the list of must-visit spots in the U.S.! Keep scrolling to learn more.
Which Atlanta landmarks made the Smithsonian’s list?
Of course, Atlanta is filled to the brim with can’t-miss cultural landmarks. From famous restaurants to museums to social and historical landmarks and beyond, we’re a city on the cutting edge of what it means to be American. And the Smithsonian recognizes these three landmarks as some of the 250 spots:
- Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
- Jim Henson’s Muppets at the Center for Puppetry Arts
- World of Coca-Cola
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Where: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 (and multiple locations nearby)
Martin Luther King Jr. is an American hero and civil rights leader, born and raised in Atlanta. His childhood home, the church where he preached, Ebenezer Baptist Church, as well as his grave with his wife, Coretta Scott King are all located in Atlanta.
And you can (and should!) visit them all!
Jim Henson’s Muppets at the Center for Puppetry Arts
Where: 1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
If you’re looking for a little taste of some of the Arts that made the U.S. itself, you’ve gotta head to the Center for Puppetry Arts in Midtown and check out all the incredible muppets made by Jim Henson!
The Henson exhibit at the Center for Puppetry Arts includes puppets, props, and costumes from Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, Fraggle Rock, The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth, and more!
World of Coca-Cola
Where: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
If you’re looking for (possibly) the most American drink ever, then you’ve gotta grab a Coke! Coca-Cola is an Atlanta invention that has truly shaped the country.
The Smithsonian says,
In 1886, a pharmacist in Atlanta served his customers a carbonated drink flavored with syrup, and an empire was born. Before you leave this 20-acre museum complex on the company’s history, sample Sprite Cucumber from Romania, the bubble-gum-like Inca Kola from Peru and dozens of other beverages from around the globe.
Don’t miss out on these amazing spots, right here in the ATL! And if you want to check out the 247 other wonders that make the United States into the country it is, then you can check out Smithsonian Magazine’s website, here!