PINE MOUNTAIN. Located just over an hour's drive southwest of Atlanta, Callaway Gardens is a stunning resort. It features a handful of high-end lodging choices, highly regarded Mountain and Lake View golf courses, a world-class tennis facility, a wide array of outdoor activities and plenty of dining possibilities. Of course, many visitors would argue that the resort's lovely gardens are its true attraction. Admission to the gardens allows access to a plethora of options, including Day Butterfly Center, Callaway Brothers Azalea Bowl, Sibley Horticultural Center and numerous nature trails.

DOWNTOWN. Created for the 1996 Olympics, this park is an attractive urban retreat, with grassy picnic spots, great views of downtown, and plenty of activities, public art, and free music. During the summer, live music is featured every Wednesday night. Kids love the Fountain of Rings, which, in addition to spewing water, tells about the history of the Olympic Games. MARTA: Philips Arena/Dome/GWCC Station or Peachtree Center

BUCKHEAD. Chastain Park in North Buckhead features an amphitheater for outdoor concerts, a tennis facility, ball fields, running and walking trails and a public golf course. For a truly enjoyable evening, look into the many events and concerts offered during the summer. For most concerts, locals bring food, drinks and a table to sit, relax, eat and enjoy the show. (Some shows may not allow food.) Refreshments are also served at stands. A great venue for a show!

MIDTOWN. This peaceful oasis is popular with busy Atlantans. Enjoy a picnic and an inspiring skyline view, or try out the wealth of leisure opportunities, including swimming, tennis, cycling, in-line skating, soccer and football. You can even get a history lesson while you enjoy the great outdoors by reading plaques commemorating Civil War battles and other historic events that took place in the area. Piedmont Park hosts numerous concerts and festivals as well. MARTA: Midtown or Arts Center

STONE MOUNTAIN. This 3200-acre park surrounds the world's largest granite monolith ­ you can walk to the top or take a chairlift both ways. A park highlight (and its telltale feature) is a carving on the sheer rock mountainside that honors Confederate President Jefferson Davis and Generals Robert E. Lee and Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson. Impressive laser shows are presented during summer months along with special weekend events such as chili cook-offs and ribs festivals. NB Entry fee is cash only.