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. The historic Fox Theatre on venerable Peachtree Street has earned a reputation over the years as a wonderful venue for concerts, movies, plays and performances. Even if you can't catch a show, don't miss the stunning Middle Eastern-style facility, which features dramatic minarets, shining marble, ornate carvings and decadent decor. Guided tours are available when performance schedules permit. NB Tours are cash or check only. MARTA: Civic Center

DOWNTOWN. "Moored" north of Centennial Olympic Park, a massive glass and steel prow beckons modern explorers to discover the wonders that lie deep within the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest and most architecturally stunning facilities of its kind. Exotic batfish, sea goblins and bowmouth guitarfish are among 100,000 fish and marine animals patrolling the 6-plus million gallons of the deep water exhibit, which is home to the state's most prodigious residents ­ four whale sharks Alice and Trixie (Ralph and Norton passed in 2007); Taroko and Yushan joined the tanked in June 2007. A reality thanks to the generosity of Home Depot co-founder Bernie Marcus, the Georgia Aquarium has strong rescue, rehabilitation and education emphases and serves as one of the state's top special event venues. MARTA: CNN Center or Peachtree Center

MIDTOWN. The food is served cafeteria style; the drinks are ordered at the bar; but the "play's the thing" when it comes to giving patrons an experience they'll remember. Unlike most staged performances that ignore the crowd, the Shakespeare Tavern players go out of their way to include everyone. Spectators are brought up on stage to join in fights and targeted for a soliloquy or an aside. The seats are always packed, mainly because the company gives crowds an authentic Shakespearean experience.