NORTHEAST ATLANTA. Atlanta has a rich music history, and an aerial tour of the city on an Air Atlanta helicopter promises a great time to reflect on some of her more talented and famous sons and daughters. They all have hits, so simply enjoy the views, pick an artist, and download tunes from folks like The Black Crowes, Alan Jackson, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Usher, Brenda Lee, Little Richard, and even Sir Elton John (ATL's his adopted home in the US).

DOWNTOWN. Experience Inside CNN Atlanta and see global news in the making. Go behind the scenes to see how a production comes together, and view television broadcast innovations and the technology that makes global news gathering a reality. You may catch sight of your favorite TV journalist, and you can even try your hand at broadcasting and volunteer to give the weather in a real studio. Children under 4 are not permitted on the tour. Reservations are recommended as tours tend to sell out hours, sometimes days, in advance. MARTA: CNN Center

DAHLONEGA. Southern Appalachia's charm and culture are just an hour's drive from the heart of Atlanta. Quaint Dahlonega, located just off Highway 409, offers beautiful scenery, fresh air and good hikes. The town itself seems untouched by time thanks to brick walkways, lovely flower beds and friendly people. Locally-owned restaurants and shops offer a good feel for the North Georgia Mountains. In addition, the Crisson and Consolidated Gold Mines, 20 waterfalls, Chestatee Wildlife Preserve and three wineries (Frogtown, Three Sisters and Wolf Mountain) give the town extra year-round appeal. For more information, contact the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center at 800-231-5543.

DOWNTOWN. This brick and limestone ballpark was built for the 1996 Olympic Games and then revamped as Turner Field. The park, home of the Atlanta Braves, boasts modern facilities and plenty of extras, including interactive games, restaurants, a gift shop, and a museum and hall of fame (additional fee) with Hank Aaron memorabilia and other historical exhibits. Near the entry plaza are statues of the most legendary Braves. Turner Field generally opens three hours before game time, providing a great opportunity for folks to catch batting practice or score a few autographs. During the off-season, tours of the park allow visitors to explore the bullpen, press box, dugout and locker rooms.