The Martin Luther King Jr. Center commemorates Dr. King's life and contributions to America's Civil Rights movement. Located a few blocks east of downtown Atlanta, the facility is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except major U.S. holidays. Summer hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The outdoor memorial and the indoor facilities on the center's grounds attract adults and children.
Parking and public transportation at Martin Luther King Jr. Center
The National Park Service operates a free lot adjacent to its Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site across the street from the King Center. The entrance to this lot is on John Wesley Dobbs Ave, a block north of Auburn Avenue. No parking is permitted on Auburn Avenue in the block occupied by the center. The most convenient MARTA public transportation stop is the downtown Five Points train station. The Number 3 Auburn Avenue bus takes you from Five Points to the center in less than 10 minutes.
Best and worst time go to Martin Luther King Jr. Center
Sunday morning services at Ebenezer Baptist Church and two other large congregations nearby on Auburn help to make Sundays the worst time to visit. The best times are weekday mornings between opening and lunch hour. Avoid school groups by arriving as soon as the center opens.
Admission to Martin Luther King Jr. Center
The King Center has no admission fees for any of its indoor or outdoor facilities.
Must see/do at Martin Luther King Jr. Center
Visit Freedom Hall which houses the center's gift shop and international art exhibits. Make a tour reservation at the National Park Service Information Desk (across the street from the King Center) to enjoy a glimpse into Dr. King's early life at his birth home nearby.
Other places to visit near Martin Luther King Jr. Center
Detailed and interactive exhibits at the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site provide an opportunity for in-depth exploration of civil rights activities in America. Foodies will enjoy the Municipal Market, an urban farmer's market and food court, also called the Sweet Auburn Curb Market by residents.
Insider tip for visitors to Martin Luther King Jr. Center
Don't overlook the small firehouse at the intersection of Auburn and Boulevard. It has additional displays related to race relations in American life. Volunteer docents are often available to explain the historical significance of every part of the firehouse's collection.
Author's bio: Carol Luther has lived in Atlanta for 35 years. She has published travel articles in "Diamond" magazine, Arizona Central, USA Today and other websites.
In addition to exhibits and programs, which include records, photographs and artifacts documenting the history of Bartow County for more than 200 years, the Bartow History Museum contains archives and research rooms.
The museum's collection begins at the time period when the Native American Cherokee were the area's primary residents. Interactive permanent exhibits detail settlement, Cherokee removal and Civil War strife. Exhibits also show the effects of global events, such as World War II, on Bartow County.
In 2010, the museum relocated to the 1869 Courthouse from its former location at 13 North Wall Street in Cartersville.
Programs include historical workshops, lunch and learn sessions, a summer camp, parents' nights out and a Thursday evening lecture series.
The Millennium Gate serves as a transition, one you notice, between the lakeside row of residences and the boutiques and commercial offices in Atlantic Station. Made of Indiana limestone, the gate extends 100 feet in the air from the three-acre Lake Hylia, and 82 feet from 17th St. Outside, the Romanesque architecture and iron tables and chairs create the feeling of a European plaza. Inside the gate, is a 12,000-square-foot museum with three historically-decorated rooms. The museum features exhibits that highlight Georgia history, architecture, culture and philanthropy.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park preserves a Civil War battleground of the Atlanta Campaign. The park is 2,923 acres and includes Kennesaw Mountain, along with three historic battlefield areas. Hikers may explore its many trails, which pass by earthworks and Civil War-era cannons. The park also offers educational programs such as the Junior Ranger Program.
Located in the historic Roberts-Mozley House in the midst of the Douglasville Historic District, the Cultural Arts Council of Douglasville & Douglas County has a mission of stimulating participation and enjoyment of the arts in Douglas County. The CAC features a gallery with constant exhibits and a permanent art collection. It also has many satellite art organizations, including Cowboy Poets, Curator's Club, Art Guild, DC Chamber Singers, DC Connection, Writers Group, C.A.S.T., F.A.M.E., Historical Society and Camera Club.
This local museum is dedicated to preserving the rich history of Marietta and Cobb County. It features everything from Cherokee writings and traditions to tales from the Civil War and military items.
The Marietta Museum of History offers guided group tours, some of which are designed specifically for young children. Seniors and students enjoy discounts and members, active military personnel and children under age five visit for free.
The Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History, which is open to the public, also offers membership opportunities. Membership comes with perks such as preferred seating at lecture events, Smithsonian affiliate membership, gift cards that can be used to purchase items at the gift shop and more.
Guided group tours are available every 30 minutes, and groups of 10 or more can book one of the rooms for private events like luncheons, wedding receptions and corporate meetings.
