Sometimes, all we need it to get a little lost. It takes just one escape to relax and leave the daily grind behind in search of adventure. It’s healthy and it’s medicine for the soul. We all need it. With that said, aren’t the best adventures including a little comfort at a perfect hotel and days upon days spent enjoying a vibrant city? For me, a weekend in Atlanta and the vibrant Buckhead neighborhood seemed like just what the doctor ordered. I’m giving you two reasons why you should make the Kimpton Sylvan Hotel your place to stay and why you should choose Atlanta, Georgia, for your next trip.
Buckhead’s Vibrant Offerings and the Kimpton Sylvan Hotel are the Perfect Match
The Atlanta area has many adjacent neighborhoods with different personalities. If we were to describe Buckhead, we would say the area is flirty, one that tempts you with fine dining, shopping, and hidden away gems for a stay, such as the Kimpton Sylvan Hotel.
The hotel, at eight floors, makes visitors feel like they’re in an intimate setting. Many of the rooms have an expansive window view, the type that when you open the vast curtains, you’ll feel refreshed as you enjoy a view of the laid-back area. The Buckhead Hotel takes on the personality of what is known as the Empire City of the South, the perfect spot to stay as you enjoy a calm environment where there’s a little quiet in the Atlanta area.
But don’t be fooled by the city’s relaxed vibe. The Kimpton Sylvan Hotel is a must-stay for those who wish to be pampered in luxury. Every day, guests can enjoy a wine social hour with a selection of red and white wine, and the service is top-notch in general. During my stay, I felt well taken care of, and it seemed that the staff simply wanted everyone to feel welcome, especially after a day exploring local attractions in Buckhead and Downtown Atlanta.
I adored that you don’t have to leave your pet behind. You’ll witness a parade of gorgeous dogs and pets, all welcome at the hotel, which is pet-friendly.
Let’s not forget the ambiance and dining. It is proven that every dining option is high-end, and those who step into their restaurants and the upstairs rooftop bar will get an experience that it well worth your investment. The Betty is a dimly lit restaurant with a speakeasy feel, one that we recommend visiting in your finest cocktail attire. The restaurant impresses with elegant dishes such as a selection of pasta and the caviar-topped devil eggs as an appetizer, two options I indulged in during my visit. And don’t forget a craft cocktail, which you will be impressed with at how well-created and presented they are alongside your meal. You’ll leave full and with a real smile.
Do not forget to go upstairs! As in, to the rooftop bar known as St. Julep. Yes, they for sure can make you a classic cocktail such as a beautiful Old-Fashioned or a Dirty Martini, but the mixologists are educated to the point that you just mention a favorite spirit, and if you enjoy a cocktail sweet, tart, or smokey, and they will make you something unique. You will never regret asking as you enjoy the plush lounge; at times, DJs spin some fun tunes or bask upon the sparkling and brightly lit views of Buckhead from the lounge’s rooftop.
Downtown Atlanta and Buckhead Attractions
Atlanta is lucky to have its Metro train system, an affordable way to get from different areas to Downtown Atlanta. The train beats the, at times, congested city traffic. I took it to make sure I visited two of the city’s amazing attractions, which you must not miss while visiting.
First, there is the Georgia Aquarium, an aquarium that is known as one of the top ones to visit in the United States. It is also very passionate about research and leading conservation efforts to protect all sea creatures and mammals. The vast aquarium is a one-day affair, an impressive structure where you can spend a whole day, so set aside the time. Some impressive creatures you will see up close include Whale Sharks, Manta Rays, Beluga Whales, African Penguins, Dolphins, Asian Small-Clawed Otters and even Amazon Puffers. Each room is brightly decorated and well-decorated. These rooms make you feel like you are in the habitat of these creatures as you are respectfully watching them from within. The Georgia Aquarium also offers special programs for visitors, so make sure to keep up with its offerings. Do not forget or leave without exploring their expansive water tunnel, where you can see ocean creatures such as Manta Rays and Whale Sharks swimming above you and on both sides of this impressive tank.
Then, there’s the World of Coca-Cola. Located on the same campus as the Georgia Aquarium, it is a beautiful building filled with art and one that gives visitors an in-depth history of the creation of the well-beloved soda. Visitors to the museum will begin their experience with a presentation of some of the product’s most important milestones, as well as an explanation of how advertising and creativity made the beverage a well-known brand all over the world. Afterward, you’ll walk into watching a quick and emotional movie about memories that relate to the product throughout a person’s different walks of life. As you walk in you will be greeted by different exhibits, including The Vault, explaining the background of Coca-Cola’s secret recipe, and an impressive one featuring Coca-Cola throughout the years when it comes to advertising, distribution, and the brand’s growth from then to now. Add to the visit a picture with Coca-Cola’s famous Polar Bear, sipping drinks created by the Coca-Cola brand that can be found worldwide at their expansive tasting room, and end the visit by looking at their gift shop that offers unique souvenirs inspired by the brand.
While in that area, make sure to take a breezy walk through the nearby Centennial Olympic Park, a park that not only offers gorgeous trees and a natural escape and represents Atlanta’s participation in hosting the Olympic Games in 1996. It’s a beautiful one that offers a historic and calming stroll.
Once back in Buckhead, I highly recommend visiting the Atlanta History Center. The museum offers a variety of exhibits representing the past of Atlanta, growth of the state and other history-related exhibits related to their growth as a Southern State. Then, there are also the historic homes that you can explore outside the museum’s doors at their lush backyard, all of which are part of the all-around experience. Take in gardens featuring flowers such as Tulips, walk bridges over the area’s natural environment, and step into historic mansions such as the well-known Swan House where many scenes from the popular Hunger Games movie franchise were filmed. Make this one the first you visit, a popular one that gets crowded easily.
Ultimately, don’t skip plans to visit the Atlanta, Georgia, area. It’s the perfect quick escape.
(Photo Credits: Kimpton Sylvan Hotel)
