The Red and Black

Issue date: 2/8/07 Section: Out & About

Media Credit: michelle floyd Atlanta offers entertainment for more than just tourists. Those who enjoy the city or the outdoors will find something.

Sleek, sexy, classic. No, it's not the new Verizon Wireless, but the city of Atlanta.

Although some are having gag reflexes at the thought of Atlanta being called such, what many residents and tourists don't see is that Atlanta is one of the most eclectic cities in the nation.

Because of common grievances of Atlanta, it's difficult for some to appreciate the art within the chaos. Some of the most attractive hot spots lie coiled inside the mazes of packed interstates.

To enjoy the city moonlight within protection of the city shadows, those interested should visit some of the hottest music venues, such as the Tabernacle, the Masquerade or Variety Playhouse, eat late at the famous Majestic, see a show at the Fabulous Fox Theatre or even dare to be thrust in to a night of mayhem at the midnight extravaganza of "Rocky Horror Picture Show" at the Lefont Plaza Theater on Ponce De Leon.

Most of Midtown isn't ideal for walking around and sightseeing, but specific destinations can be quite a treat, like the CNN Center or the new Georgia Aquarium.

Another famous Atlanta landmark that's worth visiting is the Windsor's Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar and View.

What makes this such a popular destination is its glass elevator that allows viewers to see all of Atlanta, and the glass Sun Dial restaurant itself, which revolves around the center bar. Diners can eat and watch the city in a full 360 degree view.

Besides the big city, one of the most popular and bizzare communities in Atlanta is the eccentric Little Five Points on Moreland Avenue.

This destination is a smashing stop for groovy costume/thrift/clothing stores, such as Psycho Sisters and Abbadabba's.

"If I want to eat, I would go to the Vortex because it has a really funky atmosphere," said Teri Stewart, owner of Donna Van Gogh's on McClendon Ave. "They win awards every year for best burger in Atlanta."

To escape the topsy-turvy sway of Little Five but still dive into an eclectic aura, visitors should travel just a few miles down Ponce de Leon to the Virginia Highlands, where they can relax at Atlanta's oldest restaurant and bar, Atkins Park, unleash spices at Casbah Moroccan Restaurant or visit The Highland Inn, a quaint, eye-pleasing bed and breakfast.

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