Strolling along the art-lined BeltLine. Sipping on a cappuccino at Amélie’s French Bakery & Café. Hiking to the top of Stone Mountain. There’s no shortage of spots to explore beyond the walls of your lab and the boundaries of campus.

Here are eight of our favorite spots to visit around Atlanta: 

• Go green. In spite of its location in the middle of Midtown, being in Piedmont Park can make you feel like you’re far from the city. Walk along one of the park's winding pathways, feed the ducks that swim in Piedmont's pond, or bring a picnic and enjoy a lazy afternoon under the sun. Have an open Saturday morning? Stop by the park to enjoy live music and local vendors at the park’s Green Market.  
• Celebrate design. Enjoy a little culture at the Museum of Design Atlanta — otherwise known as “MODA” — which is the Southeast’s only museum dedicated to the world of design. At the midtown MODA, you’ll find exhibits exploring topics like social justice, the use of text in art, and the history of knitting in America.
• Stroll the BeltLine. If you prefer your art in the fresh air, head over to Atlanta's BeltLine trail. This outdoor project, which was conceived by a Tech graduate student, uses an existing 22-mile historic rail corridor that encircles the City of Atlanta as its foundation. As you stroll the BeltLine, you’ll find sculptures, murals, and other works of art lining the path. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and other spots to grab a bite to eat along the way.
• Travel back in time. Pay your respects to some of Atlanta's most prominent figures like golfer Bobby Jones and author Margaret Mitchell at Oakland Cemetery. This landmark blends the beauty of a park with the historical significance of a museum. You can wander around on your own, or join a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.  
• Take in a show. Experience Broadway the Atlanta way at the Fox Theatre. The historic venue has played host to shows including The Book of Mormon and Hamilton, and musical acts like Widespread Panic. FYI, arrive early to take in the theater’s unique architecture, which comes complete with a twinkling blue ceiling that mimics the night sky.
• Snack and study. Muffins, macaroons, and croissants — oh, my! If you’re looking for a spot where you can grab a bite to eat while studying, look no further than Amélie’s French Bakery & Café. The restaurant is located right off of west campus on Marietta Street. Grab a cup of coffee or tea to enjoy with a pastry or soup and sandwich, and then settle in at one of the spot’s many tables.
• Dress to impress. Thanks to Atlanta's thrift stores, looking great doesn't have to break the bank. One of our favorites is Rag-O-Rama located in the Little Five Points neighborhood. Here you’ll find a large selection of high-quality used clothes. Find your new favorite pair of jeans, browse their endless selection of discount footwear, or dig up the perfect tacky sweater for a holiday party.
• Take a hike. Want a great leg workout that comes with a stellar view of the city? Head to Stone Mountain Park, and hike to the top of one of Atlanta’s few mountains. Plus, the park also offers golf, light shows, and festivals to keep people coming back all year long.