Centennial Olympic Park

Located in downtown Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park's 21 acres offer entertainment, recreational and educational events for young and old. Park hours are 7 a.m.-11 p.m., 365 days per year. The pet-friendly park has a visitor center with maps for self-guided walking tours, restrooms and food.

Parking and public transportation at Centennial Olympic Park
Centennial Olympic Park Drive gives drivers easy access to privately run street parking lots. The multi-level parking lots behind Phillips Arena have more convenient entry and exits.

The closest MARTA public transportation stop is the GWCC/Georgia Dome train station directly across from the Marietta Street entrance. The Peachtree Center station on the MARTA north-south line is a short walk down Andrew Young Blvd to an entrance near the middle of this park.

Best and worst time go to Centennial Olympic Park
The best time to visit the park is during the winter Festival of Lights when the park is transformed into an extravaganza of holiday lights. Since the display runs from November to January, the crowds are smaller. The worst time to visit is during the July 4th fireworks display. The massive crowds and tangled traffic mean hours of frustration getting to and from the event.

Admission to Centennial Olympic Park
Admission to the main park is free, year-round. Sponsored and promotional events that take place in the park's amphitheater and selected locations charge admission to their venue inside the park.

Must see/do at Centennial Olympic Park
The park is best known for its Fountain of Rings. Four times daily, the fountain's dancing water and multi-colored lights dazzle visitors with a synchronized display set to musical selections.

Other places to visit near Centennial Olympic Park
Adjacent to the park, take a ride on the Skyview Atlanta Ferris wheel for an overview of the city skyline and additional landmarks. The Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola are both located at the north side of the park.

Insider tip for visitors to Centennial Olympic Park
Although the park has a concession stand, you'll find more variety, better prices and indoor seating at the food court in CNN Center across the street.

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.