Oakland Cemetery

As the only cemetery in town for a 34-year period, the Oakland Cemetery has a great cross section of the city's populace over the years. More than 48,000 Atlantans are buried here, including legends like golfer Bobby Jones and author Margaret Mitchell. The Confederate Memorial section has some of the most impressive memorials and carvings of the whole cemetery, while Potter's Field has only one monument for the thousands of poor people who couldn't afford private burial plots.

You are welcome to explore the grounds on your own, although many recent visitors recommend taking part in the guided tour. "Take the guided tour on your first visit and you won't be disappointed," says one TripAdvisor user. "The history is too much to take in on your own."

The grounds are free and open year-round from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and guided walking tours are available from the end of March through November. Prices are low (around $10 for adults, $5 for students, seniors and children under age 18). For more information including a special events calendar, be sure to check out the cemetery's website.