Summer in the city sends many to the mountains, but I find there’s so much to do here in your own backyard.  How about a weekend-long downtown staycation?

First order of business is where to stay.  Check out the iconic Westin Peachtree Plaza, offering clear views through 6,350 new windows replaced last year as part of the largest window replacement project in the Western Hemisphere.  This John Portman-designed skyscraper features 73 stories of modern design and includes the Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View, a rotating, tri-level dining venue offering 360 degrees of unmatched city views.  Another great option is the Hyatt Regency, also designed by Portman, and often credited as Portman’s prototype for the Westin.  The hotel is undergoing a major renovation so you could be the first to lay your head in a new bed.

Sweet dreams travel bug, we’ll want you rested for your big weekend of exploration.

Downtown has something for everyone and you don’t have to break the bank.  Families will love Centennial Olympic Park’s Fourth Saturday Family Fun Day, which is free and features interactive, entertaining and educational activities for children.  Bring your camera because there’s fun to be had in the Fountain of Rings.  You can also save some money by purchasing an Atlanta Brands Combo Tour ticket for two must-see attractions, including the Inside CNN Studio Tours and the World of Coca-Cola.  For a truly amazing Downtown experience, don’t miss the Georgia Aquarium; with over 8 million gallons of water, it is the world’s largest. New to the Aquarium is AT&T Dolphin Tales, which opened this spring and features an incredible new gallery, theater and show dedicated to creating memorable connections between humans and the majestic dolphin.

After all the sightseeing you’re going to be hungry.  From sushi to steaks and everything in between – Downtown offers an array of dining options for every taste and price point.  You can enjoy flavors from around the world such as Greek at Truva, German at Der Biergarten, Japanese at Benihana or French at French American Brasserie.  But for a truly down home Southern experience, check out Pittypat’s Porch.

The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down.  Put on your party shoes because Downtown has number of nightlife options.  You can get your Polynesian party going at Trader Vic’s at the Hilton or take in some local music at Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint.  You can also see concerts at the Tabernacle, a former church that was turned into a concert venue for the Olympics.

Round out the weekend with one last visit to the Sun Dial atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza, where the food is fabulous and the views can’t be beat.