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Travel is best when you find a place that will refresh you in every way. If you bring your significant other, your trip will be ten times better. So where can you and your friend travel to?
In this article, we’ll show you the best places to travel domestically as well as internationally over the year. If you’re someone who likes to get out and about, you may be asking yourself the following question:
Where Should I Travel To Next?
There are some truly great cities in the world and you could use a break to experience them: Enter our curated list.
We used Google Flights to find cheap fares out of Atlanta, Georgia at top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.
Got your passport? Here are some top destinations to go in spring, summer and beyond that you can book last-minute and have a great time.
Best Places To Travel In 2026
To come up with these list, we searched for some of the most affordable flights out of Atlanta, so you can save money when you travel.
Here Are The Best Domestic Travel Deals From Atlanta:
New York
Mid September: Frontier Airlines: Airfare from $182
Photo by Roberto Hund from Pexels Who doesn’t love the Big Apple. New York City is comprised of five boroughs along the Hudson River. At the center of it all is Manhattan, a densely populated downtown that is one of the world’s most popular cultural and financial centers. You can also visit:
- Grand Central Terminal
- Central Park.
- American Museum of Natural History
- Metropolitan Museum of Art
Miami
Mid October: Frontier Airlines: Airfare from $80
Photo by Grace Barrejon from Pexels Who doesn’t like fun in the sun? You get it all and then some in Miami, a coastal metropolis located in southeastern Florida in the United States. Visit this city and take a cruise through South Beach, at at one of the beach restaurants or bars and party all night.
Here are some must-visit places in Miami:
- Miami Millionaire’s Row Cruise
- Zoo Miami
- Wynwood
- Little Havana
- American Airlines Arena
Las Vegas
Late October: Frontier Airlines: Airfare from $190
Photo by Zachary DeBottis from Pexels What stays in Vegas… who stays in Vegas??? If you’re planning to visit, walk the strip and check out the shopping and gambling. There are so many activities to do in Vegas that you’ll need to carefully plan to take advantage of it all.
You can’t forget to stop by the Bellagio, Elle Island Casino & Brewery and Paris Las Vegas for a good time.
Here are some things to do in Vegas:
- The Titanic Exhibit
- Museum Tour
- Casino Strolls
- The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
- Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N.
Boston
Late October: Frontier Airlines. Airfare from $248
Photo by Mohan Nannapaneni from Pexels Your friends will be green with envy when you book a flight to Boston. Beantown is the capital and most populous city of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. That means there’s a lot of history there, but it’s also a modern city with contemporary architecture and style.
Here are the best things to do in Boston:
- Arnold Arboretum
- Boston Public Garden
- Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
- Charles River Esplanade
- Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
- Fenway Park
- Freedom Trail
- Museum of Fine Arts
- North End
- Rose Kennedy Greenway
San Francisco
Early November: Frontier Airlines: Airfare from $270
Photo by Tae Fuller from Pexels San Francisco and the whole Bay area is made up of expensive real estate, funky and diverse places to eat and an eclectic set of neighborhoods. The free spirit of San Fran can’t help but influence your actions when you’re in the Bay Area. And the best thing: Flights are cheap right now! Here are some top attractions to visit in San Francisco:
- Alcatraz Island
- Dolores Park
- Mission Murals
- Haight Ashbury
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Oracle Park
- Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
Those are some of the best airfares you’ll find out of Atlanta this year. Now let’s get into some cheap flights abroad in destinations that you’ll enjoy.
Here Are The Best International Flight Deals From Atlanta
Remember to click on the links and scroll down to see other airlines that offer similar airfares.
Havana
Early December: American Airlines: Airfare from $516
Havana, Cuba is a lover’s paradise as well as a soloist’s dream. If you love beaches, Playas del Este will take your breath away.
Here are some spots not to miss in Havana:
- Castillo de la Real Fuerza. Castillo de la Real Fuerza
- Catedral de San Cristobal. Catedral de San Cristobal
- Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum)
- Plaza de Armas. Plaza de Armas
- Plaza Vieja. Plaza Vieja
Toronto
Early December: United and Canada Air: Airfare from $621
Photo credit: Roberto Nickson / Pexels From catching the breathtaking views at CN Tower to relaxing along the shore of Lake Superior, Toronto is one of the nicest cities in the world.
If you go, remember to be mindful of the currency exchange and pack for the cool nights.
Here are some things to do in Toronto, Ontario:
- Distillery Historic District
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
- Toronto Island Park
- St. Lawrence Market
- Royal Ontario Museum
- The AGO, Art Gallery of Ontario
Dublin, Ireland
Mid October: JetBlue Airways: Airfare from $755
Photo by Mark Dalton from Pexels Want an incredibly awesome cultural experience? Head to Dublin, Ireland and enjoy the city. Dublin, capital of the Republic of Ireland, is on the country’s eastern seaboard. Take a week off and come have a pint with some of the most fun-loving people in Europe!
Here are some top tourist attractions in Dublin, Ireland:
- Chester Beatty Library. Chester Beatty Library
- St. Stephen’s Gree
- The Irish Emigration Museum
- Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo
- Kilmainham Gaol
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- Trinity College
Read about our Atlanta to Ireland trip.
Paris
Early February: Air France: Airfare from $793
Photo by Daria Shevtsova from Pexels France is for lovers, but Paris is for tourists. This major European city stands out for its cultural significance when it comes to art, fashion and architecture. Rent a 19th-century cottage and explore the cityscape like a local.
Here are some top things to do in Paris.
- Eiffel Tower.
- Hop on Hop off Bus
- Musee d’Orsay
- Notre Dame
- Tour Montparnasse
- Sainte Chapelle
- Seine River Cruise
Ottawa
Mid October: United Airlines: Airfare from $607
iStock Photo You might want to put Ottawa on your list of cities to visit. Once the weather warms, the Canadian destination is big on museums and tourist attractions,
Here are some of the best places to visit in Ottawa:
- National Gallery of Canada
- Tour Parliament Hill
- Rideau Canal
- Gatineau Park
- Mooney’s Bay
Final Thought
Few things can beat traveling with your significant other. Not only is there a sense of safety, but sharing beautiful sights and sounds can bring you closer together.
Traveling with your friend or lost interest is the best way to take a trip these days. It’s also a cool way to get to know someone (besides shopping for travel). Now where should you go?
Traveling with your significant other is the best way to go. Looking for a destination? There are some great cities that you can vacation in for cheap right now.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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HAPEVILLE, Ga. — Reality TV personality Sidney Starr was arrested by the Hapeville Police Department on August 2, 2026, according to jail records.
Star, who is identified as male in the records, faces multiple felony charges: sexual battery against a child under 16, aggravated child molestation, and sodomy.
No additional details about the alleged incidents or the circumstances of the arrest were immediately available from the provided records. Star is being held in connection with the charges.
This report is based solely on jail records released following the arrest. Further information may be released by authorities as the case proceeds.
Who Is Sidney Starr?
Sidney Starr (also known as Sidney Star; legal name Sidney Favors) is an American reality television personality, actress, model, rapper, and social media influencer.
She was born on February 5, 1989, in Chicago, Illinois, and has also lived in Atlanta, Georgia. Starr is a transgender woman who has publicly discussed identifying as female from a young age and transitioning during her teenage years and early adulthood. She has described facing bullying related to her gender identity while growing up and has positioned herself as an advocate for LGBTQ+ issues.
Rise to Fame
Starr first gained online attention in the late 2000s and early 2010s through videos posted on platforms like WorldStarHipHop, YouTube (under a “transgender diva” persona), Periscope live streams, and Instagram, where she built a significant following (reports have cited hundreds of thousands of followers). Early notoriety included a 2010 claim of a relationship with rapper Chingy, which she later acknowledged was false.
Reality TV and Acting Credits
She became more widely known through reality television. Notable appearances include:
- Love & Hip Hop: New York (Season 9, 2018–2019) as a supporting/regular cast member.
- Baddies ATL and Baddies South (Zeus Network), where she was noted as an early transgender cast member in the franchise.
- Other reality shows such as Atlanta Plastic, Botched, Black Ink Crew: Chicago, Maury, Joseline’s Cabaret: Auditions, and Bad vs. Wild.
- Scripted or guest roles in Star (as Dallas), Empire (as a fan), Boomerang, The Chi, and American Gangster: Trap Queens.
She has also released music tracks (including songs like “Text Me Back,” “Boss Chick,” and others) and worked as a model and social media personality.
Personal Details
Public biographical sources list her height around 5’5” (165 cm). Details about her immediate family are limited; she has shared some childhood photos of her mother but kept much of her family life private. Relationship history has been discussed sporadically in media and on social platforms, with reports indicating she has been single at various points. Net worth estimates in secondary sources have varied (commonly cited in the low millions), derived mainly from TV appearances, social media, and related work, though these figures are not independently verified.
Note on recent events: On August 2, 2026, Hapeville Police Department arrested Sidney Favors (Sidney Starr) at an Embassy Suites hotel in Hapeville, Georgia. Jail and court records list charges of sexual battery against a child under 16, aggravated child molestation, and sodomy. The case involves a juvenile, and police have limited public details. These are allegations only; Starr is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. The matter has been referred to the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office.
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Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens has pushed back against criticism from the founders of Earn Your Leisure and its flagship event, Invest Fest, defending the city’s support for Black-owned businesses while highlighting a new $50,000 investment in youth creative programs.
Invest Fest, the popular three-day financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and pop-culture conference organized by the Earn Your Leisure (EYL) platform, is scheduled to return to Atlanta for a sixth year from August 7-9, 2026, at the Georgia World Congress Center. The event typically draws tens of thousands of attendees (around 20,000–25,000 per day in recent years) for panels, networking, a large vendor marketplace, performances, and discussions on investing, real estate, crypto, AI, and business growth. It has become a major draw for Black entrepreneurs and professionals.
The friction arose after EYL co-founders Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings appeared on the nationally syndicated Breakfast Club radio show. They described Atlanta as the event’s home for the past six years but said they had “flirted with the idea” of relocating due to what they called a puzzling lack of support from the city.
Bilal stated, “Atlanta’s done nothing for us,” arguing that the organizers sought practical help with marketing, hotel accommodations, public safety coordination, event logistics, and other resources often extended to larger or more established organizations—not handouts. He noted that Black entrepreneurs sometimes face higher expectations to succeed independently.
Mayor Dickens responded during a celebration of the city’s third annual Ciara Day. Without naming EYL or Invest Fest directly, he referenced comments “on the radio in New York” about support for Atlanta. He pointed to the event venue (managed by a Black woman) and announced a joint $50,000 investment with Grammy-winning singer, entrepreneur, and Atlanta native Ciara.
The funds support 10 organizations that mentor young people in music, film, fashion, technology, sports, dance, education, and leadership, providing scholarships, equipment, training, and other resources. Dickens also highlighted the city’s broader record of supporting Black leadership and businesses, describing Atlanta as “substantial,” “important,” and “consequential.”
Ciara reinforced the city’s role in her own career, saying Atlanta “played such an important role in shaping who I am both as an artist and as a person” and that its entertainment community gave her opportunities to dream big.
The Breakfast Club hosts later reacted critically to Dickens’ comments. Charlamagne Tha God noted the show’s wide reach (including Atlanta listeners), while co-host Loren LoRosa expressed surprise, saying conversations between EYL and the mayor’s office had seemed positive. DJ Envy called the mayor’s approach “whack,” arguing that the organizers bring significant value through large-scale community events and were simply seeking comparable partnership support to what other corporations receive.
City officials have noted Atlanta’s long track record as a top destination for conventions, tourism, and supporting organizations. Invest Fest has previously received visible city involvement, including joint announcements with Dickens at City Hall in earlier years. As of late July 2026, the event remains scheduled for Atlanta this year, though its long-term location is uncertain pending further discussions. Republican gubernatorial nominee Rick Jackson has also publicly signaled interest in leveraging state resources to help keep the event in Georgia.
The episode underscores ongoing conversations about how cities partner with large-scale, community-driven events—particularly those focused on financial empowerment and Black entrepreneurship—amid Atlanta’s efforts to support local businesses and creative talent.
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Summer is in full swing along the Atlanta BeltLine’s multi-use trails, parks, public art, and neighborhood connections. The corridor has settled into classic high-summer mode. Nearly 17 miles of continuous mainline trail are now open following the completion of Southside Trail segments earlier in the year, creating the longest continuous section to date and linking east and west sides more seamlessly.
Atlanta BeltLine Weekend Activities (August 2026)
Expect warm evenings, peak trail traffic on weekends (families, dogs, and cyclists), and plenty of spontaneous people-watching.
Expect warm-to-hot evenings, peak weekend trail traffic (families, dogs, cyclists, and visitors), free and low-cost fitness, guided tours highlighting art and history, buzzing markets and patios, and ongoing public art activations. New murals by local artists are going up this summer (expected to wrap by late August) as part of the annual Atlanta BeltLine Art exhibition.
Pro tips: Wear comfortable shoes and strong sun protection, bring plenty of water, check the weather, and always verify the latest details (exact fitness class times, run-club meeting spots, and any changes) on beltline.org/events. Bike and scooter rentals are widely available near major trailheads. Popular stretches like the Eastside Trail (Ponce City Market to Krog Street Tunnel) and Westside/Southwest Trail remain well-used and illuminated for evenings. The newly completed Southside Trail around Pittsburgh Yards offers fresh exploration opportunities.
Friday Evenings: Wind Down with Trail Exploration
Use the weekdays for quieter exploration, evening strolls or jogs, and structured experiences.
Use weekdays and Friday evenings for quieter strolls, jogs, or structured experiences before the weekend crowds peak.
- Atlanta Beltline Insider’s Walking Tour (BiteLines): Multiple dates throughout August, including Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays such as August 5–7, 12–14, 19–21, and 26–28 (typically 10:00–11:30 a.m.). These guided walks cover street art, history, Tiny Doors ATL, and local flavor, usually starting near Ponce City Market/Eastside Trail and finishing with food hall tips. Adult tickets around $39; kids discounted.
- Thursday Run Club (Atlanta BeltLine Partnership + Atlanta Track Club): Every Thursday year-round. Gather ~6:15 p.m., runs/walks start ~6:30 p.m. Options of 2 or 4 miles at all paces; dog-friendly. Locations rotate (Eastside, Westside, Southside near spots like Lewis Barbecue, breweries, or trail access points). Post-run socializing. Check beltline.org or Atlanta Track Club for the exact weekly meetup.
- Ongoing free/low-cost fitness & wellness: Expanded programming continues with yoga, movement, strength, dance, skating, and more in parks and along the corridor (Pittsburgh Yards, Historic Fourth Ward Park, Grant Park, Washington Park, Lee + White, Lang-Carson Park, and others). Examples in early August include Walk with Ease, Self-Ease Yoga, Magic Movement, FitSquad, Zumba with Tiara, Skate and Werk, Reynoldstown Yoga Reset, and more. Register or check schedules via beltline.org—no membership required.
Friday evenings are ideal for illuminated trails, brewery patios (Lee + White district, Monday Night Garage area), or a casual roll past public art.
Saturday & Sunday: Peak Activity, Fitness, and Community
Weekends draw families, pets, and visitors. Rent bikes or scooters at trail stations or enjoy a leisurely walk. Mornings favor active pursuits; afternoons bring markets, vendors, and relaxation.
Weekends draw the biggest crowds—families, pets, and visitors. Rent bikes or scooters at trail stations. Mornings favor active pursuits; afternoons bring markets, vendors, patios, and relaxation.Fitness & Wellness Highlights (Recurring and Free/Low-Cost)
Self-Ease Yoga, Magic Movement, FitSquad, King of Pops Yoga, Rhythm Roll/Forever Fit-style classes, and others continue at Pittsburgh Yards, Grant Park, Historic Fourth Ward Park, Washington Park, Lee + White, and more. Schedules update regularly on beltline.org. Additional options include photography meetups, nature/arboretum walks, skate sessions, and junior programs.Guided Tours & Special Experiences- Food & Street Art Tours (Bitelines and similar): Regular Saturdays (e.g., ongoing into late August) with tastings, murals, and local bites focused on the Eastside Trail/Krog Street area. discoveratlanta.com
- Tree/Arboretum tours, including Sunset Tree Tour: Eastside BeltLine Arboretum (e.g., early August evenings starting near Inman Perk Coffee).
- Bike tours: Southwest and Northwest BeltLine Bike Tours on select Saturdays (e.g., early and mid-August dates from Pittsburgh Yards or PATH parking). Registration typically required. beltline.org
- Barks & Bites: Beltline Doggie Crawl: Select Sundays (including multiple August dates such as Aug 2, 9, 16, 23, 30). Dog-friendly restaurant crawl with special pup dishes, “barkaritas,” pet boutique stops, swag, and a portion of proceeds supporting local rescues. Starts near Krog Street Market area; tickets around $69 for adult + dog. discoveratlanta.com
Recent/Notable August Note: The inaugural Southside BeltLine 8K/3K (part of the Race the Loop series with Atlanta Track Club) took place August 1 at Pittsburgh Yards on the newly completed Southside Trail—celebrating the expansion with options for runners, walkers, strollers, and dogs.
Top Activities for Any Weekend
- Stroll or Roll the Trails — Free and open 24/7.
- Eastside Trail: Busiest and most vibrant—coffee at Muchacho or similar, brunch spots, dense public art, skyline views, and connections to Piedmont Park/Ponce City Market/Krog.
- Westside/Southwest Trail: Quieter and scenic past Lee + White breweries and industrial-chic spots.
- Southside Trail: Freshly expanded continuous section around Pittsburgh Yards—great for exploring newer segments and connecting east-west.
Pro tip: Bike/scooter rentals make covering more ground easy.
- Eat, Drink, and People-Watch — Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market for patios, seasonal menus, and views. Nearby breweries, pop-ups, live music, and trail-adjacent spots. Dog-friendly options abound (including the recurring Barks & Bites crawl).
- Relax, Reflect, and Appreciate Art — Family walks, leashed dog strolls, chats with friends. Admire (and watch the progress of) new murals and the permanent/temporary public art collection. Low-key photography or nature time amid summer greenery in the linear arboretum and connected parks.
- Stroll or Roll the Trails — Free and open 24/7.
- Eastside Trail: Busiest and vibrant—coffee at Muchacho, brunch spots, art, and skyline views.
- Westside Trail: Quieter, scenic past Lee + White breweries like Monday Night Garage.
- Pro tip: Bike/scooter rentals help cover more ground.
- Eat, Drink, and People-Watch
- Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market for patios, seasonal menus, and views.
- Nearby breweries, pop-ups, live music, or trail-adjacent spots.
- Barks & Bites doggie crawls or family-friendly options.
- Relax and Reflect
- Family walks, dog strolls (on leash), or chats with friends.
- Admire ever-changing public art installations.
- Low-key photography or nature appreciation amid summer blooms.
Why the Beltline This Season?
It’s Atlanta’s community heartbeat—connecting dozens of neighborhoods with green space, art, fitness, food, and energy while drawing millions of visits yearly.
August offers peak summer vibes with structured free programs, guided experiences, and plenty of spontaneous fun after the World Cup rush. Bundle lightly for hot days and cooler evenings, stay hydrated, and respect trail etiquette (especially with higher volumes of users and pets).For the most current calendar, fitness schedules, tour bookings, and any pop-ups or changes, always check beltline.org/events and related partner sites. Have a great time on the trails this August!
Guided Tours & Specials:
1. Sunday Wind-Down
Appreciate the ever-changing public art installations—Atlanta’s open-air gallery. Pet-friendly sections welcome dogs on leash.Top Activities for the Weekend1. Stroll or Roll the TrailsThe BeltLine is free and open 24/7.
- Eastside Trail: Busiest and most vibrant—coffee at Muchacho, brunch nearby, then art and skyline views.
- Westside Trail: Quieter, scenic past Lee + White and breweries like Monday Night Garage.
- Pro tip: Bike/scooter rentals make it easy to cover ground.
2. Eat, Drink, and People-Watch
- Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market: Patios, seasonal menus, and views.
- Nearby breweries and pop-ups for live music or casual bites.
- Rooftop or trail-adjacent patios for relaxed vibes.
3. Relax and Reflect
- Family walks, dog strolls, or chats with friends.
- Spot Art on the BeltLine installations.
- Low-key photography or nature appreciation amid spring/summer blooms.
More Events – FIFA World Cup Energy Builds
June shifts into high gear with Atlanta BeltLine Fest, a multi-weekend celebration tied to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ (matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium).
What To Expect:
- Atlanta BeltLine Fest at Pittsburgh Yards (Southside Trail, starting around mid-June, e.g., weekends like June 13–July 15 window, with key dates such as June 20–21): Vendor marketplace, food trucks, live music/DJ sets, soccer clinics, kids’ activities, cultural activations, field games, and World Cup watch parties. Free and family-friendly.
- Continued Food & Street Art Tours (multiple June dates).
- Ongoing free fitness classes, walking tours, and pop-ups across the trails.
- Neighborhood tie-ins like Virginia-Highland Summerfest (early June) and Juneteenth events, with BeltLine connections.
The trails will feature more live performances, markets, and “watch-party vibes” during match days—ideal for global visitors and locals.
Final Word
It’s Atlanta’s community heartbeat—connecting neighborhoods with green space, art, and energy while drawing millions yearly. Late May offers perfect shoulder-season balance before June’s World Cup festivities.
Bundle up lightly for evenings if needed, stay hydrated, and enjoy! For real-time updates, visit beltline.org/events. Have a great May/June, Atlanta! More from AtlantaFi.com: Check related guides on outdoor activities, moving to Georgia, or neighborhood festivals.
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On Saturday, August 1, 2026, the streets of Atlanta’s Summerhill neighborhood will roar to life as Red Bull Showrun Atlanta, presented by Ford Racing, delivers an unforgettable live motorsports demonstration. This free, all-ages event brings the speed, sound, and power of Formula 1 directly to city streets, giving fans an up-close experience far removed from a traditional race track.
Red Bull Showrun Atlanta Brings F1 Racing To City
Unlike a competitive race, a Red Bull Showrun features professional drivers executing burnouts, high-speed runs, precision maneuvers, and donuts in designated 360° performance zones. Spectators can expect the visceral thrill of championship-level machinery performing just meters away, with engines echoing through the urban setting.
The Atlanta edition highlights elite teams and vehicles, including Oracle Red Bull Racing and the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls Formula 1 cars, alongside on- and off-road Ford performance vehicles. Additional motorsports spectacles round out the program, capped by a special appearance from Atlanta’s own hip-hop icon Killer Mike. Fan zones offer merchandise, interactive activations, food and beverage vendors, and more, with some activations opening as early as 1:00 p.m.
Location and Access
The action centers on Hank Aaron Drive SW in Summerhill, running from Fulton Street SE to Georgia Avenue. This stretch of the rapidly evolving neighborhood—home to new housing, retail, and transit developments—will temporarily become a high-speed stage.Schedule (subject to change)
- 4:00 p.m. – Pre-show begins
- 5:00 p.m. – Drivers Parade
- 5:10 p.m. – Cars on track
- 7:00 p.m. – End of show
Large crowds are anticipated (city permits estimated attendance approaching 50,000), so arriving early is strongly recommended to secure a good viewing spot in designated areas.
Getting There
Parking in the immediate area is extremely limited. Organizers and city officials strongly encourage using MARTA public transit or rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft to minimize congestion and ease access. Street closures will be in effect around the course.Red Bull Showrun forms part of a 2026 U.S. series that brings Formula 1 spectacle to multiple cities. In Atlanta, it offers a rare chance for residents and visitors to experience the raw power of elite motorsport in an accessible, community setting—complete with local flavor from Killer Mike. Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan or simply curious about the noise and spectacle, Summerhill is the place to be this afternoon for an adrenaline-fueled afternoon on the streets.
Aside from races, the city has plenty of nice places to stay and numerous cool things to do.
Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. Explore the city.
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ATLANTA — Republican gubernatorial nominee Rick Jackson on Friday signaled his interest in leveraging state resources to keep Invest Fest, one of Atlanta’s major annual financial literacy and entrepreneurship events, rooted in Georgia, as part of a broader push to expand his appeal among Black voters.
In a post on social media site X late Friday, Jackson praised the event’s track record and economic impact after five years in the state.
Georgia GOP Candidate Rick Jackson Courts Invest Fest
“The world just witnessed what was possible in Georgia when the state works with its local partners to ensure important events are able to be held safely and to the benefit of our economy,” Jackson wrote. “Invest Fest has proven for five years to be of great benefit to not just those who attend and learn how to start or grow a business, but also to the local vendors who feed, house, and support our visitors from across the country. I would be very interested in learning how, as governor, the state would be able to work to help keep Invest Fest here in Georgia.”
Invest Fest is returning to Atlanta for a sixth year but that its long-term future in the city is uncertain.
Invest Fest, organized by the Earn Your Leisure platform founded by Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings, is scheduled for Aug. 7-9 at the Georgia World Congress Center.
Read up on Invest Fest: What to know about the Atlanta event.
The three-day event blends investing education, entrepreneurship panels, a large vendor marketplace, performances and networking, drawing tens of thousands of attendees focused on wealth-building, real estate, crypto, AI, stocks and business growth. It has become a significant draw for Black entrepreneurs and professionals.
Jackson’s comments come amid recent public friction between the event’s organizers and city leadership. In a recent interview, Bilal and Millings said Atlanta had not provided the level of support they expected over the years and acknowledged they had “flirted with the idea” of moving the conference, while emphasizing its grassroots roots and economic value.
Mayor Andre Dickens pushed back against the criticism, defending the city’s record of supporting Black businesses and announcing a $50,000 investment in organizations that mentor young creatives.
Jackson, a self-made healthcare staffing billionaire who rose from foster care and Atlanta public housing, won the GOP nomination in a June runoff after defeating Trump-endorsed Lt. Gov. Burt Jones. He faces former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, the Democratic nominee, in the Nov. 3 general election.
The Invest Fest statement fits a pattern of deliberate outreach by Jackson’s campaign to Black voters, a traditionally Democratic-leaning bloc in Georgia. Shortly after securing the nomination, one of his early stops was at Barber’s Inc. on Old National Highway in College Park, a majority-Black city, where he met with dozens of residents.
Georgia Governor candidate Rick Jackson visits soul food spot on Old National Highway.
Attendees said Jackson discussed improving access to capital for Black business owners and expressed openness to grants and loans targeted at Black entrepreneurs. His campaign later clarified that he would “consider” such a program while emphasizing a broader commitment to resolving capital access barriers.
Campaign spokesperson Garrison Douglas has described the outreach as central rather than secondary: “His outreach is not an afterthought, but a significant part of the campaign’s efforts to ensure Georgia voters who have felt left behind and ignored by the status quo know that Rick Jackson is going to fight and win big for them, no matter their ZIP code.” The team includes several Black Republicans, among them former Kemp press secretary Douglas, who previously worked on Black outreach for the Republican National Committee.
Jackson has also visited other Black-owned businesses, drawing both support and criticism. Some Black Republicans have praised his personal story of overcoming hardship as resonant, while others have cautioned that close alignment with President Trump’s agenda could limit gains among Black voters, particularly women.
Invest Fest’s organizers have not publicly responded to Jackson’s post. The event remains scheduled for Atlanta this year, and tickets are on sale. Whether state-level engagement under a potential Jackson administration would materialize—or prove decisive in retaining the conference long-term—remains to be seen. With early voting months away, both campaigns are expected to intensify efforts in metro Atlanta’s diverse communities.
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Atlanta’s long-running ONE Musicfest is sitting out 2026. The 16-year-old event, known for mixing established stars with rising talent, announced it is pausing this year’s edition to rethink its approach and develop a refreshed version.
Organizers said the break will allow them to move beyond repeating the same format and instead create “the next iteration” with new experiences, energy, and ideas.
ONE Musicfest Cancels 2026 Festival
In their statement, they noted that the festival has always aimed to push culture forward and bring generations together rather than simply stage another music event.
What started with about 1,500 attendees has grown into an annual gathering of more than 100,000 people. Founder Jason “J” Carter has previously highlighted the festival’s focus on uniting legends and emerging artists—an approach reflected in the 2025 lineup that featured Future, the Dungeon Family, Jazmine Sullivan, Kehlani, Ludacris, Leon Thomas, Clipse, Doechii, Chief Keef, Mary J. Blige, and others.
The festival’s full statement reads:
“For 16 years, ONE Musicfest has never been content to just throw another music festival. We’ve pushed culture forward, brought generations together, and built something that didn’t exist before we created it. That same commitment to innovation is why we’re pausing ONE Musicfest in 2026.
Rather than produce the same festival we’ve done in the past, we’re taking this year to build the next iteration of ONE Musicfest with the same bold vision and a commitment to giving you the very best.
What began with 1,500 music lovers at our very first festival has grown into a homecoming for more than 100,000 people each year. That’s because of you. We never take that for granted.
We’re spending this year reimagining what’s next. New experiences, new energy, new ideas worthy of what this community has built together.
To every artist, fan, and supporter who made ONE Musicfest what it is: thank you.”
No return date has been announced yet, but the organizers made clear they plan to come back with a reimagined version of the Atlanta homecoming.
Check out our Atlanta Festival Guide.
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Seven years after Marvel Studios surprised fans at San Diego Comic-Con by announcing Mahershala Ali as the new Blade, the two-time Oscar winner has made it clear the project is no longer happening with him. In a candid GQ interview published today, Ali delivered a pointed message to the studio behind the long-delayed reboot of the vampire-hunting antihero that was going to be partly filmed in Atlanta.
Mahershala Ali Moves On From Marvel’s Blade
“I’ve been doing this professionally for pushing 30 years now, and one thing I’ve learned is that what is for you is for you and what is not is not. For whatever reason, that project is not for me. If they wanted to do it, we would’ve done it. So I have to move on, and I have moved on,” Ali said. He continued: “Again, you had me under contract, they have billions of dollars, if they wanted to do the movie, we would’ve done the movie. So we’re not doing the movie.”
The comments mark a definitive end to Ali’s involvement in what became one of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s most troubled productions. Announced with fanfare in 2019, the film cycled through directors (including Bassam Tariq and later Yann Demange), scripts, and release dates without ever starting principal photography. Ali’s only on-screen connection to the character remains a brief voice cameo in the post-credits scene of 2021’s Eternals.
Ali’s remarks come shortly after Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige publicly expressed regret over the project’s collapse. On the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Feige called himself “a gigantic loser and failure” for not getting the film off the ground with Ali, citing the need for an “insanely great” script that never fully materialized and a reluctance to rush production.
Rather than dwell on the disappointment, Ali framed the outcome as a creative redirect. He has re-teamed with original Blade director Bassam Tariq for the upcoming Amazon MGM action film Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother, which is set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. Ali noted that the year-plus of intensive training he undertook for Blade—particularly sword work and stunts—proved useful for the new project. “When I look at this and Blade, I couldn’t have done both, and the reason this even exists is because that project fell apart,” he explained. He added that the new film aligns better with the original work he wants to be known for, rather than remakes.
Ali also signaled he’s finished fielding questions about the unmade movie. “I feel ready to move on from the Blade questions. Those questions are for them. They didn’t want to do it, so they should answer that question.”
The saga underscores broader challenges Marvel has faced in recent years with certain Phase projects, as the studio has shifted priorities amid changing box-office realities and a focus on quality control. For fans who waited years for Ali’s take on the Daywalker—previously brought to life by Wesley Snipes—the latest update closes a chapter that began with high expectations in Hall H and ended in quiet development hell. Ali, for his part, appears content with the path that opened instead.
With more than 900 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.
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A Chick-fil-A location in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood (at 3280 Peachtree Rd. in the Terminus 100 building) is closing after nearly 18–20 years.
Key Details:
- Last day of service: Friday, July 31, 2026.
- Signs posted at the restaurant thank customers: “Thank you for all your love and support over the years. We have enjoyed our time in the Terminus community with great food and smiles.”
- No specific reason for the closure was given in the reports.
- Chick-fil-A still operates nearly three dozen other locations across Atlanta, so the area isn’t losing the chain.
Buckhead Chick-fil-A Closing
A newer, freestanding Chick-fil-A opened nearby at Peachtree & Piedmont (about a block or half a mile away) in May 2025. That location is more accessible (with a drive-thru option) compared to the inline/Terminus spot, which likely contributed to the decision.
This seems like a consolidation move rather than a broader pullback from Buckhead. If you need more details, a full summary, or info on nearby alternatives, let me know!
If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
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Known for its rich ZIP Codes, Buckhead is where many upscale restaurants reside with sophisticated ambiance, exceptional service, and meticulously crafted menus.In other words, Buckhead has some of Atlanta’s best eateries from seafood to brunch to Italian and more. Now with Buckhead Restaurant Week upon us, it’s time to try some of those spots.
When Is Buckhead Restaurant Week?
Buckhead Restaurant Week 2026 in Atlanta is scheduled for July 27–August 1, 2026. New additions include Chops Lobster Bar, Atlanta Fish Market, Trade Route, Gyu-Kaku, St. Cecilia, Clark’s Steakhouse and more, joining returning favorites such as Fogo de Chão, Kyma, The Capital Grille and True Food Kitchen.
If you know me, you know that I love me some Buckhead restaurants. For Buckhead Restaurant Week, here are a few that you must-eats:
The Southern Gentleman
Located at 3035 Peachtree (A208), this spot mixes New American cuisine with old fashion Southern favorites. I get the chicken each time I visit.
South City Kitchen
South City Kitchen is another one of my favorites from the food, ambience and customer service. What do I order? The fried chicken breast with greens. You also have the option to get mashed potatoes and gravy, which I seldom do.
North Italia
Photo credit North Italia If I want pasta, my spot in Buckhead is North Italia, which has some of the best bartenders in the city, in my opinion. Their cocktail menu is an ever evolving cellar of seasonal greatness.
Those are just a few of my faves.
The following is a list of participating restaurants for Buckhead Restaurant Week 2025:
Participating Restaurants
- Alma Cocina
- Alon’s Bakery + Market
- Bene Korean Steakhouse
- Benihana
- Bistro Niko
- Boqueria
- Brush Sushi
- The Capital Grille
- Carmel
- Chido & Padre’s
- Davio’s
- The Fabled
- Fado
- Gypsy Kitchen
- Kyma
- Le Colonial
- Mad Dads Philly’s
- Nan Thai Buckhead
- North Italia
- The Palm
- Pendolino
- Pricci
- Southern Gentleman Gastropub
- St. Cecilia
- The Americano
- Aria
- Betos Tacos (Phipps Plaza)
- The Betty
- The Big Ketch
- Boone’s
- Citizens Market
- Dantanna’s
- Ecco
- Fresh to Order
- Le Bilboquet
- Louisiana Bistreaux Buckhead
- Mission + Market
- NaanStop
- Osha Thai Sushi Gallerie
- Pachengo’s
- PLANTA Queen
- Polanco Taqueria
- Postino
- The Preserve at JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead
- Seven Lamps
- Snap Thai
- South City Kitchen
- Southern Baked Pie Company
- Taverna
- Tomo Japanese Restaurant
- Yeppa & Co.
- Zakia
Reservations are recommended to secure a spot at these establishments.
Final Word
Buckhead offers a wide range of culinary options, from upscale Southern dishes at South City Kitchen to Middle Eastern at Delbar, Japanese at Tomo, and Spanish tapas at The Iberian Pig.
If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
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