Virginia Highland is one of the most popular neighborhoods for Atlanta residents, but not what might typically be considered a “tourist attraction”. If you're looking to venture off the beaten Georgia Aquarium and Coca Cola Museum path, it's definitely worth a visit. The area, which gets its name from the intersection of Virginia and Highland Avenues, is located at the edge of downtown, yet you can easily forget that you’re in a big city, without the usual chain stores to remind you. Developed in the early 1900’s, the Highlands has managed to retain its historic architecture and neighborhood charm while integrating pockets of commercialism, which include everything from sidewalk cafés and eclectic boutiques to art galleries and spas.

During the day, Brunch at Murphy’s, a bistro and wine bar, should be on your to-do list. While it is worth the inevitable wait, if you’re short on time, American Roadhouse, which is nearby, is usually quicker, a little more casual, less pricey and equally delicious. When you’re sufficiently stuffed, you can walk and ideally shop off the calories, finding everything from one-of-a-kind jewelry and clothing to stationery and art. Need to rest your feet …

In the United States, there aren’t many cities that have as much African American culture and history as the city of Atlanta, Georgia. Having to live up to the newly branded title as the Black Mecca of the South, Atlanta has become the home to nearly 100,000 new transplanted residents per year. Many come to this cultural melting pot looking to make a new future for their families and themselves. What is driving new residents into the city limits by the droves could be anything from coming to further their education, searching for the right opportunity to jump into the highly competitive job market, or the chance to make it big in a thriving entertainment industry.

Although the reasons for calling Atlanta home are great, there are few that are as great as being able to say that you live in the birthplace of a man who not only changed the way African Americans were treated, but who changed the history of our people forever. It is common knowledge that Atlanta is the birthplace, home, and final resting place of one of the greatest civil rights leaders, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and his loving wife Coretta Scott …

This MLK Day I thought about our family reunion in Atlanta a few years ago. During a tour of the city we dropped by the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Social Change. After observing our first couple’s final resting place. I took a short stroll next door to Ebenezer Baptist Church. I remember sitting quietly in its pews and imaging Martin's riveting voice penetrating it’s walls and all who sat in his presence.

I wonder what his message would have been today in light of all that has happened. So if you are ever in the ATL and haven’t had the opportunity to visit, make in a priority. His presence, as well as his message, is still there and is as powerful as ever.