Six free experiences you can only have in Atlanta

The east Atlanta metropolitan area is one of the most culturally diverse counties in the country. Buford Highway is an almost nine-mile stretch that contains over 20 international communities and cultures. Since the late 1970’s this highway has attracted immigrants from all over the world, and is home to The Buford Highway Farmers Market, the Plaza Fiesta, Atlanta’s Chinatown, plus a bevy of restaurants and grocery stores influenced by Indian, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Mexican, Taiwanese and Central/Southern American cuisines.

For free, you can either walk, run, or ride this popular transit, trails and park project that connects several of Atlanta’s neighborhoods. While Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market are popular entrance points, Piedmont Park, Historic Fourth Ward Park, and the Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall are perfect for those intimate outings. In what is an ongoing project, the Atlanta BeltLine is scheduled to be completed within the next ten years.

On the first Friday of every month, the Marietta Square Art Walk is a free, self-guided tour highlighting art and artists in different mediums. This monthly event is also sponsored by various restaurants, galleries, museums, venues and boutiques, creating the complete experience for visitors both young and old. Vistors can also enjoy live music performances while doing the walk.

This famous burial ground is Atlanta’s oldest public park, and contains over 70,000 people – including Margaret Mitchell, Maynard Jackson, and soldiers who perished during the Civil War. Its winding trails, worn down walking paths and eerie history makes the Oakland Cemetery a hot spot for local photographers and travelers from out of town.

The Monetary Museum is a collection of historical artifacts telling the story of banking in America – both good and bad. At the museum’s Visitors Center you can learn about the role of the Federal Reserve and the United State's economic structure. Free group tours can be scheduled in advance, while the interactive, multimedia exhibits give visitors a new outlook on money and the evolution of the barter system. You'll never look at a credit card in the same way again.

Even if you’ve never been here, you’re more than likely familiar with some of its scenery - on screen. Piedmont Park has been the backdrop for many films in recent years for good reason: it's beautiful. Head here to enjoy a picnic with pals or to play a few games of soccer. On a beautiful summer day, there's really nowhere better to be.