By Matt Swenson

If you are new to the area and looking for cultural and entertainment venues that speak to your particular interests, then you’re in luck. Metro Atlanta is replete with a wide array of options—you just have to decide if you want to explore ITP or OTP. Of course, first you have to know what those acronyms mean. Here, KnowAtlanta Magazine offers the 411 on areas both inside and outside the perimeter and walks you through some of the best places to check out regardless of where you live in the ATL.

ITP Versus OTP

Inside the Perimeter (ITP) is how locals refer to the area inside Interstate 285, which loops around Atlanta. In addition to Downtown Atlanta, Midtown Atlanta and Buckhead, ITP encompasses intown cities and neighborhoods like Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Decatur, East Point, Inman Park and the Old Fourth Ward, among others. These destinations tend to be more urban, attracting young couples and professionals who want to access the area’s bustling industry, entertainment, cultural and high-end residential offerings.

Outside the Perimeter (OTP) is home to more traditional suburban enclaves that emphasize residential opportunities for young families. Those who choose the OTP lifestyle often want spacious homes with yards, local parks and green space and room to grow. And while these suburban spots often have been seen as providing a slower pace than metro Atlanta’s core, there has been an evolution in recent years. For instance, dining and nightlife options have expanded, particularly in downtown Roswell and Alpharetta. Johns Creek, Peachtree City, Duluth, Suwanee, Cumming, Braselton, Gainesville, Woodstock, Kennesaw, Marietta, and Smyrna are other notable communities. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find what you need both ITP and OTP.

Educate Yourself

ITP: Learn the history of your adopted hometown at The Atlanta History Center, which features a collection of impressive artifacts and cultural exhibitions that are only part of the family-friendly experience. The center’s historic homes and gardens spread across 33 acres in Buckhead, making this a true indoor-outdoor adventure that can be explored over several hours.

OTP: Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville, known as Museum City USA, is as much a learning experience as a place to dig how cool science is. Two standout attractions at this 120,000-square- foot venue are the giant pendulum and an 80-foot Brontosaurus display. There’s also an onsite digital planetarium and an observatory with a state-of-the-art telescope.

For Theater Buffs

ITP: With more than 200 performances per year, including touring Broadway productions, concerts and classic movie screenings, the fabulous Fox Theatre in Midtown is the heart of Atlanta’s cultural scene. The ornate venue, complete with Egyptian Revival architecture, is one of the most revered historic spots in town.

OTP: Thankfully the community of Marietta rescued the Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre in the early 2000s so that it could become a top notch venue for live theater, films, shows and tours. As a bonus, it is within walking distance to many restaurants and shops in the lively and historic Marietta Square.

Touch Grass

ITP: The Atlanta Botanical Garden is enchanting for a family fun day or date night. Adjacent to Piedmont Park (a must-visit on its own), the site includes 30 acres of outdoor gardens, which famously are transformed into a holiday light show each year. The venue also is branching out with an expansion directly on The Atlanta Beltline.

OTP: Nature lovers, hikers and fans of wholesome fun are regulars at the 127-acre Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell. Its preservation of animals, including bald eagles, is notable, as are the enrichment activities for visiting school groups and summer campers.

Shop Till You Drop

ITP: There’s no better place to shop in Atlanta than in Buckhead, and Buckhead Village is arguably the most enjoyable retail experience. The outdoor center includes high-end fashion storefronts, wellness centers and a variety of eateries to get boba tea, devour gastropub fare and nosh at cafes.

OTP: Be prepared to spend several hours at Avalon, a mixed-use development in Alpharetta complete with a movie theater, luxury hotel and Whole Foods. You’ll find luxury retail spots like Apple, Lululemon and more along with a host of unique boutiques. There also area local dining treasures to complete the perfect shopping day.

Sports Central

ITP: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, is home to the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United. It’s also where you go to catch big-name acts like Beyonce and Taylor Swift for mega concerts. What’s more, the stadium will host multiple 2026 FIFA World Cup matches, bringing people from all over the world to enjoy Atlanta’s sports hospitality.

OTP: Truist Park has been home to Atlanta Braves baseball since opening in 2017. Located in Cobb County and serving as the centerpiece of The Battery Atlanta (batteryatl.com), the venue is the gold standard for blending sports and entertainment. Even when the Braves are away, the Coca-Cola Roxy and surrounding restaurants are worth the trip. Truist Park also hosts concerts and acts, including the Savannah Bananas.