Atlanta, Georgia will host this year’s Southeastern Congress of Optometry (SECO)! One of the best parts of the convention experience is the exploration of the city in which the convention is being held. With an array of attractions ranging from the Georgia Aquarium and the Coca-Cola Factory to the historically famous concert venue Tabernacle, this year’s SECO will bring southern hospitality to its attendees for an experience they will not forget!
Centennial Olympic Park:
With the Centennial Olympic Park right outside of the Georgia World Congress Center, attendees will have a great way to spend some relaxing time in between the 400 + hours of continuing education! In 1996, the Summer Olympic Games were held in Atlanta – the 6th United States city to host the games. Eighteen years later, the Centennial Olympic Park still hosts events, making it a sight to see in downtown Atlanta.
Georgia Aquarium:
The Georgia Aquarium is an attraction for adventurers who are interested in the mysteries of the sea. Located down the street from the Olympic Park, it is a host for many rare and unique animals found in oceans around the world. Visitors can journey through the world’s largest aquarium exhibit, visitors can actually walk underneath a Whale Shark, the largest fish in the world!
World Of Coca-Cola:
In 1886, the Pharmacist John. S. Pemberton invented a syrup served with carbonated water and sold it in pharmacies for everyone to enjoy. Atlanta is the birthplace of Coca-Cola, the world’s most recognized brand. Take a tour at the World of Coca-Cola, and learn about the history of a company that is over 100 years old. You’ll also get to try the numerous flavors found in different parts of the globe.
Tabernacle:
A Baptist Church the 1890s, The Tabernacle has since been transformed into a world famous concert venue. Still retaining the presence of a church in the middle of downtown, the inside has been renovated to house the biggest names in music. Musical acts including Guns n’ Roses, Alice in Chains, and Bob Dylan, as well as famous comedians Bob Saget and Stephen Lynch have all appeared at this famous venue.
SECO will also host a special night called the “Wild and Wonderful” Friday Flashback Party on March 14th. The party will be held at the Tabernacle with a performance by the world-famous 80’s rock band Foreigner! Come and rock out to famous songs like “Double Vision”, “Juke Box Hero”, and “Cold as Ice.”
Want to experience the fantastic food and restaurants Atlanta has to offer? SECO has organized a Downtown Dine-Around on Wednesday, March 12th from 7-11pm. It’s close to the convention center, and restaurants and lounges offer deals to SECO attendees!
The SEC Conference Basketball Championship will be underway as well! There will be a SECO Sports Lounge on the exhibit hall floor where you can relax, watch the games and grab a drink or bite to eat. Also, be sure to meet up with students and alumni at the Student and Alumni Resource Center. Why not enjoy everything going on at the conference and in the city of Atlanta while meeting new people and networking at the same time!
However long your stay in the city, make sure to enjoy your visit in Atlanta by exploring what this city has to offer. Also, make sure to check out this article for much more info about SECO, and stop by and say hello to the OS team on the showcase floor!
