As soon as you know you're going to Atlanta, write or call the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB), 233 Peachtree St. NE, Suite 2000, Atlanta, GA 30303 (tel. 800/ATLANTA or 404/222-6688). They'll send you a copy of Atlanta Heritage Guide, a visitors' guide, a book of discount coupons, a Metro Atlanta Map and Attractions Guide, and a 2-month calendar of events; they can also advise you on anything from Atlanta's hotel and restaurant scene to the best tour packages available. Visit the ACVB website at www.atlanta.net for lots of information.

You can also learn a lot about the city and its latest happenings by visiting www.AccessAtlanta.com, a website whose partners include The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and WSB-TV and radio. There, you'll find current local news, a 5-day weather forecast, street maps, and up-to-date information about special events, the arts, entertainment, sports, recreation, restaurants, shopping, and more. There's even a link to the Atlanta Yellow Pages.

Another site worth checking out is www.Atlanta.Citysearch.com. Although it's not as complete as www.AccessAtlanta.com, it still has lots of useful information about arts, entertainment, attractions, restaurants, shopping, and hotels. Finally, Creative Loafing (www.cln.com) features loads of entertainment information and great restaurant reviews.