Atlanta stands as the only U.S. city included in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel list for 2022. The 17^th annual edition highlights destinations and regions across the globe that will provide travelers with a must-have experience in the coming year.

“We are thrilled with Atlanta’s recognition as a world-class city for travelers to visit and explore our history and culture,” said Andrew Wilson, executive vice president and chief marketing officer, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Visitors will learn why Atlanta makes headlines as a dynamic city that continues to evolve and inspire travel for everyone.”

The process to create this list began with nominations from Lonely Planet’s vast community of staff, writers, bloggers, publishing partners and more. A panel of six travel experts then narrowed the selections to just 10 countries, 10 regions and 10 cities. Atlanta ranks No. 4 on the Top 10 Cities list.

The destination was deemed worthy for this designation based in part on the city’s sustainability efforts. With the country’s highest percentage of urban tree canopy, Atlanta is often referred to as the city in the forest, with lush greenspaces found across the region. The city’s numerous pedestrian and bike paths were another factor. Atlanta BeltLine, the most comprehensive revitalization project in town, continues to transform neighborhoods and communities for walkers, runners and cyclists.

Another element in Atlanta’s appeal for this accolade is the city’s inclusivity. Thriving Black and LGBTQ communities celebrate the diversity of the area and its progressive role in the region, appealing to all types of travelers. As the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the destination continues to play an important role in advancing civil and human rights across the globe. 

Atlanta’s invigorated arts scene, diverse culinary landscape and creative class also elevated the city for this honor. From murals and art installations to music and film, Atlanta serves as a cultural hub not only in the Southeast, but also the country.

The decision to include Atlanta on this elite list was also based in part on the city’s ability to welcome visitors in 2022. Atlanta’s hospitality community continues to implement procedures to safeguard tourists as hotels, restaurants and attractions are open and welcoming people back.

Atlanta is an exciting destination with a tremendous amount of new development opening since March 2020. New attractions and exhibit expansions offer additional experiences for visitors along with the addition of food halls, parks and paths. For more information on why Atlanta was selected to Lonely Planet’s Best of Travel 2022 list, visit discoveratlanta.com.