It’s been 30 years since the pivotal decision to make Atlanta the home of the 1996 Olympics. Atlanta History Center reflects.

There are several touch points in Atlanta’s history that have helped define the city; the most recent is arguably its winning bid for the 1996 Olympics. With that colossal, unexpected win in hand, Atlanta’s future was shaped, not only in terms of facilities built but in being recognized on an international stage as a capital of commerce. Since then, Fortune 500 companies have moved here and the population has grown exponentially. Reflect in style at Atlanta History Center’s Atlanta ’96: Shaping an Olympic and Paralympic City. Over 150 iconic and unique archival items will be on display alongside touchless interactive experiences, as well as over 200 photographs and archival reproductions sourced from the Georgia Amateur Athletic Foundation Collection as well as individual donors and local organizations. There’s particular care given in explaining how our city’s urban landscape and metro area development have been impacted by the 1996 Games. Whether you’re a native or new to Atlanta, it’s a wonderful refresher on how one single event shaped our city’s history.