Because of its temperate climate, Atlanta’s tourism season lasts virtually all year. Spring arrives early here, with short sleeves coming out sometimes as early as March. A phenomenal fit of blossoms and new foliage erupts in April and May, along with some of the best festivals—Atlanta Dogwood Festival (www.dogwood.org), Atlanta Film Festival (www.atlantafilmfestival.com), Decatur Arts Festival (www.decaturartsfestival.com), Inman Park Festival (www.inmanparkfestival.org), and Sweet Auburn Springfest (www.sweetauburn.com).

The summer’s warmth lingers well into autumn, with beautiful breezy days in October. Temperatures can dip below freezing in December or January, but cold snaps don’t tend to stick here.

Perhaps the only time to avoid Atlanta is in the hottest part of the summer—late July and August—when the combination of temperatures in the 90s and the infamous humidity make outdoor activities less enjoyable. The upside is that Atlantans love their air-conditioning, making even the dog days of summer desirable to some.