I have to admit that, as a Yankee, I wasn't so sure that the Cyclorama was going to be of any interest to me. But I was pleasantly surprised. The Cyclorama is a fascinating piece of artwork, as well as a historical artifact. Anyone, regardless of which side of the Mascon-Dickson line they are from, will enjoy this hidden treasure. (It was alittle difficult to find at first, but my perserverence paid off.) The Cyclorama is a 360 degree painting with sculpture incorporated with it to give the audience a truly unique experience. As the platform you are seated on slowly revolves, you get totally immersed in this great artwork. The narration simply and fascinateingly tells the story of the battle of Atlanta. The museum around the Cyclorama holds interesting artifacts and a replica train car. I was tempted to skip the video of how they restored the painting, but I am glad that I didn't. It was fascinating to see all the work that went into saving this marvelous work of art. It gives greater appreciation for the Cyclorama. This is a stopped not to be missed whether you have any interest in Civil War history because it isn't just Civil War history, but human history. For hours call (404) 624-1071 or (404) 658-7625

If you like history or you are a Civil War buff, you will enjoy this attraction. It is hard to describe, but think of it as a huge circular oil painting with little miniatures figures in front of it to add depth. The painting and figures tell the story of the battle for Atlanta and creates an interesting effect. You will learn a lot about the Civil War and enjoy this attraction if you don't expect too much.

The Atlanta Zoo is next door if you want to make it a full day of activities for your kids.

The Cyclorama is a wonderful and unique museum centered around a huge cyclorama painting of the Battle of Atlanta. Our almost-six-year-old son has loved playing with soldiers since he could first grip plastic army men in his chubby, little fingers; thus he really liked looking at the Confederate soldiers’ and Union soldiers’ uniforms in the Cyclorama museum. He really enjoyed the short (and dramatic) historical movie about Sherman’s campaign for Atlanta before we were allowed onto the revolving platform from which we could view the presentation of the largest painting in the world. My son’s attention was riveted through the hour and a half presentation of the Cyclorama (time includes intro-movie, and a couple minutes break to walk to the auditorium where the painting is housed).

My husband and I, who both enjoy art and history, also found the Cyclorama fascinating to see as there are only twenty such paintings of this kind still in existence today, the one in Atlanta being the largest. We were also very happy to find that our experience at the Cyclorama taught us a lot about Atlanta History.

When we went hiking at Kennesaw Mountain, our son brought up the movie at the Cyclorama that talked about the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain before the Battle of Atlanta took place.

Note: I would have to say if your child is not interested in soldiers and history, he or she might not enjoy the movie as much as my son did. While he was younger, I would suggest this attraction is the most appropriate for kids 7 and older, so use your best judgement!

Essential Information:
Admission: Adults/$5; Kids/$3
Hours: 9:20 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Extended hours in the summer.