Atlanta

Georgia's capital, fondly known as "HOTlanta" to locals, is now a bustling, world-class city, with a skyline full of impressive architectural designs that complement rolling hills and abundant foliage.

Atlanta is consistently ranked as one of the best places to do business in the U.S., and more than 750 of Fortune's Top 1,000 businesses have offices there. A fast-paced, ready-for-the-future attitude is evident in its booming convention business, pulsing nightlife, showplace museums, sophisticated fine-arts facilities and painstakingly restored historical landmarks. Atlantans are fiercely proud of their city. They bubble over with enthusiasm for Braves baseball, Hawks basketball, Thrashers hockey and Falcons football. The city has hosted two Super Bowls.

News of Atlanta's special formula for friendliness combined with pride emerged during the 1996 Olympics, when the city opened its doors and made the world feel welcome. Downtown Atlanta has several hubs of activity: the World Congress Convention Center; CNN Center, home of Ted Turner's 24-hour Cable News Network; and Peachtree Center, a combination of grand hotels, upscale retail and modern businesses. Cultural events include a myriad of outdoor fairs, festivals and concerts.