Media mogul Ted Turner chose Atlanta as the place to start his cable news network, now called CNN, in 1980. Since then it has become home to studios of many shows and commentary on the channel, including Morning Express with Robin Meade, Headline News, and Sanjay Gupta M.D. Much of the election coverage is also filmed here.
The now-famous escalator, which is the longest freestanding escalator in the world, was built as a part of a theme park. There was also a movie theater and indoor ice skating rink before the offices were created. The rink was filled in and is now covered with a mosaic of the world map. It serves as the seating area for the CNN Center food court.
You never know what you might find on an Inside CNN Tour, as there is always something being filmed. You will be taken past the control room and will see how the famous green screen works. You’ll also get the chance to see the workspaces for the thousands of employees of the company.
Politics and news junkies will appreciate this tour, as will kids eager to see how the television process works. It’s impressive to see what started as one channel and has become the worldwide leader in international news.
Tips for Visiting the CNN Center
The CNN Center is located at 190 Marietta Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30303. The Inside the Studio Tour runs many times throughout the day, but the Morning Express and Inside CNN VIP tours operate at special times. Advance bookings are recommended.
Regular tours run daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Tickets are $15 for adults, $14 for seniors and students and $12 for children 4-12. Tours last 55 minutes and run every 10 minutes. Book your spot on the CNN Atlanta Studio Tour before you go.
Special tours are available for those with disabilities, as the tour involves stairs and escalators. There are also ticket combination passes like Atlanta CityPASS and the World of Coca Cola and CNN Center Combo Tour with Transportation.
The CNN Center is easily accessible from the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center station. From there, you will be able to see the CNN Center. If you are driving, exit at Williams Street and follow the signs for Centennial Olympic Park and the CNN Center. Paid parking lots and decks are available throughout the area.
Looking for a place to stay? The Omni CNN Center Atlanta Hotel is attached to the CNN Center and has its own restaurants and coffee shop. Read our review here.
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