World of Coca-Cola Review – Is Atlanta’s Attraction Worth a Visit?
Are you looking for a unique and family-friendly attraction to visit in Atlanta? Or maybe you are looking for something to do on a rainy day? The World of Coca-Cola fits the bill.
During our family road trip through the US, we tried to take in a variety of sights and attractions. And the Coca-Cola Museum sounded like a pretty unique place.
From the history of the drink to pop culture and even the opportunity to taste Coca-Cola samples from around the globe, the kids were excited to visit.
But was it worth the visit? We definitely thought so!
Is the World of Coca-Cola Worth Visiting?
Yes. In our opinion, this attraction is definitely worth a visit.
While many people may consider this museum just to be one huge Coca-Cola commercial and tourist trap, we thought it was a lot of fun.
I loved the nostalgia of it all, while the kids enjoyed many of the hands-on aspects, the movies, and of course, the tastings.
How Much Time Do You Need in the World of Coca‑Cola?
The average time to fully experience the World of Coca-Cola is approximately 2 hours.
When you first enter the museum, you will be asked to wait in the Lobby until the next group is allowed into the Loft/Theater area. Here, you will be offered a can of Coke to drink while you wait.
Unfortunately, your only options are Coca‑Cola, Diet Coke, Coke Zero Sugar or the reduced-calorie Coca‑Cola Life in this area.
But don’t worry, you will have plenty of opportunities to sample other products later on!
You are then taken to The Loft. Here, you will spend about 10 minutes with a tour guide, who will give you a brief introduction to the museum.
The Loft is filled with tons of Coca-Cola memorabilia from all over the world. It’s actually pretty cool to see!
From The Loft, everyone heads into the theatre for a short video entitled Moments of Happiness.
This six-minute film celebrates some of life’s most memorable moments experienced by people of different ages and cultures around the world.
Unfortunately, you can’t avoid this whole process. And although it was pretty interesting for us, we noticed a few Littles getting restless.
Expect about a 20-minute presentation in total, before you can move on at your own pace.
Why is the World of Coca-Cola Worth Visiting?
The World of Coca-Cola is a fun, colourful and hands-on experience for all ages.
The museum showcases the history of advertising and Coke’s influence on Pop Culture.
You will definitely leave knowing a bit more about the iconic brand that’s recognized around the world.
And the best part is, you really don’t have to be a Coke drinker to enjoy this attraction.
From visiting the vault where the secret formula is held to being able to sample more than 100 Coke flavours from all over the world, this museum is a lot of fun for the whole family.
Things to Do at The World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta
Here are the top ten things you must do when visiting the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta:
1. Take a Picture with the Iconic Coca-Cola Polar Bear
Meet and take your photo with the iconic Coca-Cola Polar Bear.
Even though he was first introduced in 1922, it wasn’t until 1993 that the Polar Bear became synonymous with the brand.
The “Always Coca‑Cola” campaign in a television ad called “Northern Lights” is something both Hubby and I recall from our childhoods!
You can pose with the bear for your own photo, or make use of the professional photographers on site.
You can purchase these photos in the gift shop on your way out.
2. Step Inside “The Vault”
Have you ever wondered what goes into making the world’s most popular soft drink?
Do you want to learn about the most closely guarded and best-kept secret in history? Then step inside The Vault!
This interactive and immersive exhibit is filled with games and activities for everyone.
You can discover the origins of the secret formula, how competitors tried to copy it, and how the secret was protected over the years.
How about trying your hand at creating your own taste and flavour combinations at the Virtual Taste Maker exhibit?
This cool exhibit allows you to experiment with making your own “mix” to see how close you get to the real deal.
How about transforming yourself into an effervescent bubbling form in The Bubble-izer?
There were so many fun things to do inside The Vault for kids!
At the end of the tour, everyone ends up in the Chamber of the Vault. Here, there is a very dramatic reveal of the vault where the secret formula is held.
Not surprisingly, you don’t ever learn the secret formula.
But the experience was pretty neat all the same!
3. Check Out the “Milestones of Refreshment” Exhibit
The Milestones of Refreshment gallery showcases the history of Coca-Cola.
This exhibit is colourful, with over 1,000 original artifacts to see.
The kids, unfortunately, were not particularly interested in learning how the Coca-Cola company has grown and evolved over the years.
However, they did enjoy looking at the old soda fountains, a 1939 Chevrolet delivery truck from Argentina, and memories from the Olympic Games that Coke has sponsored.
My favourite part of the exhibit was learning about the glass Coke bottle!
Did you know that the Coca-Cola bottle is one of the only pieces of trademarked packaging in the world?
Not only that, but the contour bottle, which was introduced in 1916, is one of the most widely recognized brand icons in the world.
4. Create Your Own “Coke Art”
“My Coke Art” is an interactive exhibit that allows you to explore the brand’s influence on popular culture by creating your very own Coke bottle.
The exhibit has three touchscreen kiosks.
Each kiosk includes a set of graphic elements that can be combined or changed.
This allows you to design your own artwork.
Once you are finished, the artwork can then be shared via email.
It is also displayed on large monitors in the Gallery, for others to enjoy.
5. Visit “Bottle Works” to See How Coca-Cola is Actually Bottled
And speaking of bottles… Have you ever wanted a behind-the-scenes look at the Coca-Cola bottling process?
At the Bottle Works exhibit, you get to learn interesting facts and stories about Coca-Cola bottling throughout history.
You also get a first-hand look at some of the same equipment and processes that are found in a modern full-size bottling plant.
6. Watch a Movie in the 4-D Theatre
The kids were excited to hit the 4-D theatre.
In Search of the Secret Formula is a Coca-Cola-themed 3-D video, with the theatre providing complimentary 3-D glasses before you enter.
During the video, there are some special effects such as moving seats, making this a 4-D experience.
If you are prone to motion sickness like I am, you will be happy to know that are some seats in the back of the theatre that do not move.
The video was pretty much an extended Coke commercial, but it was a good excuse to sit down for a bit.
7. Visit the Scent Discovery Exhibit
In 2020, The World of Coca-Cola introduced its newest exhibit – Scent Discovery.
Here, kids can learn about how their sense of smell is tied to whether they prefer spicy, fruity or sweet flavours.
And with the help of a Coca-Cola Ambassador, you’ll learn more about the aroma profiles of the Coke products you already love.
Your nose definitely acts as a guide in this exhibit.
8. Taste Beverages from Around the World
The “Taste It!” exhibit is located on the second floor of the museum, right next to the gift shop and exit.
I’m pretty sure this exhibit was the favourite for all of us!
With over 100 different flavours from around the world to try, expect to leave with a sugar rush… and a full bladder!
As you enter this area, you will see five colourful tasting stations.
They are organized geographically: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and North America.
Each station offers the popular Coca-Cola flavours from each country.
We found some new flavours that were absolutely delicious (hello Fanta Melon Frosty from Thailand).
And then we stumbled across the infamous Beverly from Italy.
Being Italian, we had to try it! UGH! It was absolutely GROSS!
I was definitely taken aback when Hubby said he LIKED it! Do yourself a favour… steer clear!
9. Create your own Coca-Cola flavour to sample
Towards the back of the Taste It! exhibit, you will find a room containing mix-your-own-flavour machines.
Here, you are able to choose from a list of Coke flavours.
The machine will then mix your custom creation and dispense it for you to sample.
With more traditional Coca-Cola flavours like Cherry and Vanilla, you may want to check them out before filling up on fruity beverages at the front of the exhibit.
Taste It! is definitely a sparkling end to your visit to the World of Coca-Cola.
Although you absolutely won’t leave thirsty, you may leave feeling a little sick if you aren’t careful!
10. Shop in the Coca-Cola Store
As you leave the museum, you will go through the Coca-Cola Store.
The gift shop is filled with Coke-themed toys, clothing, souvenirs, and art.
With several unique pieces, as well as pretty much anything you can think of available for purchase, there is definitely something for everyone.
And just a quick note – once you enter the gift shop, you are no longer able to return to the exhibits. So save the gift shop for the end!
World of Coca-Cola Hours and Admission
The World of Coca-Cola is open Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm, Friday from 10 am to 5:30 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm.
The World of Coca-Cola now gives you the option to purchase your tickets in advance for all entries. These advanced tickets will save you $1 off the price of each ticket.
Your General Admission ticket gets you access to all of the World of Coca‑Cola’s exhibits, films and experiences.
Quick tip, you can save $3 per ticket by visiting Monday to Thursday.
Where is the World of Coca-Cola located?
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the World of Coca-Cola is pretty easy to find.
In fact, it is located in Pemberton Place right next to the Georgia Aquarium, and across the street from Centennial Park.
Where to Stay Near the Coca-Cola Museum in Atlanta
Atlanta is a pretty big city. As a result, you have plenty of accommodation options to choose from:
Luxury
The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta – An upscale hotel offering elegant rooms and exceptional service, just a short walk from the World of Coca-Cola.
Moderate
Hyatt Regency Atlanta – A comfortable and modern hotel with excellent amenities and easy access to local attractions.
Budget
Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta-Downtown – A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a convenient location near the World of Coca-Cola.
How to Get to the World of Coca-Cola Museum in Atlanta
The museum is easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking, and even charging stations for electric vehicles.
You can also reach the museum by way of public transportation.
There are two MARTA stations that are located a short 10-minute walk from the World of Coca-Cola.
Visiting the World of Coca-Cola FAQs
Yes! It’s a pretty cool place to visit, but if you are a Coca-Cola fan, then it’s a MUST! And although the nostalgic paraphernalia is awesome, the best part is being able to sample the different Coke products from around the world.
Expect to spend 2 to 3 hours at the world of Coca-Cola. This time frame varies depending on how busy the attraction is, and how much time you spend at the exhibits.
Yes. You get a free 8-ounce can at the beginning of the tour. However, this is definitely overshadowed once you hit the Taste it! exhibit where you can try as many samples as you want.
Yes. You can park at Pemberton Place which services both the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium.
No. While there is onsite parking is available at the World of Coca‑Cola, it costs approximately $20 per vehicle.
Final Thoughts – Is The World of Coca-Cola Worth it?
The World of Coca-Cola was a fun attraction in Atlanta, and definitely worth a visit.
Yes, it’s pretty much a huge advertisement for Coca-Cola. But it wasn’t a bad place to spend a couple of hours.
Besides, we all had a great time learning about a piece of Atlanta’s history, it made leaving with a sugar rush all the more worthwhile.
Have you been to the World of Coca-Cola? What was your favourite flavour? Drop us a line!
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