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Olympia Building

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Have you ever wondered about the story behind the iconic Coca-Cola sign that lights up the Atlanta skyline? Right here, in the heart of Downtown Atlanta, stands the Olympia Building, a striking triangular structure that has witnessed the city’s transformation over the years. Built in 1936, it was a beacon of modern architecture during the Great Depression. This two-story building was designed by the architectural firm of Ivey and Crook, known for their exquisite Art Deco style. The Olympia Building had a unique name that came from its founder, Frank Hawkins, who had made a fortune investing in Olympia Beach, Florida. The site of the Olympia Building is steeped in history. In the mid-1840s, it was the site of Atlanta’s very first post office and general store, run by the city’s first postmaster, George Washington Collier. The building was later used as a popular shopping destination in the 1920s, but with the rise of the automobile, the pedestrian-oriented downtown declined. Then, in 1995, the Robert W. Woodruff Foundation gifted the Olympia Building to the state of Georgia just before the 1996 Summer Olympics. The building fell into disrepair, but a major restoration project began in 2015 to preserve its historic 1936 façade. Today, the Olympia Building houses a Walgreens, a far cry from its former life, but a reminder of the city’s rich history and its enduring legacy. The dazzling Coca-Cola sign remains a testament to its storied past.

After discovering the story of Olympia Building in Atlanta, you may wonder how to explore even more of what this vibrant destination has to offer. Explory makes it simple: our digital guide gives you instant access to the city’s culture, history, and unique atmosphere. With our interactive city guide, you can uncover the background of Atlanta while following engaging routes designed for curious travelers. Whether you’re on a short trip or staying longer, Explory transforms your visit into a personalized city tour that connects stories with places in an intuitive way. Explory is more than just an ordinary travel tool – it is your companion for deeper exploration of Atlanta. Each guide combines expert storytelling with easy navigation, allowing you to discover well-known highlights and hidden gems that most visitors overlook. With the city guide, you can plan your route across landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural spots, all enriched by immersive audio storytelling. Our audio guide brings the atmosphere of Atlanta directly to your ears, making each step of your journey more meaningful. Whether you are passionate about art, architecture, history, or everyday culture, Explory helps you connect with the spirit of Atlanta. The carefully curated guide highlights what makes this city special, while the interactive city tour lets you explore on your own terms. Thanks to our focus on exploration and unique hidden gems, you’ll enjoy a travel experience that goes far beyond traditional sightseeing. Explory turns every visit into a memorable adventure where stories and places come alive. Download the Explory App now to continue your journey beyond Atlanta. Inside the app, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories waiting for you. Whether you are searching for a smart audio guide, planning your next city tour, or simply looking for inspiration through a rich guide, Explory is your key to exploring the world differently. Start today and unlock the full potential of Atlanta with Explory – your ultimate travel companion.

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