Museums abound in downtown Atlanta, from the world’s largest aquarium to the World of Coca-Cola, which houses Pemberton’s secret formula.
Pair that with the South’s feisty love of college football, and "The Capital of the South" is the logical location for the newly redesigned (and relocated) College Football Hall of Fame.
High-tech ticketing options create a personalized experience for every visitor, and hands-on exhibits keep you entertained for hours.
Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Skill Zone — Photo courtesy of College Football Hall of Fame
Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta – just outside Centennial Olympic Park – the College Football Hall of Fame’s football-esque building is hard to miss. Visitors not staying in the downtown area can take the MARTA train to either the CNN Center, Civil Center or Peachtree Center Stations. From each location, the hall is a 10- to 15-minute walk.
Drivers can park in the College Football Hall of Fame Parking Deck (GWCC Marietta Deck), which is connected to the Hall of Fame and accepts all major credit cards.
The hall features historic and contemporary memorabilia, children’s activities, interactive multimedia displays, a theater featuring an ultra-high-definition film and unique special event and activity spaces.
"Why We Love Football" interactive display — Photo courtesy of College Football Hall of Fame
RFIDs included in the all-access ticket personalize your museum experience by displaying stats, photos and information about your favorite college football team as you make your way through the exhibits.
For example, upon entering the museum, you're greeted with a 52-foot-long interactive screen, which dynamically displays image and video associated with your favorite college football team.
This personal touch is mirrored throughout the museum, from the Fight Song Karaoke, queued up with your college’s ditty, to the ESPN GameDay set where you play Lee Corso, seeing the teleprompter screen fill with the head of your team mascot.
Near the entrance sits the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Skill Zone, a 45-yard replica football field where guests can try their hand at the pigskin. Attempt a field goal, take the quarterback challenge or run though the Touchstone Tunnel. Additional hands-on games and activities are offered every day.
ESPN College GameDay desk — Photo courtesy of College Football Hall of Fame
When you’re ready for a breather, make your way to the GameDay Theatre. Here, the energy of college football comes to life in ultra high definition. You’ll see, feel and experience a behind-the-scenes look at the excitement of game day, as narrated through the perspectives of former players and coaches.
Your museum day adventure doesn’t end when you head out the door. The Hall’s RFID technology allows you to re-live your football experience with friends once you get home. Log into the website with your ticket information to retrieve photos and videos made during your visit, such as your newsroom call of the game or your fight song karaoke experience.
Outside of an actual game, the College Football Hall of Fame is the best way to experience college football in the South, with sophisticated interactive exhibits and hands-on opportunities to celebrate and learn.
You can’t miss a visit to the hall. It sets the bar for 21st-century museums worldwide.