It’s hard to believe how much has changed in Atlanta since we released the first edition of 100 Things to Do in Atlanta Before You Die. Tons of new restaurants and shops have opened, developments that were in progress are finally completed, and there’s still so much ongoing progress and redevelopment that it’s hard to even keep up. But we have—and it’s all here in this second edition of 100 Things to Do in Atlanta Before You Die. Whether you’re a native of the ATL looking to mark another local experience off your bucket list or an out-of-towner in search of an only-in-Atlanta adventure, this is the guide you need. The book celebrates the top ways to (re)connect with Atlanta and shines a light on lesser-known haunts like the world’s largest junkyard of vintage cars and several historic Civil War sites (some supposedly still home to spirits from the grave). And no look at Atlanta would be complete without the “who’s who” of the city’s top Southern chefs—we’re talking who serves up the best fried chicken this side of the Mississippi, y’all. So before you head out on any adventure in the ATL, check out this book to see what makes Atlanta the coolest city in the South.

Centrally located in Michigan, Lansing is 90 minutes from 90% of the state’s population, so it makes an excellent destination for a Michigander’s weekend getaway. And with all the city has to offer, those from outside of Michigan will find plenty to keep busy for a more extended stay. 100 Things to Do in Lansing Before You Die provides a local’s itineraries and tips for enjoying all the must-sees in this diverse town, as well as the secret treasures some locals may never have found. Greater Lansing is famous for the three Cs, cars, the capital, and the campus at Michigan State University. Although almost half a million people call the Greater Lansing area home, Lansing offers a small-town atmosphere while featuring ample city comforts. Learn how to take on the “Ultimate Carnivore Food Challenge,” where to find art from world-renowned artists, and how you can reach tranquility in the serenity of a Japanese Garden. Native Lansingite and resident of South Lansing, Amy Piper is the source to maximize your visit offering adventures in nature, foodie fun, a thriving arts scene, and rich cultural history, everyone will find something to pique their interest in Lansing, Michigan.

Oakland is in the middle of a renaissance and, in the past five years, has quickly become a melting pot for hipsters, techies and aspiring artists escaping the San Francisco fog. But at its heart is the families that have called this city home for decades, giving it a rare sense of community that’s dying in other parts of the San Francisco Bay Area. This can be experienced first-hand every month at Oakland First Fridays, where local bands and artists converge to put on the ultimate block party. Or the Grand Lake Farmer’s Market every Saturday provides another canvas for cultural and ethnic diversity. It only takes about 10 minutes at one of these city-wide events to see how Oakland, the birthplace of the Black Panther Party and other social justice organizations, is the definition of civic pride, welcoming any and all who visit to feel at home.

In 100 Things to Do in San Francisco Before You Die, the authors talk top attractions - the famous Painted Ladies, the bridges, the countless scenic vistas - but they focus on guiding visitors and residents alike to the out-of-the-way places that locals love, places that reveal the soul of this world-class city. Based on personal experience, the authors suggest where to grab a Mission-style burrito, introduce the kids to a giant Pacific octopus, join a sea chantey sing-along, get tipsy on an alcoholic malt, buy tie-dye in Haight-Ashbury, rock out at a free music festival, track down a food cart selling bacon-wrapped hot dogs, and relax in a redwood grove. The book also provides insider info on where to experience yoga on a labyrinth, rent a bike in Golden Gate Park, taste exotic olive oils, soak up spectacular ocean views on an urban hiking trail, brunch on beignets, take a free walking tour, and catch a glimpse of the city's wild parrots on the wing. In short, 100 Things to Do in San Francisco Before You Die reveals many of the reasons why millions of people routinely leave their hearts in this amazing place!

An easy drive from almost every major midwestern city and full of adventures and history, it’s no wonder Fort Wayne, Indiana always makes the list of the top places to live. With outdoor activities, a burgeoning food scene, and plenty for the whole family, you’ll need help winnowing down the list of attractions. Enter 100 Things to Do in Fort Wayne Before You Die, your insider guide to Indiana’s second-largest city. Go wild at the city’s 40-acre zoo and catch the legendary, joke-telling amphibian Croaky in action. Fort Wayne is known as “The City of Churches,” but do you know which one has a bowling alley in the basement? Catch a minor league baseball game, order a drink from a rooftop overlooking the city or spend an evening touring downtown in a romantic carriage ride. This guide offers the top food and drink, live music and entertainment, culture and history attractions, sporting events, recreation and shopping, all with the personal touch of a longtime resident’s recommendations. Local author and journalist Terri Richardson brings three decades of experience in the Fort to all of her carefully crafted itineraries and suggestions. So grab a Coney dog and your copy of this book for a great time exploring Fort Wayne’s many offerings.

Stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the trails of the Timucuan preserve, Jacksonville, Florida is a vibrant multicultural city with great weather nearly year-round and the largest urban park system in the country. Known by its many visitors for its rivers and beaches, it also has a treasure trove of unique experiences for young and old to discover. 100 Things to Do in Jacksonville Before You Die is your cheat sheet to Jacksonville’s most iconic destinations. Discover insider knowledge on exciting festivals, shopping hot spots, and the tastiest pizza in town. From historic theatres to state-of-the-art robots, Jacksonville is a city worth exploring. Treat yourself to the smallest donuts at Mini Bar Donuts, and the biggest jumbotrons with the Jacksonville Jaguars game day experience. Hop on the Jacksonville Ale Trail and discover the First Coast’s growing craft brew scene, head to the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens for a wild time, or carve out an afternoon for a walk on Skeleton Beach. Jacksonville is often underestimated, but travel expert and Jacksonville resident Amy West is on a mission to expose all of her hometown’s charms. Follow along as she takes you behind the scenes of some of her favorite places and discover Jacksonville with a local.

In the land where Paul Bunyan statues are big and Bigfoot tales are even bigger, the Jolly Green Giant overlooks the North Star State of Minnesota. 100 Things to Do in Minnesota Before You Die helps you navigate from Grand Portage on our northern border to Winona in the south while enticing you to try new outdoor activities, eat unusual foods, and sip flavorful beverages. Visit the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame, order popcorn from a 120-year-old popcorn wagon, and walk across the Mississippi headwaters at Itasca State Park. Explore the state by skis or by zip-line. Visit an underground state park or look to the sky to watch the Northern Lights. This is the Land of 10,000 Lakes, untouched wilderness, awesome music, exceptional restaurants, and the Mall of America. Minnesota truly has something for everyone to enjoy. There is no shortage of activities in this book to keep readers aged anywhere two to ninety-nine busy 365 days a year. Whether you use this book as a bucket list, guidebook, or cure for cabin fever, local author Julie Jo Larson has got you covered. Grab a friend or two, a copy of this book, and experience four seasons of great adventures where the journey is as meaningful as the destination.