Atlanta in late September. Warm end-of-summer days, great regional food, and lots to see and do. It's a city imbued with a spirit of innovation—the perfect host for Microsoft Ignite.

We'll certainly keep you busy with a full schedule of talks, hands-on demos, expert Q&A, and more—but when it comes time to build your schedule, don't forget to leave yourself some time to explore the sparkling Empire City of the South.

Innovation everywhere—with a twist of fun

Odds are, you're already familiar with many of the innovative global brands that call Atlanta home, from Coca-Cola and CNN to Delta Airlines and UPS. Take advantage of their proximity by checking out the cutting-edge aviation technologies at the Delta Flight Museum, or mixing up your own recipe for a carbonated drink at the World of Coca-Cola. The city is also headquarters of the U.S. Government's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, where you can explore the high-tech science they use to track and fight diseases at the CDC museum.

Explore the city at your favorite pace

Historically, Atlanta's late-September temperatures range from highs of 79° to lows of 60° F (26°–16° C). Perfect weather for exploring the outdoors, and the city makes it easy. The Atlanta BeltLine is 22 miles of trails and walkways running through the city, with public art, great restaurants, and relaxing parks along the way. Or hop on board the Atlanta Streetcar, a 2.7-mile loop that gives you easy access to top attractions. If you like a faster pace, bring Forza to life and get behind the wheel of your own real-life Porsche at the Porsche Experience Center (book ahead to get the car you want).

When you get hungry...

Atlanta is justly famed for its cuisine and hospitality, with a wide range of dining choices. Stop at a café along the BeltLine. Dine at the rotating Sun Dial Restaurant and get a breathtaking 360° view of the Atlanta skyline. Or enjoy a local tradition and order up a meal at the Varsity—try a chili cheese dog, BBQ pork, or a fried pie! Not to mention other local favorites like Holeman & Finch and Waffle House.

And for the sports fan: PGA Golf, College Football, and the Braves

If your heart belongs to college football, Atlanta is the place to be, with its comprehensive College Football Hall of Fame. Prefer a different kind of ball? In late September, the Atlanta Braves will be taking on the Philadelphia Phillies and the Detroit Tigers at Turner Field (schedule). And if you love golf, book your tickets to arrive in Atlanta a few days before Microsoft Ignite begins to catch the PGA TOUR Championship by Coca-Cola at Atlanta's East Lake Golf Club.

Pre-register now and start planning your trip to get the most out of what Atlanta has to offer. Get your knowledge from the source, and a whole lot more.