Preparations for the Olympics lasted more than six years and had an economic impact of at least $ 5.14 billion . Over two million visitors came to Atlanta , and approximately 3.5 billion people around the world watched at least part of the games on television . Although marred by the tragedy of the Centennial Olympic Park bombing , they were a financial success , due in part to TV rights contracts and sponsorships at record levels
Centennial Olympic Park bombing
Centennial Olympic Park bombing
1996 Summer Olympics