Best Things to Do in Atlanta

Atlanta is a city packed with activities—so make sure you take the time to experience as much as possible! With so many things to do in Atlanta, you’ll never be bored in the Big Peach!

Atlanta's Cultural and Historical Attractions

As Georgia’s largest city—one with a rich history and center of creativity and tech—it’s easy to see what makes Atlanta a must-visit destination on many a tourist’s list. In this article, we’ll take you through some of the best Atlanta’s in-demand cultural and historical attractions.

Atlanta History Center

The Atlanta History Center is a history museum and research center that was founded in 1926. To the Atlanta community, it’s also so much more. This institution features numerous award-winning exhibitions; all aiming to preserve and understand Atlanta’s storied history.

What was once a small society has totally blossomed into something more. Today, Atlanta History Center’s property contains 33 acres of gardens and four historic houses, including the Swan House and Smith Family Farm. Visitors are invited to roam its campus or attend any of its cultural events to get to know the city of Atlanta from a historic perspective.

High Museum of Art

The High Art Museum (or “The High” to locals) was founded in 1905 under its former name, the Atlanta Art Association. In 1926, the institution changed its name to honor the family that donated their home to house its vast collection.

Today, this visual art museum is the largest museum for visual art in the Southwestern United States. Its collection is vast and diverse, including African Art, American Art, Folk and Self-Taught Art, and many more. Its permanent collection features beloved works by well-known artists, including Monet and Warhol.

While it’s renowned for its impressive collection, the High Art Museum makes a great destination for families.

Drop by on Toddler Thursdays every Thursday between 10 AM and 3 PM for hands-on activities catering to little ones aged fifteen months to three years of age. Wine nights, free admission days, and more all make this a truly unique and special place—a museum worth visiting whether you’re coming to Atlanta for the first time or the hundredth.

• Location: 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
• Hours: Tue – Sat 10pm– 5pm | Sun 12 – 5pm
• Cost: $23.50 adults / free for kids under six and members
• Known for: Southeast’s leading art museum with 18,000+ works, strong in American, folk, and contemporary art
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings or free second Sundays
• Family-friendly? Yes

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Tour the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and witness and learn about American history firsthand. Named in honor of the American pastor and activist, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park was established by the United States Congress on October 10^th, 1980, and was designated a national historical site shortly after.

The park grounds house several buildings, including Dr. King’s childhood residence, the original Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change—all of which are buildings that played a pivotal role in Dr. King’s story and legacy.

Embark on a guided tour and explore its numerous facilities as you learn more about the African American Civil Rights movement. Learning about the past is a necessary tool in understanding and shaping the future.

• Location: 450 Auburn Avenue, NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
• Hours: 9am– 5pm
• Cost: Free entry
• Known for: Birthplace and boyhood home of MLK Jr., Ebenezer Baptist Church, King Center & tomb, Freedom Hall, Rose Garden, Civil Rights Walk of Fame & historic fire station
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings or early week/Sundays to get birth‑home tour tickets before they fill up.
• Family‑friendly? Yes

Delta Flight Museum

The Delta Flight Museum is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts and curious travelers. This hidden gem, located in Delta’s original 1940s aircraft hangars, allows visitors to step inside a full-size Boeing 747. The museum also features interactive exhibits and a 45-yard indoor football field within the hangar for a hands-on experience.

• Location: 1060 Delta Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30354
• Hours: Mon–Tue closed, Wed–Sun 10am–4pm
• Cost: $15–$25 depending on age and access
• Known for: Restored aircraft, historic aviation displays, full-scale Boeing 747
• Best time to go: Weekdays for fewer crowds
• Family-friendly? Yes

Outdoor Activities in Atlanta

Atlanta offers a wealth of outdoor activities and green spaces that are sure to delight the entire family, come rain or shine. You'll find fresh air and fun times, whether you're seeking the excitement of the city or the tranquility of its parks and gardens.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is in full bloom. This botanical paradise is a welcome escape from the city for nature-lovers and families alike. It’s brimming with an extensive garden of plant species, beautiful displays, and spectacular exhibitions.

We simply can’t get enough of the Fuqua Orchid Center, which boasts more than 200 genera and 2,000 species of the orchid plant, including Madagascar orchids, tropical Asian slipper orchids, and many other kinds. Or take part in the Canopy Walk, which lets visitors walk through the lush trees of Storza Woods while trekking across a canopied bridge. The best part?

The bridge is over 40 feet in the air, so you’ll really get a good view of its oaks, hickories, and tulip poplars.

• Location: 1345 Piedmont Ave, NE, Atlanta, GA  30309
• Hours: Tue–Sun 9 am– 9 pm, closed Mondays
• Cost: Adult $28.95 (weekday) $31.95 (weekend) / child (3–12) $25.95 (weekday) $28.95 (weekend)
• Known for: 30-acre display with indoor conservatory, orchids, canopy walk, children’s garden, rotating living‑sculpture exhibits
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings or evenings to avoid crowds or catch seasonal exhibits
• Family‑friendly? Yes

Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park spans over 200 acres and is a popular spot among locals and visitors to Atlanta, because sometimes, all you want to do is lay in the grass and experience the outdoors.

For anyone looking to have a picnic, relax by Lake Clara Meer, or play a sport like volleyball—Piedmont Park is the best place in Atlanta. It’s also home to several annual festivals, including the Atlanta Dogwood Festival and Music Midtown.

• Location: 1322 Monroe Drive, Atlanta, GA 30306
• Hours: Daily 6 am– 11 pm
• Cost: Free admission | parking extra
• Known for: Lake Clara Meer, playgrounds including Noguchi sculptural playscape, dog parks, pool, events & trails 
• Best time to go: Early morning or evening to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler hours 
• Family-friendly? Yes — dog areas, splash fountain, playgrounds, pool, picnic areas, festivals & fitness amenities for all ages 

Explore the Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine is a 22-mile-long multi-use trail, surrounded by trails and parks. It runs through and unites an astonishing 45 different neighborhoods, and along the way, you may even encounter some magnificent art installations and trails. This is a sustainable redevelopment project made to bring the city closer together.

Visit Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta was founded in 1889 and today remains to be one of the city’s favorite destinations, home to elephants, lions, orangutans, and warthogs—and plenty of other honorable Animal Kingdom mentions. Remarkably, this is also one of only four zoos in the U.S. that houses giant pandas.

But what makes this such a special place is its involvement with wildlife conservation programs in the form of funding for other established conservation organizations or staff projects. A visit here supports Zoo Atlanta and, ultimately, the beloved creatures great and small of the animal kingdom.

• Location: 800 Cherokee Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
• Hours: Mon–Fri 9 am– 5 pm(last admission 3:30 PM) | Sat–Sun 9 am– 6 pm (last admission 4:30 pm)
• Cost: Adults $26.70 – $34.95 / kids (3–11) $21.20 – $26.95
• Known for: Giraffes, sun bears, elephants, reptiles & numerous attractions for kids
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings before crowds, or cooler weekends early entry
• Family-friendly? Yes — splash fountains, carousel, train, petting zoo, Wild Encounters & trails for all ages

Atlanta's Entertainment and Events

Fun fact: Atlanta is a major hub of entertainment—from its buzzing live music scene to cheering on the local sports teams, in this town, there’s never a dull moment.

Concert at the Fox Theatre

Fox Theatre is a stunning feat of architecture, its domes and archways recalling Moorish design, but with an Art Deco twist.

This performing arts venue regularly hosts live music performances, Broadway spectacles, plays, concerts, and special events. Beyond its 4,000+ seats, the venue also has its own ballroom where private events are sometimes held. See what’s on the next time you’re in town and get a front-row seat to history.

• Location: 660 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
• Hours: Varies by event
• Cost: Ticket prices vary by performance
• Known for: Ornate Moorish‑Egyptian movie‑palace architecture, “Mighty Mo” pipe organ, Broadway shows & concerts
• Best time to go: Weekday matinees or organ‑pre‑show on summer film nights.
• Family‑friendly? Yes

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Mercedes-Benz Stadium is home to two professional sports teams, the Atlanta Falcons (who play American football) and the Atlanta United FC (or as we in North America like to call it, soccer).

That’s because Atlantans are a passionate bunch—this is a major sports town. The stadium has a retractable roof and a 360-degree halo board, so cheering on these local heroes can comfortably happen any time of year, whatever the weather.

Atlanta's Annual Festivals

In Atlanta, Georgia, you can count on there being a festival for just about every season. From cultural celebrations to music, art, and food fests, these are some of the more popular ones happening throughout the year.

• Orchid Daze: In the spring, you can head to the Atlanta Botanical Garden for the annual Orchid Daze, which celebrates the garden’s signature plant.
• Atlanta Film Festival: The Atlanta Film Festival takes place, a showcase of independent, international, animated, documentary, and short films. This is one of the largest and longest-running festivals in the country and attracts nearly 28,000+ attendees every spring.
• Atlanta Jazz Festival: In May, the Atlanta Jazz Festival takes place in Piedmont Park. This annual festival is one of the largest free festivals in the U.S. and was founded with the goal of making jazz more accessible to a wider audience.
• Atlanta Dogwood Festival: Every year, Piedmont Park hosts the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, an event that celebrates the blooming dogwood trees. Folks gather here to take part in parades, fashion shows, crafts fairs, and much more. The festivities unfold every April.

One thing you should know about Atlantans—they like to have a good time, if these festivals are any indication.

Local Music on Atlanta's Streets

Atlanta’s streets are bustling and vibrant. Everywhere you look, you’re sure to encounter live street performances and buskers. Mid-sized venues like The Tabernacle welcome performing artists of all stripes, while vibrant neighborhoods like Little Five Points are bustling with year-round street performances.

Atlanta's Unique Neighborhoods

Most people who’ve been to Atlanta say it’s one of the coolest cities they’ve ever discovered, and its unique neighborhoods and attractions contribute to that reputation.

Midtown Atlanta

Midtown Atlanta has a distinct “city within a city” vibe. Though very much a part of Atlanta, this neighborhood really is its own thing; a bustling center packed with activities, restaurants, shops, and more.

This area of town is best known for its arts scene, so be sure to check out performance art institutions like the Woodruff Arts Center, the Alliance Theatre, or see the Grammy Award-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra live.

If something happens in Atlanta, chances are it’s happening in Midtown.

Buckhead

Buckhead, an upscale commercial and financial center, is another popular Atlanta neighborhood is. Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza are two popular shopping destinations in the area: the spots in town where locals and visitors come to shop for luxury and designer goods.

Beyond that, the nightlife here has everything you need for a night out. Check out popular spots like Tongue & Groove for a peak into luxury Atlanta living or taste the divine options at Himitsu.

Little Five Points

Eclectic shops and street art are just a way of life in Little Five Points. This quaint neighborhood boasts more of a hipster/boho vibe—it’s where you’ll find the city’s best vintage shops, street art, and live music venues. Unlike some of the other city’s boroughs, Little Five Points is largely walkable so you can explore its many charms on foot.

Historic Inman Park

Inman Park is a neighborhood steeped in history, where historic homes and parks line the streets. This neighborhood is Atlanta’s first planned suburb and features numerous Victorian-inspired homes. Need to cool down? There are plenty of ice cream and gelato spots scattered throughout the neighborhood.

The Inman Park Festival takes you on a tour of the neighborhood, so you can appreciate these breathtaking buildings up close. 

Atlanta's Culinary Scene

Foodies, Atlanta is a city brimming with food options. Here, you’re sure to find something to indulge in, no matter what the cravings are calling for.

Ponce City Market

Ponce City Market is a food lover’s paradise in Atlanta. Ponce de Leon was one of the city’s oldest structures. But in the mid-aughts, local chefs and artisans worked their magic, transforming it into the ultimate foodie destination.

Let yourself be tempted by the market’s many restaurants. Spoil yourself by stopping into any of its shops. Come here for its near-daily events. There’s almost always something worth sampling at Ponce City Market.

Top Atlanta Restaurants

Atlanta’s dining scene is, in a word, thriving. Here are a few of its most popular spots. Just don’t forget to bring your appetite.

• Bacchanalia: Known for its four-course fixed menu, this has been a staple of Atlanta’s food scene since 1993.
• Lucian: In the heart of Buckhead, you’ll find this fine-dining establishment with its vast wine list.
• Kitty Dare: In Inman Park, you’ll find this gem that features an eclectic menu combining Italian and Iranian cuisine.
• Gunshow: A Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant from Chef Kevin Gillespie is a delicious option for big groups.

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These are just some of the sensational restaurants popping up all over town in Atlanta. Depending on where you stay, you're sure to find tons of great spots too.

Southern Flavors at Local Eateries 

When in the South, eat like Southerners. Atlanta's food scene gives you a taste of its culture—while here, be sure to sample iconic dishes like crispy fried chicken or peach cobbler (this is, after all, Peach City).

Local hotspots like Mary Mac's Tea Room bring Southern classics to life, while the city’s numerous food festival and events make it a top culinary destination and the best place to enjoy authentic Southern dining.

The Coca-Cola Museum

The World of Coca-Cola, a museum that walks visitors through the history of the world’s most iconic soft drink, has made its home in Atlanta. More than your average museum, the World of Coca-Cola experience features over 100 drinks from across the globe, yours to sample.

You can put your nose to the test in Scent Discovery and take part in the museum’s immersive Beverage Lab experience. Ever wondered about the bottling process? Try the Bottle Works exhibit.

We’re practically bubbling with excitement at the thought of visiting.

• Location: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Hours: Mon – Thu 10am – 5pm | Fri & Sat 10am– 9pm | Sun 10am– 8pm
• Cost: Adults $23.00 – $26.00 / Youth $19.00 – $22.00
• Known for: Exhibits on brand history, the Vault of the Secret Formula, 4D theatre, and tasting over 60 global Coca‑Cola beverages
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings right at opening to avoid crowds
• Family-friendly? Yes

Shop and Stroll in Atlanta

We can think of no better way to spend an afternoon in Atlanta than by strolling on its streets and shopping to your heart’s desire.

Atlantic Station

Atlantic Station, a mixed-use development brimming with activities, is the destination to head to for shopping and experiencing the city life.

This pedestrian-friendly environment has it all: Shopping, dining, and entertainment. During colder months, there’s even an outdoor ice-skating rink to enjoy, with skate rental on-hand.

Krog Street Market

Krog Street Market regularly hosts live music, seasonal celebrations, and special pop-ups. What are you waiting for? Come here, indulge and get some shopping done at Krog Street Market. Located in the heart of the city, this iconic food hall is a diverse mix of local vendors serving up everything from artisanal crafts to some of the tastiest bites you’ll have in Atlanta.

Downtown Atlanta

Whether you're treating yourself or somebody else, downtown Atlanta is a great spot for some shopping.

Lenox Square for High-End Shopping

Head to Lenox Square for some seriously high-end shopping. Brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Christian Louboutin all have brick-and-mortar locations in Atlanta’s premier shopping destination. After you’ve shopped ‘til you dropped, fuel up in the mall’s food court—we’re big fans of True Food Kitchen.

Family-Friendly Activities in Atlanta

See some of the attractions and activities in Atlanta that make it a family-friendly destination.

Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. Here, you’ll have the chance to marvel at thousands of weirdly wonderful marine creatures like beluga whales, sharks, and thousands of species of fish.

Interactive exhibits, such as touch pools and educational programs, are available for families to foster curiosity about marine life. This must-visit destination offers a blend of entertainment and education for all ages.

• Location: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Hours: Open daily, entry until 30 min before 9 pm, hours may vary
• Cost: General admission starts at $44.49 in advance | $67.99 anytime
• Known for: Largest aquarium in US, whale sharks, belugas, manta rays, dolphins, vast galleries
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings, evenings after 4 pm (Glow Nights discount), Sunday mornings to avoid crowds 
• Family‑friendly? Yes – certified autism‑friendly, interactive exhibits, animal shows, sleepovers, behind‑the‑scenes encounters 

Children's Museum of Atlanta

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta has quickly become a popular spot for little ones to learn and explore. Let your kids’ imaginations run wild as they take part in hands-on learning and interactive exhibits.

From its creative workshops to family-friendly events, every corner of the museum is designed to generate curiosity and inspire young minds. Who knew learning could be this much fun?

• Location: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 10am– 3:30pm | Sat – Sun 9:30am – 4:30pm | Summer hours: every day 9:30am – 4:30pm
• Cost: Advance tickets $19.95 / value weekdays $17.95 / door $23.95 / military & educator discounts
• Known for: Hands‑on indoor zones and rotating exhibits led by “Imaginators”
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings
• Family‑friendly? Yes — ideal for ages 1–9

Fernbank Museum

At the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, embark on a journey through science, history, and nature. Families can explore immersive exhibits and venture outdoors to the museum's stunning 75-acre forest, complete with walking trails and interactive nature adventures. Endless ways to learn and play happen here.

• Location: 767 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
• Hours: Daily 10am – 5pm
• Cost: Adults $25.95 weekdays / $27.95 weekends | children $23.95 / $25.95 weekends
• Known for: Giant Mesozoic dinosaurs, immersive NatureQuest, giant‑screen theater, 75‑acre WildWoods forest
• Best time to go: Weekday mornings before crowds or second‑Friday evening events
• Family‑friendly? Yes

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

LEGOLAND Discovery Center offers a world of fun for builders of all ages, especially children. Guests can enjoy interactive build zones, thrilling rides, and a 4D cinema. The center also features themed play areas and special exhibits.

• Location: 3500 Peachtree Road NE, 3rd Floor, Atlanta, GA 30326
• Hours: Mon – Fri 10am– 5pm | Sat & Sun 10am – 7pm
• Cost: Admission tickets $27.99 / $29.99 on weekends
• Known for: Indoor LEGO play zones, 4D cinema, Miniland city models, Kingdom Quest & Merlin’s Apprentice rides
• Best time to go: After 2 pm on weekdays for smaller crowds
• Family-friendly? Yes — built for ages 3–12 with toddler zones, rides, build workshops and events 

Hidden Gems in Atlanta

Atlanta is a city jam-packed hidden gems—all you have to do is look.

Atlanta's Street Art Scene

Atlanta’s street art scene is a popular attraction. Wander through the city’s streets and you’ll be amazed at what you might find in The ATL.

Krog Street Tunnel is one such example, famous for its ever-changing street art, which showcases the talented work of Atlanta’s many local artists. In fact, Creative Loafing magazine once called it the “original social networking site” due to its rotating cast of artists painting over these walls.

Local Markets and Boutiques

Sure, there’s luxury shopping in Atlanta. But some of the city’s best shopping can be found in the aisles and booths of local markets and boutiques. Head to hipster hangouts like Midtown or Little Five Points, where you can browse local vendors, gift shops, record stores, and thrift shops.

Historic Oakland Cemetery

Oakland Cemetery is one of Atlanta’s oldest public parks, where many of the city’s most notable figures are buried.

Some of its more famous names include performing artist Kenny Rogers, Margaret Mitchell (the author of Gone with the Wind), and Maynard Jackson, who was Atlanta’s first African American mayor in 1974. If you’re interested in learning more about the city as told through the lives of its most renowned residents, Oakland Cemetery’s guided tours offer a unique perspective.

Unique Experiences in Atlanta's Lesser-Known Areas

Atlanta is home to its share of unique experiences—a city that embraces the unexpected and unconventional. Here are a few off-the-beaten path attractions and activities worth checking out:

• The Atlanta Monetary Museum which offers free admission and the opportunity to learn about the American dollar, among other financial matters;
• The David J. Sencer CDC Museum, yet another free museum that takes visitors through the many achievements of the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (the CDC)—you won’t find any zombies waiting in the wings here.
• Scott’s Antique Markets and will satisfy your vintage shopping urges—you’ll find everything here, from vintage garments to furniture.

Ultimate Guide for Your Atlanta Journey

Atlanta is one of the most amazing cities in North America. Like any trip, visiting here merits careful planning and well-thought-out scheduling. Here are our suggestions to make the most of your time down South.

Plan Your Trip to Atlanta

Ahead of departure, research accommodations and transport options to ensure a seamless journey from the moment you arrive. This is a city with so much to do, so make sure you have enough time to see everything on your wish list.

Atlanta's Diverse Attractions

In Atlanta, the list of things to do goes on and on—it’s a city with diverse attractions that will appeal to just about any visitor. Whether you stop by iconic landmarks like the Georgia Aquarium to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, or family-friendly destinations like Zoo Atlanta or the Atlanta Botanical Garden, unforgettable experiences live at every corner. Consider this article your ultimate guide to all things Atlanta.

Best of Atlanta's Culture and History

Everywhere you turn, Atlanta is brimming with culture and history—it’s a city that’s played a pivotal role in shaping American culture. Whether you drop by the Atlanta History Center, the High Museum of Art, or just explore its numerous historic neighborhoods, your trip here will educate and inspire you.

Best Time to Visit Atlanta

All four seasons in Atlanta are charming in their own unique ways. Spring and summer here are peachy, making exploring the city’s many outdoor spaces even more of a treat. Not to mention, there’s always something to do thanks to its bustling nightlife, festivals, and events. By fall, things start to cool down but taking in the colorful fall foliage while traversing the BeltLine is a feast for the eyes. By winter, holiday events start to pop up all over town, and this is a city that wears its festive spirit well.

Free Things to Do in Atlanta

Visiting on a budget? You’re in luck. Free activities are in no short supply in Atlanta. Discover a few of our favorite things to do in Atlanta—for free.

• Take a stroll or bike ride along the BeltLine trail and see the unique charm of the city’s various neighborhoods and check out some of the installations along the route
• Visit sprawling Piedmont Park and take in the sights—or drop by during the annual Dogwood Festival to browse local artisans
• Check out Centennial Olympic Park, a 22-acre piece of land that pays homage to the Olympics, which were held in the city nearly three decades ago in 1996.
• At the High Museum of Art, admission is free on the second Sunday of the month.

Learn How to Navigate Atlanta's Public Transport

Getting around town is easier than you think thanks to Atlanta’s accessible public transportation system. Called MARTA (aka Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority), it offers rail and bus services that bring you directly to main attractions, neighborhoods, and the airport. Ride-sharing and bike rentals are also popular and happen to be ideal options for seeing the city’s many sights at your own pace.

Atlanta's Nightlife and Entertainment

Atlanta’s nightlife and entertainment scene are worth your time and energy. Hit up live music at venues like venues, explore Midtown’s trendy clubs, or take in comedy at hotspots like the Laughing Skull Lounge. Love a view? There’s never a shortage of rooftop bars in Atlanta!

Vibrant Life and Activities in Atlanta

After a day spent discovering some of the city’s greatest haunts, why not end things on a high (flying) note by attending a Cirque du Soleil show the next time we’re in town? Our shows in Atlanta will dazzle, inspire, and leave you breathless—there’s a seat with your name on it.

Cover image by Nils Huenerfuerst on Unsplash.