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15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Atlanta (Updated 2023)

Downtown Atlanta may have been founded way back in the early 1800’s but this city district, which covers around four square miles and includes nine neighborhoods, is as up to date and vivacious as if it were built yesterday.

There’s nothing tired or shabby about the streets of Downtown Atlanta, They’re alive and kicking with a young vibe generated by the terraced street cafes and bars and the area’s mega-exciting nightlife. The district has a modern approach to culture too which is apparent in its eclectic art galleries, innovative theaters, and public artworks.

Whatever was old has been rejuvenated in great style and has been given a new lease of life making Downtown Atlanta one of the most exciting places to visit in the States today. I was born and raised in Atlanta and lived here most of my life. The Downtown area always has been a favorite of mine. Here is my list of the best things to do in Downtown Atlanta.

1. Skyview Atlanta

Go for a whirl on the Skyview Atlanta Ferris wheel on Luckie Street to get the best panoramic views ever of Downtown Atlanta.

The wheel is twenty stories high, which is over two hundred feet, and there’s nothing nearby to obstruct the vistas. It’s incredible by day and impressive at night when the Downtown Atlanta skyline glitters with thousands of lights.

The Skyview Atlanta has forty-two air-conditioned gondolas one of which is a luxurious, leather-seated and glass-bottomed booth for those who want a VIP experience.

2. Fountain of Rings

The Fountain of Rings, in the Centennial Olympic Park on Park Avenue in Downtown Atlanta, is a fountain designed to replicate the Olympic rings and is the largest of its kind anywhere in the world.

The two hundred and fifty water jets of the fountain perform computer choreographed shows to music four times daily and spurt water up to thirty-five feet in the air.

The shows are fun and interactive during the day, so if the weather’s hot, it’s the ideal place to have a splash and cool down. The after-dark shows are accompanied with stunning illuminations which are simply hypnotic.

Suggested tour : Atlanta: Downtown, Midtown or Eastside Segway Tour

3. ATL Cruzers

Explore Downtown Atlanta on two wheels or by four, whichever mode of transport is more comfortable. They’re both great fun.

Take a Segway and follow a guide as they take you around the top sights of DT. The tours, covering around four miles of the city streets, last for one and a half hours with frequent narrated stops.

Sit back on your seat in an electric car and let someone else do the driving. The driver-guided, eco-vehicles hold up to five people and cover fifteen miles in ninety minutes.

I recommend booking online in advance: book here

4. Apex Museum

The Apex Museum on Downtown Atlanta’s Auburn Avenue is dedicated to the history of African-Americans in Atlanta and the state of Georgia.

The museum commemorates the timeline of African-Americans in the city from the first arrivals to the present day. There are extensive photographic exhibitions alongside informative bulletin boards, video presentations, artworks, and artifacts many of which are a fascinating insight into the times of the Civil Rights Movement.

Related : 55 Best Things to Do in Atlanta

5. State Farm Arena

The State Farm Arena is the go-to place in Downtown Atlanta to watch the Atlanta Hawks play a game of basketball or to see a live concert.

This mega-venue has a seating capacity of just under twenty thousand and a fifteen square acres of playing field. There are restaurants serving everything from soul food to Italian pasta, beer halls with amazing views of the pitch and private lounges with super plush décor.

6. ZuCot Gallery

Enter into the ZuCot Gallery on DT Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park Avenue and discover a different art experience.

The three-thousand five hundred square foot gallery is bold, colorful, eclectic and definitely contemporary both in the way works are exhibited, and in the art it presents.

The ZuCot Gallery hosts regular and innovative art tasting evenings as well as frequent talk sessions with contributing artists.

7. Ponce City Market

Housed in an old department store building, the Ponce City Market on Ponce De Leon Avenue in Downtown Atlanta is a real community hub. Don’t expect a conventional market; this one is way more diverse.

The Ponce City Market has fantastic shops, a produce market and a food hall with over thirty eateries serving everything from Sushi to hot dogs. It doesn’t end there either.

Grab the elevator and head up onto the roof. Apart from some of the best views of Downtown Atlanta, you’ll find an amusement park, cocktail bars, a beer garden, and a mini-golf course.

Available tour : Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour

8. CNN Studio Tour

Take an insightful behind the scenes tour of the CNN news studios. The CNN Center located on Marietta Street in Downtown Atlanta is a multi-purpose building which houses not just several of the global news company’s broadcasting facilities but retail outlets and restaurants too.

Start the tour by riding the world’s longest free-standing elevator before being escorted around the facility by a guide. They’ll give you inside information on the company’s history then let you spy down into the newsroom during a live broadcast.

On a VIP tour experience, you get to go into a live newsroom and meet the presenters. Now that is something which is totally newsworthy.

Read also :  15 Best Day Trips from Atlanta (2023)

9. VIDA Ultra Lounge

For a sophisticated night out in a superb location, check out the Harlem Nights Ultra Lounge on Courtland Street in Downtown Atlanta.

This club, has over eleven thousand square feet of internal space occupied by an enormous dance floor, lounge areas and VIP seating booths. They present a small but tasty menu for anyone who wishes to dine before the DJ’s start spinning discs for the night. They offer all types of beverages and have a cocktail list as long as your arm.

The Harlem Nights Ultra Lounge is for over 21’s only and they appreciate it if you dress to thrill.

10. World Of Coca Cola

Find out everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the world’s most famous refreshment at the World of Coca-Cola. The museum on Baker Street in Downtown Atlanta is dedicated to the Coca-Cola company and the drink they’ve been producing for over a hundred years.

The museum covers over twenty acres and includes exhibits of a working bottling machine, presentations on the drinks unique formula, informative videos and a tasting station offering sixty variants of the drink for visitors to try.

Skip the line :  World of Coca-Cola: Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry

11. Agatha’s Mystery Dinner Theater

Have a different and very entertaining evening at Agatha’s “A Taste of Mystery” Dinner Theater. The theater, which has been presenting mystery and murder dinner shows for thirty years, is on Downtown Atlanta’s Peachtree Center Avenue.

Take a place at a table in the vintage-style dining room and dine on a five-course meal while watching the mystery comedy-drama unfold. Expect some slapstick, expect to laugh but above all expect to be well fed and very well entertained.

12. Relay Bike Share

Grab a cycle from the Relay Bike Share scheme at Centennial Olympic Park or any other pick up and drop off point in Downtown Atlanta and take a ride around the district.

Downtown Atlanta has super cycle paths running around some of the best parts of the district. Download the map app onto your mobile, plan a route and discover DT under your own pedal produced power. It’s a great way of exploring and you can stop off and start again whenever you feel like it.

13. Center For Civil & Human Rights

The Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum at Pemberton Place in Downtown Atlanta. The museum is dedicated to the work achieved by the Civil Rights Movement, not just in the US but throughout the world.

The eye-opening exhibits at the museum include memorabilia pertinent to Martin Luther King, an interactive gallery about segregation and other historically important artifacts of the civil rights movement.

I particularly enjoyed an interesting exhibit on some of the world’s worst and most dangerous dictators.

Included in : Atlanta CityPASS®

14. Big Daddy’s Southern Cuisine

Don’t leave Downtown Atlanta without having a taste of the regional cuisine. Big Daddy’s Southern Cuisine restaurant on Martin Luther King Jr Drive will set you straight with a hearty, home-style meal which will have you struggling to get up from the table.

Fried chicken wings, slow-cooked pot roast or smothered beef liver with onions are all must tries and so is the catfish. Accompany any of them with a side of collard greens, yam soufflé, mashed potatoes or mac’n’cheese, and you’ll not want to eat again for another week.

Related food tour : Modern Southern Food Tour of Historic Inman Park

15. Old Fourth Ward Distillery

Tour the Old Fourth Ward Distillery on Edgewood Avenue in Downtown Atlanta to find out how they distill their beverages.

The distillery produces craft made gin and vodka from fresh ingredients on their premises using a one hundred and thirty-year-old technique. The tour ends, as all good distillery tours should, in the tasting room.

Don’t miss out on trying their Lawn Dart. It’s a true Downtown Atlanta twist on an Italian Limoncello and has the flavorsome kick of added ginger. It’ll make your visit to Downtown Atlanta even more worth it.

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Atlanta (Updated 2023):

• Skyview Atlanta
• Fountain of Rings
• ATL Cruzers
• Apex Museum
• State Farm Arena
• ZuCot Gallery
• Ponce City Market
• CNN Studio Tour
• VIDA Ultra Lounge
• World Of Coca Cola
• Agatha's Mystery Dinner Theater
• Relay Bike Share
• Center For Civil & Human Rights
• Big Daddy's Southern Cuisine
• Old Fourth Ward Distillery

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The best things to do in Atlanta right now

Dive into the charm of this Southern city with the best things to do in Atlanta

From the farthest reaches of the sprawling metropolis that is the ATL you’ll find no shortage of Southern charm and hospitality. The city attracts a mix of leisure and business travelers throughout the year, so it’s always bustling with activity. From historic landmarks and lush green parks to world-class museums and a vibrant nightlife scene, the best things to do in Atlanta will please everyone ( kids, too ). Atlanta offers the opportunity to explore the region's deep-rooted history and the culture that the city has spawned, from its arts and industry to music and theater, not to mention the history of the Civil Rights movement. Once you’ve explored all that Atlanta has to offer, dive into the city’s culinary offerings, where you’ll find a slew of renowned bars and restaurants ranging from classic to cutting-edge. 

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️ The best restaurants in Atlanta 🍷 The best bars in Atlanta  🐟 The best things to do with kids in Atlanta 🏛️ The best attractions in Atlanta  🌳 The best treehouse Airbnbs in Atlanta 🏠 The best Airbnb cabins in Atlanta

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Best things to do in Atlanta

1.  World of Coca-Cola

• Attractions

This gleaming museum chronicles the history of Coca-Cola, as well as the soda industry itself. Coke is king—and ubiquitous—in the city that saw its invention in 1886 (and also houses the brand’s global corporate headquarters). True to the name, when it comes to total soda universe domination, the World of Coca-Cola is totally overwhelming in a fun, fizzy, hyper-commercialized sort of way. Check out replica soda fountains, the pop-culture museum, 4-D theater displays, and DIY beverage fountains dispensing flavors from around the world. Feeling thirsty? Pick from over 100 beverages, including all the classics and limited editions.

2.  Ponce City Market

The massive former Sears & Roebuck building, erected in 1926, has been repurposed into one of Atlanta’s most exciting mixed-use developments. You can spend all day at Ponce City Market , browsing big-name retailers, small local boutiques, and a roster of buzzy restaurants and food stalls (featuring several James Beard award-winning chefs). Catch a show at the RoleCall Theater, check out the farmers market, exercise your bod at the gym or hang out at the rooftop bar. You can even stay at the market in one of the many available rentals.

3.  Georgia Aquarium

The largest indoor aquarium in the Western hemisphere doubles as a teaching hospital with over 100,000 water-loving residents. This attraction, adjacent to Centennial Park, boasts enough fresh and saltwater habitats to keep even the most attention-challenged visitor happy for hours. The aquarium’s big stars include the massive whale sharks, Beluga whales, dolphins, and penguins. There’s a free self-guided tour app available for download that will help you navigate through the exhibits.

4.  Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

• Butler Street

The Martin Luther King Centre is the must-see tourist attraction in Atlanta. Once ‘The King Center,’ it is now a nonprofit organization in the heart of the city, as a place for education and social change. There’s plenty to do here— get a guided tour through Dr. King’s birth home, where you can still see actual furniture from his childhood, and check out exhibitions on offer about Dr. King, Mahatma Gandhi and Coretta Scott King. There are also guided sermons a little further down at Ebenezer Baptist Church, which is the exact spot where Dr. King preached from 1947 and for the rest of his life. 

5.  Atlanta BeltLine

A former railway corridor around the core of Atlanta has been revitalized into a vibrant, multi-use path lined with art, native plants, and attractions. While not all sections are paved yet, the BeltLine loop is fully accessible. When completed sometime around 2030, it will ultimately connect 45 neighborhoods within the city. Walk between stops like Ponce City Market and Piedmont Park, or enjoy events along the BeltLine, like fitness classes, art events, and more.

6.  Piedmont Park

• Hillside Cottages

Atlanta’s answer to Central Park, Piedmont Park is a haven for joggers, bocce players, and picnic lovers. With flourishing greenery, rippling waters, and bustling wildlife, it is a world away from the concrete metropolis of the city. This natural oasis is also the setting for frequent art fests throughout the year, including the  Dogwood Festival , a spring celebration of flowers and fine art; Memorial Day weekend’s  Atlanta Jazz Festival ; outdoor performances by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra in summer; and farmers’ markets.

7.  Fernbank Museum of Natural History

• Lake Claire

Between the stunning atrium featuring a suspended life-scale brontosaurus skeleton and swank after-hours events, Fernbank isn’t just a school trip destination. Walk through swampland and foothill dioramas populated with prehistoric, Mesozoic, and modern-day flora and fauna in the crowd-pleasing exhibit “A Walk Through Time in Georgia” or take in a larger-than-life educational 3D IMAX film.

8.  SkyView

Atlanta has a stunning skyline, with some equally stunning rooftop bars that offer amazing views. But for one of the best views of the city, the SkyView Ferris wheel in Centennial Park is hard to beat. You’ll enjoy unobstructed, panoramic views of downtown Atlanta and beyond. Insider tip: take a spin at night with a special someone for a romantic date.

9.  Historic Oakland Cemetery

Green spaces and beautifully maintained stones and statues make Oakland Cemetery one of the most popular picnic spots in the city. Strike out on a self-guided tour to view the final resting place of Atlanta notables, including  Gone With the Wind  author Margaret Mitchell and Atlanta’s first African-American mayor Maynard Jackson. Guided tours explore various strands of city history through its late inhabitants, from local scandals to brewing. 

10.  High Museum of Art

World-renowned and captivating, the High Museum of Art houses a cross-era, international scope of work. And the building isn't shabby either: the white concrete, glass, and steel art behemoth is striking inside and out. Designed by starchitect Richard Meier and featuring a 2005 expansion by Renzo Piano, the High Museum's collection includes everything from African art to modern and contemporary work by Ellsworth Kelly and Spencer Finch. The museum is strong on American photography, including a retrospective of 180 years of female photographers.

11.  Trap Music Museum

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Rapper T.I. opened this physical salute to Atlanta’s street hip-hop sounds in 2018. Since then, thousands of visitors have come by to see the Trap Museum’s walk-through exhibits dedicated to pioneers of the now-world-famous “trap” genre, including an all-pink area (featuring a matching old-school Chevrolet) for 2 Chainz, a kitchen with scattered drug paraphernalia for Gucci Mane, a jail cell replica outlined with paintings of rappers who’ve served time and even an escape room where you have to navigate your way out of a “trap house.”

12.  Center for Civil and Human Rights

The Center for Civil and Human Rights celebrates the achievements of both the American Civil Rights Movement and the global human rights movement. It is designed to inspire action and change. The bold, modern building includes immersive exhibits that begin with the 1950s Jim Crow era and the fight for equality, which tie together the global struggle for broader human rights. Educational programs and community discussions enhance the museum’s mission.

13.  The Battery

Home to Atlanta Braves stadium, The Battery is an entertainment complex with everything you need for a night out. This buzzy destination is poppin' whether there’s a game on or not. With dozens of boutiques, restaurants and bars, you can shop, dine, bowl and even challenge your friends to some bull riding. The Battery boasts a Roxy Theater for live music as well as a state-of-the-art movie theater. Check the calendar for events like wine tasting, yoga and themed movie series. Around the holidays, The Battery is decked out with plenty of cheer.

14.  Atlanta Botanical Garden

• Morningside

Pretty flowers are just the beginning at this 30-acre botanical center bordering the northeast side of the city’s largest public park. Traipse through oak, hickory, and poplar treetops on the 600-foot Canopy Walk footbridge suspended 40 feet above the blooming hydrangeas, perennials, and bulbs below. Afraid of heights? Go zen in an authentic Japanese garden dating back to the 1960s and featuring a 300-year-old lantern, a gurgling waterfall, and a seasonal rotation of irises, azaleas, and maples.

15.  Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum

The life and presidency of Georgia native Jimmy Carter are celebrated throughout the 24,000 square feet of the  Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum . The grounds and modernist building are impressive, and within the museum, you’ll find interactive exhibits covering President Carter’s life before, during, and after his time in the White House. His Nobel Peace Prize is on display, with exhibitions dedicated to his charitable work.

16.  Krog Street Market

• Old Fourth Ward

A handful of the city’s most buzzed-about food makers and restaurateurs have put down roots in a former cast-iron stove factory. The network of tempting stalls sells everything from bacon cheeseburgers at Fred's Meat and Bread  and fresh scoops at  Jeni’s Ice Cream  to craft beer at  Hop City Store and Bar . 

17.  Starlight Drive-In Theatre

• Movie theaters
• Browns Mill

This Art Deco drive-in that first opened in 1949 is still a beloved date spot for loved-up locals. Grab some wheels to check out the nightly double features and snack bar serving Mexican food at this old-school drive-in theater. On Saturdays, head to Starlight between 6am and 3pm for a swap meet (with the equally retro admission price of 50 cents) chock full of Americana goods, vintage clothes, records, and some good ol' people-watching.

18.  Mercedes Benz Stadium

“The Benz” is an architectural icon, home to the Atlanta Falcons of the NFL and Atlanta United FC of Major League Soccer. The multi-purpose stadium hosts a variety of events and is equipped with all the bells and whistles a fan (whether sports or music) could want: massive screens, a retractable roof, an art collection, and great food offerings. Attend an event or take a tour.

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Atlanta   Travel Guide

Courtesy of ferrantraite | Getty Images

31 Best Things To Do in Atlanta

Sure, Atlanta is a commercial hub, but it's also a sightseer's dream. Lovers of the arts can catch an award-winning performance at the ornate Fox Theatre or peruse one-of-a-kind sculptures at the High Museum of Art. Meanwhile, history buffs

• All Things To Do

Atlanta History Center Atlanta History Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Buckhead (like all of Atlanta) is known for its abysmal traffic. Avoid the roads from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for the best shot at avoiding the gridlock. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Spread across 33 acres in Atlanta's trendy Buckhead neighborhood, the Atlanta History Center seeks to explore Georgia's past through comprehensive exhibitions, historic homes and miles of gardens and trails. The center's primary facility is the Atlanta History Museum, which showcases exhibits that span the region's history, from the culture of the Muscogee and Cherokee Indians' ancestors to life in the antebellum South. 

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you are a lover of Marvel movies, the last scene of "Black Panther" was filmed just two blocks away (at the intersection of Auburn Avenue and Jackson Street). – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

Walk in the footsteps of one of history's most important figures with a visit to the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. You can head over to the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King was once a pastor. Fire Station No. 6 offers insights into the desegregation of Atlanta's Fire Department. And at the Visitor Center, you'll find engaging exhibits on the civil rights movement and the D.R.E.A.M. Gallery, featuring additional exhibits. Next door to Ebenezer Baptist Church stands the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. It has even more exhibits, as well as the tombs of King and his wife, Coretta Scott King. Note: Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birth home is also on-site, but it is closed through November 2025 for refurbishment. 

Piedmont Park Piedmont Park free

Adjacent to the Atlanta Botanical Garden  in Midtown, Piedmont Park is the perfect place to spend a lazy – or active – afternoon. Sprawling 200-plus acres, the park has no shortage of things to do, including walking and jogging paths, dog parks, picnic facilities, playgrounds, tennis courts, a public swimming pool and a Saturday farmers market (from late March to early December). Thanks to its size, Piedmont Park also hosts a variety of Atlanta's top events, including the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, the Atlanta Ice Cream Festival, the Atlanta Jazz Festival, Atlanta Pride and Music Midtown.

Previous travelers highly recommended visiting this park, calling it one of Atlanta's best parks. Some even said that it reminded them of New York City's   Central Park . Many loved picnicking, swimming and playing tennis at Piedmont Park, but some visitors warned that parking spots can be sparse, especially on weekends. Consider taking public transportation. Also, the park can get crowded, especially during special events. Finally, parkgoers say they felt less safe strolling through the park after dark.

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Atlanta's Fox Theatre Atlanta's Fox Theatre

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go to Poor Calvin's before or after your visit to the Fox Theatre. It has amazing cocktails and delicious Asian fusion dishes. – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

The Fox Theatre is more than a performance venue – it's one of the city's most iconic landmarks. And luckily, you don't need to have tickets to a show to take in its ornate interior. Originally conceived by Atlanta's Shriners organization, the theater's design was inspired by the  Karnak Temple Complex  in Luxor, Egypt , and the Alhambra in Granada, Spain . You'll get a tutorial on the building's iconic architectural details and more during a tour. Tours guide visitors through more than 10 locations within the building. Plus, you'll see Mighty Mo, one of the world's biggest theater organs.

Atlanta BeltLine Atlanta BeltLine free

The Atlanta BeltLine is an in-progress, citywide network of 22 miles of streetcar rails, 33 miles of trails (for walking, biking and more), 5,600 units of affordable housing and more than 1,000 acres of greenspace that is either new to the city or has been cleaned up (including removing contaminants from soil). The city is opening the BeltLine in phases and plans to finish the entire system by 2030. As of winter 2023, visitors are welcome to enjoy 10 parks and 8 trails (as well as some unfinished but accessible ones) along the BeltLine. Some of the parks include Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark, Atlanta's first public skate park, which offers obstacles for skateboarders of all abilities; the similarly named Historic Fourth Ward Park, which has 17 acres of greenspace and amenities like a splash pad for kids; Gordon White Park, which hosts music events, temporary art installations and offers free fitness classes; Perkerson Park, which boasts tennis courts, softball fields and a disc golf course; and 280-acre Westside Park, featuring a playground and a pavilion for events. The paved trails are perfect for bike riding, taking a stroll through nature or walking by places like Ponce City Market and Piedmont Park . You can also take walking or bike tours of the Atlanta BeltLine to learn more about the network and the communities surrounding it.

Travelers appreciate the BeltLine paths that are currently open, saying that it is an excellent place to get out and exercise. Visitors particularly enjoy the Eastside Trail for its easy access to bars, restaurants and abundant street art.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights National Center for Civil and Human Rights

For an in-depth look at the American civil rights movement and ongoing human rights struggles across the world, check out the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. This 42,000-square-foot complex offers both temporary and three permanent exhibits, including a collection of Martin Luther King Jr. artifacts. Featured in the "Voice to the Voiceless" exhibit, travelers will view papers from King's life as well as "Fragments," a metal art piece that showcases King's thoughts and writings.

Though the museum recommends allotting about two hours for its exhibits, most past travelers said you can easily spend several hours exploring the center's vivid and informative displays. Many were especially impressed with the lunch counter experience at the attraction's "Rolls Down Like Water" exhibit.

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Georgia Aquarium Georgia Aquarium

Considered one of the world's largest aquariums , the Georgia Aquarium boasts thousands of animals from hundreds of species represented in eight different galleries. Housing everything from freshwater animals in its "Southern Company River Scout" gallery to a humongous whale shark tank (it holds more than 6 million gallons) in its "Ocean Voyager" gallery, it's safe to say the aquarium runs the gamut in terms of its marine life. Its newest gallery is the "Sharks! Predators of the Deep" exhibit, which involves multiple shark species (such as hammerheads and tiger sharks) in a 20-foot tank holding 1.2 million gallons of water.

This facility (especially "Ocean Voyager") is a popular tourist attraction, so expect crowds when you visit. Also be prepared to spend a considerable about of time taking it all in. Previous visitors raved about the property's free dolphin show and recommend paying to swim or dive with the aquarium's whale sharks, but some warned that these experiences quickly fill up. In addition to ordering general admission tickets online in advance, the aquarium recommends that visitors reserve seats for the dolphin and sea lion presentation and the 4D theater the morning of the date they'll be attending.

Zoo Atlanta Zoo Atlanta

What sets Atlanta's zoo apart from other wildlife exhibits is its panda population: Zoo Atlanta is one of only three zoos in the U.S. housing giant pandas. The rare bears are a favorite among recent visitors, but the zoo also boasts more than 1,300 animals from more than 220 species. While here, you'll spot lions, giraffes, zebras and plenty of reptiles. Apart from the animals, the zoo offers a train ride, a carousel and a ropes course, among other attractions. Keep in mind: The cost of these activities is not included with admission. In addition to the on-site attractions and exhibits, visitors can check out the property's gift shops, eateries and wildlife presentations, which are available at select times.

Travelers (especially those with kids) offer mostly favorable reviews for the zoo, saying it's easy to navigate and of a manageable size. But many agree that the property can get crowded on warmer days, so consider arriving early.

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Atlanta Botanical Garden Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Atlanta Botanical Garden should be every plant lover's first stop in the city. It covers a magnificent and beautiful 30 acres in the northwest corner of Midtown's  Piedmont Park . There's lots to see here, including the Lou Glenn Children's Garden, the Edible Garden, the Tropical High Elevation House and one of the few remaining mature hardwood forests in Atlanta. Plus, you can't miss a pass through the Fuqua Orchid Center, which features a variety of unique high-elevation orchids never grown before in the Southeast. The garden hosts the annual Garden Lights, Holiday Nights extravaganza in winter.

Visitors highly recommend a visit to this beautiful spot. However, some lament the cost of admission and the high fees for snacks and meals at the on-site eateries. A few travelers also suggest avoiding fall and winter visits, since some of the outdoor gardens are not in bloom during the colder months. But don't despair if you can only visit in the winter; reviewers say the Garden Lights, Holiday Nights display is worth the visit.

World of Coca-Cola World of Coca-Cola

As its name suggests, World of Coca-Cola is a museum dedicated entirely to the famous soda. Visits to the two-level facility begin with exhibits on the drink's history, its role in pop culture and the bottling process. A Portrait Wall documents the brand’s global impact. In addition to the regular Coca-Cola Theater, the museum boasts a 3-D Theater. The older generations in your group will likely enjoy the museum's attention to the company's past, but the kids will probably be most excited for the Taste It! area, where multiple varieties of Coke can be sampled. You can also purchase various Coke memorabilia at the on-site gift shop.

Soda enthusiasts find this place fascinating (though those with no affinity for the brand may be underwhelmed). Some visitors lament that the museum can get crowded and its lines long.

Oakland Cemetery Oakland Cemetery free

U.S. News Insider Tip: On sunny days, head to the cleverly named Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House and sit on the upper patio, which overlooks the cemetery. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Situated less than 2 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta and spanning 48 acres, Oakland Cemetery reflects the city's role in both the Civil War and the civil rights movement. Among its winding paths, trees and flower shrubs, you'll find elaborate mausoleums, intricate statues and an impressive collection of art and architecture. Amidst the 70,000 graves, you'll spot some well-known Atlantans, including legends like golfer Bobby Jones, author Margaret Mitchell and musician Kenny Rogers. About 7,000 Confederate soldiers have been laid to rest in the Confederate burial grounds while Potter's Field has about 7,500 interred in its grounds. People buried in Potter's Field are those who could not afford a burial and several are unknown; they come from various different races and religious.

Centennial Olympic Park Centennial Olympic Park free

Located across the street from the College Football Hall of Fame in downtown Atlanta is Centennial Olympic Park, a 22-acre patch of land that features lush sections of grass, artwork, pools and fountains. The park was originally built for the 1996 Olympic Games and was a centerpiece of the festivities; now, it's one of the most visited areas of the city. One of the park's most well-known elements is the Fountain of Rings, which is made up of 251 water jets. Every day, four water shows choreographed to various songs take place. The park also hosts several special events each year.

Recent visitors noted the fountains were a hit with families, especially young children, and advised bringing a change of clothes if you know your kids will want to splash around in the water. Past travelers also appreciated the park's proximity to must-see sights like the Georgia Aquarium , SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel, World of Coca-Cola and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights . Others caution that the park will close to prepare for or host events with limited notice; you may want to call the park in advance to make sure it will be open before you arrive. The administration office can be reached at 404-223-4000. The park is also a featured stop on several of the best Atlanta tours .

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Explore the prehistoric and present-day natural worlds at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Visitors can immerse themselves in exhibits featuring dinosaur fossils, wildlife native to Georgia, cultural garments and more. Travelers can also enjoy a movie at the museum's Giant Screen Theater or some light fare at the Fernbank Cafe. Plus, the museum boasts multiple outdoor experiences, which are accessible from the terrace. WildWoods features two scenic viewing platforms; it also hosts special exhibits throughout the year. Fernbank Forest features more than 2 miles of paved paths that allow visitors to explore a 65-acre forest. When walking along the paths, keep your eyes peeled for animals, as hundreds of species call the area home. Other outdoor elements are the Dinosaur Plaza and adjacent Rain Garden.

The outside areas get especially high praise from visitors, some even say they spent almost as much time outside as they did inside. Inside, museumgoers were wowed by the dinosaur exhibit, while others found the additional exhibits were designed mainly for kids. Some say the fare in the cafe is subpar.

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Children's Museum of Atlanta Children's Museum of Atlanta

If you're traveling in Atlanta with youngsters up to 8 years old, the Children's Museum of Atlanta is a must-visit. The venue was specifically designed to educate and entertain children through a variety of daily programs and fun exhibits. These include the Gateway to the World exhibit, where children can explore the Earth's layers and launch a rocket; the Fundamentally Food exhibit, which features a pretend farm, delivery truck, grocery store and cafe; and the Leaping into Learning exhibit, where children can climb into a treehouse and spot animals in a make-believe forest. Kids can also learn more about engineering and problem solving with the Innovation Station program or get inspired at the Art Studio program. Cultural programs that involve singing, dancing, puppetry and storytelling are also held year-round.

Most recent visitors had high praise for the museum, saying it was a great spot for kids to have fun and burn off energy. However, some noted it was small compared to other children's museums and thought classifying it as a museum was a bit misleading, as it felt more like an indoor play area.

Ponce City Market Ponce City Market free

Once home to a Sears, Roebuck & Co. retail store and warehouse distribution center for the South, the Ponce City Market is now a massive mixed-use facility featuring offices, education centers, coffee shops, restaurants, boutique shopping and more. The building's roof is also an attraction itself, home to unique draws such as Skyline Park, where visitors can play games like Skee-Ball and mini-golf or go for a ride down a three-story slide, and 9 Mile Station, a rooftop restaurant. Foodies will want to sign up for one of the best Atlanta tours , which visit the market.

Visitors generally enjoy Ponce City Market, saying they appreciated the varied and delicious food options. The roof and its attractions also earn high praise from travelers. Others were not impressed with the difficult-to-navigate complex and complained of overpriced food and expensive parking. 

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum

The nearly 70,000-square-foot Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum houses millions of pages of material and hundreds of hours of audio and video recordings related to the 39th U.S. president. The museum displays some of those documents and videos as well as gifts from world leaders and other objects. It also features a full-size replica of the Oval Office and a reproduction of the cabin used for Camp David meetings. The facility is situated between two lakes on 30 acres of land.

Visitors generally find this to be a quite interesting place. In addition to reporting finding the exhibits very informative about Carter's life and career, they praise the museum's parkland as attractive and tranquil.

Stone Mountain Park Stone Mountain Park

Spread across 3,200 acres, Stone Mountain Park boasts a variety of attractions. The Confederate Memorial Carving is the most famous (some might say infamous) part of the park. (As calls for the removal of Confederate monuments around the country have intensified in recent years, the carving has become an object of controversy.) The largest high relief sculpture in the world, this carving depicts Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederacy, and Confederate Generals Robert E. Lee and Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson. For a little perspective, the entire carved surface measures 3 acres, which is larger than a football field. If the carving doesn't prompt you to drive 18 miles northeast of the city, then consider the park's other attractions.

Additional facilities include a songbird preserve, a cable car ride, a scenic railroad, a miniature golf course and two full-size 18-hole courses, a seasonal outdoor park with life-size dinosaur replicas and a seasonal indoor dinosaur-themed play area. A group of homes built between 1793 and 1895 are open to tour. If the wilderness is more your style, you could easily spend all day exploring the grounds' hiking trails, picnic areas and recreational attractions. You should consider staying until the evening in the summer, when the Lasershow Spectacular blazes the mountain's carving and the night sky with images representing the South.

Krog Street Market Krog Street Market free

Krog Street Market is a food hall housed in a former stove factory (which later became studios for Tyler Perry's films and TV shows) in Atlanta's Inman Park neighborhood. Restaurants' fare ranges from Chinese-style dumplings to soul food to pizza. Specialty retailers purvey small-batch chocolate, ice cream, craft beer and more. The market also has various retailers selling items for home and garden as well as vintage clothing.

Visitors often succumb to the market's charm, and they frequently rave about the food options.

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High Museum of Art High Museum of Art

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you visit on the second Sunday of the month, admission is free from noon until 5 p.m. You can reserve your ticket in advance through the museum's website. – Christina Maggitas, Editor

The High Museum of Art's aesthetics begin with the physical structure itself. The Richard Meier-designed building is covered in white porcelain that is mirrored on its interior, which also features winding walking paths and an interesting light system at the top. The Renzo Piano-designed expansion features white aluminum panels that echo Meier's original façade as well as a roof that filters sunlight inside. One noteworthy part of the collection is the 19th- and 20th-century American art, including pieces by Mary Cassatt, John Singleton Copley, Frederick Kensett, Harriet Hosmer, Edmonia Lewis, John Singer Sargent and Henry Ossawa Tanner. The museum also houses an impressive collection of European works from the 1300s to the 1900s and masks, figurative sculptures, ceramics and more from Africa and the African diaspora.

Michael C. Carlos Museum Michael C. Carlos Museum

The Michael C. Carlos Museum on Emory University's campus has an extensive permanent collection of artworks from ancient Egypt, Greece, Nubia, Rome and the Middle East; Africa; the Americas and Asia as well as a works dating from the Renaissance to the current day. It also hosts special exhibits on a wide array of subjects, such as printing techniques, religious imagery and slavery in the ancient world. Its collection of ancient Egyptian, Nubian and Near Eastern artifacts features 7,500 objects, including coffins, funerary masks and the oldest Egyptian mummy in the Americas. Its assemblage of Greek and Roman art is also impressively sizeable with more than 6,500 pieces.

Visitors report that the museum isn't particularly large, but its collections are exceptionally fine. The Egyptian items, especially the mummies, are especially popular with visitors.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Atlanta has more sports arena offerings than just Truist Park , home to the famous Braves. At the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, soccer fans can watch Atlanta United while football fans can catch the Falcons. Featuring a massive circular video display, three separate concourses for food like burgers, salads, pizza, beer and tacos (plus a food truck that operates on most game days) and a distinctive roof that appears to rotate when it opens and shuts, it's no wonder this stadium was picked to host the 2019 Super Bowl. If you can't catch a game, don't pass on the stadium: Guided tours of the facility, which could include stops at the locker rooms, the Skybridges and the field, are available year-round, and the stadium sometimes hosts other events like concerts. Notably, the stadium boasts a sports-related art collection curated by the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Recent visitors rave about the stadium's guided tour, saying that it gives a truly in-depth look at the building, including a view of the stands from the field. Others say that the stadium is impeccably designed and a great place to catch a game. However, travelers warn future visitors that parking is sparse and expensive. 

Truist Park Truist Park

Since Truist Park's opening in 2017, thousands of fans have ventured to the stadium to cheer on their favorite Major League Baseball team, the Atlanta Braves. The baseball stadium (formerly known as SunTrust Park) can seat up to 41,000 people, and each spot provides a sweeping view of the field. But you don't need to watch a game to explore the park: Daily tours run year-round to share the Braves' long history. During the tour, you'll see Monument Garden's historic displays, the dugout and the press box, and visit the Braves Clubhouse Store, among other stops. After your tour, head over to the Atlanta Battery, adjacent to the park, for dining, shopping or a manicure.

Baseball fans were impressed with the park, saying it is clean, well-designed and an improvement on the Braves' former home, Turner Field. Visitors repeatedly applaud the park for its family-friendly atmosphere and describe the tour guides as friendly and knowledgeable. Despite these perks, travelers lament the stadium's large crowds, traffic and awful parking experiences.

Six Flags Over Georgia Six Flags Over Georgia

Known as the "Thrill Capital of the South," Six Flags Over Georgia offers plenty of roller coasters for adrenaline junkies. Notable rides include Twisted Cyclone, Georgia Scorcher, Pandemonium and Goliath, which sends guests flying at 70 miles per hour and features a 12-story drop. If those seem too daunting, there are also plenty of family-friendly rides, such as the Dahlonega Mine Train and Riverview Carousel. Plus, you can always enjoy live shows and entertainment like the Looney Tunes meet-and-greet. And if you're visiting during the notoriously hot summer months, you can cool off at Hurricane Harbor: the on-site water park that features a wave pool and lazy river, among other attractions.

Recent guests appreciated the variety of rides but complained that some of them, along with a number of the restaurants and shops, were closed when they visited. Several travelers recommended visiting in winter to experience the Holiday in the Park event where the park is lit up with millions of Christmas lights.

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Delta Flight Museum Delta Flight Museum

The Delta Flight Museum offers a variety of interactive, aviation-focused exhibits, including the country’s sole full-motion flight simulator open to the public. It displays several airplanes, including a 1928 Northwest Airways Waco 125 biplane and a restored 1931 Curtiss-Wright 6B sedan as well as more contemporary models. The museum also has a 747-400 that visitors can enter to examine close-up. Rounding out its collection of aircraft is a hot air balloon. The hangers that house its holdings also have exhibits centered on the propeller age and the subsequent (and ongoing) jet age as well as Delta's company history. Its gift shop sells Delta-branded items.

Aviation enthusiasts enjoy this museum. Would-be pilots recommend trying the challenging flight simulator (if you can afford the $390.27 fee). Some visitors note that seeing everything here entails a lot of walking. Given its proximity to Atlanta's airport, the museum might be just the right thing if want something to do during a layover between flights.

Margaret Mitchell House Margaret Mitchell House

Margaret Mitchell House is currently closed. It is expected to reopen in the summer of 2024.

The Atlanta History Center offers tours of the Margaret Mitchell House, where the namesake author penned her Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, "Gone with the Wind." Actually, Mitchell and her husband occupied not the whole house but merely a first floor apartment, which the writer dubbed “the dump.” Despite her derision, travelers find a short visit worthwhile. Note: This attraction is in Midtown, not on the grounds of the Atlanta History Center itself.

Center for Puppetry Arts Center for Puppetry Arts

Recognized worldwide for its theatrical and programming ingenuity, the Center for Puppetry Arts preserves and celebrates puppets. At the center, visitors can attend puppetry workshops and live shows. The center's main feature is its museum. The collection catalogues the history of puppetry across the world and boasts an entire collection dedicated to Jim Henson's work. Travelers can visit with Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, characters from "Fraggle Rock" and several residents of Sesame Street. In addition, the museum hosts rotating special exhibits. The center also features a museum store, where visitors can purchase puppets, books, postcards and other educational gifts.

Though the center is small, recent travelers enjoyed their visits, saying that it is an absolute must-do for Jim Henson and Muppets fans. While visitors were pleasantly surprised with the depth of information available on Henson, others said that the international collection was somewhat cursory. In addition to visiting the museum, travelers highly recommend seeing one of the puppet shows and describe this destination as fun for the whole family.

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a fun hike in the recreation area, try Vickery Creek Trail at Roswell Mill. The hike showcases remnants of the historic Roswell Mill, which was destroyed during the Civil War, and Vickery Creek Falls, one of Atlanta's best waterfalls. - Christina Maggitas, Editor, Travel

This massive national recreation area is actually 15 individual land units connected by 48 miles of the Chattahoochee River. In addition to being fun to say, the park offers an abundance of activities for all kinds of adventurers. Those who wish to relax outside can opt for a tube or raft to float down a stretch of the river; more active travelers can kayak, canoe or paddleboard down the Chattahoochee. If water sports aren't your thing, you can hike the miles of trails that wind through the park. Bikers have access to 7 miles of trails, while anglers can fish for bass, catfish and trout during all park operating hours.

Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame

Located just south of the Georgia Aquarium and across the street from Centennial Olympic Park , the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame offers more than 50 interactive exhibits dedicated to its namesake sport. Inside the 95,000-square-foot facility, visitors can look for their team's helmet on the three-story Helmet Wall, admire Heisman and National Championship trophies, experience the high-definition Game Day Theater, kick a field goal at the 45-yard indoor football field and more.

If you're a fan of college football, travelers say you'll love exploring this attraction. According to many visitors, the Hall of Fame does a great job of engaging kids of all ages, though some felt the property's interactive activities did not justify its high entrance fees. Others caution that this hall of fame is hard to enjoy when it's crowded. The staff are frequently described as friendly.

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Porsche Experience Center Atlanta Porsche Experience Center Atlanta

Car aficionados, this one's for you. The Porsche Experience Center is a shrine to all things Porsche and lets fans get in on the action. Visitors can choose from a fleet of the latest models to hop into and race down world-renowned tracks. And if you want to see just how much the vehicle can do, you can move to the passenger seat and let the professional drivers take the wheel. Off the track, the Heritage Gallery showcases historical Porsche vehicles and Restaurant 356 provides fine dining with a view. There are also virtual simulators that allows all ages to get in on the action. 

Past visitors raved about their experience, saying the cars and facility were striking. Unsurprisingly, the best part to many was taking one of the vehicles out for a spin. Visitors also report the staff were helpful and incredibly knowledgeable about the cars and building.

StarLight Drive-In Theatre and Flea Market StarLight Drive-In Theatre and Flea Market

For more than 70 years, StarLight Drive-In Theatre has provided a place for guests to enjoy their favorite movies under the stars. Four outdoor screens are available, which feature a digital projection system that ensures a clear picture, and the movie's audio is broadcast through your car's radio. Bathrooms and a snack bar offering drinks, candy and a selection of Mexican food can be found on-site. On the weekends, the lot hosts a flea market where visitors can peruse various vendors. Anyone interested in setting up a booth can rent a space for the day or for the month.

Past visitors enjoyed the vintage vibe of the drive-in and reasonable price for the experience. However, some wished there would have been staff walking through the lot telling people to turn their headlights off so there wouldn't be a glare on the screen. Those who visited the flea market appreciated the variety of sellers and interesting array of offerings.

Atlanta Food & Wine Festival Atlanta Food & Wine Festival

U.S. News Insider Tip : While you can't take any leftovers home, you can snag a few freebies (think: koozies, hand fans, matchboxes and stickers), so you might want to bring a small bag to carry things in. – Christina Maggitas, Editor

Spanning multiple days in September each year, the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival is one of the city's (and state's) most notable foodie events, featuring a smorgasbord of gourmet bites, high-quality wines and innovative cocktails from more than 150 unique vendors. Different tasting tents are set up so you can sample the delectable offerings while learning more about the flavors from esteemed chefs, sommeliers and mixologists. What's more, live cooking demonstrations and competitions add to the immersive culinary experience. More intimate, in-restaurant happenings are also hosted throughout the duration of the festival at various spots in the city.

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• Atlanta Botanical Gardens
• Atlanta History Center
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Children’s Museum of Atlanta
• Fox Theatre
• Georgia Aquarium
• The Michael C. Carlos Museum
• High Museum of Art
• Ponce City Market
• Transportation
• Underground Atlanta
• World of Coca-Cola
• Zoo Atlanta
• Featured Restaurants
• Krog Street Market Restaurants
• Ponce City Market Restaurants
• Sweet Auburn Curb Market Restaurants
• The Canteen at Tech Square Restaurants
• About Downtown Atlanta
• Neighborhoods
• Real Estate

Attractions

Downtown Atlanta is home to many exciting attractions and fun-filled destinations. In fact, many of the city’s most sought after attractions are all within walking distance of each other. The close proximity of these major attractions makes the downtown area the ideal place for many visitors to start their exploration of this cosmopolitan southern city.

Located in the heart of Downtown Atlanta is Centennial Olympic Park , which was a highly visible part of the 1996 Olympic Games which put Atlanta on the worldwide map. This beautiful urban park hosts several concerts, festivals and other events throughout the year.

Less than a block away from the Georgia Aquarium is the World of Coca-Cola attraction, museum, and venue. Atlanta is home to the soft drink empire which employs thousands of Atlantans and is a huge economic factor in the Downtown Atlanta area. The Coca Cola museum is one of the city’s largest attractions, boasting millions of visitors a year. From the origins of the first cola recipe to the worldwide variations of soft drinks available for sampling at the end of the tour (including the infamous Beverly), this museum is a must see for visitors and locals alike.

Within walking distance from the Coca Cola Museum lies the Children’s Museum of Atlanta which is a cornucopia of activities, exhibits, shows and programs for children ages eight and under. This is also a great destination for parties and special events as the museum houses a few banquet rooms specifically made for large groups.

Home to the Atlanta Hawks  and the Atlanta Dream , Philips Arena is the top destination for the city’s best sporting events. Throughout the year, many of the best concerts are staged at this state of the art arena. Philips Arena is one of Downtown Atlanta’s most sought after entertainment centers.

If you’re in town long enough to catch a show, more than likely it will be held at the historic Fox Theatre , a landmark in the heart of Downtown Atlanta on the famous Peachtree street. Top entertainers, comedians and A-list performers have all had the pleasure of working the wonderful stage at this gorgeous theatre.

Piedmont Park is a great place to enjoy the warm weather that draws so many visitors to Atlanta every year. From the beautifully maintained grounds that accommodate sunbathers, roller bladers and dog walkers to the picturesque lake that lies in the middle of the park, this “Central Park” of Atlanta is a great place to take in the natural wonder of this amazing city.

No visit would be complete without a trip to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens , the High Museum of Art , the Michael C. Carlos Museum , and Fernbank . Each of these cultural and historical destinations offer unique exhibits and programs throughout the year. The Atlanta Botanical Gardens is home to some of the world’s most exotic flowers and plants beautifully displayed in special exhibits. There are several unique seasonal programs throughout the year. The Fernbank Museum and Imax Theater is also a great way to spend the day as there are a myriad of displays and programs that educate and inform no matter what you’re interest.

Downtown Atlanta is rich with cultural, historical and fun-filled attractions that showcase the diversity of this growing metropolis.

Centennial Olympic Park 265 Luckie Street Northwest Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 223-4636

Georgia Aquarium 225 Baker Street Northwest Atlanta, GA 30313 (404) 581-4000

World of Coca-Cola 121 Baker St. NW Atlanta, GA 30313-1807 (404) 676-5151

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive Atlanta, GA 30313 (404) 659-5437

Georgia Dome 1 Georgia Dome Drive Northwest Atlanta, GA 30313 (404) 223-9200

Philips Arena 100 Centennial Olympic Park Drive Atlanta, GA 30313-2405 (404) 878-3000

Zoo Atlanta 800 Cherokee Avenue Southeast Atlanta, GA 30315-1470 (404) 624-9453

Fabulous Fox Theatre 660 Peachtree Street Northeast Atlanta, GA 30308 (404) 881-2100

Piedmont Park 1345 Piedmont Avenue Northeast Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 817-6744

Atlanta Botanical Gardens 1345 Piedmont Avenue Northeast Atlanta, GA 30309-3366 (404) 876-5859

High Museum of Art 1280 Peachtree Street Northeast Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 733-4444

Fernbank Museum of Natural History 767 Clifton Road Northeast Atlanta, GA 30307-1221 (404) 929-6300

The Varsity 61 North Ave Northwest Atlanta, GA 30308-2166 (404) 881-1706

Georgia Capitol 206 Washington Street Southwest Atlanta, GA 30334 (404) 656-2846

Woodruff Arts Center 1280 Peachtree Street Northeast Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 733-4115

Center for Puppetry Arts Museum 1404 Spring Street Northwest Atlanta, GA 30309-2851 (404) 873-3391

Chastain Park & Amphitheater 4469 Stella Drive Northwest Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 733-4800

Atlanta History Center 130 W Paces Ferry Road Northwest Atlanta, GA 30305-1380 (404) 814-4000

Martin Luther King Center (The King Center) 449 Auburn Avenue Northeast Atlanta, GA 30312-1590 (404) 526-8900

Michael C. Carlos Museum 571 Kilgo Circle Atlanta, GA 30322-1120 (404) 727-4282

Margaret Mitchell House & Museum 990 Peachtree Street Northeast Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 249-7015

Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site 526 Auburn Avenue Northeast Atlanta, GA 30312-1900 (404) 331-5190

Georgia World Congress Center 285 International Blvd NW Atlanta, GA 30313 (404) 223-4000

Jimmy Carter Library & Museum (& The Carter Center) 1 Copenhill Avenue Northeast Atlanta, GA 30307-1400 (404) 865-7100

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Home » Southeast » Georgia » 13+ Things To Do In Downtown Atlanta For First-Time Visitors

13+ Things To Do In Downtown Atlanta For First-Time Visitors

When Super Bowl LIII was played in Downtown Atlanta it was at the still shiny new Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The State Farm Arena, home of the Atlanta Hawks and major concert venue, is just around the corner.

Between these, the Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) anchors an entertainment hub that’s the third-largest convention center in the United States.

Most of the best things to do in Downtown Atlanta are all conveniently located within easy walking distance of Centennial Olympic Park. And you can hop on the Atlanta Streetcar to reach even more within a 2.7-mile loop.

Big-city glitz wraps this metropolis with gleaming skyscrapers and a cosmopolitan polish. And yet, at heart, Atlanta retains the feel of a charming Southern town.

Searching for a great romantic getaway near Atlanta? We have a one-day itinerary in Savanah as well as a round-up of things to do in Helen GA . There are several dreamy resorts in Georgia . And Jekyll Island, Georgia is just a 5-hour drive, while the charming Kiawah Island is only a little further away.

Table of Contents

Where Is Downtown Atlanta?

Downtown Atlanta is situated in the core of Georgia’s capital city. It serves as the bustling central business district and cultural hub of Atlanta, with a skyline dominated by towering skyscrapers. This vibrant area encompasses a variety of neighborhoods, parks, and iconic attractions, making it a dynamic and lively destination for residents and visitors alike.

What Neighborhoods Are Part of Downtown Atlanta?

Downtown Atlanta comprises several distinct neighborhoods and districts, each with its unique character and attractions. Some of the neighborhoods and areas that are considered part of Downtown Atlanta include:

• Castleberry Hill : Known for its historic warehouses and vibrant arts scene, this neighborhood is home to numerous art galleries and studios.
• Fairlie-Poplar Historic District : This historic district boasts well-preserved early 20th-century architecture and is a popular destination for its dining and entertainment options.
• Five Points : Often referred to as the heart of Downtown, Five Points is a major transportation hub and commercial center, featuring retail stores, restaurants, and government buildings.
• Centennial Park District : This district surrounds Centennial Olympic Park and includes popular attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
• SoNo (South of North Avenue) : Located just south of North Avenue, this area features a mix of residential and commercial properties, including loft-style apartments and trendy dining options.
• Sweet Auburn : A historic neighborhood known for its connection to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., it includes the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and historic Ebenezer Baptist Church.
• Hotel District : As the name suggests, this area is home to numerous hotels, making it a convenient choice for visitors to Downtown Atlanta.

These neighborhoods collectively contribute to the diverse and lively atmosphere of Downtown Atlanta, offering a range of experiences from historic charm to modern entertainment and commerce.

Best Things to Do in Downtown Atlanta

Visit: georgia aquarium ..

Completed in late 2020, an $100 million104,100 square foot expansion added an immersive shark exhibit to what was already the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere.

VISIT: Atlanta Botanical Garden .

Set next to Piedmont Park, a multi-use green space in Midtown, the botanical collections cover over 30 acres devoted to Southeastern flora. November through January, holiday lights brighten the gardens. Spring through Autumn, Cocktails in the Garden  features specialty drinks and live music in a fairytale setting.

TOUR: Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site .

Begin with the orientation video and informative displays in the Visitor Center before exploring the buildings and gardens spread over 35 acres. But keep in mind that the Birth Home Tours do sell out, so plan to go early.

(Check our list of weekend getaways to historical sites for even more inspiration.)

VISIT: Center for Human and Civil Rights .

This educational museum is well worth at least a 2-hour visit to learn about the struggle for equality in America. It’s a good complement to touring the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site for understanding the civil rights movement within the context of global human rights.

SEE: Atlanta Murals.

Atlanta has one of the most colorful and diverse mural collections in the country, and it’s growing. In anticipation of Super Bowl LIII, the city is adding 30 murals inspired by the Civil Rights Movement. Check the Atlanta Street Art Map for directions and artist links, as well as self-guided walking tours, encompassing the city’s extensive public artworks collection.

VISIT: World of Coca-Cola .

If you’ve ever dropped into Club Cool at Disney World’s Epcot, you may already be familiar with the soda sampler. Kids (and many adults) grimace over the unusual soda flavors that are popular around the world.

Expect even more variety (and weird flavors) at Taste It! Beverage Lounge . Plan on at least two hours to get through the bottling works display, marketing exhibit, 4D Theater, and interactive Secret Formula Vault. Consider the VIP Guided Tour to avoid long lines and delays.

VISIT: College Football Hall of Fame .

It’s an homage to the best of the best college football players. More than that, the huge venue holds a 45-yard indoor football field with Touchstone Tunnel and Skill Zone Course within its 95,000-square-foot location.

VISIT: CNN Center.

The popular CNN Studio Tours were discontinued in 2020. Nowadays you can still visit the CNN Center, home to the world headquarters of the Cable News Network (CNN,) and you can dine in the food court. However, studio tours ended after days of rioting sparked by the George Floyd murder.

At that time, WarnerMedia announced plans to sell the building, although they will continue to lease offices for years to come.

TOUR: Southern Food Walk .

The city boasts several food tours, some combining history, and tastings. The Southern Food Tour stands out by offering 15 food tastings at 7 locally-owned restaurants, with a look at the role food played in city history.

GO: Scoot Around Atlanta Downtown.

The App transportation movement is in full force in Atlanta with a full assortment of electric scooters, bike sharing, and mopeds from Lime  and others. Use with caution, and do consider traveling with helmets.

GET THE DISCOUNT: Atlanta CityPass .

Save on five top Atlanta attractions–Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Zoo Atlanta. Plus, choose two from the following: Center for Civil and Human Rights, College Football Hall of Fame, or Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

Downtown Atlanta Restaurants

Dine with a view: sun dial restaurant ..

It’s hard to beat the view from atop one of Atlanta’s tallest buildings. But the Westin Peachtree Plaza’s premier dining venue goes all out by maximizing window-side seating in a three-level restaurant that revolves 360 degrees. Delicious farm-to-table fare, an extensive wine list, and signature cocktails ensure a truly special dining experience.

DINE AL FRESCO: Staplehouse .

Doing good and being good, meals at Staplehouse benefit the Giving Kitchen, serving restaurant workers in crisis. With seasonal tasting menus described as transcending, this is one of those bucket list restaurants that warrant repeat visits. Now offering Al Fresco dining and a specialty market.

TASTE CREOLE FOOD: The Food Shoppe .

Nothing is really cheap in Atlanta’s downtown district, but the dishes here are relatively affordable and it’s near everything (one block from Centennial Olympic Park.

Expect typical creole fare; the Shrimp & Grits, Mac n’ Cheese, and made-from-scratch Jambalaya are outstanding. There are only a couple of tables indoors, consider doing take-out.

GRAB A SLICE: Slice.

Another budget-friendly option is to go where Georgia State students go. Pick up a hand-tossed NY-style pizza at Slice but accompany it with the very Southern Sweet Iced Tea.

CHECK OUT THE NIGHTLIFE.

Head to Edgewood Avenue for Atlanta’s liveliest nightlife. Church , AKA Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Pingpong Emporium, is the edgy iconic mainstay bar. But there’s also J oystick , a bar/vintage arcade game center, as well as the Revery VR Bar for dancing/virtual reality play.

Hotels In Downtown Atlanta

Luxury: westin peachtree plaza ..

The Westin Peachtree Plaza is all that one expects from an upscale Marriott hotels brand. And, of course, its central location in Peachtree Center can’t be beaten. But we also love the very friendly staff, amazing views, indoor pool, onsite Starbucks, and decent size room (for an urban hotel,)

HISTORIC/BOUTIQUE: Ellis Hotel .

Luxury with a dash of whimsy, some of the hotel’s more unusual offerings include specialty floors for Women Only or Dog Lovers.

More Weekend Getaways In Georgia

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Sandra Foyt is a storyteller, road trip junkie, and award-winning travel photographer. A veteran of many cross-country road trips, she drove Route 66, the Lincoln Highway, the Fossil Freeway, the Extraterrestrial Highway, and even “The Loneliest Road in America.” Sandra is based in Upstate New York, with family homes in California and the Caribbean. Her work is influenced by tropical colors and warm relationships. And she believes that the best travel photography connects us across time, place, and culture.

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17 Best Things to Do in Atlanta

By Jennifer Bradley Franklin and Lia Picard

Atlanta is a city that’s simultaneously known for its rich history and influence on the future. A city of transformation, it's the birthplace of Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., and remains a political hotbed in today's national discourse. And while its designation as a Hollywood of the South has allowed the city to develop quickly and in exciting ways, it's also wrapped in forest, with natural beauty woven into the urban landscape. Recent years have brought chic hotel openings , exquisite retail options, and beautifully designed green spaces. Atlanta’s dining scene has long been focused on locally grown food, and continues to shine with options ranging from no-frills to sophisticated. There’s a lot to explore; before you get lost in everything the Big Peach has to offer, start with our list of the best things to do in Atlanta.

Read our complete Atlanta travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Atlanta BeltLine Arrow

What started as an idea for a Georgia Tech graduate thesis has become one of Atlanta’s best-loved outdoor attractions. Atlanta was once called “Terminus” because of the railroads that converged in the city before the Civil War, and this project repurposes the historic 22-mile railway loop around the downtown area into a multi-use paved path lined with native plants and art installations. While only the Northside Trail, Westside Trail, Eastside Trail, and West End Trail are fully complete, the other sections are hike-able. When it’s finished (estimates say 2030) it will connect 45 in-town neighborhoods, include 33 miles of multi-use trails and 2,000 acres of parks, and become one of the largest, most wide-ranging urban redevelopment programs in the United States. If you've got limited time, pick an entry point and a destination and make your own shorter loop. For instance, park at Ponce City Market and walk north to Piedmont Park before heading back, a trip that should take less than an hour at an easy pace.

The Center for Civil and Human Rights Arrow

This downtown attraction, opened in 2014, celebrates the American Civil Rights Movement and the global Human Rights Movement. The airy, modern building was designed to inspire positive action with lofty architectural elements like a clear glass front and two bold, curved walls. Conceived by design firms HOK and Perkins+Will, the architects in charge said they were inspired by Washington, D.C.’s National Mall , Cairo’s Tahrir Square, and Beijing's Tiananmen Square. Inside, the museum includes three levels of galleries and event halls: A walk through the exhibit on American Civil Rights starts in the 1950s, illustrating the impact of Jim Crow laws and legalized racism on America. It explores communities' fights for equality, and raises questions about the systems Americans have yet to challenge.

Buford Highway Arrow

If “Atlanta is the cultural capital of the New South," as Marian Liou, founder of We Love BuHi, is fond of saying, then "Buford Highway is its multicultural heart.” Along this bustling street, you’ll find every manner of international cuisine, including Vietnamese, Peruvian, Chinese, Malaysian, Korean, Cuban, and Mexican. Use Lee’s Bakery—one of the few places where you can find equally fantastic pho and banh mi in a combo—as your jumping off point for exploration. It's emblematic of many of the gems along the road: Not fancy, but darn good. We say, go for the combo while you're there (that's half banh mi, half small pho for the uninitiated)—you just can't go wrong with the crunchy French bread baked daily and fragrant broth. And if you find yourself craving something else from an equally far-flung part of the world, just take a drive; Bangladeshi at Panahar, some of Atlanta's best sushi at Sushi Hayakawa , and Korean at Sokongdong Tofu House are all within striking distance.

Ponce City Market Arrow

Clocking in at a whopping 2.1 million square feet, this is the Southeast’s largest brick structure, and is home to big retailers, local boutiques, gyms, and more than 20 varied restaurants and food stalls (including multiple James Beard Award-winning chefs). Ponce City Market is somewhere you come for a good time, whether it's shopping at a small boutique, gallery, or larger store, or for a meal or drink in the central food hall (featuring three James Beard Award winners). Management does a great job of hosting fun events like cooking classes, art and candle making workshops, wine tastings, and more. You also can pay a small fee to take a freight elevator to the rooftop and play vintage carnival games and get some of the city's best skyline views.

Matt Ortile

Scott Laird

Siobhan Reid

Meaghan Kenny

Atlanta Botanical Garden Arrow

Adjacent to Atlanta’s verdant Piedmont Park , it’s easy to see why this 30-acre oasis in the heart of Midtown welcomes more than half a million visitors each year. In 2010 it nearly doubled its size when it opened the Canopy Walk, a 600-foot walkway suspended in the trees. Guests can visit the steamy orchid house, walk through the edible garden of native plants (though they are edible, resist the temptation!), and stop for an upscale meal at Longleaf, one of the few restaurants in the world to be housed in a botanical garden. In addition to being a serene place for a stroll, ABG leads a number of nationally recognized conservation efforts, including the Orchid Conservation Institute, the Conservation Greenhouse for endangered plants, and a program to save rare frogs, so there’s an educational element here too.

Little Five Points Arrow

There are a few places in Atlanta where freak flags fly, and proudly so—but chief among them is Little Five Points. The quirky neighborhood around the five-corner intersection of Euclid, Moreland, and McLendon Avenues on Atlanta's east side is home to Variety Playhouse (their solid roster of indie concerts is the stuff of legends), alternative clothing boutiques, vintage record shops, and plenty of off-color restaurants, but for a microcosm of what makes L5P unique, head to the Junkman’s Daughter, an emporium of novelties. There, shoppers will find gifts, clothing, and art for folks of all persuasions, from goth to hippie to punk.

Zoo Atlanta Arrow

Founded in 1889, Zoo Atlanta is one of the city’s oldest cultural destinations and one of the great zoos in the country under continuous operation. The 40 acres it occupies in the Grand Park neighborhood are home to more than 1,000 animal residents representing over 200 species, so there’s a draw whether you’re into being outdoors or seeing a particular kind of animal, whether passing through on a solo trip or here with your family. While you’ll find unique habitats and the typical zoo inhabitants (elephants, lions, giraffes, bears, alpacas, tortoises, and flamingos), it’s known for being one of only three U.S. zoos to have giant pandas and for having one of the largest populations of great apes in North America.

Atlanta History Center Arrow

One of Atlanta's best museums , the Atlanta History Center was originally founded in 1926 by a group of Atlantans dedicated to, well, preserving their city's history. The Center, as we know it today, came to fruition in the 1990s as a way of highlighting the political and cultural history of Atlanta and the surrounding region. Unsurprisingly, there's an impressive collection of Civil War art and artifacts here (including Cyclorama: The Big Picture , a painting that measures 49-feet tall by 371-feet long), along with written commentary on the Native American history of Georgia and lighter, more pop-culture-adjacent topics like Folk Art. The 33-acre campus of historic homes, exhibitions, and archives is unto itself a treat, especially the epic Swan House, former home to one of the wealthiest families in Georgia.

Westside Park Arrow

You might recognize this park from television show "The Walking Dead." The former Bellwood Quarry has been converted into this 280-acre park with beautiful skyline views. Westside Park is a thing of beauty for nature lovers and photographers alike. A sculptural gateway that resembles dinosaur ribs, designed by Portman Architects, leads you into the spacious park with two and a half miles of paved trails that loop around a reservoir. There's a playground for kids and plenty of green space for those who want to have a picnic or just sprawl out. Bring your sneakers, as it's hilly.

The Interlock Arrow

Something of a one-stop-shop for pleasure seekers that you can make a day out of, this mixed-use development in the heart of West Midtown is anchored by the 161-room Bellyard Hotel. At Drawbar, an industrial-glam vibe and an inviting lobby restaurant, sit on the terrace overlooking the skyline for maximum enjoyment of happy hour, which is held Monday through Thursday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. (with snack specials on top of drink discounts). The Interlock happens to have an open container license, so you can visit the other venues such as indoor mini-golf experience Puttshack, and open-air coffee and cocktail spot Holiday Bar. Head to St. Germain, the French bakery on the ground floor of the Interlock, and indulge in a couple of pastries that look too pretty to eat—almost. A rooftop bar and pool are also forthcoming. 

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Arrow

When Mercedes-Benz Stadium opened its doors in 2017 it became an eye-catching star in Atlanta's skyline. The unique roof's design hearkens to a falcon wing (appropriate given the football home team) and the retractable roof transforms in just a few minutes. The venue is impressive thanks to its stunning windows that give an amazing view of the city as you descend and ascend the escalators. You can visit for a football game or live music performance, but the thrill of an Atlanta United soccer game (typically occurring February through October) is unbeatable.

King Historic District Tour – Atlanta History Tours Arrow

Prepare to be inspired on the King Historic District Tour, which is meticulously researched by company founder and historian Akila McConnell. On the two-and-a-half-hour walking tour—at about 1.5 miles, the pace is leisurely—you’ll get an up-close look at some of the city’s most important Civil Rights locations and learn little-known stories in the neighborhood. With a maximum of 14 guests—there's no minimum, so it’s possible you could have the guide’s undivided attention—the experience feels intimate, even when it's at capacity.

High Museum of Art Arrow

The High is one of the biggest and best museums in the Southeast, the kind of place Yayoi Kusama might bring her Infinity Mirrors , alongside a permanent collection of some 17,000 works. The campus stands out in Midtown, Atlanta's arts district, with buildings by bold-faced names like Renzo Piano and Richard Meier. Inside, you'll find a bit of everything: photography; decorative arts; classic European and American works; photographs by Dawoud Bey. It's a day well spent. You won’t want to miss the newest collection, given to the museum in 2019. The Doris and Shouky Shaheen Collection, displayed in a gallery named in the couple’s honor, includes works from legendary artists such as Eugène Boudin, Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, Amedeo Modigliani, and Henri Matisse. If you only have time for one gallery, this is a heavy-hitter.

Oakland Cemetery Arrow

Oakland Cemetery, a 48-acre public park, is the final resting place for more than 70,000 souls and one of the city’s oldest public parks. Established in 1850 with just six acres near downtown Atlanta, it’s grown over the years and now includes miles of walking trails spread among the headstones, decorative sculptures, and mausoleums. Some of the most popular graves here include "Gone With the Wind" author Margaret Mitchell ( her house is another Atlanta landmark ), golfer Bobby Jones (co-founder of the Masters Tournament and the first golfer to win golf’s Grand Slam), and Maynard Jackson (Atlanta’s first first African-American mayor, and namesake of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport ). It's also free to visit.

Lee + White Arrow

Lee + White is an adaptive reuse development in the West End neighborhood that consists of former warehouse spaces transformed into destinations like Best End Brewing and ASW Distillery, with a food hall addition on the way. The specialty here is anything quaffable: Beer lovers should hit up Monday Night Garage, where Monday Night Brewing dreams up sours and barrel-aged brews in a spacious, funky tasting room. Even those who don't drink can enjoy a trip to the development with a stop at Honeysuckle Gelato, or Cultured South for a glass of kombucha. If you're hungry, try Boxcar, an American cuisine restaurant with splashy art and an extensive beer list (it's owned by the team behind Hop City, one of Atlanta's most iconic craft beer shops).

Virginia-Highland District

A visit to the Virginia-Highland neighborhood (named for the intersection of Virginia and North Highland Avenues) is like a mini city break, within the city limits. Just 10 minutes from downtown Atlanta, historic craftsman homes and cottages line the streets of the picturesque neighborhood that's a lovely spot for a morning or afternoon stroll. There’s also a booming retail district that includes Atlanta institutions like George’s, a bar established in 1961, and brunch go-to Murphy’s. Exciting newcomers are Kinship Butcher & Sundry and Academy Coffee; the latter is known for its cocktail-like coffee drinks (think lattes with bitters and fanciful syrups). Other must-visit spots include Doughnut Dollies and Virginia Highland Books, an independent bookstore with a cushy seating area to sit and read over a coffee.

Decatur Square Arrow

The word ‘charming’ comes to mind when you picture Decatur Square. Decatur is a city known as an "in-town" suburb thanks to its close proximity to downtown Atlanta. The town's square itself is a nice space to hang out (you may recognize it from the television show "Watchmen") with a rich scoop of local ice cream from Butter & Cream. There are plenty of things to do here, and it's a food-enthusiast's wonderland: Several of the city's top restaurants are Leon's Full Service (seasonally-driven fare in a former gas station) and the Iberian Pig, a tapas institution. Decatur is a city driven by a love for all things local, so you won't see many chains here when it comes to food or retail; instead hit beloved businesses like Squash Blossom Boutique, Wild Oats & Billy Goats art gallery, B-Side bagels, and Little Shop of Stories bookstore.

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10 things to do in downtown Atlanta (Plus Midtown!)

Atlanta is known for its Southern hospitality, but this capital city is home to some of the top museums and historical sites in the United States. Whether you’re in town for business or on a family vacation, there are numerous things to do in Downtown Atlanta (and Midtown too!) and several  places to stay in both neighborhoods . These two Atlanta locales are literally … neighbors, so staying in either one is an easy walk or MARTA stop away to all the attractions.

SkyView Atlanta

SkyView Atlanta at night – Source: Flickr

168 Luckie Street NW

Are your feet tired of walking? There’s a unique thing to do in Downtown Atlanta .. a giant ferris wheel! Give your feet a rest and see beautiful Downtown Atlanta from 20 stories in the air. SkyView Atlanta has 42 air-conditioned gondolas that can hold up to six people and lets you sit back and relax while seeing every aspect of the city.

While your in the area, walk across the street from SkyView to check out Centennial Olympic Park and the iconic Fountain of Rings commemorating the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Mary Mac’s Tea Room

Fried Catfish at Mary Mac’s Tea Room – Source: Flickr

224 Ponce De Leon Avenue NE

Another great restaurant, located in midtown Atlanta, is Mary Mac’s Tea Room . It’s known as “Atlanta’s Dining Room” and is the only tea room left in Atlanta. This restaurant has been serving customers since 1945 and is the place to eat if you’re craving authentic made-from-scratch Southern foods.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

National Center for Civil and Human Rights – Source: Flickr

100 Ivan Allen Jr Boulevard NW The Center hosts several permanent and temporary exhibitions that explain the history of the civil rights movement in the United States, and how it relates to the struggle of global human rights. One of the top things to do in Downtown Atlanta, the Center of Civil and Human Rights  also showcases an  exclusive rotating exhibition of more than 13,000 personal artifacts from the Morehouse College Martin Luther King, Jr. Collection .  The gallery features a photographed mural of Dr. King’s bookshelf as it was left following his assassination. Two miles away, you can also visit the Martin Luthe r King Jr National Historic site , one of the city’s top tourist destinations.

Where to stay in Downtown Atlanta Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown

Georgia Aquarium

Inside the Georgia Aquarium – Source: Flickr

225 Baker Street NW

One of the world’s most magical and largest aquariums is located in downtown Atlanta. The Georgia Aquarium  is home to tens of thousands of animals, including 500 species from all over the world, and features 60 different habitats for guests to explore. Take your family to see the Ocean Voyager exhibit with 6.3 million gallons of water or experience the all-new  AT&T Dolphin Celebration  that showcases talented dolphins and human actors.

Where to stay Hotels near the GA Aquarium

College Football Hall of Fame

Wall of helmets at the College Football Hall of Fame – Source: Flickr

250 Marietta Street NW

The College Football Hall of Fame and Chick-fil-A Fan Experience provides sports and history lovers with 94,256-square feet of historical relics and modern, interactive football exhibits. When you enter, you are greeted with a large wall of helmets (see photo above) for every college team in the United States. After buying the ticket, you select your favorite college team, and that team’s helmet lights up on the wall. Your ticket personalizes your visit throughout the museum with an immersive experience that shows exclusive videos and photos of your #1 team.

The Fox Theatre

The Fox Theatre – Source: Flickr

660 Peachtree Street NE

Known as one of the best entertainment venues in Atlanta, The Fox Theatre  has shows ranging from dance to opera and Broadway musicals to rock concerts. The National Historic Landmark is the cultural jewel of metro Atlanta and had early success as a movie theater. However in the late 70s,  the Fox faced possible demolition after years of neglect until a  nonprofit organization raised $3 million to save it. Enjoy a 60-minute guided tour or check the events calendar  to see what shows or concerts can bring you to Atlanta.

Where to stay near the Fox Theatre Hotel Indigo Atlanta Midtown

The World of Coca-Cola

Advertising history at the World of Coca-Cola – Source: Flickr

121 Baker Street NW

If you’re a Coke drinker or have any interest in the most famous beverage brand in the world, then stop by The World of Coca-Cola to have a lively thing to do in Downtown Atlanta. Tour the facility to see over 1,200 artifacts, a 4-D movie in moving seats and a bottling line that produces a complimentary glass bottle (the best way to drink a Coke) for every guest. And the best part — you get to sample over 100 different Coca-Cola beverages from around the world, giving your taste buds the ride of their life.

After touring the World of Coca-Cola, you can take a quick walk to Centennial Park, or if it’s a rainy day check out the hands-on exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta (great for kids aged 2-8).

Inside CNN Studio Tour

Source: Flickr

190 Marietta Street Do you watch CNN? Are you curious how the news industry works? Then head over to the global headquarters of CNN located in downtown Atlanta. CNN offers daily-guided tours where guests get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look into the news and broadcasting world. Depending on your interest level in TV news, CNN offers three different tours: Inside CNN Studio Tour , VIP Tour and Morning Express Tour.

The Varsity

61 North Avenue NW “What’ll ya have?” Famous words you’ll hear as soon as you enter the world’s largest drive-in restaurant in downtown Atlanta. This well-known restaurant has been pleasing taste buds since 1928, and those in Georgia love it so much that there are now eight locations in the greater Atlanta and Athens areas. The Varsity promises to deliver tasty foods fast and do so in a fun environment. If you’re in town for a football game at Georgia Tech , then The Varsity is one of the iconic stop-offs. Make sure to try a chili cheese dog, onion rings and a Frosted Orange. You wont’ be disappointed.

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21 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Atlanta, GA

Written by Bryan Dearsley & Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jan 24, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Atlanta is in almost all respects the principal center of the American South. Originally a military outpost, it later became an important commercial town before being reduced to rubble during the Civil War. Now a major financial and cultural center, Atlanta is also well known as an important hub for air traffic, with easy connections for travelers making it an increasingly popular US travel destination.

Whether you have a few hours or a few days, you'll find the endless list of interesting places to visit in Atlanta will keep you coming back for more. Tourist attractions here range from the arts to sports, and along the way, you'll also discover numerous historic sites, and state-of-the-art museums, as well as beautiful parks and gardens to explore.

Don't expect to find a quiet, romantic, pedestrian-friendly Southern city like Savannah when you visit Atlanta. Instead, you'll find it a rather large, always busy city of close to half a million souls. That said, Atlanta is certainly not without its Southern charm, you just have to dig a little deeper to find it. Whatever your interests, you'll easily be able to plan your visit to this vibrant city with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.

1. Visit the Georgia Aquarium

2. take a stroll through the atlanta botanical garden, 3. tour the martin luther king, jr. national historical park, 4. center for civil and human rights, 5. explore the "real thing" at world of coca-cola, 6. see a movie or performance at the fox theatre, 7. enjoy a walk or jog through piedmont park, 8. atlanta history center, 9. have fun at legoland discovery center atlanta, 10. take the kids to zoo atlanta, 11. the jimmy carter presidential library & museum, 12. high museum of art, 13. college football hall of fame, 14. historic oakland cemetery, 15. truist park tours, 16. fernbank museum of natural history, 17. watch the dancing fountains at centennial olympic park, 18. ponce city market, 19. michael c. carlos museum, 20. play outdoors at stone mountain park, 21. center for puppetry arts, where to stay in atlanta for sightseeing, atlanta, ga - climate chart.

While the Georgia Aquarium complex is one of the most popular things to do with kids, it's also a great place to visit as an adult.

The aquarium features a wide variety of marine life and some very interesting interactive activities for visitors. One of the world's largest aquariums, it houses more than 100,000 aquatic creatures, including the largest sharks in the ocean: whale sharks . These impressive sea creatures can grow up to 30 ft in length and are a thrill to observe in the aquarium's long walk-through acrylic tunnel.

You can also see rare albino alligators and watch as trainers interact with California sea lions. One unique option offered by the Georgia Aquarium is the opportunity to dive or snorkel with the fish. To participate in the dive program, however, you must have SCUBA diving certification.

For the truly adventurous, consider the shark cage experience . This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will get you up close to these awe-inspiring creatures, all the while, though, safely tucked away behind safe, secure steel bars... just in case!

Address: 225 Baker Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia

The Atlanta Botanical Garden offers a lovely space through which to stroll and spend a few hours of your time. Highlights of this must-visit Atlanta attraction include a variety of well-designed gardens, including formal flowerbeds and majestic trees that frame the urban landscape of Midtown Atlanta.

The botanical garden is a great place year-round, with something always in bloom. That said, spring is, of course, an amazing time to visit, with a riot of colors. Other notable features include the Orchid Display House in the Fuqua Orchid Center, the Winter Garden, the Japanese Garden , the Conservation Garden, and the Desert House.

Two of its major specialties are the Rose Garden and its hydrangeas, each of which comprises the largest such collections in the southeast. A special garden area is designed for children, and an elevated boardwalk gives visitors tree-top views down into the forest, another popular activity for families.

Ultimately, what you see here at this splendid garden attraction will depend on the time of year you visit. While there are numerous events and exhibits to experience throughout the year, the always-beautiful indoor gardens are reason enough to visit, whatever the weather.

Address: 1345 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia

Just 2 miles from Georgia Aquarium, two entire blocks of Auburn Avenue are now protected as a National Historic Site . They include the birthplace of the civil rights campaigner Martin Luther King Jr. at 501 Auburn Avenue, which dates from 1895; and the Ebenezer Baptist Church at 407-413 Auburn Avenue, in which he and his father were ministers.

Admission to the historic site is free , as are the half-hour tours of Martin Luther King Jr.'s birth home . These informative tours offered by the National Park Service are well worthwhile to get a better understanding of the man and his times. However, as one of the most popular Atlanta attractions, it does get busy. To avoid line-ups, consider an early morning visit or go on Sunday mornings when church service is in progress.

There are several other related places to visit within the historic site, too. Immediately adjoining it, in the Freedom Hall Complex, is King's grave. Between his birthplace and Ebenezer Baptist Church is Fire Station No. 6, which played a role in the life of the neighborhood and where volunteers tell stories of life here when King was growing up.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change is also in the area. Usually less crowded, it's worth a visit for its displays related to this undeniably influential man and the movement he so inspired.

Address: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta's place in the American Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s is marked by a beautifully conceived interpretation center/museum that places this epic struggle into the greater worldwide movement for human rights.

The Center for Civil and Human Rights explores the history of Jim Crow laws with actual television newscasts, speeches, photos, videos, personal accounts, and interactive experiences that bring visitors into the struggle. Portraits and stories of their work honor men and women who lost their lives in the struggle.

The Human Rights Movement gallery carries the story into the broader picture of human rights worldwide: Apartheid in South Africa, women's rights, the rights of children, and others, inspiring visitors to think about the rights of humans everywhere.

Address: 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, Georgia

In 1886, a chemist named Dr. John Pemberton devised a syrup designed, or so he claimed, to relieve headaches and other perceived maladies. A friend of his mixed the glutinous liquid with water and carbonic acid, and the result of the mixture soon became the world's most popular soft drink.

The World of Coca-Cola illustrates the history and triumphal progress of the world-famous drink in entertaining ways that will please all ages. A new exhibit, Scent Discovery , explores the sense of smell and the origins of various fragrances, testing your sense of smell and exploring the sources of different aromas.

World of Coca-Cola is located directly opposite the Georgia Aquarium and the Center for Civil and Human Rights. You can park in any one of the nearby parking garages for the day and make the most of their handy proximity to each other. From here you can also easily explore Centennial Olympic Park , home to the impressive SkyView Atlanta Ferris Wheel ; and the College Football Hall of Fame, to name just a couple of nearby attractions.

Address: 121 Baker Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia

The historic Fox Theatre was built in the 1920s as the Yaarab Temple Shrine Mosque, with an extremely posh Arabian-themed design. It has had a varied history including facing problems during the Great Depression that almost saw it torn down, but has always been a much-loved landmark building since its construction. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The interior of the theater has seen considerable restoration work over the years in an attempt to maintain its original elegance, including the repair and restoration of the furniture collection to preserve its 1929 appearance.

Performances at the Fox include diverse entertainment options such as operas, ballet, rock concerts, and movies, with hundreds of performances each year. In addition to the theater, two ballrooms, the Egyptian Ballroom, and the Grand Salon, have been beautifully restored and are available for special events.

Address: 660 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, Georgia

Located a 15-minute drive or 45-minute walk northeast of downtown Atlanta, Piedmont Park is the oldest and largest park in the Atlanta metro region. Consisting of 180 acres of lovingly cared-for grounds and gardens, it can take a while to explore, so allow plenty of time.

The miles of walking and running trails through its gently rolling meadows and shady groves include a four-mile loop that passes the park's scenic highlights, natural areas, gardens, and historic sites. Or for an intense workout, join fitness fans on Piedmont Park's Active Oval running track.

In addition to providing walking and running trails, the park has off-leash dog parks, gardens, sports fields, a lake with fishing piers, children's playgrounds, a huge swimming pool at the Piedmont Park Aquatic Center , and a splash pad for children at the Legacy Fountain.

Local farmers and artisans gather on Saturdays at the Green Market, where you may find everything from fresh peaches, handmade soaps, and smoked meats to biscuits, Irish pancakes, sheep cheese, and sheep milk caramel. Look for chef demonstrations every Saturday from 11 am until noon.

On Saturday mornings from April through November, at 11 am, you can learn about the park's history on a free guided walking tour . And, on the first Saturday of every month, Piedmont Park Conservancy partners with the Atlanta Audubon Society for bird walks that explore the park's many different habitats.

The park also hosts various events, from musical entertainment to fitness programs. Plenty of on-site multi-story parking is available.

Address: 1071 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia

The Atlanta History Center is a large complex that comprises the Atlanta History Museum, Centennial Olympic Games Museum, Swan House, Smith Family Farm, and the Kenan Research Center, along with a number of historic gardens.

The History Museum features changing exhibitions and a permanent collection with topics such as the American Civil War, Folk Art of the South, and various other exhibits related to the history of Atlanta.

The historic houses range in age from the 1860s to the 1920s and offer a glimpse of life during these time periods. Are you a fan of American literature? If so, the Margaret Mitchell House is a must-visit and contains the apartment where Mitchell wrote Gone with the Wind . The guided tour includes a look at this room as well as a brief film and exhibition on Margaret Mitchell.

The six historic gardens are certainly fun to explore, too, and include both natural areas and formal gardens. The Frank A. Smith Rhododendron Garden , is at its best in spring when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom. You should also plan on visiting the 1860s-style garden at the Smith Farm, a small former plantation from the 1860s.

Address: 130 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta, Georgia

Who doesn't like LEGO? One of the city's top family attractions, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta gives fans young and old a great excuse to indulge their passion for these little plastic building blocks.

Located in the high-end Phipps Plaza, a ritzy shopping mall to the north of downtown Atlanta, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta opened in 2012 and offers plenty of fun activities. Highlights include a LEGO scale model of the city featuring top points of interest, including the Georgia Aquarium and the Fox Theatre, constructed from no less than 1.5 million bricks.

Kid-friendly, LEGO-themed rides are also available, and there's also a 4-D cinema showing related movie adventures. Age-appropriate workshops are frequently held, and the on-site shop offers a chance to stock up on the world's most popular building toy. A café is also located on the premises.

Address: 3500 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia

A visit to Zoo Atlanta is another fun family activity to add to your travel itinerary. Founded in 1889, the zoo has, in recent years, undergone a major transformation that has seen it propelled to the top of lists of animal attractions in the USA.

Also known as Atlanta Zoo, its central location in Grant Park makes it easy to get to, with the addition of new parking facilities making for a seamless visitor experience. Among its most popular exhibits is an African rainforest area complete with gorillas and monkeys. Other cute creatures include giant pandas in the Asian rainforest section, as well as an aviary, lemurs, and bears.

A number of unique animal experiences are also offered. These include fun after-hours visits, safari camps, and guided tours. A behind-the-scenes animal encounter is also offered and lets you get up close to a variety of creatures in the zoo's care.

Address: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, Georgia

Located in a beautiful park-like setting in the Poncey-Highland neighborhood near Freedom Park, the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum is a must-visit, whatever your political affiliations.

Opened in 1986 and recently renovated, the site is a repository for more than 27 million pages of official papers, as well as large collections of photos and videos related to the 39th US President's tenure. There are also numerous documents and memorabilia related to his personal and family life.

Other highlights include a display showcasing Carter's Nobel Peace Prize, as well as an authentic reproduction of the Oval Office as it was during his time there. The 30-acre grounds and museum can be visited as a self-guided tour. Be sure to check out the excellent views over the city of Atlanta while you're here.

Address: 441 John Lewis Freedom Pkwy N, Atlanta, Georgia

Designed by architect Richard Meier and enlarged with three new buildings designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, the High Museum of Art is noteworthy both for its architecture and its extraordinary collections, With a focus on art from the Renaissance to the present day, it is particularly well-known for its works by 19th-century French masters and an extensive collection of 19th- and 20th-century American art.

There is also a significant collection of European paintings and decorative art to explore. Newer additions include modern and contemporary art, photography, and African art. The museum forms part of the Robert W. Woodruff Arts Center and hosts an annual film series featuring foreign, independent, and classic cinema.

Address: 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, Georgia

Established in 1951, the College Football Hall of Fame is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts when visiting Atlanta. It's located adjacent to Centennial Olympic Park, close to the Georgia Aquarium, ensuring you'll be able to scratch more than one great attraction off your list with a single visit.

The Hall of Fame's unique football-shaped location only opened in 2014 and features a variety of fun interactive displays and activities suitable for all ages. Almost 100,000 square feet in size, it even includes an indoor football field big enough for kids to run around and blow off some steam.

Greeting you when you enter the building, though, is perhaps its most impressive feature, The Quad's helmet wall. This huge three-story-tall wall features helmets from 775 college teams, with visitors being able to press a button to have their favorite team's headgear illuminated, so they can spot it.

Address: 250 Marietta Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia

The Historic Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta began as a six-acre burial ground in 1850 and was originally designed as a garden cemetery. Over the years, particularly during the time of the Civil War, the site grew, accommodating those killed on the battlefield.

Eventually, the cemetery came to encompass 88 acres, and in 1884 stopped selling plots. In the ensuing years, this once lovely cemetery fell into disrepair, as those tending the plots moved away or died.

Fast forward to 1976, and the Oakland Cemetery was declared a National Historic Landmark, and the Historic Oakland Foundation was established. In combination with the city, the organization has done much work to maintain the cemetery. Today, it's promoted as a historic cemetery and parkland with gardens, sculptures, and wildlife.

There's even a Visitor Center and Museum Shop, and free parking is available directly opposite the main gate. It can get busy here though, so if you can visit on a weekday morning, you're pretty much guaranteed parking and a quieter visit.

Address: 248 Oakland Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia

Another must-do for visiting sports fans is taking a tour of Truist Park . Famous as the home of the Atlanta Braves baseball team, this state-of-the-art stadium opened in 2017 and can be visited not only on game days but as part of a fun tour.

Starting at the Right Field Gate, these must-do tours last around an hour and take in a number of important stadium features. These usually include the press box, some of the VIP lounges and seating, as well as the Monument Garden. Afterward, be sure to visit the Braves Clubhouse Store for a little souvenir shopping.

While tour tickets can be purchased at the gate, they do sometimes fill up, so plan ahead and book yours online in advance if you can. A VIP tour option is also available on game days.

Address: 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, Georgia

Opened in 1992, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History portrays the nature and environment of Georgia, as well as technical and scientific phenomena with the aid of modern techniques. Some of the most eye-catching exhibits at the museum are the huge dinosaur statues that greet you at the entrance and the dinosaur skeletons in the Great Hall.

Perhaps more entertaining are the interactive displays of the "Sensing Nature" exhibit. There are many other interesting exhibits on the natural history of the local landscape and cultures from other parts of the world. Even the floors are attention-getting, made of limestone tiles with embedded fossils.

A huge gallery is dedicated to temporary and traveling exhibits, and an IMAX theater shows nature-related films.

Address: 767 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia

Built for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, Centennial Olympic Park in central Atlanta is located near the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. It is the venue for weekly free concerts and for seasonal events, including the Christkindl Christmas Market and the Chinese Lantern Show .

The most popular thing to do in Centennial Olympic Park is watching the dancing fountain, with its choreographed program of water spouts and colored lights set to music. Officially known as the Fountain of Rings , its design is based on the Olympic rings symbol. When it's not "performing," the fountain becomes a splash pad for children to play in. It's also a popular place for joggers to cool off in the summer.

Centennial Olympic Park offers great views of the Atlanta skyline, especially from the SkyView Ferris wheel , rising almost 20 stories above the park.

Address: 265 Park Avenue West NW, Atlanta, Georgia

For a change of pace after all that Atlanta sightseeing, head over to Ponce City Market . Set in a former Sears warehouse, this site has been the subject of much urban renewal and redevelopment in recent years, resulting in it becoming one of the city's top shopping and entertainment venues.

In addition to its many boutique shops and galleries, the market houses a wide variety of food experiences, from casual cafés to elegant fine-dining restaurants. One of the best places to visit for a coffee or meal is The Roof at Ponce City Market.

This vast rooftop area features patio seating, event space, and an arcade-style attraction reminiscent of traditional fun fairs. It also offers superb views over the city and makes for the perfect place to watch the sunset over this dynamic Southern city. It's a particularly stunning vista when observed as the sun is setting, just have your camera ready!

Address: 285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW, Atlanta, Georgia

The Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University has one of the largest collections of ancient art in the Southeast. Its extensive collection includes 17,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt, the Near East, Greece, Rome, Asia, Africa, and the pre-Columbian Americas. The ancient Egypt exhibits are particularly outstanding.

In addition to these beautifully displayed and interpreted examples of pottery, goldwork, and ancient art in all media, the museum also has exceptional collections of works on paper from the Renaissance to the present, opening a window into world cultures expressed through their art.

Address: 571 South Kilgo Circle NE, Atlanta, Georgia

One of the most popular places to visit near Atlanta is Stone Mountain Par k, 16 miles east of the city center in DeKalb County. At its center is Stone Mountain, an 863-foot-high mass of exposed granite with a circumference of five miles.

On the east flank of the hill is a now-controversial relief of the three Confederate leaders, President Jefferson Davis and his two generals, Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee, hewn from the rock between 1923 and 1970.

But there is much more to do here. You can climb to the top of the hill or ascend by cable car, and around it runs a 1940s locomotive on a five-mile circuit through the park. There are endurance courses of suspended rope walks and bridges through the treetops, a petting farm for small children, and a land/lake tour on a 1940s Army DUKW that includes some local history.

Other highlights include a fully restored antebellum plantation and a museum with Native American artifacts and exhibits. A dinosaur park features 20 life-size prehistoric creatures that move and roar, one of the most popular things to do for families at Stone Mountain Park.

Inviting you to rethink everything you know about puppets, the Center for Puppetry Arts is a hands-on museum with a large collection of puppets from around the world. The Global Collection Gallery traces puppetry through four continents, and through displays as diverse as Chinese hand puppets and African rod puppets, you'll discover the five main types of puppets and learn about some of the world's major puppetry traditions.

The Jim Henson Collection Gallery will delight Sesame Street fans of all ages, with the world's largest collection of Jim Henson puppets, props, and costumes. Many of the puppets from Sesame Street and The Muppet Show are here, along with figures from The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth , and others created by Henson's imaginative mind.

Live shows, workshops, exhibits, and events are designed for all ages and include the New Directions Series performances, designed for teen and adult audiences. Programs for younger audiences include themes such as Stories of Color, exploring African folktales through music and puppets.

Address: 1404 Spring Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia

For first-time visitors to Atlanta, the downtown area is the best place to stay. Many of the main sights are located here, including the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. Below is a list of highly-rated hotels in convenient locations :

Luxury Hotels:

• The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton has a prime location overlooking Peachtree Street, in a landmark building that is on the National Register of Historic Places. In its conversion to a stylish modern hotel, the artistic features, including carvings and a marble lobby have been preserved. Kids stay free.
• One of the top hotels in the city is the Ritz-Carlton . This is a five-star property, with live jazz in the evenings, just a short stroll from the Georgia Aquarium.
• Just a bit north of downtown, in artsy Midtown, the Loews Atlanta , in a sleek glass tower, offers commanding views of the downtown buildings and outstanding dining option

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Across the street from the Ritz Carlton is the historic Ellis Hotel , with concept floors that include some exclusively for women and Fresh Air floors where the air is purified to be allergen-free.
• The Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown Atlanta includes breakfast and features large suites with full kitchens, refrigerators, and a sitting area.
• The Sheraton Atlanta Hotel has recently been renovated and features a beautiful outdoor pool and patio area.

Budget Hotels:

• Budget hotels in the city center are difficult to find, and the best option is to stay a short distance outside the downtown area, such as La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Atlanta Ballpark/Galleria in Paces Ferry/Vinings. The relatively new property is about 10 to 15 minutes by car from downtown.
• A little farther away, in the Northlake area, the Hampton Inn Atlanta-Northlake features recently renovated rooms and an outdoor pool.
• The Red Roof Plus Atlanta Buckhead in trendy Buckhead, about 10 minutes by car from the city center, is another good option. There is a MARTA rail station nearby with service to downtown.

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Where to Go Nea r Atlanta : Visitors to Georgia will certainly not want to miss romantic Savannah , with its lovely parks and streets of antebellum homes. Not far north of Savanna is historic Charleston , in South Carolina , where you can also relax on the beautiful sands of Myrtle Beach .

More Places to Visit in the South: To the west of Atlanta and only about three hours by train, Birmingham is in the neighboring state of Alabama . South of Atlanta are the long sandy beaches of Florida ; the theme parks of Orlando ; and Tampa , with all the beaches and water attractions of the Gulf Coast.

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• All The Burgers You Ever Wanted to Try in Atlanta
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The Essential Downtown Atlanta Restaurants to Know

From fancy dinners with skyline views and pizzas topped with jerk chicken and callaloo to Thai food and Indian fare

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Downtown Atlanta is home to the city’s biggest tourist attractions like the CNN Center, Center for Civil and Human Rights, College Football Hall of Fame, and the Georgia Aquarium. Not to mention Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to NFL football team the Atlanta Falcons and soccer team Atlanta United, and State Farm Arena, home to Atlanta Hawks basketball.

Thanks to the efforts of institutions like Georgia State University and a variety of local urban planning and preservation organizations, downtown Atlanta has been experiencing revitalization over the last decade in hopes of preserving and repurposing unused and historic structures. Many buildings have been transformed into student housing, restaurants, locally owned coffee shops, hotels, apartments, and creative office spaces. And revitalization continues at Underground Atlanta and in South Downtown, too, with restoration work along historic Hotel Row and at the former Norfolk Southern Railroad building, bringing even more restaurants and retail to the area soon.

The list below contains mostly local restaurants and bars walkable from the hotels, attractions, and offices in downtown Atlanta.

Wild Leap Atlanta

A recent addition to the downtown Atlanta drinks scene, LaGrange, Georgia, brewery and distillery  Wild Leap  opened at the end of 2022 at Centennial Yards. It’s part of the 50-acre redevelopment of the historic Gulch and circa 1912 building formerly home to Norfolk Southern Railroad on Ted Turner Drive. At two levels encompassing over 15,000 square feet, the main floor features a taproom, central bar, and multiple seating areas. A staircase leads to the second floor offering more seating and another bar with a hidden entrance. Patio seating overlooks the Gulch, with views of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Expect the full lineup of beverages from Wild Leap at Centennial Yards, along with cocktails from the bar and a forthcoming food menu of sandwiches, appetizers, and “old school” desserts.

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Tyde Tate Kitchen - South Downtown

This location is the first full-service restaurant for the Chattahoochee Food Works stall and the first restaurant to open along this revitalized stretch of Mitchell Street in a block of century-old storefronts. Owners and siblings Sai Untachantr and Bank Bhamaraniyama use many family recipes to create the dishes for TydeTate Kitchen, including the basil chicken, chicken curry puffs, crispy basil tofu, ka nom jeeb, and pad Thai. Look for the menu to continue to expand, offering more soups, street foods like chicken satay and cho muang, and papaya salad. Sip on cocktails like the Red Cheeks made with vodka, lychee, elderflower, and tajin and the Passion Fizz mixed with rum and passionfruit nectar. People attending concerts or games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium nearby can easily walk to the restaurant via the Nelson Street pedestrian bridge.

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Kwan's Deli and Korean Kitchen

Located at the Embassy Suites near Centennial Olympic Park, this corner deli serves more than just hot and cold sandwiches, wings, and salads on its menu, it also dishes out Korean fare like bibimbap, spicy Korean fried chicken, and beef bulgogi.

This two-story bar near Centennial Olympic Park is where to head for pre- and post-game eating and drinking or to watch Atlanta United and the Falcons play for those without tickets to games at the Benz. Park Bar’s menu is all about comfort food, so expect burgers, patty melts, chicken tenders, and potato skins here, along with more refined dishes like a New York strip steak and grilled Mahi Mahi. Park Bar takes its very large whiskey and bourbon selection (over 60 bottles) and beer offerings seriously, too.

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Jamrock Restaurant

It’s hard to wrong with any order at this Atlanta Jamaican restaurant institution. Try one of the curry plates at Jamrock, including the rich curry shrimp and curry snapper, or opt for a plate of braised oxtails or a hearty sandwich, like the Hotty Hotty jerked chicken and turkey bacon topped with peppers and onions. Breakfast is also served here, featuring callaloo and saltfish, dumplings, and saltfish fritters. Keep an eye out for specials, too, such as jerk fish fried rice. There’s also a location on Moreland Avenue.

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Baraka Shawarma Mediterranean

Located in the Fairlie-Poplar district of downtown Atlanta, Baraka serves up plates of kebabs, gyros, falafel, shawarma, hummus, and tabouli. All food served here is halal.

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Dolo’s Pizza

Stone Mountain native and Howard University graduate Alyson Williams teamed up with restaurateur and chef Yusef Walker (Negril Village, Ms. Icey’s) to open Dolo’s. Located at Underground Atlanta , order pizzas topped with marinara, cheese, plantains, and jalapenos to pies topped with jerk chicken, honey, and blue cheese or callaloo, roasted tomatoes, and Jamaican ackee sauce. If on the menu, order one of the build-your-own dolita sandwiches and the doughnut-like sweet dolitas for dessert. These treats come served with hibiscus icing for dipping. A location is also open at State Farm Arena.

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The Food Shoppe

Easily walkable from Centennial Olympic Park and nearby hotels, the Food Shoppe serves Creole dishes like shrimp jambalaya and gumbo, along with shrimp and grits and mac and cheese bowls mixed with barbecue and chicken and grab-and-go foods. Open for breakfast on weekdays.

Aamar Indian Cuisine

This small, counter-service Indian restaurant might be one of downtown Atlanta’s best hidden gems. Head here for vegetable biryani, spicy curries, and comforting saag paneer.

Big Dave's Cheesesteaks

Owned by Atlanta restaurateur Derrick Hayes, Big Dave’s on Forsyth Street serves up messy and meaty cheesesteaks on its menu. Try the Dave’s Way beef or salmon cheesesteak stuffed with three types of cheese, sweet peppers and banana peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Make sure to order the cheesesteak egg rolls here, too.

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Reuben's Deli

This New York-style deli is where to head in downtown Atlanta for a classic Reuben, a hot pastrami, and even a liverwurst sandwich. Open for breakfast.

A truly unique experience in Atlanta, the iconic Sun Dial restaurant atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza gives diners a birds-eye view of the city skyline from 723 feet above the street. Begin with a classic Caesar salad or fried green tomato and lobster salad. Next, order the mussels mariniere with grilled sourdough bread for dipping or a juicy New York strip steak, before indulging in a slice of lemon cream cake or creme brulee for dessert.  Reservations required.

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By George debuted in October 2019 at the Candler Hotel on Peachtree Street. Located on the first floor of the circa 1906 building, the restaurant serves what’s described as an “American contemporary” menu with dishes like heirloom tomato salad, steamed mussels, wild mushroom ragout pappardelle, and a grilled Berkshire pork chop. Make sure to order wine and cocktails here. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reservations highly encouraged.

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Meehan's Public House Downtown

Soccer fans often find themselves here on Saturday mornings to watch international matches, cheer on their team, and sip beer. The Irish pub is located in the old Macy’s department store building on Peachtree Street and is an ideal place to grab a pint and bite to eat, like the classic fish and chips or shepherd’s pie.

White Oak Kitchen & Cocktails

Located on the corner of Peachtree and Baker streets, White Oak Kitchen is casual fine dining serving contemporary spins on Southern comfort foods like seared duck breast with turnip and bok choy or catfish with butternut squash. Expect a solid list of whiskey cocktails as well as reasonably-priced, by-the-glass and bottles of wine. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations encouraged.

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Red phone booth.

Located in the old Dailey’s building, those wanting to gain entrance to  Red Phone Booth  will first need to dial a secret code. This speakeasy serves up classic cocktails like the sazerac and old fashioned and offers a cigar program with a walk-in humidor featuring over 100 cigar options.  Amalfi Pizza  resides just upstairs in a rustic yet chic setting, where it serves Neapolitan pies and pastas and cannolis for dessert paired with beer and wine.

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An iconic piece of the downtown Atlanta skyline (and the city’s history)  roared back to life  in 2022, when rotating restaurant  Polaris  reopened atop the Hyatt Regency hotel. The restaurant closed at the start of the pandemic in 2020, and some wondered if it would ever return. Resembling a blue flying saucer, Polaris first opened in 1967 and makes a full rotation every 45 minutes. People arrive via a glass elevator that ascends 22 floors. Polaris has undergone more than a few reinventions over the years, including in its interior design, which now sees an updated space filled with mid-century modern furniture and an ever-changing view during dinner. Food here leans toward classics like the steak Oscar served over creamy whipped potatoes with a bone marrow bearnaise sauce, wagyu New York strip, and the blue dome chocolate mousse dessert containing a caramel honey center. It’s sprayed with a blue-tinted cocoa butter to resemble the restaurant’s distinctive domed roof.  Reservations required.

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Alma Cocina Downtown

After closing in March 2020 due to the pandemic, Latin American restaurant Alma Cocina returned to Peachtree Tower in downtown Atlanta this spring. Expect tacos, tamales, and roast chicken mole here, along with fresh crudo with burnt nori-avocado puree and Anaheim peppers, a guajillo grilled octopus with ancho carrots, and pork belly served with charro beans and fresh tortilla. Pair a meal with one of Alma’s tequila or mezcal cocktails. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations encouraged.

Aviva by Kameel

This downtown food gem is deceptively hidden in the mall at Peachtree Center. While more of a food court than a mall, make a beeline to this Mediterranean food stall filled with dishes served by the delightful chef Kameel. Aviva by Kameel also has a location in Midtown at the Collective at Coda and will open a location in Buckhead this spirng. Open for lunch.

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Hsu's Gourmet

This family-owned and operated Chinese restaurant has been a downtown Atlanta staple since 1989. Located in Peachtree Center, Hsu’s is easily walkable from several area hotels and can accommodate large groups. The menu offers everything from lo mein and pan-fried noodles to spicy basil chicken and salt and pepper shrimp. Folks should head here for the three-course Peking duck feast served with soup, Chinese crepes, and the meal’s star attraction, the crispy roast duck in a sweetly salted honey soy sauce. It feeds two. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations encouraged.

Trader Vic's

Atlanta is home to one of two Trader Vic’s outposts remaining in the United States, and the only location still associated with Hilton Hotels. This classic Atlanta restaurant offers half-off Mai Tai cocktails and live music on Thursday nights, too. Trader Vic’s is often full of both tourists and Atlanta residents seeking a vintage, Polynesian pop culture infusion paired with extremely strong tiki drinks. Reservations encouraged.

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Kenley's Catering And Restaurant

Only open on weekdays, Kenley Waller’s eponymous restaurant is a local favorite for downtown residents and Georgia State University students seeking meals filled with comfort foods. Kick off the day bright and early with breakfast featuring everything from biscuits and gravy to omelettes and build-your-own breakfast plates and sandwiches. Lunch and early dinner here offers plenty to choose from, too, including soups of the day, meat-and-three platters, hot wings, fish plates, and hot and cold sandwiches and combos. Open for breakfast, lunch, and early dinner.

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The Municipal Market aka Sweet Auburn Curb Market

Founded in 1918 as an open-air market, the Municipal Market (known locally as Sweet Auburn Curb Market) resides on the border between downtown Atlanta and historic Sweet Auburn. The market features dozens of local shops and food stalls offering everything from fresh produce, seafood, and meats to baked goods, sweets, and local restaurants serving Vietnamese, soul food, pizza, and Cajun and Creole cuisine. Restaurant stalls change often here, so it’s best to check online before heading over. Closed Sunday and Monday. Easily accessible via the Atlanta StreetCar

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50 Fun Things To Do

Get a jump on our city favorites.

Whether you have a few hours or days, you need the must-see, must-do list of the coolest places and super fun things to do in Atlanta to get you started. Family-friendly things to do , historic sites and scenic outdoor green spaces are just the beginning. There’s trendsetting culture and mouth-watering dining to keep you wanting more. Plan your adventure with this guide to things to do in Atlanta (and pick out your favorite icons by 👨‍🎨 @jissor ). You can also explore like a local and visit some of Atlanta’s most popular neighborhoods- Buckhead , Midtown and Downtown .

Insider tip: Save 44% on admission tickets to five top Atlanta attractions and skip most ticket lines with Atlanta CityPASS. Learn how it works.

Encuentra aquí la lista en español de las 50 cosas divertidas que hacer en Atlanta.

Alliance Theatre

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A Regional Theatre Tony Award Winner and leading producing theater in the Southeast, this is where hearts and minds expand on and off stage. Deeply community-rooted, Alliance Theatre offers productions for all ages.

Atlanta Beltline

The BeltLine is Devine

This 22-mile trail loops the city, connecting neighborhoods and showcasing why Atlanta is “The City in the Forest.” With everchanging artwork, unique shops, lively bars and restaurants, the BeltLine is the best way to explore the city on foot, on wheels or with your furry friends.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

A Day Of Re-Leaf

Enjoy 30 acres of stunning gardens and spectacular exhibits at this year-round family attraction. Learn more about the 25-foot tall Earth Goddess sculpture with flowing locks and a waterfall cascading from her hand. Every season, the ever-growing garden offers events on the lawn for visitors to experience.

Atlanta History Center

Your Very Own Time Machine

You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy one of the Southeast’s largest history museums. This 33-acre attraction in Buckhead features the re-imagined Cyclorama exhibit, memorabilia from the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games and the historic Swan House, which served as a backdrop for the Hunger Games movies.

Atlanta Rainbow Crosswalk

Walk the Rainbow

At the intersection of 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue, the Rainbow Crosswalk symbolizes Atlanta’s acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. These rainbow stripes were added to the neighborhood during an Atlanta Pride Festival, which makes its home in Midtown, where y’all means all.

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Concerts and Crescendos

Pick your seat to hear the sounds of Atlanta’s Grammy Award-winning orchestra. Watch iconic movies while the Atlanta Symphony performs the score live. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra hits the right notes with the magic of the classics, concerts and engaging events.

Buckhead Village District

Savoring Luxury

An eclectic corner in one of Atlanta’s busiest communities, this district offers a charming and stylish haven to relax among cobblestone streets and outdoor communal spaces. Sip on coffee or champagne, eat an exquisite meal and shop for unique gifts along Buckhead’s Peachtree Corridor.

Center For Puppetry Arts

Who’s Pulling the Strings

The art form of puppetry takes a special place in Atlanta. Catch a performance or pay Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy a visit at the interactive museum. Learn about the influential legacy of Jim Henson, and reconnect with your childhood, making your puppetry dreams come true.

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Get Your Nature On

Zipline across a beaver pond, get up close and personal with hundreds of butterflies, take a hike or enjoy a concert by the river. There are infinite opportunities for fun with nature in the forest, on the river or in the wetlands. Paddle your way into wild memories here.

• Nearby Attractions

Chattahoochee River

A Totally Tubular Time

This 48-mile river is one of Atlanta’s finest outdoor destinations just fewer than 10 miles from downtown Atlanta. With spectacular scenic river front views, the Chattahoochee River is also a place for cliff jumping, paddleboarding, rafting and fishing. Take a break from the water to enjoy a riverside picnic or hike along the trail.

Chick-Fil-A College Football Hall Of Fame

You’ll Get a Kick Out of This

With a 45-yard indoor football field, this is the place to kick it. Browse decades of memorabilia, learn about Hall of Fame football legends and interact with more than 50 state-of-the-art technology exhibits.

Children’s Museum Of Atlanta

Are You Kidding? This is Awesome!

Kids and families love all the playful possibilities in this world of discovery. Climb through the layers of the Earth, enter a magical forest, build giant sandcastles, deliver food from farm to table, then release your inner artist — all before story time.

David J. Sencer CDC Museum

Unravel the Sequence of Mystery Diseases

Wonder at the complexity of tools CDC scientists used to study, eradicate and solve mystery diseases. Interactive exhibits allow guests to get the story behind CDC’s pioneering work, historic efforts and neverending quest for public health.

Delta Flight Museum

We Love the Way They Fly

Housed in two original maintenance hangars from the 1940s, Delta Flight Museum traces Delta’s history and development of commercial aviation. Take part in a guided tour to see exhibits, experience simulator technology and behold massive planes like a 747 up close.

Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta

Make Money Moves

The money machine exhibit consists of historical artifacts revealing the compelling. From barter to dollars and cents, this exhibit highlights the tumultuous past of banking in America. Interactive exhibitions include cash-processing operations and examples of rare coins and currency.

Fernbank Museum Of Natural History

A Dinomite World

Nothing says adventure more than dinosaurs, nature trails in a forest and a four-story movie screen. The immense science and nature museum has outdoor adventures and three stories of exhibitions. Daytime is a blast for the family, grownups socialize after hours.

Fox Theatre

Stars in Your Eyes

With stunning gold leaf details, Egyptian architecture and a gorgeous starry-sky, the Fox Theatre is a piece of art on its own. The ornately designed venue hosts top performances and events, including Broadway shows and movies. Whether you visit for a show or a tour, keep an eye out for the famed ghosts.

Georgia Aquarium

Sea It To Believe It

With more than 11 million gallons of water, 10s of thousands of animals and 500 species in more than 60 habitats, it’s the largest in the U.S. Whether you check out SHARKS! Predators of the Deep exhibit, take a peek at a puffin or grab a gift from the gallery, there’s so much to dive into.

High Museum Of Art

Where It’s Always Art O’Clock

The Southeast’s top art museum brings blockbuster art exhibitions to Atlanta by collaborating with world-renowned museums such as The Louvre and MOMA. Find artists from the American South and an exceptional collection of civil rights photography. The High has an annual line-up of fun special events to suit any audience.

Historic Cemeteries

Here Lies History

This is where Atlanta’s history lives. Get your ghoul on at ghost and goblin themed events at Oakland Cemetery or take in views that are to die for at the Westview Cemetery.

Historic Gems

Connect With Culture and Community

Get a glimpse of historic richness. 44th & 3rd Bookseller sits in the heart of Atlanta’s West End with books by authors from the African diaspora. The Hammonds House Museum features a 250-piece art collection focused on artists of African descent. The Wren’s Nest is the historic home of notable journalist Joel Chandler Harris with the tradition of oral storytelling at its core.

Illuminarium

Multi-Sensory Storytelling

Fall down the rabbit hole of immersive experiences at Illuminarium. The Waking Wonderland and Space exhibits engage the senses with 4k interactive projection, 360-degree audio, in-floor vibration and scent systems.

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum

Be Official in the Oval Office

Be the president for a day. Walk through a full-scale replica of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter’s White House Oval Office. Finish off your “term” by viewing the Nobel Peace Prize and walking in the gorgeous gardens.

Lenox Square And Phipps Plaza

Get a Degree in Retail Therapy

Luxury shopping lives at the intersection of Peachtree and Lenox Roads in Buckhead. Fashionistas and foodies find the 350+ iconic brands at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza extraordinary. Lenox houses Nike and Apple flagships and Phipps features Nobu, a culinary market and green space for gathering.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Live the Dream of a Civil Rights Icon

Honor the work and life of civil rights pioneer Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at this historic landmark. Leave feeling inspired after remembering notable moments while visiting King’s birth home, Ebenezer Baptist Church and The King Center, established by Coretta Scott King.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

This Place is Fan-Tastic

Home to Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United FC and high-energy concerts, there is always something to enjoy here. With the world’s largest 58-foot-tall HD video board and first-of-its kind retractable roof, fans get an exclusive all-senses experience.

Michael C. Carlos Museum

Mummies and Marvels

Spend the day a world away where true treasures rest. Get wrapped up in the marvelous mummy exhibit or check out ancient artifacts from Egypt, Greece, Rome, the Near East, Africa and Americas.

Millennium Gate

Arch You Glad You Stopped Here?

This classically styled 100-foot tall arch represents Atlanta’s historical name, “The Gate City.” The impressive work by artist Alexander Stoddart preserves Georgia history, art, culture and philanthropic heritage. Stop in The Millennium Gate Museum or take a stroll through the park.

Murals & Public Art

Picture Perfect

Vibrant, diverse street art and murals tell stories of Atlanta’s creative communities. Whether you’re moving through Midtown or cruising through Cabbagetown, you’re bound to see these incredible works of art by local and international artists all over the city.

Museum Of Design Atlanta

Imagine Art and Images of Inspiration

MODA is a creative force that is home to some of Atlanta’s most unconventional exhibits. You can see and celebrate the impact of design on everyday life with exhibitions on climate change, architecture, espresso, fashion and so much more.

National Center For Civil And Human Rights

Connect With Heroes Past and Present

Journey back to 1960 and feel the intensity of a lunch counter sit-in. Learn about and walk through pivotal moments in history. The center is an evolving attraction that connects the American civil rights movement to today’s global human rights movement.

Get on the Greenway

A step off the beaten path, this popular Buckhead trail is all the buzz as it connects to parks, walking trails, a bee habitat and neighborhoods. Ultimately leading to the BeltLine, PATH400 will have you feeling like a local.

Plaza Fiesta

Bienvenidos! No Passport Needed

Celebrate Latin culture on diverse Buford Highway. At Plaza Fiesta you can eat churros, get handcrafted imported art and buy a quinceanera dress. The vibrant plaza hosts free events year-round where everyone is welcome.

Plaza Theatre

Catch an Indie Film

With a unique, intact old-school charm, this is not your average movie theater. Open since 1939, Plaza Theatre is a neighborhood favorite and Atlanta’s oldest operating cinema. Catch independent, foreign, art house films, hard to find documentaries and quirky programming.

Porsche Experience Center Atlanta

Satisfy Your Need for Speed

Experience a $200K ride as you drive and drift away in a Porsche. This experience center allows you to test your driving skills then lose your stomach on the launch pad. Finish your ride by taking in the Heritage Gallery then grabbing a bite with a view of flights.

Skyview Atlanta

Sky-High Views You Can’t Resist

The view from this 20-story Ferris wheel is truly a must-see. Ride in style with a VIP experience that includes a glass floor, champagne and a perfect photo op. The climate-controlled gondolas provide a cool ride to catch the sunset or late-night views.

Starlight Drive-In

Drivin’ Back in Time

Lights, camera, action! This multiple-screen drive in theater provides a unique movie experience. Tucked away in a scenic location right outside of Atlanta, this theater has maintained its ode to greenery and classic art-deco style since opening in 1949.

State Farm Arena

A Shot You Won’t Want To Miss

Home to the Atlanta Hawks, State Farm Arena recently underwent the second-largest renovation in NBA history adding features including the largest sightlines from 360-degree concourses providing ample views. New venue entertainment options include Topgolf Swing Suites, Zac Brown’s Social Club and Killer Mike’s SWAG Shop for a modern fan experience.

Stone Mountain Park

This Rock Will Knock Your Socks Off

Spread across 3,200 beautiful acres, this 300-million-year old rock is Georgia’s most-visited attraction – and for good reason. Trek through the treetops on SkyHike, hike up the mountain for a scenic view or take a relaxing trip to the top with Summit Skyride year-round.

Sweet Auburn Avenue

A Walk Through History

The Sweet Auburn District is steeped in history, hip bars, street art and eateries. Iconic locations like the Auburn Avenue Research Library, Municipal Market and historic churches fill the area, along with must-visit stores such as For Keeps, a Black-owned bookstore.

The Roof At PCM

Your Atlanta experience will rise to new heights atop the iconic Ponce City Market. Vintage amusements, games, food and drinks with unparalleled views live here. Adjacent venues offer delicious bites and cocktails to enjoy with the view.

The Spectacular At Centennial Olympic Park

The Spectacular is Spectacular

The park’s Olympic rings, known as The Spectacular, pay homage to Atlanta’s Olympic legacy. The large sculpture sits at the east entrance of Centennial Olympic Park, just steps away from many of Atlanta’s attractions. While you’re there, splash around in the Fountain of Rings, enjoy a nice picnic or snap an Instagram-worthy photo.

A-Door-Able Artwork

Tiny works of art along Atlanta BeltLine inspire viewers to unlock their imaginations. Start a scavenger hunt at the visitor center in Centennial Olympic Park where you’ll find three of the 20+ seven-inch doors along with augmented reality murals made by local ATL artists.

Trap Music Museum

Do It for the Culture

You can’t come to Atlanta without finding out why it’s the Hip Hop Capital. This culture-centric museum is loaded with memorabilia, art and rooms where guests can experience hip hop culture at its finest. If the museum isn’t enough, embark on the interactive escape room experience.

Truist Park At The Battery Atlanta

Slide Into the Battery

This multipurpose development houses hotels, green space and the Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre – just steps from Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park. It offers restaurants, bars and shops, making it the perfect outing even on non-game days. Come for baseball, stay for unmatched entertainment.

Cliques and Flicks

Take a stroll down memory lane at Atlanta’s last video store. Just being there brings you back in time. The beloved film oasis puts streaming services to shame offering more than 40,000 titles and stocking anything from indie to obscure and cult international films.

Wax’N’Facts, Criminal Records, Moods Music

Notes of Nostalgia

In one of Atlanta’s hippest areas, Little Five Points, music is a mainstay. Move to your own beat as you dig through vintage vinyl at the record store. All within walking distance of each other, you’ll leave Wax n Facts, Criminal Records and Moods Music on a good note.

William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum

Where History and Culture Meet

The Breman offers understanding and appreciation of Jewish history culture and arts. It hosts a permanent Holocaust exhibition highlighting the resilience of local Georgia survivors plus comprehensive archives on Southern Jewish History, and much more.

World Of Coca-Cola

This Place Is Soda Kinda Awesome

Sip on the history of the world’s most famous soft drink, experience Taste It! tasting room with 100 flavors, learn about the anatomy of smell at Scent Discovery or watch the bottling process. The secret formula vault and photo op with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear are fan favorites.

Zoo Atlanta

Haven’t You Herd?

Home to more than 1,000 animals and 200 species from around the world, this is one of the 10 oldest zoos in operation in the U.S. Here you’ll find elephants, giraffes, zebras and the only giant panda twins in the U.S. It’s a yearround animal kingdom exploration that’s fun for all.

MORE TO EXPLORE

Neighborhoods.

• Arts & Culture
• Family Friendly

MORE THINGS TO DO

Freedom Farmers Market

Food halls & farmers markets.

Atlanta is home to some of the best and one of the oldest food halls in the country. Politan Row at Colony Square is a great place to Encounter the city’s eclectic mix of dining options. Don’t miss out on VIP chef’s table experiences and exclusive cocktail bars. With 31 culinary offerings and a full-service bar, Chattahoochee Food Works will satisfy your thirst and hunger in an adaptive mixed-use building on the Westside. Eat and shop at Ponce City Market, a historic Sears building converted into a city landmark now housing some of the best global flavors in Atlanta. Named one of the best food halls in the world, Krog Street Market is a must-try. It is located in one of the city’s hottest historic neighborhoods and boasts a curated mix of dining, shopping and spaces to gather. What started as a large open-air market following the Great Atlanta Fire of 1917, is now Sweet Auburn Curb Market – also known as the Municipal Market. Located in the city’s historic Sweet Auburn District, it has been ranked among the best in the world by USA Today. The independently owned businesses here include fresh produce, meat and seafood vendors, retailers and eateries. For those looking to buy international food products, visit Buford Highway Farmers Market and Your DeKalb Farmers Market. Just minutes from Downtown, you can travel around the world through flavors. Visit Atlanta’s eclectic neighborhoods and their equally diverse selection of food halls and markets.

Piedmont Park

Atlanta’s gorgeous skyline is full of glass and steel, but guests are constantly amazed at the green space in the city. The gardens in the middle of Downtown, Midtown and Buckhead — Centennial Olympic Park, Piedmont Park and Chastain Park — are just as beautiful as they are iconic. And they are only the beginning of Atlanta’s green space. Atlanta BeltLine and PATH400 are a great walks with views and attractions along the way. By foot or on wheels, head over to Old Fourth Ward Skatepark to test out your latest tricks or join a free community yoga class. Woodruff Park is an oasis Downtown, and Rodney Cook Sr. Park is the latest green development offering a place to sit by the creek. Grab your bike and head west to ride around Westside Reservoir Park, home to ADA-accessible trails and beautiful Atlanta skylines. Atlanta is home to the first park named after a Hispanic individual in the State of Georgia. Visit Sara J. Gonzalez Park and celebrate the culture and diversity of the city. We are The City in the Forest with endless opportunities for you to enjoy the outdoors. Check out one of the many Atlanta parks and gardens open to guests daily.

Atlanta Magic Theatre

Comedy clubs.

Laugh with a full crowd or during an intimate magical night at one of Atlanta’s many comedy clubs. At Atlanta Magic Theatre, Atlanta’s highest rated show and nightlife entertainment option on TripAdvisor, Magician Peter Morrison offers stage magic, mentalism and tons of audience involvement. No matter your level of laughter, Atlanta’s many hip laugh factories bring joy all across town. Dad’s Garage provides incredible shows with talented players that have been seen in local television shows and movies. Laughing Skull Lounge is a must if size matters to you. As a comedy club in a big city, the comics pride themselves on their small and intimate space. Looking for something off-the-cuff? Check out Village Theatre for an audience-inspired improv comedy venue in an intimate and laid-back environment serving drinks, laughs and a good time. Leave the stress of the day behind and unwind with funny stand-up acts, get involved, or even try out your own.

Explore fun things to see and do in Atlanta!

Only in atlanta, free & cheap, arts & culture, discover more.

Get to know Atlanta and discover the best things to do around the city.

Attractions

Search things to do, attractions: must-see in atlanta, touring atlanta in a day, weekend family fun, things to do.

Events give you a taste of Atlanta, warmly welcoming visitors to the city year-round. Discover the upcoming events in Atlanta.

Multiple days until 06/02/2024

Georgia Renaissance Festival

5/16/24 – 5/19/24

Balloon Museum

5/16/24 – 5/24/24

Anne Et Valentin Eyewear Launch Event

Multiple dates until 05/18/2024

Drinking Habits

5/16/24 – 5/26/24

Good People – On Stage May 10-26

Multiple dates until 05/25/2024

Murder Mystery Co. Presents Death of a Gangster

ART. CULTURE. ENTERTAINMENT. 

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62 pryor street atlanta ga 30303, google: "underground atlanta street parking", marta 5 points train, onsite parking lot.

57 Best & Fun Things To Do In Atlanta (Georgia)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: July 28, 2020  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Atlanta is one of the most important cities in the south.

It’s been at the center of everything from military conflicts to wide-reaching cultural movements; it’s hosted the Olympic games.

It’s also a hot spot for tourist attractions.

Whether you’re looking for glamorous resorts or down-home country restaurants, Atlanta has a little bit of everything.

Are you ready for a trip to one of Georgia’s ripest peaches?

Here are just a few unforgettable things to do in Atlanta.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Centennial Olympic Park

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Centennial Olympic Park is the tourist attraction of Atlanta.

Built for the 1996 Olympic Games, it’s a sprawling urban space that’s surrounded on all sides by shops, restaurants, malls, museums, amusement parks and everything else that visitors could want for an exciting and fun-filled vacation.

The centerpiece of the park is the Fountain of Rings, an interactive water fountain that shoots musical, computer-controlled jets in elaborately synchronized displays.

There are also flags, sculptures and light towers scattered around the area, so it’s a sightseeing delight.

In the summer, there are fireworks and festivals.

In the winter, there are holiday lights and shows.

An amphitheater hosts everything from rallies to outdoor concerts; open, grassy fields are free for picnics, sports games, nature tours and more.

Are you tired of the park?

Since it’s centrally located, you can use it as a gateway for other Atlanta attractions nearby, including the Georgia Aquarium, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the SkyView Atlanta Ferris Wheel.

No matter why you’re coming to the city, Centennial Olympic Park is one of the best things to do in Atlanta.

It doesn’t matter if you’re working, honeymooning or taking a vacation with the kids.

This is a stop that everyone should make at least once.

Address:  265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

2. Atlanta Botanical Garden

Nicholas Lamontanaro / Shutterstock

Brimming with roses, orchids, camellias, azaleas and magnolias, the Atlanta Botanical Garden might just be one of the most beautiful places in the US .

Not only does it have a stunning collection of flowers, but it’s also home to things like edible gardens and canopy walks in the treetops!

There’s always something fun to do at this art/nature center.

For example, if you love the wilderness, there are several rainforest areas where you can walk through dense vegetation and watch birds and tree frogs dart around.

If you prefer a tidy, well-maintained landscape, you might try the oriental gardens with their smooth rocks and peaceful koi ponds.

Outdoor enthusiasts can try the canopy walk, a 600-foot-long pathway that skims the top of oak and hickory trees.

Kids can play on the whimsical statues and sculptures of the children’s area.

If you’re wondering where to go in Atlanta, you won’t want to miss the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

From its plant-covered roofs to its fresh-blooming exhibits, it’s a must see destination in the city.

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address:  1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

3. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

alisafarov / Shutterstock

You can’t talk about Atlanta without mentioning its significance to the Civil Rights Movement, and Martin Luther King Jr. played a major role in that.

His “park” celebrates his legacy with museums, monuments, archives, resource centers and other important and informative places of interest regarding his life and his cause.

The centerpiece of the park is the tomb of Dr. King and his wife.

It’s located in the center of a reflecting pool with an eternal flame burning nearby.

You can also visit his childhood home and the church where he was ordained as a pastor.

A rose garden blooms in his memory, and a visitor’s center shares knowledge of his trials and tribulations during the Civil Rights Movement.

There’s also a hall of fame for other important figures of the time, including Rosa Parks.

If you’re interested in African-American history, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is one of the best places to visit in Atlanta.

It tells an important, far-reaching story, and it’s comprehensive enough that it can teach everyone a thing or two.

Address:  450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, United States

4. Mary Mac’s Tea Room

Mary Mac’s Tea Room

Tea rooms used to be a southern staple.

Atlanta had more than a dozen!

Today, however, they’ve become a relic of the past, and only holdouts like Mary Mac’s Tea Room remain.

Mary Mac’s Tea Room specializes in good old country-style food.

From crispy fried chicken and gravy-smothered biscuits to piping hot cornbread served with okra and collard greens, you’ll feel like you stepped back in time to a genuine southern kitchen from the ’40s and ’50s.

Drinks include lemonade and sweet tea.

Desserts include pecan pie, banana pudding and peach cobbler.

Everything is homemade. Everything is delicious.

Mary Mac’s Tea Room is the very last of Atlanta’s tea rooms, and even though it doesn’t appear to be going anywhere, you can never be sure what tomorrow will bring.

Visit it while you have the chance and enjoy classic southern fare in the heart of a classic southern city.

Address:  224 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

5. Tiny Doors ATL

Eddie Krebs / flickr

Tiny Doors ATL is one of the most unique attractions in Atlanta.

Like its name suggests, it’s devoted to tiny, doll-like doors, but it isn’t an art project by just one person.

It’s a grassroots effort by artists all around the city.

The doors range from simple paintings on bricks to elaborate plastic or stone constructions that include fences, gardens and mailboxes.

Everything is in miniature, and everything is scattered around various places in Atlanta, so it’s almost like a scavenger hunt to find them all.

Some people even leave offerings at the doors.

They have an almost legendary reputation among travelers, artists, creatives and other free-spirited types.

Are you looking for fun activities in Atlanta that will take you off the beaten path?

Hop on a bike and try to find all of the Tiny Doors ATL.

Even if you don’t succeed, you’ll get to explore cool, off-kilter destinations that aren’t on travel guides, so you’ll see the city like tourists typically don’t.

Address:  14100 Atlantic Dr Suite 14100, Atlanta, GA 30363, United States

Visiting other parts of Georgia? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Savannah, GA  & things to do in Helen, GA !

6. World of Coca-Cola

Roshito / Shutterstock

Did you know that Coca-Cola was invented in Atlanta?

It was the brainchild of a morphine-addicted pharmacist who wanted to kick the habit by inventing a painkiller without any toxic or addictive substances in it.

After much experimentation, Coca-Cola was born.

The World of Coca-Cola is a tribute to the fun, fizzy drink, and it’s currently one of the largest tourist attractions in Georgia .

Activities range from cola-making stations where you can create your own drinks to factory tours where you can see how the real stuff is bottled.

There’s also a 3D theater, a pop culture gallery, a “vault” dedicated to the secret recipe and a taste-testing site filled with strange and exotic Coca-Cola samples from all over the world.

When you’re done with all of the exhibits, snap a selfie with the Coca-Cola polar bear.

He’s a life-sized figure that’s always ready for a photo op!

If you’re looking for cool things to do in Atlanta, you should definitely stop by the World of Coca-Cola.

Its iconic red walls are home to all kinds of treats, and only some of them are drinkable.

Others are experiences that you won’t want to miss!

Address:  121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

7. Piedmont Park

As a busy, bustling city, Atlanta doesn’t have a lot of green places, but Piedmont Park is an exception to the rule.

It’s a beautiful park located just outside of the gleaming skyscrapers and shopping malls of the greater Atlanta area, and it offers fun stuff to do for visitors of all types.

Joggers can work up a sweat on the trails.

Kids and families can rent bikes, have picnics and clamber on playgrounds.

There are numerous sports fields if you want to toss around a pigskin, and depending on the day, there might be camps or classes hosted on the grass.

Piedmont Park gets a lot of special events, too.

From farmer’s markets to music festivals, there’s always something going on, so you’ll definitely want to check their schedule.

A little planning today can result in tons of entertainment this weekend!

You don’t have to say goodbye to fresh air and sunshine when you visit Atlanta.

Just swing by Piedmont Park.

It’s proof that Georgia still has lovely sights to sigh over.

Address:  400 Park Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306, United States

8. Andretti Indoor Karting and Games

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games

Georgia receives more than double the average rainfall in the United States, so there’s a chance that it’ll be drizzly during your vacation.

Fortunately, there are plenty of Atlanta attractions that aren’t hampered by bad weather.

One such place is Andretti Indoor Karting and Games .

Offering everything from rope courses to virtual reality games, it’ll provide non-stop fun for visitors of all ages.

Kids will love the arcades, go-karts and flight simulators.

Mom and dad will enjoy the bowling lanes and interactive zombie movies.

The whole family can play laser tag together, and when you’re all wiped out, the on-site grill will provide burgers and pizzas to fuel you back up for round two.

Are you wondering what to do on a rainy day in Atlanta?

Try Andretti Indoor Karting and Games.

It’s one of the best places to go when you need indoor entertainment, and it offers so many fun activities that you might just plan a return visit even when it’s nice and sunny outside.

Address:  1255 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062, United States

9. High Museum of Art

f11photo / Shutterstock

The High Museum of Art lives up to its name by serving as one of the elite art destinations of Atlanta, Georgia.

Not only does it have a highly sculptural building with white concrete wrapping around atriums and cutaway cubes, but its hallways are filled with a gorgeous natural light that only adds to the majesty of its exhibits.

As for the exhibits themselves, you’ll be amazed at some of the famous works that the museum has managed to snag.

From Monet’s water lilies to Sirlin’s abstract swirls, you’ll walk through the collections thinking, “I’ve seen that before!”

Such is the power of the High Museum of Art.

It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Atlanta, so even if you wouldn’t consider yourself an “art person,” give it a try.

You might be surprised at how much you’re able to appreciate beautiful paintings in a beautiful setting.

Address:  1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

10. Zoo Atlanta

Rob Hainer / Shutterstock

Zoo Atlanta is one of the coolest zoos that you’ll ever visit.

Not only is it home to hundreds of different species, but it also offers educational entertainment in the form of shows, demonstrations, animal feedings, summer camps, yoga classes and more.

There are even happy hour events for adults who’d like to sip a cocktail and snap a selfie with a lizard!

Most of the animals are divided by geographic region.

For example, the “African Savanna” has lions, elephants, rhinos and naked mole rats, and the “Asian Forest” is filled with pandas, tanukis and Komodo dragons.

There’s a rainforest where gorillas and lemurs roam; there’s an aviary with twittering birds of every color; there’s a reptile world where snakes slither and alligators snap.

The giant pandas are one of the biggest draws of the zoo.

Only four states in the U.S. have them, so Georgia is quite proud to be on that list.

Whether you’re into kangaroos or cockatoos, however, Zoo Atlanta is one of the top things to see in the city.

It will provide all-day fun for visitors of all ages, so the whole family will find something to “ooh” and “aww” at while they’re walking the trails!

Address:  800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, United States

Got more time? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Augusta, GA ?

11. Center for Puppetry Arts

Michael Gordon / Shutterstock

Puppets get a bad rep.

For every Slappy, there’s a Miss Piggy.

For every Chucky or Annabelle, there’s an Elmo or Tom Servo.

The Center for Puppetry Arts is dedicated to this misunderstood craft.

It’s one of the largest museums of its kind, so not only is it unique to Georgia, but it’s unique to the entire world.

You literally can’t find puppet collections on this scale anywhere else.

Exhibits include famous faces from puppetland such as Sesame Street and Mystery Science Theater 3000.

There’s also a gallery for well-known puppets and puppeteers throughout the ages, and there’s a workshop area where visitors can make their own puppets to take home.

Are you wondering what to do with your kids while you’re touring Atlanta?

Give them an unforgettable experience at the Center for Puppetry Arts.

It might be an unusual place, but that’s why it’s also one of the coolest Atlanta attractions.

Address:  1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

12. Georgia Aquarium

Rob Wilson / Shutterstock

Pumping more than 10 million gallons of water through its pools, tanks and tunnels, the Georgia Aquarium is a site to behold.

Not only is it the largest aquarium in the United States, but it’s the third-largest in the entire world.

Thousands of animals call it home.

From dolphins to manta rays to fire eels, you can see all kinds of amazing creatures here.

They even have whale sharks!

It’s the only collection of whale sharks outside of Asia, and their importation from Taiwan was a huge deal back in the day.

Other species include jellyfish, sea lions, fire eels, puffins, penguins, otters and seadragons.

A special emphasis is placed on cool and unusual breeds, but since there are literally thousands of creatures located within the aquarium, you can find a little bit of everything here.

The George Aquarium is a must see destination in Atlanta.

Even if you aren’t normally excited about marine life, the sheer size of the place will take your breath away, and its fun, exotic specimens might just awaken a new interest in you.

Address:  225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

13. Margaret Mitchell House

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Gone With the Wind is a big claim to fame for Georgia.

Not only did the author, Margaret Mitchell, live and die there, but large parts of the book are set right on Peachtree Street in Atlanta.

The Margaret Mitchell House is a celebration of the women who created one of the world’s most enduring classics.

Part museum and part home tour, it will take you on a journey of both book and writer, and it will broaden your understanding of history, literature and southern culture.

Additionally, here’s an eerie fact for you: Margaret Mitchell died on Peachtree Street when she was struck by a drunk driver in 1949.

She was just a few miles from where Scarlett O’Hara lived.

You can’t make up stuff like this.

Address:  979 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

14. Atlanta Glass Treehouse

The Atlanta Glass Treehouse is an architectural marvel.

Like its name suggests, it’s almost entirely made out of glass; the only metal components are the steel beams that hold the panes together.

You can’t even see it from the street.

The sun-dappled leaves hide it from view, so despite its floor-to-ceiling transparency, there’s also a certain degree of concealment.

This privacy is a good thing since the Atlanta Glass Treehouse is a locally-owned residence that’s available for overnight rental.

You can’t just walk up and tour it; you have to be an interested party looking for lodging.

If you are seeking a place to stay, however, the Atlanta Glass Treehouse will provide a fun and memorable night in the treetops.

It’s certainly one of the best ways to get a good story from your vacation.

Anyone can book a hotel, but how many people say that they rented a treehouse?

Address:  865 Berne St SE, Atlanta, GA 30316, United States

15. The Basement

The Basement

Atlanta has plenty of glitzy, neon-colored nightclubs.

But what if you’re looking for something different?

What if you like exploring little-known places that function as hidden gems within the city?

The Basement might be right up your alley.

It’s a slice of Atlanta nightlife that breaks all of the usual rules and offers a fun, fresh experience for locals and tourists alike.

For starters, it has a hole-in-the-wall location that lives up to the name “The Basement.”

Its decor is also very plain and understated, so don’t expect any strobe lights here.

The music is also eclectic.

Some nights have live bands; others have DJs spinning records or hosting dance parties.

Music from the ’90s is very prevalent, but contemporary artists get their chance to shine as well.

The Basement is basically a playground for adults.

It’s a little bit spooky, a little bit nostalgic and whole lot of fun.

If you’re looking for the best places to see in Atlanta this weekend, you should definitely hit it up.

Address:  1245 Glenwood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316, United States

Looking for more thrills around Georgia? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Blue Ridge, GA  & some of the fun things to do in Columbus, GA ?

16. Buckhead

Buckhead is a swanky neighborhood that’s just a short walk from downtown Atlanta.

It gleams with office buildings and high-rise hotels that tower over the streets, but its real appeal is located down below.

It’s a mecca for upscale shopping.

Retailers include luxury brands for clothes, shoes and jewelry.

Businesses range from fancy restaurants to trendy museums and art galleries.

There are several different shopping malls either on or near the main streets, so you’re never more than a few minutes away from your favorite brands.

If you don’t want to blow all of your money at Buckhead, you can just window-shop or people-watch.

Some tourist companies even schedule tours of the neighborhood since it has such a chic atmosphere.

It’s almost like something out of a movie.

Check out the sites of Buckhead if you’re looking for the most fun things to do in Atlanta.

It’s always open, so you don’t have to worry about fitting it into a tight itinerary.

You could be walking the streets like Carrie Bradshaw as early as this week!

Address: 3060 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305, United States

17. CDC Museum

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is one of the top names in medicine, and at this museum, you can get a behind-the-scenes look at what it studies and how it operates.

Exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, including pollution, disease control, germ theory, water sanitation and emergency responses to global health issues.

You can tour collections of hazmat suits; you can watch informative videos about everything from HIV to the Ebola virus.

Admission is free, so you don’t have to worry about budgeting a trip here.

They won’t even charge you for parking.

If you’re wondering what to do on a trip to Atlanta that won’t break the bank, this is a good option.

You don’t have to be a science nerd to be fascinated by the CDC Museum .

It offers a lot of relevant, real-world information, and best of all, it’s completely free.

Sign up for a tour and get to learning!

Address:  1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States

18. Children’s Museum of Atlanta

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You can’t miss the Children’s Museum of Atlanta .

Its front door is flanked by a colorful, larger-than-life book stack that stretches all of the way to the top floor, and its cheerful signage really stands out against the dull gray of the surrounding office buildings.

Inside, the museum is even more vibrant.

Its open floor plan has given it the nickname “The Museum Without Walls,” and every direction has something flashing, whizzing, whirring or buzzing.

As you might have guessed, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta isn’t an ordinary museum.

It’s a fun, interactive place where kids can learn through playtime.

There are robots to program; there are tree houses to climb; there are workstations filled with blocks, circuits and scientific goos.

There are even musical numbers from costumed actors!

If you’re wondering what to do in Atlanta with kids, consider the Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

Rain or shine, it’s one of the best travel destinations in the city.

Address:  275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

19. Atlanta Symphony Hall

John Phelan / CC BY

If you’re a person of taste and class, you won’t want to miss the Atlanta Symphony Hall.

It’s home of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra , an award-winning group, and it’s easily one of the top things to do when you’re in the city.

Its biggest draw is its classic concerts where amazing instruments and harmonies come together.

However, they also offer something called “Movies in Concert” where they project blockbuster hits on a 40-foot screen while the orchestra plays the live score right below it.

Visit them tonight if you want to catch a cool flick told in an unconventional way.

Visit them next week if you want to book a ticket for an upscale experience in the heart of Atlanta.

The Atlanta Symphony Hall is a must do for music and film lovers.

It’s rare that a symphony hall has such crossover appeal, but like many things in Atlanta, Georgia, it’s full of surprises.

20. Georgia State Capitol

With its gigantic golden dome, the Georgia State Capitol is impressive inside and out.

It’s much more than a place where politicians work.

While it’s true that you can see everyone from governors to state legislators scurrying about, you can also explore halls, offices, galleries and collections of historically significant artifacts.

There are Native American displays, for example, that honor the original residents of Georgia, and there are informative exhibits that showcase state birds and flags.

There’s even a touch of nature in the Georgia State Capitol.

From mineral samples of local rivers to fossils that date back centuries, it covers every inch of the region’s sky, earth and water.

Do you want to learn more about Georgia during your trip to Atlanta?

The Georgia State Capitol is one of the best places to visit for a historical education.

If you’re lucky, you might even bump into a congressman while you’re there!

Address:  206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA 30334, United States

Going on a road trip around Georgia? Why not check out some of the things to do on Tybee Island  & some of the fun things to do in Athens, GA ?

21. College Football Hall of Fame

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How many passes were thrown by Tim Tebow?

What year marked the end of the record-breaking winning streak of the University of Oklahoma?

If you don’t know the answers to these questions, it’s time to visit the College Football Hall of Fame .

Located in downtown Atlanta, this attraction was shuffled throughout the country before finally finding its home in Georgia.

It offers all kinds of photos, documents and memorabilia in more than 90,000 square feet of space, so depending on your interest in sports, it could take you hours to get through everything.

Its most impressive feature is its gigantic wall of helmets from hall-of-famers, but there are also things like jerseys and footballs to admire, and there are countless information stations to feed your trivia hunger.

Maybe you’re a casual fan of your alma mater.

Maybe you’re obsessively dedicated to all sports on the collegiate level.

Either way, if you love college ball, you won’t want to miss the College Football Hall of Fame.

Address:  250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

22. Stone Mountain Park

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Located a few miles north of Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park offers breathtaking views of lakes, mountains, forests, cliffs and canyons.

It encapsulates all of Georgia’s rugged natural beauty in a single destination.

Visitors can hike the trails, climb the summits, boat on the waters and camp under the stars.

There are golf courses and movie theaters; there are fishing holes and biking paths.

There’s even a cable car if you want to ride to the top of the mountain without getting sweaty!

Another big draw of the park is its laser shows.

It projects them onto the side of the mountain, and it’s an amazing juxtaposition between old rock and new tech.

Many travel guides have it as a “must do” for vacationers.

Are you looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for awhile?

Take a deep breath at Stone Mountain Park.

Atlanta isn’t usually known for its natural landscapes, but when you’re surrounded by birds and pines, you might forget where you are for awhile.

Address:  1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083, United States

23. Ponce City Market

fivetonine / Shutterstock

Ponce City Market isn’t really a market.

It’s a big commercial playground that was converted from an old, unoccupied Sears building, and it offers everything from food courts to film events to mini-golf courses on the roof.

From the outside, it looks like one of the plain factory buildings of Atlanta.

Once you venture indoors, however, you’ll have dozens of paths to fun.

Are you feeling hungry?

Hit up the Central Food Hall to enjoy a crazy mishmash of bars, cafes, restaurants and street food stalls from over the world.

Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Brazilian pork or delicate Japanese sushi, you can find it here.

Do you want some entertainment for the evening?

Head up to the roof to tour a beer garden or play a few rounds of mini-golf.

You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Atlanta from every angle, so the sightseeing will be just as nice as the drinks.

Ponce City Market is one of the top things to do in Atlanta.

Its name doesn’t really convey all of the amazing things to see and do on the property.

You’ll have to check it out for yourself to see what all of the fuss is about!

Address:  675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

24. Oakland Cemetery

Vadim Fedotov / Shutterstock

Oakland Cemetery isn’t your usual cemetery.

For starters, it’s filled with elaborate tombs and headstones that make use of plaques, statues, sculptures, fountains and gardens.

It’s a wonderful place for scenic photography.

It’s also a popular destination for gatherings.

Tours go through it; classes and workshops are hosted within it; festivals use it as a backdrop for everything from music concerts to scavenger hunts.

There are even people who get married here!

As for the graves, you’ll find many of Georgia’s most noteworthy citizens buried here, including authors, athletes, scientists and politicians.

Some were residents of Atlanta itself; others were brought here to lay them to rest in a place of honor.

Oakland Cemetery isn’t one of those somber graveyards where people tiptoe around and never speak above a whisper.

It’s a lively place where flowers bloom and children play, so it’s a celebration of life just as much as a testament of death.

If you’re looking for cool things to see in Atlanta, Oakland Cemetery should definitely make your list.

Address:  248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312, United States

25. CNN Center

Have you always wanted to see where the news is made?

Have you secretly wondered if studios are really full of people waving clipboards and yelling into mics?

The CNN Center will let you tick this desire off your bucket list.

As the headquarters of one of the largest news corporations in the world, it’s always hustling and bustling, and the cool thing is that it isn’t closed off to the public.

You can take a tour right into the heart of the action.

They even make it easy for you with a gigantic escalator.

It’s the longest freestanding escalator in the world, and it will give you a bird’s eye view of anchors, cameras, newsrooms, teleprompters and wall-to-wall TV screens.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Atlanta, look no further than the CNN Center.

How often do you get the chance to see breaking news delivered in real time?

Address:  190 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

26. Porsche Experience Center

Porsche Experience Center Atlanta

Have you always dreamed of getting behind the wheel of a 911 Turbo?

At the Porsche Experience Center , you can turn this vision into an adrenaline-soaked reality.

It starts with a tour of the facility and a look at all of the gleaming luxury cars that you can buy in Atlanta.

You can also test yourself with driving simulations or go exploring in a museum that showcases famous Porches throughout history.

Most people, however, are there for the test drives.

You can book 30 – 90 minute “experiences” on a mile-long track.

This is your chance to put the pedal to the metal and fly across the asphalt at more than 100 miles per hour!

When planning your trip to Atlanta, you’ll definitely want to check out the Porsche Experience Center.

It’s one of the top destinations for car lovers, but even if you aren’t an aficionado, it’ll be hard to resist the speed and power of an Accelerated GT3 or 718 Boxster S.

It’s so much fun that you’ll be as giddy as a child behind the wheel!

Address:  One Porsche Dr, Atlanta, GA 30354, United States

27. Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium

Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium

The Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium declares itself “Atlanta’s only subterranean ping pong stadium,” and that’s probably true.

Not many people would think to build an underground ping pong arena.

For its club, however, the Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium is a place of pride.

It’s also pretty fun as a tourist attraction.

Hanging lights will lead you down the steps to the holy grail of the central ping pong table, or an elevated platform with a railing will allow you to watch games from the top of the street.

Atlanta natives can point the way if you get lost.

Only members of the club are allowed to play, so you’ll have to keep your paddles in your travel bag.

You really just go for the novelty of the experience.

When you’re done, there are plenty of neighborhood locales for drinking, dining, shopping and further entertaining yourself.

Consider a trip to the Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium if you’re looking for fun and unique destinations in Atlanta, Georgia.

It isn’t a major tourist attraction, but it’ll provide some cool pictures and a nice story to tell when you’re home.

Address:  151 Ted Turner Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

28. Atlanta History Center

Josiah True / Shutterstock

From the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, Atlanta has been at the epicenter of many different battles, campaigns, migrations and cultural shifts.

The Atlanta History Center chronicles them all.

It starts with a Native American collection.

The Creeks and the Cherokees were the original inhabitants of Georgia before European settlers arrived, and selected pieces of art, music, pottery and folklore showcase the complexity of their civilizations.

More modern exhibits include photos and artifacts from the Civil War and World Wars I and II.

There’s also a restored, life-sized train to go along with the history of locomotives and how they influenced the growth of Atlanta.

Last but not least, the Civil Rights collection documents the struggles of the African-American community during the turbulent years of segregation.

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate the wide-ranging scale of the Atlanta History Center.

It’ll provide an interesting, thought-provoking look at everything that made this city one of the biggest and most important locations in Georgia.

Address:  130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305, United States

29. Atlantic Station

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Atlantic Station is a central hub for shopping, dining and sightseeing within the city.

It was designed with pedestrians in mind, so everything is laid out in a very walkable, grid-like pattern, and it offers shops, cafes, restaurants, museums, movie theaters and more.

Are you feeling peckish?

You’ll have your choice of gourmet meals or guilty pleasure street foods.

Is your money burning a hole in your pocket?

Shop ’til you drop with everything from well-known retailers to local mom and pop vendors.

Summertime activities include fairs and festivals.

Wintertime is marked by the opening of an ice skating rink.

Georgia is a state that takes advantage of every season.

Long story short, there’s always fun stuff to do at Atlantic Station.

If you’re looking to kill some time between tourist attractions, just visit this neighborhood for awhile.

You’ll probably hear the music or smell the meat skewers before you actually see it, so follow your instincts until you’re near!

By the time that you arrive, you’ll be ready for one of the coolest locales in Atlanta.

Address: 1371 Market Street, Atlanta, GA 30363, United States

30. Videodrome

Videodrome might be one of the last remaining video rental shops in the United States.

It’s certainly one of the last in Atlanta, Georgia.

How has it survived the age of streaming?

In addition to renting out videos, it also serves as a fun, quirky tourist attraction.

Its shelves are stocked with cult classics and indie oddities; its walls are covered with vintage posters.

Toys litter the counter tops.

A television is always playing something old and obscure.

Are you interested in Serbian war films?

There’s a section for that.

Do you want to dive deep into animation reels from the 1920s?

There’s a section for that, too.

Videodrome takes its name from the trippy ’80s movie Videodrome, and it’s pretty fitting.

The whole concept of the store is like a cult film that refuses to die.

If you’re looking for the best places in Atlanta for bizarre, genre-bending fun, make a stop at Videodrome.

Address:  617 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306, United States

31. SkyView Atlanta

Mordechai Meiri / Shutterstock

For aerial views of the city, it’s tough to beat SkyView Atlanta .

This gigantic Ferris wheel is more than 200 feet tall, so you’ll be able to soar in the clouds as you overlook everything from the gleaming office buildings of downtown to the green parks and trails of the outer regions.

Each gondola is enclosed and climate-controlled, so the ride operates rain or shine.

You can also upgrade to a VIP gondola that includes a glass floor and leather seats.

If you’re headed to SkyView Atlanta with a special someone, ask about their “Date Night” package that includes a horse-drawn carriage ride and a VIP lounge experience before you climb aboard.

SkyView Atlanta is one of the must dos of a trip to Georgia.

It offers incredible sights from incredible heights, so whether you’re getting romantic with a boo or looking for cool things to see with the kids, it’s suitable for all kinds of visitors.

Address:  168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

32. The Tabernacle

Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock

With a capacity of just 2,600 people, you might not expect the Tabernacle to be one of the hottest tickets in the Atlanta music scene, but looks can be deceiving.

This concert hall has hosted some of the world’s biggest and brightest acts, including Prince, Adele, Guns N Roses, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar and more!

The Tabernacle started as a humble church in the early 1900s.

Over time, it became a House of Blues, and it was one of the major points of interest in downtown Atlanta during the 1996 Olympic Games.

Today, it serves as a cool, retro-style music hall for people who enjoy concerts in more intimate settings than arenas and stadiums.

It also hosts things like comedy shows, so if you’re a fan of Bob Saget or Lisa Lampanelli, this is the place to see them.

Are you coming to Atlanta next weekend?

Check the schedule at the Tabernacle.

You never know when a familiar face might be dropping by with a joke or a guitar!

Address:  152 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

33. Atlanta Electric Car Tour

As one of the premiere destinations of Georgia, Atlanta has so many amazing sights that you might be hard-pressed to see them all.

One way to cross off lots of destinations in travel guides is to take an Atlanta Electric Car Tour .

Hitting many of the major places of interest of the city, this tour is basically an all-in-one experience for folks who want to see the parks, museums, monuments and stadiums of Georgia’s crowned jewel.

It’s only 90 minutes, so you can easily fit it into a busy morning, and it’s eco-friendly to stave off any environmental concerns.

Another nice thing about this tour is that it can be private or semi-private, so you’re able to interact with your guide in a real, meaningful way.

You can ask questions.

You can get personalized recommendations for further sightseeing.

It isn’t like those crowded group tours where the guides can’t talk to people as individuals.

Are you looking for the coolest places to visit in and near Atlanta?

Take an Atlanta Electric Car Tour.

It’s a quick and easy way to get the rundown of the city, and when you’re finished, you can venture forth on your own for more fun!

Address:  The American Hotel, 160 Ted Turner Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

34. National Center for Civil and Human Rights

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights offers another experience that you can only get in Atlanta.

While any museum can display texts and artifacts from the Civil Rights era, this one is actually located at the heart of the movement, and you can feel the weight of its history with every step.

Popular features include an interactive tour about segregation and a collection of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s papers and personal effects.

There’s also a recreation of a diner sit-in during the time of Jim Crow laws.

Visitors can actually put on a pair of headphones and listen to taunts and threats that were leveled at African-Americans who refused to budge from their stools.

Another nice thing about the museum is that it’s located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, so it’s easily accessible to tourists.

It’s also quite close to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.

You could be there in five minutes.

Consider a stop by the National Center for Civil and Human Rights if you’re interested in history and unafraid of confronting the harsh realities that go along with it.

Atlanta was forged with blood, sweat and tears, and while it can be a difficult thing to look at, it’s also an important one.

Make it a necessary stop during your trip to Georgia.

Address:  100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

35. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

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The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is about a half-hour drive from Atlanta, so you’ll need to be comfortable taking a side trip outside of the city, but it’s very much worth the gas.

It has some of the most brilliant scenery in all of Georgia.

The river itself has calm, slow-moving waters where you can swim, raft, boat, fish and tube.

Ample trails wind around it for hiking and biking, and its groves are major points of interest for Georgia birdwatchers.

Other activities include touring the abandoned mills and factories that dot the river’s edge.

Some of the coolest are the charred ruins of a fabric mill that was burned to the ground during the Civil War.

The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a top 10 destination in Atlanta.

It might not be quite within the city limits, but if you’ll be nearby, you won’t want to miss it.

Address:  1978 Island Ford Pkwy, Sandy Springs, GA 30350, United States

36. Peachtree Street

Running through downtown Atlanta and beyond, Peachtree Street is one of those iconic tourist places that everyone needs to see at least once.

Best of all, since it stretches for miles, it can be used as a jumping-off point for visiting many of the city’s bars, clubs, restaurants and museums.

Depending on which part of the city that you’re in, attractions on Peachtree Street range from gleaming glass office buildings to historic homes and vintage theaters.

You can go shopping at high-end malls; you can look for deals at thrift stores and consignment shops.

You can enjoy fine dining; you can score cheap eats at food trucks.

One important thing to know about Peachtree Street is that it’s commonly confused with similarly-named streets, including Peachtree Way, Peachtree Drive, Peachtree Road and so on.

It’s actually a joke in Atlanta that half of the streets are named Peachtree.

Let this be a travel hack that spares you from getting lost!

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Atlanta, Georgia, you’ll want to snap at least one selfie in front of a Peachtree Street road marker.

It’s a must see destination, but the good news is that it’s so ubiquitous in the city that you won’t have any trouble finding it.

37. Fernbank Museum of Natural History

ferita Rahayuningsih / Shutterstock

The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is another one of those sites that will stop you in your tracks.

It has gigantic, fortress-like walls that are guarded by life-sized statues of dinosaurs, and when we say “life-sized,” we mean that they literally look like they could come to life and stomp on puny little humans at any moment.

There’s even more to gawk at inside of its walls.

Dinosaur skeletons face off in epic battles; fossil and gemstone collections stretch as far as the eye can see.

You can also venture outside into the “WildWoods” to see live animals and walk across aerial rope bridges.

Lest you think that it’s all fun and games, however, rest assured that the museum is also an educational experience.

In fact, if you’re wondering what to see in Atlanta that will enrich the lives of your children, this is one of the best destinations for the job.

Grab your excavation kit and head to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History if you’re looking for fun, family-friendly places to visit while you’re in Atlanta.

Between the dinosaur bones and the dangling bridges, you’ll be stunned that there are museums like this in Georgia!

Address:  767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307, United States

38. Municipal Market

ciambellina / flickr

Municipal Market is a bustling market where you can find everything from old books to fresh pastries.

Located in a large industrial building that’s part warehouse and part grocery store, it’s jam-packed with vendors selling bread, meat, fish, cheese, wine, produce, coffee and more.

It’s also known for its small eateries.

Many people sell their dishes to go, but there are some places where you can kick your feet up and enjoy a burger or a slice of homemade apple pie.

You might hear the market referred to as “Curb Market.”

This is commonly used by locals who remember when it was segregated, forcing African-American vendors to sell their goods on the curb.

Today, however, Municipal Market is a melting pot of races and cultures, especially where food is concerned.

You can travel the world just by walking down an aisle.

Whether you’re craving Ethiopian meat skewers or Vietnamese desserts, there’s a lot of international cuisines to be enjoyed here, so loosen your belt and get ready for some mouthwatering menus!

Address:  209 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

39. State Farm Arena

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You might laugh a little at the name “ State Farm Arena ,” but once you see the awesome, state-of-the-art technology that the sponsorship has afforded, you’ll be singing the State Farm jingle with enthusiasm.

HD cameras catch every moment of the action.

Scrolling screens provide replays, slow-mos, stats, interviews and commentary.

There’s even free WiFi for visitors!

Countless games have been played here, including hockey from the NHL and basketball from the NBA and WNBA.

Concerts are also popular; the stadium has played host to everyone from Beyonce to Bruce Springsteen.

As for the amenities, you can enjoy all kinds of food, drink and entertainment, especially if you book a party suite!

The State Farm Arena is one of the most fun places to go in Atlanta.

Whether you’re making arrangements for the playoffs or planning a cross-country trip to see your favorite band, this is the place to find some action.

Address:  1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

40. Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse

Warren LeMay / flickr

The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse is one of those Atlanta spots that you’ll be talking about long after your trip is over.

It’s so fun and unique that it’ll become a vacation memory to annoy your friends with time and time again.

What makes it so special?

For starters, it has a real tavern setting with wooden tables that get laden with hearty, pub-style food and drink.

You’ll be able to dig into a shepherd’s pie or sip a draft beer as you enjoy a theater performance.

The performances are also something to behold.

They’re the real works of Shakespeare, but they have a quaint, down-home kind of quality, so the costumes are handmade and the lines are delivered by actors that move among the audience.

Georgia might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about Othello or The Tempest, but at the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse, the Bard is alive and well.

Don’t wait to buy your ticket!

Seats fill up fast at this small, intimate venue, so book early if you’re visiting Atlanta tonight or tomorrow.

Address:  499 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

41. Atlanta BeltLine

BluIz60 / Shutterstock

The Atlanta BeltLine is a long series of parks and trails that connects more than 33 miles of greenery.

This would be impressive in its own right, but it gets even more amazing when you realize that it used to be a bunch of abandoned railroads.

You see, the Atlanta BeltLine is one of the largest reconstruction projects in Georgia history.

It took old, unwanted city space and transformed it into a thriving network filled with beautiful sights, fun activities and profitable local events.

You can walk or bike through nature.

You can attend fitness classes or sign up for races and marathons.

Kids can scamper in playgrounds; adults can browse outdoor art exhibits.

There’s tons of stuff to do on the Atlanta BeltLine.

It’s still growing, too!

The city of Atlanta has lots of ideas for further developments, including the “BeltLine Emerald Necklace,” a proposal for a dozen more parks that would be known as the “BeltLine Jewels.”

Maybe you’re visiting Atlanta this weekend.

Maybe you’re making plans for next year.

Either way, the Atlanta BeltLine will be waiting for you, and it’ll probably have something new and exciting to enjoy.

Georgia attractions don’t get better than this.

Check out these tours & activities around the Atlanta BeltLine.

42. Little Five Points

ESB Professional / Shutterstock

Known as the “bohemian center of the south,” Little Five Points is a fun, offbeat neighborhood where trendy fashion boutiques jostle for space with used bookstores and quirky coffee shops.

It’s definitely a place to put on your Atlanta bucket list.

Most of the businesses are locally owned.

In fact, rumor has it that the neighborhood routinely runs off big chains.

Shops sell everything from new-age crystals to old-school vinyls.

Eateries range from classic American burger joints to exotic fusion restaurants where you can sample fare from Japan, France, Senegal and more.

Even the streets are bursting with color and creativity.

Painted murals are a common feature on brick walls, and local stores get quite funky with their signage.

One restaurant even has a gigantic skull for a doorway.

Do you like traveling off the beaten path?

Are you looking for the most fun things to do in Atlanta, Georgia?

Let your feet carry you through Little Five Points.

You could spend all day exploring, and not a second would be wasted.

Address: 299 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, United States

43. Michael C. Carlos Museum

Gary Todd / flickr

You might not expect rural Georgia to hold one of the world’s largest and most extensive collections of international art, but the Michael C. Carlos Museum does it.

It’s an absolute treasure trove of ancient cultures from around the globe, including Rome, Greece, Nubia, ancient Egypt, pre-Columbia America and more.

Some of the pieces are the old paintings and sculptures that you’d expect.

Others are more dynamic.

There are mummy urns and stone sarcophagus coffins; there are totems, pots, jewels, busts and incense burners.

One particularly noteworthy artifact was a headless statue of a Greek goddess.

The museum purchased the body from an auction, and after hearing the news, the owner of the head came forward and sold that to them as well.

After 150 years, the statue was finally whole again!

All things considered, the Michael C. Carlos Museum is one of the most fun things to do in Atlanta.

You could even say that the museum itself is a relic from the past: Built in 1876, it’s among the oldest museums in Georgia, so it has its own history to add depth and interest to its sightseeing potential.

If you’re intrigued by its possibilities, check it out at 571 South Kilgo Circle!

Address:  571 South Kilgo Cir NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States

44. Revolution Doughnuts

Revolution Doughnuts

You probably know that Georgia is famous for its peaches, so it shouldn’t come as any surprise that these fruits are cut, baked, battered and fried in a million different ways in their home state.

However, Revolution Doughnuts is a rare location that’s managed to do something new and fun with peaches: peach sliders!

Simply put, peach sliders are sugar-coated doughnut halves with fresh peaches in the middle.

They’re both sweet and tart, and they make one of the best summertime snacks that you’ll ever try.

Other menu items are just as creative, so if you don’t like peaches, you can order something like bacon caramel doughnuts or vegan raspberry sprinkle pastries.

Are you traveling through Atlanta with a sweet tooth?

Make a pit stop at Revolution Doughnuts.

They’re always coming up with new ideas, so even if you’ve been there before, your second trip won’t be like your first.

They truly embody the ever-changing, ever-evolving spirit of Georgia!

Address:  745 Edgewood Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, United States

45. Fox Theatre

The Fox Theatre was built in 1929 during the craze for elaborate “movie palaces.”

It has lavish, oriental-style architecture that draws from both Islamic and Egyptian cultures, so it’s filled with domes, towers, archways, gold leaves and ablaq stone patterns.

It also boasts an Arabian courtyard with an artificial night sky that twinkles through the power of crystal stars.

How often do you see that in a movie theater?

There aren’t a lot of films shown at the Fox Theatre today, but it’s still in use as a performing arts venue for Atlanta creatives.

It hosts everything from plays to ballets, and it also offers weekly tours for people who just want to marvel at the building.

With its grand architecture and unique history, the Fox Theatre is one of the major points of interest in Atlanta, Georgia.

It’s also one of the most fun places to go, so it hits all of the essentials for an Atlanta bucket list item!

Address:  660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

46. Chastain Park

Thomas Cizauskas / flickr

Chastain Park is one of the most well-known Atlanta attractions.

Its amphitheater has welcomed hundreds of actors, musicians and comedians to the stage, including Johnny Cash, Aretha Franklin, Adam Sandler and Idina Menzel.

While the amphitheater is its most famous feature, however, there are plenty of other exciting activities at this Georgia park.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hit the trails; animal lovers can visit the horse stables; fitness junkies can dive into the swimming pools or take a swing on the golf courses.

Something to note about Chastain Park is that certain activities have fees or member-exclusive days, so if you want to be absolutely sure that you can enjoy something during your trip to Atlanta, call ahead.

You don’t want any unpleasant surprises this weekend!

As long as you take the proper precautions, Chastain Park can be one of the most fun things that you can do in Atlanta, Georgia.

It’s beautiful; it’s centrally located; it’s filled with staggering amounts of entertainment.

What more do you need in a park?

Address:  4469 Stella Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30342, United States

47. Six Flags Over Georgia

Six Flags Over Georgia & Hurricane Harbor

The Six Flags logo brings out the kid in everyone, and Six Flags Over Georgia is no exception.

From death-defying rides to tongue-scalding carnival food, it’s sure to be a highlight of your trip to Atlanta.

Rides include roller coasters, drop towers, water slides and tilt-a-whirls.

Activities range from comedy shows to costumed performances by characters like Batman and Bugs Bunny.

Six Flags has a deal with Warner Bros, so they’re able to base rides, games, gifts and menus off a variety of famous faces.

Are you traveling with kids?

Wade into the water park for family fun.

Are you celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary?

Hold hands with your honey while you shop, dine and play to your heart’s content.

While it’s technically located outside of Atlanta, Six Flags Over Georgia is less than 15 minutes away in the neighboring county, so it won’t be a hardship to reach it.

All of the dashing, splashing and hair-raising fun is just a stone’s throw away.

You’ll definitely want to make time for it this weekend!

Address:  275 Riverside Pkwy, Austell, GA 30168, United States

48. Swan House

gracious_tiger / Shutterstock

The grand old architecture of Georgia is one of its biggest selling points as a tourist destination.

Atlanta has its fair share of mansions as well, including the Swan House .

Built in the early 1900s, the Swan House is a beautiful estate sitting on top of a picturesque hill.

It has the thick white walls of classic Renaissance-style buildings, and it’s filled with opulent touches like terraces, gardens, fountains, staircases and hedge walls.

Inside, a swan motif can be seen in everything from doorknobs to bedposts.

Costumed actors wander the hallways to greet visitors.

Some play the roles of the rich homeowners; others are domestic servants.

If you think that the Swan House looks familiar, you might be right.

It’s such a beautiful location that it’s been used for everything from The Hunger Games to The Amazing Race.

It’s definitely one of Atlanta’s most famous places to visit, so if you want to walk the same path as Katniss Everdeen, make like a swan and fly!

49. Historic Fourth Ward Park

Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock

As far as Atlanta attractions are concerned, the Historic Fourth Ward Park tends to fly under the radar.

It isn’t a secret, but it isn’t as well-known as other parks near it.

This can be a good thing if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.

Atlanta is many things, but “quiet” isn’t one of them, so you might find yourself craving some time and space away from the commotion of the city.

The Historic Fourth Ward Park offers a nice balance between fun and peaceful.

There’s a lovely pond for walks and picnics; there’s an outdoor theater where musicians play. Georgia’s natural beauty is definitely on display here.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are also places to play.

For example, there’s a skate park that was designed and funded by Tony Hawk himself.

The Historic Fourth Ward Park is one of the best spots in Atlanta to recharge your batteries.

If you’re tired of bumping elbows with other tourists, visit this vibrant green space for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Address:  680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

50. 13 Stories Haunted House

13 Stories Haunted House

The 13 Stories Haunted House is one of the top destinations in Atlanta for lovers of the grim and grotesque.

You don’t even have to wait for Halloween; it’s a haunted house that’s open all year long.

You have to sign a waiver to get in, and there are no refunds once you purchase your ticket.

Once you commit, there’s no going back.

The scares include both the typical and the non-typical.

There are evil clowns that dance through twisted perversions of carnivals; there’s a “hellevator” that descends into total darkness with monsters lurking behind every corner.

Some parts of the house have an interactive element, including zombies that you can shoot with lasers.

For thrills and chills, the 13 Stories Haunted House is one of the best destinations in Atlanta.

It might even be one of the best haunted house experiences in the entire state of Georgia.

There’s a reason why they insist on waivers, so if you think that you have what it takes to survive the horrors, sign up today!

Address:  320 Temple Ave, Newnan, GA 30263, United States

51. Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta

It might be an unusual choice in Atlanta attractions, but the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta is more fun than its name implies.

Tours will take you through gleaming marble halls that end in steel vaults.

You’ll get to see how money is counted, tracked, transported and guarded within the bank.

Here’s a hint: It involves robots!

You might also want to visit the Monetary Museum, a small, on-site educational area that goes into the history of currency in the United States.

It’s a great place to learn some trivia about everything from bills to banks.

If you’re headed to Georgia, consider a stop by the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.

It might not be one of the most glamorous tourist attractions of the state, but it offers an interesting look at a rarely-visited subject, so it’s worth the trip.

Address:  1000 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

52. Cator Woolford Gardens

Cator Woolford Gardens

One of the best things to do in downtown Atlanta is to take a stroll through the Cator Woolford Gardens .

Not only are they beautiful to behold, but since they benefit a local community for disabled children in Atlanta, you’ll be supporting a great cause with your visit.

The gardens themselves are filled with dazzling displays of roses, laurels, daffodils and dogwoods.

There are shaded tree groves where you can relax and stone staircases where you can climb to the top of a hill and gaze at the paradise below.

Photo opportunities are everywhere.

In fact, Cator Woolford Gardens is one of the most popular destinations in Georgia for “big event” photography like weddings and movie shoots.

If you’re traveling to Atlanta for work, it can also be a fine location for corporate gatherings.

It’s free to visit the Cator Woolford Gardens, but they accept donations, and there are large, pavilion-style tents that you can rent for special occasions.

Consider giving them a few bucks while you’re in Atlanta.

They run on the goodwill of visitors like you, and they help Georgia’s children with every blossom.

Address:  1815 S Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, United States

53. The Painted Duck

The Painted Duck

Calling itself a “gaming parlor,” The Painted Duck is definitely one of the most unique places to go in Atlanta.

It offers entertainment in a high-class setting that elevates it from your usual amusement centers.

It’s basically a play zone for adults who want to cut loose while they’re in Georgia.

The menu offers everything from duck phat fries to chicken Cobb salad.

The games include bowling, basketball, horseshoes and air hockey.

You can play by yourself or go with a group of friends or colleagues; you can also rent out private spaces for special occasions.

Are you eager to shoot some hoops?

Are you hungry for some crispy brussels leaves in a lemon aioli?

Either way, this unusual gaming parlor will satisfy.

A little bit of shuffleboard can improve any filet mignon.

If you want to experience a fun, uncommon evening in Atlanta, hit up The Painted Duck!

Address:  976 Brady Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, United States

54. Legoland Discovery Center

There are Legolands all over the world, but the Atlanta location is one of the best.

It offers a fun, immersive and all-day experience that will take your imagination to heights that you never thought possible.

Activities include rides, play zones, building stations, factory tours and virtual reality simulations.

There’s a cinema where you can watch movies and a cafe where you can grab a bite to eat.

Adults are just as welcome to goof around as the kids, so don’t feel self-conscious if you’re a grown person who still adores Legos.

There’s nothing like the pure, wholesome joy of racing Lego cars or shaking a Lego earthquake table!

Visit the Legoland Discovery Center if you’re looking for the best places in Atlanta to unleash your inner child.

Vacations are supposed to be times when you throw caution to the wind and enjoy yourself, so there’s no shame in loving Legoland.

Address:  3500 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326, United States

55. Waldorf Astoria Spa

Waldorf Astoria Spa

Pamper yourself at the Waldorf Astoria Spa .

It offers everything from pedicures to cucumber masks, so you’ll be able to relax all of the tired, aching muscles in your body as you surrender to its bliss.

The facilities include steam rooms, dry saunas, relaxation lounges and spa treatment centers.

There’s a fitness room decked out with state-of-the-art exercise equipment if you want to work up a sweat.

There’s a swimming pool if you want to take some leisurely laps in an indoor, climate-controlled setting.

Are you traveling with a special someone?

Book a couple’s massage.

Are you seeking an escape from the harsh realities of the world?

Relax into an essential oil bath or enjoy a body renewal treatment for your skin, hair and nails.

The possibilities are endless at the Waldorf Astoria Spa.

It’s one of the premiere destinations in Atlanta to get treated like royalty, so book a visit today to wash off the sweat of a Georgia summer tomorrow!

Address:  3376 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326, United States

56. Kendeda Building

Kendeda Building

The Kendeda Building is the first “living building” to be certified in the state of Georgia.

It’s made with eco-friendly materials like wood and recycled glass, and it has many natural features like a green roof and a working collection of more than 900 solar panels.

There are truly living things in the Kendeda Building as well.

A blueberry orchard provides fresh fruit, and honeybee combs are tended and studied for ecological reasons.

The Kendeda Building is located at Georgia Tech.

Tours are free and open to the public, but their scheduling can be iffy depending on what’s happening at campus.

It’s a good idea to call before you go.

If you love the environment, however, or if you’re just curious to see a real-world example of sustainable architecture, the Kendeda Building is one of the best places to go in Atlanta.

You might even get some blueberries out of the trip!

Address:  422 Ferst Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

57. Jackson Street Bridge

Varun Chugh / Shutterstock

Say goodbye to Atlanta with the Jackson Street Bridge.

Overlooking the entire skyline, it’s one of the city’s best places to see a sunset or take long-exposure photos of the nighttime lights.

You might recognize the view from this bridge if you’re a fan of The Walking Dead.

It served as a backdrop for promotional photos of the first season.

The good news is that the zombies have all been cleared away, so you won’t have to worry about brain-eating monsters during your trip to Georgia.

Another great thing about the bridge is that it’s free.

There’s no toll to walk or bike it, so if you’re traveling to Atlanta on a budget, you can have fun here without spending a dime.

It’s hard to say farewell to a city like Atlanta, but a sweeping aerial view might soothe some of the sorrow.

You’ll be able to take in the whole skyline for one last look at a place that provided you with great memories.

Address:  Jackson St NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Atlanta

These are just a few of the best things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.

Whether you’re headed there for a honeymoon, work trip, bachelor party or fun family vacation, there are certain things that you won’t want to miss.

Use this guide to hit all of the top spots in the area!

The 17 Best Downtown Atlanta Restaurants

photo credit: Tabia S. Lisenbee-Parker

DeMarco Williams, Juli Horsford & Nina Reeder

April 30, 2024

We wanna let you in on a secret that only conventioners and families with Georgia Aquarium memberships know—there is some good eating happening around Downtown Atlanta these days. We’re talking solid barbecue, top sirloins, and serious philly cheesesteaks, and they’re all within walking distance of State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium . So, the next time you see a group giggling in their matching lanyards on Marietta Street, just know their smiles probably have more to do with their last meal than the afternoon’s symposium.

photo credit: Courtesy of Signia Hotel

Between the Georgia World Congress Center and Mercedes-Benz Stadium , the Signia hotel looks like one of those giant Vegas properties where you have to walk a 5K just to get to your room. Thankfully, you only have to take a few steps and a trip up to the fourth floor to get to Capolinea. And that’s great news because the red sauce restaurant serves fantastic tableside martinis that you’ll want to come back for every opportunity you can. When combined with a chill scene and solid dishes like a spaghetti pomodoro and tender short rib, we’re tempted to inquire about hotel residency.

photo credit: Sarah Newman

Reuben's Deli

Downtown Atlanta

Reuben’s Deli plopped onto Broad Street in 1996. Yes, that's our Olympic year, and if there was a gold medal for sandwich making, Reuben's would stand atop the podium. The no-nonsense deli is a Downtown Atlanta lunch staple for GSU students and area workers, who come in yelling their orders to the team behind the counter. First timers should get their namesake, the reuben with pastrami. But beware, the meat on all of the sandwiches is piled so high Reuben’s should really have to pay for air rights. Congrats if you can finish your whole sandwich—celebrate with a tasty black and white.

Hiding in plain sight across the street from Centennial Olympic Park, Park Bar is a dimly lit tavern filled with beer, burgers, and Bruce Hornsby tunes. Though it feels like the wings should be better in such a pub-like space, they make up for the misstep with a fantastic grilled mahi sandwich. The playful burger of the month (the pretzel-bunned Oktoberfest still stands out) might be tempting, but the simple, flavorful beef option (and its 20+ potential toppings) is probably the best sandwich in a two-square-mile radius.

photo credit: Tabia Lisenbee-Parker

Twin Smokers BBQ

Though you’re so close to the College Football Hall of Fame that you can almost hear the call from the huddle, Twin Smokers doesn’t feel (or taste) like a tourist trap. There’s real wood on these floors, and that’s a real smoker out back. But don’t take our word for it. Look at the char on that juicy dinosaur beef rib. The smoked chicken and brisket here are moister than they are at many popular spots around town. But just when we’re about to anoint this a real barbecue joint , they’re flagged for neglecting to include french fries and baked beans on their menu.

photo credit: Cameren Rogers

Ray's In The City

For business tourists who’ve been given company clearance to expense a couple hundred on a meal, turn to Ray’s in the City—a great Southern seafood spot and faithful go-to. There are half-circle leather booths by the sceney bar and a dark, multisection dining room that feels like a place where a fictional crime boss would have secret meetings in the far back. But at Ray’s, it just fills up with loud firm partners maxing out their per diem on Cobb salads topped with chilled lobster and hot seafood platters with tasty barbecue shrimp that should make up for the off-work hours spent with annoying colleagues.

Stats Brewpub

If you’re looking for somewhere to pre-game before the Hawks play or post-up after an early concert, Stats, a popular sports bar situated just a few blocks from State Farm Arena, is a smart move. The multi-level spot has more than 70 televisions—along with an award-winning brewmaster crafting a wide range of IPAs, sours, lagers, and seasonals from a 10-barrel brewery. Besides getting virtually every big game, the elevated bar menu and tables with built-in taps make this 16,000-square-foot space an easy downtown draw.

photo credit: Mhandy Gerard

Atlanta Breakfast Club

The key to a good Atlanta Breakfast Club experience is timing. If you hit this restaurant sitting across from the aquarium any time after 10am on the weekend, you might as well pitch a tent for the wait. So come earlier (or better yet, stop by on Tuesday morning) to slide right into a seat, where you’ll still be greeted by an efficient waitstaff scurrying about the simple, spacious dining area. While the consistent kitchen churns out expected morning fare (pancakes, chicken biscuits), folks keep lining up here for their fun signatures like the gulf shrimp and creamy grits, peach cobbler French toast, and an egg-topped waffle off a secret menu.

photo credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta

AG At The Ritz-Carlton

If you're dressed up for a show, you’ll stand out at Margaritaville. So march your suede steppers into Atlanta Grill, the signature restaurant at Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking down at Peachtree Street from your patio table or sitting in the dark, leather-boothed dining room, you’ll be greeted with formal salutations and presented with five water options. An assortment of seafood and satisfying sides (including a skillet mac and cheese we’d consider staying overnight to try again) are available, but the headliners are the steaks, ranging from skirt to a 36-ounce tomahawk so tender the meat falls into the chimichurri sauce on its own.

photo credit: Tabia Lisenbee Parker

Kwan's Deli

Understated with its signage and unbothered by any modern design expectations, Centennial Olympic Park’s Kwan’s Deli would rather spend its lunchtime preparing fresh sandwiches and superb Korean dishes. And that’s great news for the area office workers and visiting families who only have tuna melts and spicy chicken bibimbaps on their minds anyway.

photo credit: The Sun Dial Restaurant

The Sun Dial

This spot is Temporarily Closed .

Though the dining room no longer revolves, the Sun Dial in downtown’s Westin hotel has been a fixture for American fine dining in the city since the ’70s. The Westin remains one of Atlanta’s tallest buildings, so their 360-degree panoramic skyline views make your glazed salmon or bearnaise-drench lobster dinner feel a little extra special. Sky high prices keep most locals at bay (get your mind right to pay $65 for a plate of fried chicken), but we’d clear things with our financial coach if it means impressing our out-of-town fam with a great meal and good views. Between the bill, the U-shaped leather booths, and the white-glove service, you’ll be the talk of the next reunion for sure.

Restaurant 10

The color red is brushed all over Southern-flavored Restaurant 10. With the Atlanta Falcons and Georgia Bulldogs playing so much at Mercedes-Benz Stadium across the street, the hue makes the sports bar feel like home to their fans. But the shade also resonates in the food, specifically in the hot honey wings and unbelievably good turkey ribs tossed in a semi-sweet barbecue sauce. Pair the latter with an order of collards and some of the best mac and cheese we’ve had all year. Just apologize to your Falcons tailgate crew when you make this your new pre-game headquarters.

The Food Shoppe

The Food Shoppe makes some of the best bread pudding we’ve had outside of NOLA , and it's worth the 10-minute walk here from State Farm Arena. If you're the type who can't eat dessert first, get their “Walk and Eat Bowls” (which makes sense since the narrow eatery only has two dine-in tables). Whether you opt for the aptly named (and incredibly cheesy) Ooey Gooey Chicken & Mac or the hearty Voodoo Jambalaya, these bowls go down easy with a blast of flavor. Or just skip the mains altogether and enjoy the massive portion of Angie’s bread pudding. Your call.

photo credit: Christina Slaton

Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Fried Chicken

After a grueling day of museum walking or half-listening in a conference, you don’t want to think about dinner plans. And that’s where Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, a casual, utilitarian restaurant at the base of Peachtree Center, comes in. Stop here for just-crispy-enough chicken, slices of white bread, and none of the do-you-have-a-reservation foolishness. If your friends want the pomp, fine, let’em go elsewhere. More fried okra and ranch dipping sauce for you.

photo credit: Amadi J Phillips

Amalfi Cucina & Mercato

Amalfi’s massive high-back leather booths, which are even big enough for polyamorous relationships, set the mood for a romantic date night. Although Amalfi is in the unsexy part of downtown often forsaken by locals, its giant windows that open to a painted brick foyer covered with canopy lights helps trick your brain into thinking you’re in some Italian courtyard. Or at least the Venetian in Vegas. Plus, Amalfi’s fabulous star-shaped, stuffed-crust margherita is the pizza masterpiece that motivates us to pay $20 for parking, with its dollops of creamy ricotta tucked into the corners of the puffy Neapolitan dough.

Hsu's Gourmet

Though old pictures hanging up of Yao Ming and Betty White might hint otherwise, Hsu’s Gourmet remains a downtown go-to for Chinese food and is very much the same social gathering spot it’s been since the ’90s. Couples and work crews huddle over the chunky Spicy Anna’s seafood soup like they always have. The curry chicken remains a tender, well-seasoned treat that’ll make others in your dinner party jealous. And while you’ll have questions about the whole red snapper’s lack of meatiness, you still can’t deny that the photogenic catch deserves a spot on the wall.

Big Dave's Cheesesteaks

Big Dave’s is one of the best places in the city to grab a cheesesteak, and their Forsyth Street location is only four blocks from State Farm Arena (and there are stalls in Mercedes Benz Stadium , too). You could conceivably eat a three-cheese-topped Dave’s Way cheesesteak and fries and still walk to the venue. But then again, we’re talking about a sandwich that’s liberally piled with cheese, delicious ribeye, onions, mushrooms, and peppers. Are you really going to walk? Should you opt for something lighter, salmon egg rolls make sense. With an order of these gently fried bites, some fries, and the chili dipping sauce, we’re always satisfied and a little more buoyant for the walk down Decatur Street.

White Oak Kitchen & Cocktails

Located right across the street from the ever-hopping Hyatt Regency, White Oak doesn’t need to do much to draw a crowd. To keep customers coming back, however, it prepares a slew of Southern-influenced specialties that outshine almost anything you can find within a block of the hotel. The bright, farmhouse-inspired space is ideal for a power lunch over fried green tomatoes or a few vodka cocktails and hearty halibut at dinnertime.

Downtown Atlanta is seeing more visitors, phone data shows

D ata: University of Toronto; Note: Downtown defined as the central location with the highest concentration of employment in each metro area; Chart: Alice Feng/Axios

Downtown Atlanta appears to be slowly gaining more foot traffic as stakeholders continue to invest into the heart of the city.

Why it matters: The area is primed for more than $6 billion in public and private investment after the coronavirus pandemic hindered downtown activity nationwide.

Driving the news: Visitor activity in Downtown Atlanta grew by 7.4% between March 2023 and February 2024, according to new University of Toronto data.

State of play: Atlanta wants to breathe new life into Downtown amid an era of remote and hybrid work.

• Millions are expected to visit Atlanta while it's hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup .
• Corporate leaders want to build and open a $100 million science museum by 2028.
• Tech entrepreneurs are building coworking spaces and housing in South Downtown .
• Atlanta's government is trying to convert the 2 Peachtree Street office tower into the city's tallest residential building.
• MARTA wants to spend more than $200 million on an overdue overhaul of Downtown's Five Points station to create open space and new opportunities for more retail and activities.

By the numbers: Last year , 71.3 million visitors ventured to Downtown Atlanta, according to Placer.ai, which tracks and analyzes foot traffic.

• By comparison, Placer.ai data shows Downtown Atlanta had 52 million visitors in 2022 .

What we're hearing: Research from Central Atlanta Progress and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District shows 1,500 affordable homes could be built by converting vacant offices downtown.

• That could bring more people into the neighborhood. But it would require a $48 million public subsidy.

How it works: Researchers at the University of Toronto's School of Cities are using anonymized mobile device location data to estimate visitor activity in the downtown areas of dozens of North American cities .

• They define "downtown" as the location in each metro area with the highest job concentration.

The bottom line: Everyone wants to see Downtown Atlanta's transformation because, as usual, Atlanta influences everything.

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