visit atlanta things to do

Atlanta   Travel Guide

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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

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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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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.

Shannon McMahon

Chris Schalkx

Caitlin Morton

Emily Pennington

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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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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20 best things to do in Atlanta: Our ultimate bucket list

Access Atlanta

Guests are coming to town, and they want to be acquainted with all that is Atlanta. What is the quintessential cuisine, the absolute attraction, and the paramount place that you must visit? Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered!

1. Chow down at The Varsity . Hailing as a staple of Atlanta’s dining scene since 1928, The Varsity serves gluttonous and greasy eats like no one else. Order your onion rings and chili cheese dog inside to experience the retro vibe and All-American atmosphere, or motor through the world’s largest drive-in for a bite of quintessential Atlanta.

2. Indulge your dark side at Clermont Lounge . What began as a supper club in the basement of a local hotel transformed into Atlanta’s most beloved dive bar. Lounge with oxford-clad attorneys, high-heeled drag queens, the occasional celebrity and everyone in between. And if the clientele isn’t eclectic enough to hold your gaze, the entertainment will capture you: live music and strippers older than this 1965 institution.

3. Pencil in your order at Mary Mac’s Tea Room . Mary Mac’s is the last of Atlanta’s tearooms from the 1940s and declared “Atlanta’s Dining Room” by the Georgia House of Representatives. Savor a meat and two sides for lunch or dinner, and don’t forget the cinnamon rolls. Although Mary Mac’s uses computers like just about all businesses these days, diners still get to fill out their orders on little cards with little pencils. This should be easy for golfers, the rest of us will just have to fake it.

4. Rock out at The Tabernacle . Luckie Street’s music venue was renovated ahead of the 1996 Olympics from the building of an old church. It has changed hands many times since then, but great acoustics, an intimate space and exceptional headliners continue.

5. Improvise a trip to Dad’s Garage Theatre . The team at Dad’s Garage performs hilarious productions, both scripted and improvised. Scripted shows often bring in big talent like Tim Meadows or Scott Adsit, but the local improv artists will knock your socks off. On the downside, your face muscles will probably hurt the next morning.

6. Discover the fabulous Fox Theatre . Open today only because of the labor of love put forth by the community, the Fox Theatre is one of only a handful of not-for-profit theaters in the country. Each year, the award-winning theater hosts more than 250 shows and half a million visitors. See a show, or take a tour, but don’t miss a visit to this Georgia landmark.

7. Devour a treat from King of Pops . Fruity treats from King of Pops are what dreams are made of. They are like popsicles, only better. Chocolate sea salt finds favor among the crowds, but other sinful flavors abound like fresh peach and tangerine basil. Try one from their signature carts at a local festival, food truck park or farmers market, or head over to their shop in Inman Park just off the Atlanta Beltline for a peek at how the magic is made.

8. Savor the view at a rotating restaurant. Enjoy delicious eats and hand-crafted cocktails, with spectacular views of the city. Visit  The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View  atop Westin Peachtree Plaza for the best view, or try  Polaris , spinning above Hyatt Regency Atlanta. The iconic blue dome was a city staple in the 60s and 70s and reopened in 2014 after a long absence with spectacular cocktails and a comfortable, classy atmosphere.

9. Dress up for Dragon Con. In early fall the city morphs into a mecca of science fiction, gaming, and comic mania. What started in 1987 with a few hundred people quickly evolved into a  nationally recognized event  drawing over 50,000 attendees. Not available for the 4-day conference? Don your cape for the parade through downtown Atlanta on Labor Day weekend.

10. Party at Piedmont Park. Picnic on the lawn, throw a Frisbee with friends or just kick back and take in the city’s skyline. Welcome spring with the  Atlanta Dogwood Festival , and usher in fall with  Music Midtown , both classic Atlanta festivals that call Piedmont Park home.

11. Take a hike at Stone Mountain . 3,200 acres sit northeast of the city, with championship golf courses, campgrounds and much more. The ultimate must-do here: hiking up the monstrous granite outcropping for a view from atop the mountain. Pick a clear day for the best views and bring your camera.

12. Run the AJC Peachtree Road Race. Spend your Fourth of July with 60,000 of your closest friends in the  world’s largest 10K . With such a large crowd, entrance is by lottery. You can guarantee a space, though, by becoming a member of the Atlanta Track Club.

13. Stroll around Centennial Olympic Park. Explore Georgia’s legacy of the Centennial Olympic Games at the 21-acre park in the heart of downtown. Summer brings the opportunity to splash in the fountains. Don’t leave without taking a spin on the nearby SkyView, a ferris wheel towering 20 stories above the park.

14. People watch at Little Five Points . This junction at Moreland and Euclid Avenues serves as a hodgepodge of eclectic multiculturalism. Chow down on one of the best burgers in America at The Vortex, peruse the wares at Junkman’s Daughter or Criminal Records, or grab a drink at The Porter Beer Bar or Wrecking Bar Brewpub. Whatever you do, don’t miss the signature L5P Halloween Festival and Parade, consistently voted one of the best celebrations in the country.

15. Remember the past at Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site . Atlanta served as the epicenter of the civil rights movement, and the MLK Historic Site reminds the south of that key historical role. Visit Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. King preached his message of peace, tour the Reverend’s birth home and reflect at his tomb.

16. Tour Atlanta’s biggest attractions. Play tourist in your own city, visiting Atlanta’s most beloved attractions. Stroll through the glass tunnel at Georgia Aquarium , while whale sharks and other deep sea denizens float by. Taste-test Coke products from around the world at the  World of Coca-Cola  Museum, or watch the playful pandas at  Zoo Atlanta . While on your whirlwind tour, don’t miss Atlanta’s newest attractions, the  College Football Hall of Fame  and the Center for Civil and Human Rights .

17. Explore the Atlanta Beltline. The Beltline , once only a dream in the mind of Ryan Gravel, now transforms the city with public parks, multi-use trails and a growing number of peripheral businesses. It’s often undersold as a walking path or a transportation initiative, but it grows – lives and breathes – as a defining piece of the Atlanta community.

18. Become a fan at an Atlanta ballgame. Go for a spring outing with the  Atlanta Braves . Cheer the  Hawks  on at Philips Arena,  Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium or celebrate fall with  Falcons  fever. Whatever the season, whatever the sport, there’s a game to celebrate in Atlanta.

19. See what’s in bloom at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens . The winter holiday celebration at Atlanta Botanical Gardens is unmatched, with over 1 million lights exploding with color. Don’t forget the other seasons, though, from the 330,000 tulip blooms to spring, to the whimsical scarecrows of fall.

20. Walk with ghosts at Oakland Cemetery. Atlanta’s oldest resting place is famous for its notable inhabitants such as Margaret Mitchell (author of Gone With the Wind), Bobby Jones (founder of the Master’s Tournament), and Dr. Joseph Jacobs (owner of the drugstore that first sold Pemberton’s Coca Cola). Explore the magnificent mausoleums, including four catalogued in the Smithsonian Institute’s Inventory of American Sculpture Database.

This story was originally published in 2017 by Lesli Peterson and has since been updated.

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40 Best Things to Do in Atlanta — From Art Museums to High-end Shopping

Here are 40 of the top things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

If you're looking for a big-city getaway with a dose of Southern charm, it's hard to beat Atlanta, Georgia. Home to incredible museums, quite a few professional sports teams, and a long list of award-winning restaurants, there are plenty of things to do in Atlanta that travelers of all ages will enjoy.

Here, we've gathered 40 of the best things to do in Atlanta, ranging from mouth-watering food halls to a bevy of fun museums, so you can start planning your next trip to ATL today.

Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

Explore the BeltLine.

One of Atlanta’s best outdoor attractions is its BeltLine trail system, a repurposed 22-mile railway loop that connects some of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Walk, run, bike, or skate around the city while enjoying native plants and art installations, including murals, sculptures, performances, and seasonal events. Start at Ponce City Market and head north on the Eastside Trail, which leads to the 200-acre Piedmont Park and Atlanta’s first public skatepark.

Stop and smell the flowers at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Adjacent to Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden boasts 30 acres of dazzling plant displays. Among its highlights are the Canopy Walk, a 600-foot walkway suspended among the treetops, and nature-themed art installations. Don’t miss the 25-foot Earth Goddess sculpture, which presides over the Cascades Garden and features more than 18,000 live annual plants. Plus, you can take classes to learn how to up your at-home gardening game.

Marvel at marine animals at the Georgia Aquarium.

One of the largest aquariums in the world, this Atlanta attraction has thousands of animals, including beluga whales, dolphins, penguins, sea lions, and even a whale shark. Visiting the Georgia Aquarium is an ideal activity for rainy or super-hot days.

Erin Hadjidakis/Travel + Leisure

Sip on a soft drink at the World of Coca-Cola.

Founded and still headquartered in Atlanta, The Coca-Cola Company is an American institution, and you can learn all about the brand while tasting soda flavors from around the world at the World of Coca-Cola .

Learn about Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and impact.

A visit to the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park is one of the best things to do in Atlanta. Highlights of this 35-acre site include Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birth home, Ebenezer Baptist Church (where he was a pastor), and The King Center.

Visit Centennial Olympic Park.

Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, this park is located near several other notable Atlanta attractions, including the World of Coca-Cola and Georgia Aquarium. Make sure to snap a photo with the Olympic rings when you visit.

Shop and eat at Ponce City Market.

With great shops, an expansive food hall, and a rooftop with a restaurant, bar, games, and more, Ponce City Market is a solid place to spend an afternoon shopping, dining, and admiring the Atlanta skyline.

Learn local history at the Atlanta History Center.

Located in the Buckhead neighborhood, the Atlanta History Center has a mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits. Visit the 1928 Swan House, an elaborate mansion that served as a filming location for The Hunger Games movies. Then, take a few moments to view the 371-foot-wide cyclorama depicting the Battle of Atlanta, a turning point in the Civil War.

Visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Atlanta was the cradle of the U.S. Civil Rights Movement. The city was the birthplace of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), which organized protests throughout the South, and a hotbed for student activism led by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Many institutions continue to honor Black history and culture, including the National Center for Civil and Human Rights . Here, you'll find exhibits about the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, the global human rights movement, and key figures in both.

Dive into sports history at the College Football Hall of Fame.

The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame honors the sport's famed players and features an indoor playing field, college football history, an art gallery, and more, making it a must-visit for sports fans.

Check out the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum.

Born in Georgia, the 39th president of the United States, Jimmy Carter, has a presidential library and museum featuring an exact replica of the Oval Office and exhibits about his life and achievements.

Stroll through Piedmont Park.

With wide-open spaces and skyline views, Piedmont Park is the place for a morning stroll or afternoon picnic. The park also hosts many events throughout the year, like Music Midtown , a massive festival drawing A-list artists.

Play around at the Children's Museum of Atlanta.

If you're traveling with kids 8 years old or younger, head to the Children's Museum of Atlanta for hands-on, educational exhibits — another great family-friendly, rainy day option.

Climb aboard a 747 at the Delta Flight Museum.

Travelers who love all things aviation should visit the Delta Flight Museum for a look at the airline's history. Visitors can get a look at vintage aircrafts, tour the first Boeing 747-400, and experience a flight simulator.

 Jackie Waldrop / Twenty20

Chow down at Krog Street Market.

From dumplings to ice cream to pizza, Krog Street Market is the perfect place to stop for a casual bite while exploring the city.

Spot some street art.

While you're in the area, head down to Krog Street Tunnel to see some of the city's street art. The tunnel is filled with graffiti and murals, making it a cool spot to snap a few photos for Instagram.

Learn about Jewish history and culture at The Breman Museum.

At The Breman Museum , you can learn about Jewish life in the South, as well as the Holocaust through the powerful stories of Atlanta-area survivors.

Admire works by local artists at the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia.

This Atlanta museum features Georgia artists through a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions. If you're still searching for an artsy experience, head to the High Museum of Art on your trip, too.

Catch a puppet show at the Center for Puppetry Arts.

That's right, this center is devoted to all things puppetry, so catch a show or visit the Worlds of Puppetry Museum , which offers a look into the art form's history and some key players, including a Jim Henson exhibit featuring puppets and props from Sesame Street, The Muppet Show , and more.

Paddle the Chattahoochee.

Between museum visits, get outside and go for a ride along the Chattahoochee River National Water Trail . Rent a tube or raft from a local outfitter (or bring your own) and "shoot the Hooch" as the locals say. This is a great way to cool off on a hot summer day — just don't forget your sunscreen.

Cheer on the Atlanta Falcons.

Depending on the time of year, you could plan to cheer on one of Atlanta's professional sports teams, like the Atlanta Falcons or Atlanta United FC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium .

Keep an eye out for tiny doors.

Tiny Doors ATL is a local project by artist Karen Anderson Singer. You can find tiny doors (inspired by the location, neighborhood, or community) around the city. The outside wall of the Krog Street Tunnel boasts Singer's first tiny door, and even the Georgia Aquarium has one near the entrance to the Ocean Voyager exhibit.

Get a taste of local flavors.

There are plenty of fantastic restaurants around the city. Atlanta's first Michelin guide spotlights Italian restaurant Bacchanalia, contemporary eatery Atlas, and Japanese restaurant Hayakawa. Make sure to sample some of the city's best soul food at Busy Bee Cafe. And don't forget about The Varsity's famous chili cheese dogs.

Catch a show at the Fox Theatre.

The Fox Theatre hosts great comedy, dance, and music shows throughout the year, but its unique design — influenced by Spain's medieval Alhambra and Egypt’s Temple of Karnak — alone makes it worth checking out.

Visit the Madam C. J. Walker Boutique Museum and WERDSTUDIO.

Known as America's first female self-made millionaire with a successful cosmetic and hair product business, Madam C.J. Walker's legacy lives on at this museum . In the same building, you can also find the home of WERD, the first Black-owned radio station.

Walk the rainbow crosswalk.

At 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue in Midtown, you'll find a brightly colored, four-way rainbow crosswalk celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.

Visit the Trap Music Museum.

Atlanta is the hometown of many famous musicians, and the Trap Music Museum pays homage to the culture and history of trap music. The museum also offers private tours with complimentary wine on Thursdays.

See Atlanta from above.

Take a ride around the 20-story SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel, located in Centennial Olympic Park, to enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city.

Shop around Buckhead.

Looking to do some swanky shopping? Head to the Buckhead Village District , packed with designer stores and delicious restaurants.

Tour famous filming locations.

Did you know that a lot of famous movies and TV shows have been filmed in Atlanta? The Hunger Games, The Walking Dead , and others feature prominent Atlanta locations — you can even take a DIY tour to see them.

Visit Zoo Atlanta.

Located in Grant Park, Zoo Atlanta offers experiences like giraffe feedings, wildlife presentations, and elephant encounters. See an African lion, an Aldabra giant tortoise, Chilean flamingos, and more. 

Bob Krist / Getty Images

Discover the Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

With giant dinosaurs, after-hours events, and a canopy walk, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History provides the perfect venue for a day (or night) out in Atlanta.  

Wander around The Battery Atlanta.

This mixed-use development 10 miles north of downtown Atlanta is more than the ballpark it’s associated with. There’s a multitude of shops, restaurants, and activities to keep you busy here in between games at Truist Park and shows at the Coca-Cola Roxy.  

Hit the track at the Porsche Experience Center.

Get behind the wheel at Porsche’s North American headquarters , where you can race around the driver development course with a professional driving coach. Gear heads will also enjoy the Simulator Lab and the Heritage Gallery full of historical Porsche models. 

Step into another world at Illuminarium Atlanta.

Images captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope and from Kenyan safaris are projected by a 4K laser and accented by touch, sound, and smell details at this otherworldly, immersive experience on the BeltLine Eastside Trail. 

Learn about the ins and outs of design.

The Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) lets you get up close and hands-on with rotating exhibits dedicated to design. The space is devoted to one exhibit at a time, covering topics like chair design, skateboard artwork, and the history of pasta shapes, so check the website before you visit.

See a movie at The Plaza Theatre.

This landmark theater in Atlanta’s Virginia-Highland neighborhood shows both new releases and classics. If you’re looking for a quote-along experience, go on any given Friday for the theater’s weekly midnight showing of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” 

Eat your way through Sweet Auburn's Curb Market.

This open-air market (also known as Municipal Market ) located in the historic Sweet Auburn neighborhood is a popular place for local fare, from seafood to produce to desserts.  

Get retro at a video store.

Step back in time at Videodrome . Atlanta’s only video store has new, independent, and cult films for you to peruse for an old-school experience.  

Browse Criminal Records.

When you’re finished browsing films at Videodrome head over to Criminal Records in the Little Five Points area for new and used music, comic books, and magazines.  

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Top 15 things to do in Atlanta

Dec 3, 2021 • 6 min read

These are some of our favorite sights and experiences in Atlanta © Marilyn Nieves / Getty Images

The South's so-called capital isn't nicknamed Hotlanta for nothing, y'all. Charismatic and lush, Atlanta is a feverish, easy-on-the-eyes cavalcade of culture, cuisine and Southern hospitality. Here are some of the best things to do in Atlanta.

Dive into Atlanta's tasty food scene 

Atlanta's once-stuffy culinary scene has evolved over the last decade into one of the most vibrant and dynamic dining scenes in the Southeast, if not the nation.

You can nosh on bountiful, filling fare around Atlanta's Southern-fried cafes or go-for-broke at many New Southern and New American foodie darlings or at trendy and upscale options – filling your belly in Atlanta ain't no joke. Top chefs like Ford Fry, Anne Quatrano, Kevin Gillespie, Kevin Rathbun and Hugh Acheson are just a few of the city's most creative cooks.

Experience the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park

The Civil Rights movement owes a great debt to the actions of various martyrs, communities and political actions throughout the American South, but almost no aspect of the movement can be mentioned without including Atlanta and the city's most famous son, Martin Luther King, Jr.

The power of walking in the steps of this Baptist preacher turned international Civil Rights icon at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park  cannot be overstated.

Visit the High Museum of Art

As the most acclaimed museum in the Southeast, the High Museum of Art was the first to exhibit art lent from Paris' Louvre and is a destination as much for its architecture as its world-class exhibits.

The striking, bright-white art repository, with its curved ramps and monumental swooping three-story glass atrium that shelters natural light like a precious resource, is a Midtown icon. Its reflective white enamel facade stands in stark contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers and greenery. It earned its designer, Richard Meier, the 1984 Pritzker Prize.

The best time to visit Atlanta 

Sleep at a historic bed & breakfast 

Atlanta's neighborhoods hide a gorgeous lineup of historic Queen Anne Victorian architecture and a few of them have been converted into stunning B&Bs, mostly in the city's East Side in trendy neighborhoods such as Inman Park and Virginia-Highland.

When it comes to deciding between a cookie-cutter chain hotel in Downtown or Midtown or a stunning bed and breakfast loaded with Southern hospitality like at the Social Goat B&B or Sugar Magnolia B&B , the choice is a no brainer, ya hear? Sleep tight.

Bike or walk along the Atlanta BeltLine

Strolling or biking  Atlanta BeltLine's Eastside Trail, part of the city's largest greenway and the most comprehensive transportation and economic development effort ever undertaken in Atlanta, makes for a perfect outing.

Connecting Piedmont Park in Midtown with the hip and happening neighborhood of Inman Park, this 3-mile section of the multi-use trail links big attractions such as the Atlanta Botanical Garden with some of the city's hottest bars, breweries, restaurants, markets and urban parks.

The five best parks in Atlanta

Cheer on the Braves at Truist Park

The Atlanta Braves moved into this new, 41,149-capacity stadium 10 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta in Cobb County in 2017. It was part of a $1.1-billion entertainment complex known as the Battery. The MLB season runs from late March to early October, meaning there's always time for some peanuts and crackerjack as you root for the home team. 

The Braves beat the Houston Astros to win the World Series in 2021.

Lounge at Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park , Atlanta's largest green space, is a pristine, 185-acre urban oasis in the middle of Midtown that has it all, from history (Atlanta's first professional baseball team played in the park from 1902–04) to numerous music and cultural festivals to bars, breweries and big-ticket attractions such as the Atlanta Botanical Garden. But it works just as well as a place to picnic, go for a run or bike ride or tuck away under a tree for an afternoon nap.

Take in a game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

The sustainably bent and architecturally wowing Mercedes-Benz Stadium easily ranks as the coolest sports stadium in North America. The $1.6 billion multipurpose, eight-petal retractable roof stadium is home to the Atlanta Falcons as well as the Major League Soccer team – Atlanta United FC.

Even if you don't manage to catch a game, it's worth popping into the latest addition to the city's skyline – organized tours visit the locker rooms and field, among other behind-the-scenes locations.

Spend a day in Centennial Olympic Park

Hopping from museum to museum around the big attraction-concentrated Olympic legacy Centennial Olympic Park makes for a near-effortless big day out. You can drink yourself silly on international sodas inside the World of Coca-Cola , get a history lesson inside the National Center for Civil and Human Rights , root for your favorite college football team while romping through the Chick-Fil-A College Football Hall of Fame or ogle the penguins inside the impressive Georgia Aquarium – without even breaking a sweat!

Best free things to do in Atlanta 

Go wild at Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve

Smack in the middle of the city (well, OK – out in Decatur, but you get the idea), you'll find this 28-acre nature preserve , home of beavers, foxes, box turtles, red-spotted newts, coyotes and veritable clouds of birds. It's a welcome slice of wilderness in the heart of an enormous urban area.

Enjoy Atlanta's drink scene 

Traditionally Atlanta has lagged behind more brew-friendly Southern cities like Asheville , Nashville or Memphis due to legislation that prevented on-site beer sales at breweries.

With that law in the rearview mirror as of 2017, Atlanta is poised to become the South's next best beer city, led by one of the most iconic names in American brewing, Mitch Steele, at New Realm Brewing Co . In other Atlanta drinking news, craft cocktails form the foundation of the city's lively bar scene, which fuels nocturnal madness in hot neighborhoods from Decatur to Buckhead.

Play at the Center for Puppetry Arts

A wonderland for visitors of all ages and hands down one of Atlanta's most unique attractions, the museum – expanded in 2015 – houses a treasury of puppets, some of which you get to operate yourself. A major addition is the Worlds of Puppetry Museum, housing the most comprehensive collection of Jim Henson puppets and artifacts in the world.

The best day trips in Atlanta 

Spend a night out at the Apache

An eclectic performance-art venue for hip-hop, spoken-word poetry and soul artists on the rise, this is a must-stop for those looking to dive into Atlanta's diverse Black music scene. Make sure to come with an empty stomach because the cool spot also serves up tasty Southern cuisine. 

Have lunch at the Ponce City Market

A mixed-use complex housed inside the historic former Sears, Roebuck and Co headquarters in Atlanta, the largest brick structure in the Southeast. More than 30 food vendors occupy this food hall , ranging from candy sellers to Holeman & Finch (Atlanta's best burger), At the Tap (56 taps of craft beer), Spiller Park Coffee, Five Daughters Bakery and a Mediterranean market.

Atlanta   is on our 2022 Best of Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations  click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

You might also like: The most essential US civil rights sites in the South 6 transport options to help you get around in Atlanta Atlanta's best neighborhoods  

This article was first published Jun 1, 2021 and updated Dec 3, 2021.

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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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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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24+ Things to Do in Downtown Atlanta

1. King Historic District Walking Tour – One of Our Favorite Downtown Atlanta Activities

Did you know – Downtown Atlanta is where Martin Luther King, Jr. was born and raised! On the Martin Luther King, Jr. Atlanta History Tour with Unexpected Atlanta, you’ll follow in Dr. King’s footsteps to learn all about his life, legacy, and impact on Atlanta and the world. During this tour, you’ll explore firsthand the places in Atlanta that inspired this Civil Rights leader.

For instance, explore Dr. King’s office at the Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Dr. and Mrs. King’s final resting places and memorial, Ebenezer Baptist Church (when open) where Dr. King served as Reverend alongside his father, and more. Best of all, a live expert guide will lead your group during this experience, sharing knowledge and answering your questions along the way. You’ll leave with a much deeper understanding of Dr. King’s work and Atlanta’s role in the Civil Rights movement.

This walking tour of the Civil Rights Movement is one you won’t forget, and a can’t-miss activity for Atlanta locals and tourists! Appropriate for friends, families, couples, and colleagues to enjoy together. We highly recommend this experience if you want to truly understand and appreciate Atlanta’s history!

Fun Fact: Conde Nast listed this tour in their list of top 17 things to do in Atlanta !

2. Eat Well at Sweet Auburn Curb Market

The historic Municipal Market (now called Sweet Auburn Curb Market ) is a food destination that’s close by to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Atlanta Walking tour mentioned above. Combine these activities to make for a unique Downtown Atlanta excursion!

The history of the Municipal Market’s building has been preserved from top to bottom. Here, you’ll find plenty of community and camaraderie. Delicious aromas and laughter fill the indoor food stalls, warming the whole space. With so many food and drink options, you can pop in for a quick lunch or stay and explore the food stalls for hours! Choose from Soul food, Caribbean and African dishes, tacos, sandwiches, Poké bowls, pizza, fresh juices, pastries, and more.

For corporate groups, check out Unexpected Atlanta’s unique team building activities – including a tour of Sweet Auburn Curb Market, followed by a hands-on biscuit-making class! This interactive group experience will bring teams together to bond over history and food, in the heart of Atlanta. Get out of the office and have some fun!

If you need an evening food option in the area, other urban food halls nearby include Ponce City Market (PCM) and Krog Street Market.

3. Experience the Awe-Inspiring ZuCot Gallery

The ZuCot Gallery in the Castleberry Hill area is a true Atlanta arts gem. Founded in 2009 by corporate executive Troy Taylor, ZuCot is the largest African American-owned fine art gallery in the Southeast. The chic space is filled with beautiful work by living artists. Here, the owners enthusiastically celebrate living African American artists and culture.

Stop by when the gallery is open, or plan your visit around an upcoming Artist Talk or exhibition. ZuCot also offers Art Tasting experiences for corporate teams as well as private art consultations.

Curious how the ZuCot name came to be, or what it means? The gallery shares, “ZuCot was the nickname given to [founder Troy Taylor’s] paternal grandmother, Frances Ann Taylor. Mrs. Taylor was born in the late 1800’s on the British colony of Saint Christopher (now St. Kitts). She was one of the first women allowed to own a stall in the local produce market. In order to survive the fierce competition with her male counterparts, she developed the reputation of being ‘as tough as a zoo cat.’ …  As the family migrated to America, they softened the name and refer to her as ZuCot.”

Fun Fact: This gallery isn’t just a place to experience. You can also purchase artwork for your home, or as a memorable souvenir of your time in the city.

4. Catch a Live Music or Comedy Show at the Tabernacle

The Tabernacle is a beloved Downtown Atlanta concert and comedy venue, located near Centennial Olympic Park. Originally built as a church in 1911, The Tabernacle’s building is more than 100 years old. In fact, it was transformed into a concert venue in anticipation of the 1996 Olympic Games hosted in Atlanta!

In the decades since then, local and tourist concert-goers have flocked to The Tabernacle to see iconic artists and laugh out loud comedy shows. Now hosting more than 200 performances every year, this is an unforgettable spot to catch a live show with friends in the heart of Downtown Atlanta.

Fun Fact: In addition to being built as a church, Tabernacle’s building has also served as a medical center and nursing school!

5. Taste the Brilliance of the O4W Distillery – a Local Favorite!

Founded as Atlanta’s first legal independent distillery since 1906, O4W Distillery purveys a variety of award-winning spirits including gin, vodka, bourbon, and more. A particular crowd favorite is their Lawn Dart ginger lemon liqueur, made with freshly-peeled lemon, organic cold-pressed ginger, and a hint of sugar cane simple syrup.

While O4W Distillery no longer offers tours of their facility, you can still get a taste of Atlanta by partaking in their products! Check out their unique lineup of local Atlanta spirits and purchase a bottle to take home as a keepsake! Browse O4W’s website for retail and restaurant locations. You can find their products in a variety of shops in Atlanta and beyond.

Fun Fact: When the pandemic first hit, O4W Distillery made and distributed hand sanitizer to the community!

6. Expand your Mind at Atlanta Contemporary Art Center

You’re sure to walk away from this experience with a fresh perspective! The unique artwork displayed at Atlanta Contemporary Art Center (ACAC) pushes audiences’ viewpoints and encourages dialogue.

The Downtown Atlanta museum was founded in 1973 as Nexus, a grassroots cooperative for artists. Today, it is one of the leading contemporary art centers in the Southeast, presenting works from more than 200 artists each year. Moreover, visiting the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center is free, making this an especially accessible and budget-friendly activity! Donations from generous supporters make it possible for ACAC to welcome all who wish to enter, free of charge.

Check out ACAC’s impressive event lineup for a more interactive experience, including their signature Art Party annual fundraiser. You can also plan a date night with Contemporary Cocktails, the museum’s monthly event that combines art, mixology, dancing, and discussion. Contemporary Talks programs allow visitors to connect with artists, while Contemporary Kids programs introduce children to contemporary art through hands-on activities.

7. Get Saucy at Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt – One of Our Favorite Downtown Atlanta Spots

You can’t visit the South without eating some delicious BBQ! And, one of the best spots around is Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt. Even folks who don’t eat meat will appreciate Daddy D’z mouthwatering sides and desserts. Try the fried green tomatoes, collard greens, and a mini sweet potato pie along with classic barbecue options like ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.

While this Downtown spot might look unassuming, don’t be fooled! Daddy D’z cooks up some of the best Atlanta BBQ around. They cook their meat by hand on hickory and oak pits, sharing that “there are no shortcuts to our recipe.” Additionally, this is the only Atlanta BBQ spot that’s been featured on the Food Network! Stop by on Saturday nights for live music, or any time they’re open for a bite.

The Daddy D’z motto says it all: “We ain’t pretty, but we’re good.” And once you know – you know!

Fun fact:  Daddy D’z also provides catering for corporate meetings, weddings, birthday and holiday parties, and more!

8. Stroll through the Summerhill Neighborhood

Located just south of Downtown Atlanta, Summerhill is one of Atlanta’s trendiest neighborhoods right now. Like much of Atlanta, Summerhill has been around for a long time. But, it looks a little different these days. Created as part of a redevelopment effort for Atlanta’s Olympic stadium and surrounding areas, Summerhill is now an 80-acre Instagram-worthy hotspot with a lot to see, eat, and do!

To learn more about the history of the Summerhill neighborhood, read this write-up from Curbed Atlanta that delves into the area’s development. As with many areas of Atlanta, racial divisions and discrimination played a role in how the Summerhill neighborhood came to be.

Today, you can head to this walkable and bikable neighborhood to check out restored historic buildings, colorful murals, and a variety of places to eat and drink. For example, try authentic Thai food at Talat Market. Then, get some ice cream and baked goods at Big Softie or Little Tart . Last but not least, enjoy local sips at Halfway Crooks Brewery .

Additionally, Summerhill is nestled between other popular intown Atlanta neighborhoods – including Grant Park, Cabbagetown, and Old 4th Ward. Stroll your way through each neighborhood to take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the city! For a guided experience, check out the Grant Park Past & Future Food Walk .

9. Appreciate Graffiti and Creativity at MET Atlanta

Speaking of Instagrammable spots, MET Atlanta is home to many pioneering artists, makers, and innovative businesses. When you arrive, you will instantly feel the creative energy that’s central to this community.

MET Atlanta is a space for collaboration and connection, home to over 1 million square feet of office and event space just a few blocks from Atlanta’s Westside Beltline Trail. It’s also home to a dog park, open air plaza, and local dining options.

With plenty to see, you can plan to spend a few hours walking through the alleys and shops. You’ll find retail spots, film studios, media labs, and more. Or if you’re in a hurry, cruising through to admire the artwork is an option too!

Fun fact:  MET Atlanta was originally known as “The Candler Warehouse,” built in 1914 to help struggling Georgia farmers. During World War II, the buildings served as a military manufacturing facility. Then, in the latter half of the 1900s, it was a hub for distribution. Finally, today it’s a “beacon for makers, creators, artists, and more.”

10. Eat in the Clouds at Sundial Restaurant

It might sound like an exaggeration, but a meal at Sundial Restaurant at the top of The Westin Peachtree Plaza is seriously like eating in the clouds! With unbeatable views of the city and a full delicious menu, Sundial is a spot that is sure to impress tourists and locals alike.

At 723 feet, the Westin Peachtree Plaza is the fifth-tallest building in Atlanta as well as the tallest hotel in the Southeast. The Sundial Restaurant at the top of the hotel features “an upscale restaurant, a cocktail lounge, and an observatory level with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the magnificent skyline…”

The experience starts off with a thrilling glass elevator ride that makes you feel like a giddy child in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. The 73-story glass tower is a staple of the Atlanta skyline you can’t miss! Then, step out of the elevator and into the clouds to sample delicious dishes in an unforgettable atmosphere.

Fun Fact: If you don’t plan to eat at the Sundial, they also allow spectators to ride the glass elevator and gawk at the 360-degree views for a small fee.

11. Be Dazzled at the Atlanta Magic Theater

See Atlanta’s longest-running magic show! Located inside the Embassy Suites at Centennial Olympic Park, the Atlanta Magic Theater will leave you in awe! That’s because Magician Peter Morrison will entertain you with 75 minutes of unbelievable magic and clean, upbeat comedy.

This activity is perfect for a family outing or a unique date idea! Don’t be shy – this show promises “tons of audience involvement” along with cherished memories and good times.

Combine this activity with dinner at the SunDial (#10, above) or one of the other restaurants mentioned in this post for a dazzling and magical evening in Downtown Atlanta.

Fun Fact: Magician Peter Morrison has performed more than 6,000 shows across the country over the past 20 years. And, that includes 80 shows at the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood!

12. Learn About Civil Rights & Honor the Memory of John Lewis

Congressman John Lewis was an important and heroic figure in the Civil Rights movement. Additionally, from 1987 until his passing in 2020, he represented Georgia’s 5th Congressional District, which includes much of metro Atlanta. When visiting the city, take the opportunity to learn more about this courageous activist and leader.

To start, see the John Lewis “HERO” mural in Downtown Atlanta and honor the memory and impact of John Lewis. This mural was created by The Loss Prevention as part of their “Heroes” mural series honoring Atlantans who have made an impact on the world.

Additionally, you can check out the John Lewis statue in the new Rodney Cook Senior Peace Park in Vine City, just west of Downtown Atlanta. The park has 16 acres of greenspace and green infrastructure, making it a perfect destination for both sightseeing and leisure.

13. Stay in the Loop with the Special Events in Downtown Atlanta

Don’t have anything specific planned for your visit to Downtown Atlanta? Have no fear! Downtown Atlanta is a bustling hotspot for a variety of special, temporary, and pop-up events. In the capital of the South, there’s always something going on. Don’t miss out on all the fun while you’re here!

To help you stay in the know, browse this list of upcoming Downtown Atlanta events . For instance, some upcoming events at the time of writing include lunchtime musical street performances, a knitting meetup, community wellness programs, green markets, theatre performances, magic shows, yoga classes, and more!

To guide your experience, the Downtown Atlanta district’s website has a full list of the area’s restaurants, events, and activities. Additionally, their website includes a detailed history of Downtown Atlanta. You can also read about their innovative vision for the future of the neighborhood!

Top Tourist Spots in Downtown Atlanta

Want to see all the can’t-miss tourist spots in Downtown Atlanta? The activities below are perfect to enjoy alone, with friends, family, or colleagues – as part of a vacation or staycation. The activities listed below are all popular Downtown Atlanta spots for tourists and locals alike!

14. National Center for Civil and Human Rights

Visiting the National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a truly moving experience that will stay with you forever. This museum explores the past, present, and future of the U.S. Civil Rights movement and “connects its legacy to ongoing human rights struggles around the world.” A visit here is the perfect activity for preteen and teenage children as well as adults!

Home to permanent and rotating temporary exhibits, this spot invites guests to engage with and learn more about issues of equity, social justice, dignity, and more. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights was built in 2014, with the goal of inspiring people “to tap into their own power to change the world around them.”

Head here to see important papers and artifacts exploring the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. as well as explore the fight for civil rights and human rights across the globe. The Center also regularly hosts performances, book talks, lectures, and other educational programs.

Want to get a peek before you visit? Check out the interactive virtual tour of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

15. Centennial Olympic Park

This scenic park in Downtown Atlanta honors the legacy of the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games. With 22 acres of greenspace to enjoy, Centennial Olympic Park is the perfect part of Downtown to unplug, relax, and take a break! Stop here between museums, tours, and other sightseeing activities.

During warm weather, the Fountain of Rings allows little ones to cool off and splash around to their hearts’ content. Playgrounds, an amphitheatre, gardens, and more will also keep everyone entertained at Centennial Olympic Park.

Grab some lunch in between your other plans, throw down a blanket, and enjoy a picnic here to rest and refuel! Be sure to also check out the park’s lineup of concerts and festivals hosted throughout the year.

16. SkyView Atlanta

Soar to the top of this ferris wheel in the heart of Downtown Atlanta! Catching a ride on the SkyView Ferris Wheel is a perfect way to end your date night, or a thrilling adventure for the kiddos.

With 42 climate-controlled private gondolas on this ferris wheel, you can experience amazing views of the Atlanta skyline in style and comfort! VIP options are also available for those seeking an extra-special experience.

For nearly a decade, SkyView Atlanta has delighted locals and visitors with mesmerizing views of the city. They sell group tickets for outings of 200+ people, as well as an add-on “Love is In the Air” package that includes a box of chocolates!

17. Georgia Aquarium

A visit to the Georgia Aquarium will make you feel like a kid again! This is the largest aquarium in the United States, with more than 11 million gallons of aquatic adventures to explore. Despite its enormous size, the Georgia Aquarium is centrally located in Downtown Atlanta and convenient to other attractions nearby.

At the Georgia Aquarium, you’ll come face-to-face with countless creatures. From penguins to sea lions, dolphins, sharks, and more – you’re sure to find your favorite underwater creature here! For added fun, ask about their animal encounters, swim and dive sessions, and other incredible experiences.

You can also host a birthday party at the Georgia Aquarium, find kid-friendly eats at Café Aquaria, and enjoy dolphin and sea lion presentations!

18. The World of Coca-Cola

Atlanta is the home of The Coca-Cola Company, and Atlantans are loyal to Coke as their soft drink of choice! As a result, visiting the World of Coca-Cola is a classic, must-do Atlanta activity.

Here, you can learn all about the history and culture behind this iconic company and the world’s most famous soft drink. Our favorite part of this experience is tasting the flavors of Coke from around the world!

At the World of Coca-Cola, you can explore interactive museum exhibits, see hundreds of artifacts, grab a bite in the Bottle Cap Cafe, and take home a piece of the excitement from the Coke Store on-site. Plus, get closer than ever before to the vault that houses the top-secret Coca-Cola formula!

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

Did you know – only 0.2% of college football players and coaches have the honor of being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame? Pay tribute to these legends at this unique Atlanta site!

Sports fanatic or not, the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame is an experience that will score you some points! This is an interactive experience for all things related to the sport.

At the College Football Hall of Fame, you can honor the history of the game while learning all about college football legends through exhibits and interactive areas. Plus, try kicking a field goal on an 45-yard indoor football field! Here, the whole family can enjoy “94,000 square feet of the most immersive sports museum there is!”

20. Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Your kids will want to spend the whole day at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta . And, the best part is, parents will have just as much fun as the little ones! Burn off some energy at this interactive museum geared toward young children.

This kid-friendly spot includes 3 rotating exhibitions per year. Additionally, see six beloved permanent exhibits – including Let Your Creativity Flow, Step Up to Science, Fundamentally Food, and more. Here, the focus is on interactive learning through play.

The museum also hosts special events and programs. These include art studio activities, an “innovation station,” science bar, cultural programs and celebrations, and more. Be sure to check the museum’s website schedule ahead of time to see which programs might be planned during your visit!

21. Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Head to Mercedes-Benz Stadium to catch an Atlanta United soccer game, Atlanta Falcons game, or a concert! Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a sleek and shiny Atlanta destination, always buzzing with excitement for the next big event.

In addition to amazing views and state-of-the-art amenities, this stadium has gained national attention for its extremely reasonable concessions pricing. It’s all part of the stadium’s commitment to keeping refreshments affordable for guests and families!

If you’re curious to check out the stadium but your visit doesn’t line up with an event you’d like to attend, you can still book a stadium tour! This unique experience includes a peek at the locker rooms, the field, Window to the City, Skybridges, and Club areas. Or, book a tour to familiarize yourself with the venue before coming back for an event!

22. Zoo Atlanta

See amazing exhibits of animals from across the world at Zoo Atlanta ! Located in the Grant Park neighborhood just outside Downtown Atlanta, Zoo Atlanta is a popular spot for many Atlanta families and tourists.

Explore the Zoo’s calendar for family-friendly events as well as after-hours events for adults! For instance, “Brew at the Zoo” and “Sippin’ Safari” allow the 21+ crowd to mix and mingle, while “Boo at the Zoo” and “Cookies with Santa” will delight little ones.

Popular animals to see at Zoo Atlanta include elephants, lions, a giant tortoise, flamingoes, giant pandas, and more. While you’re at Zoo Atlanta, stop by the Kidzone play area, enjoy a splash fountain and carousel, take a ride on the Zoo Train, and walk along the Treetop Tykes Trail! You can also visit the petting zoo to get up-close with goats and sheep!

Be sure to stop by the gift shop on your way out for a new plush, cuddly friend to remind you of your adventures.

23. Things to Do in Downtown Atlanta – Plan a Day of Family Fun

Want to combine the best parts of Downtown Atlanta into a family-friendly day out that everyone will love? Let’s do it!

• Start by fueling up with a delicious breakfast. Head to Atlanta Breakfast Club for Southern favorites like chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, peach cobbler French toast, and more.
• For families with little ones, head to the Children’s Museum of Atlanta (see #20 above) for an interactive morning of play and learning.
• If the kids are age 9 or older, delve into Atlanta’s role in the Civil Rights movement and the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Unexpected Atlanta’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Atlanta History Tour . Or, enjoy the best of Atlanta’s food and history (plus taste 8 delicious dishes!) on our Grant Park Past & Future Food Tour .
• Then, break for a picnic lunch in Centennial Olympic Park (#15). Grab takeout slices from Rosa’s Pizza or BBQ from Daddy D’z (#7) and enjoy 22 acres of green space in the heart of Downtown Atlanta. Bring a frisbee or football to toss around if the kids have extra energy to burn off! If it’s raining, head to the Sweet Auburn Curb Market (#2) instead to explore a wide variety of delicious indoor food spots.
• In the afternoon, head indoors and explore the National Museum for Civil and Human Rights (#14), The World of Coca-Cola (#18), or the College Football Hall of Fame (#19), depending on your interests.
• For dinner, try The Varsity just north of Downtown for iconic Atlanta fast food eats, or Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria .
• Finally, end the night with a mesmerizing ride on the SkyView ferris wheel (#16), with enchanting views of Atlanta’s Downtown skyline.
• Have extra time on your hands between activities? Be sure to see some of Atlanta’s monuments between activities – including the John Lewis “HERO” mural (#7) and the Ambassador Andrew Young statue.

After a long day of exploring the best of Atlanta, settle in at one of Downtown Atlanta’s many fabulous hotels for a good night’s sleep!

24. Downtown Atlanta Date Night Ideas

Planing a Downtown Atlanta date night? Look no further! Romance your date with these fun, special, and unique date ideas. First, set the tone with flowers from Gresham’s Florist of Atlanta. As the oldest florist in the city, Gresham’s is a family-owned business that’s been serving Downtown Atlanta and beyond since 1913!

Then, take your date to one of these Downtown Atlanta restaurants:

• SunDial Restaurant (see #10 above) for an unforgettable backdrop, with panoramic views of the city. Reservations required!
• Paschal’s Restaurant for classic Soul food and live jazz every 1st & 3rd Friday of the month. Paschal’s has served as a meeting place for notable public figures, including Aretha Franklin, Dizzy Gillespie, Andrew Young, Maynard Jackson, Al Gore, and Dr. Martin Luther King.
• White Oak Kitchen & Cocktails for upscale bites and a warm, polished Southern vibe.

Cap off the evening with a romantic ride on the SkyView ferris wheel (#16). Take in stunning views of Atlanta’s skyline in a private, climate-controlled gondola. They even have a “Love is In the Air” add-on box of chocolates option when you purchase tickets online! Feeling extra fancy? Add a VIP package to skip the line, enjoy Ferrari-style seats, and take in captivating views with a glass floor.

If you’re planning a daytime date, swap the dinner for an unforgettable food tour of the city! Unexpected Atlanta’s Grant Park Past & Future Food Walk is a unique date idea. This walking food tour shares the best of Atlanta’s food and history – and you’ll taste 8 delicious dishes along the way!

Have fun exploring all that Downtown Atlanta has to offer! For a unique experience with a local guide who can give you the insider’s scoop, sign up for an Unexpected Atlanta walking tour – rated #1 in “Atlanta Tours & Activities” on TripAdvisor !

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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

Margarita Soul Ray / Shutterstock

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

Travel_with_me / Shutterstock

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

Billy F Blume Jr / Shutterstock

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

Bassam Faraj / Shutterstock

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 Best Things to Do in Atlanta for Any Kind of Trip

History buffs, foodies, and even pop culture fans will find endless possibilities in the Big Peach.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

And the local shopping scene in Atlanta is also quite impressive feature. Stop by one of their traditional malls, like Lenox Square or Phipps Plaza (for upscale, treat-yourself-style purchases). Or visit one of the indoor-outdoor markets , like Municipal Market and Ponce City Market, where you'll find dozens of vendors—including chefs, artisans, growers, and makers—sharing quality goods you can't find anywhere else. But just because the shopping's good, doesn't mean it lacks nature. Between botanical gardens, park green space, nature preserves, and walking trails, the outdoorsy in you is covered too.

So be a peach (* wink *) and read on to discover all the go-to Atlanta destinations you can't miss on your next visit.

Take in the beautiful sights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

An urban oasis, the Atlanta Botanical Garden boasts 30 acres of outdoor gardens, an award-winning Children's Garden, a Canopy Walk through Storza Woods, and an innovative Edible Garden featuring an outdoor demonstration kitchen. Refer to the events calendar for timely activities, like art exhibitions, classes, and more.

Sip soda at the World of Coca-Cola.

The home of the nation's favorite soda holds a ton of history. Travel back in time to see how far it's come, hang with the iconic Coca-Cola polar bear, and visit the tasting station, where you can try a variety of Coca-Cola beverages from around the world, as you learn interesting facts about them.

Enjoy local cuisine at Krog Street Market.

A food stall destination that was originally built in the 1920s, it's now a bustling landing strip for all of the hippest local cuisine and ingredients. Check out the directory to see where you might want to chow down.

Catch a movie and shop at Starlight Drive-In and Flea Market.

Two of the most retro and fun things to do—see a drive-in movie and shop for antiques—in one place! Sounds like heaven on Earth, doesn't it? And it all exists at Starlight . The flea market is open every weekend during the day, and once the sun sets, it's show time.

Learn about Martin Luther King Jr.'s influence.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park is a campus of sites formed to honor Dr. King's instrumental societal change. It includes his birth home, Ebenezer Baptist Church—where King was co-pastor and where his funeral was held—and The King Center, which is also his resting place, alongside his wife, Coretta Scott King.

Dive with sharks at the Georgia Aquarium.

Explore over 11 million gallons of water at the Georgia Aquarium , which is home to all kinds of your favorite aquatic creatures, including sharks, piranhas, turtles, and more. You can even elevate the experience with a dolphin encounter or dive with sharks.

Take in the view from the Skyview Ferris wheel.

Towering nearly 20 stories above Centennial Park, the SkyView Ferris wheel provides a view of the city like no other. Sit back and relax in one of its 42 private, climate-controlled gondolas to take in the breathtaking panoramic scenes.

See a show at Alliance Theatre.

Atlanta's Tony Award-winning theatre is the ideal destination for live entertainment. Check their website to see what shows you can catch on the Coca-Cola stage while you're in town.

Fill up at the iconic Busy Bee Cafe.

Named one of America's Classic Restaurants by the James Beard Foundation in 2022, stop by The Busy Bee Cafe for iconic Southern food. Best known for its fried chicken, the 76-year-old establishment also serves delicious baked macaroni & cheese and cornbread muffins. Fun fact: Oprah has visited for lunch!

Enjoy nature and city views at Piedmont Park.

Piedmont Park is a 200-plus-acre green space in the heart of Atlanta that's always bustling with something to do: go on a stroll, join a fitness class, catch a concert... or simply stop and take in the beautiful contrast of Atlanta's striking city skyline against the vast, lush green park. Fun fact: The park has been featured in a handful of movies and shows , like Spider-Man and American Idol .

Contemplate history at the Margaret Mitchell House and Museum.

The home of author Margaret Mitchell in Atlanta is deemed a national historical place because it's where she wrote Gone With the Wind , a book (and movie) that shaped narratives around the Civil War for decades to come.

As the Atlanta History Center points out, although the story was well-loved, it's not a work of non-fiction: "Both the book and the movie depict a rosy myth of the Old South, casting the institution of slavery in a benevolent light," the site reads. "We encourage open discussion about the content of the book and film, the evidence from historical reality, and Margaret Mitchell's life."

Feed a giant panda at the Atlanta Zoo.

The Atlanta Zoo became known for its giant panda exhibit when it welcomed the only giant panda cub born in the United States in 2006. Now, you can even feed one in a giant panda encounter . It's worth noting that the tickets are sold on a timed system to limit the number of guests in the zoo at a given time.

Attend a storytelling and house tour at The Wren's Nest.

The Wren's Nest is the historic home of author and journalist Joel Chandler Harris, who was best known for recording and publishing the Br'er Rabbit folktales as told by the fictional character Uncle Remus. The stories played a significant role in shaping American literature. The house hosts tours and live storytelling events , and admission is $12.

Visit the College Football Hall of Fame.

Football fans won't want to skip this stop on their Atlanta tour. The museum features a three-story wall of helmets from various players and teams—and after registering your ticket, your chosen helmet will light up from its post. A continued customized tour features a specialty exhibit and an indoor playing field.

Spot famous TV and movie film locations.

Did you know Atlanta has been the backdrop for many popular TV shows and movies —like The Walking Dead, Stranger Things, and The Hunger Games ? The Swan House —located on Atlanta History Center's 33-acre campus—was used as President Snow's mansion in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Mockingjay: Part 1. You can go on a tour or just explore the grounds.

Brave a 'Stranger Things'-themed escape room.

Speaking of Stranger Things , Sleepy Hollow Farm is home to Hopper's cabin — and you can embark on an escape room adventure in the cabin with Escape Woods . (Just make sure you book the cabin tour specifically, or you risk not being able to see it!)

Hike to see a waterfall at the Cascade Springs Nature Preserve.

An unexpected reprieve from the busy city, Cascade Springs is the perfect place to go for a day hike with views. On the trail, you'll traverse a rolling forest and babbling creek, and you'll even spot a beautiful stone springhouse.

Immerse your senses at the Illuminarium.

Kids and adults alike will love the one-of-a-kind experience offered at the Illuminarium . Themed exhibits are brought to life via 4K laser projection, audio beams, and in-floor haptics to give visitors an immersive sensory show. Some of the rotating show themes include space, sports, and a New Year's celebration.

Bike, view art, and explore on the Atlanta Beltline.

The Beltline is Atlanta's impressive outdoor space that consists of 22 miles of unused railroad tracks circling the core of the city. It includes walking and biking trails, green space, and art installations to enjoy along the way.

Walk on the wing of the first Boeing 747-400.

At the Delta Flight Museum , guests can not only tour the first Boeing 747-400 produced, but walk on its wing. They can also channel their inner pilot and fly the only Boeing 737 flight simulator open to the public in the United States.

Kayla Blanton is a freelance writer-editor who covers health, nutrition, and lifestyle topics for various publications including Prevention , Everyday Health , SELF, People , and more. She’s always open to conversations about fueling up with flavorful dishes, busting beauty standards, and finding new, gentle ways to care for our bodies. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Ohio University with specializations in women, gender, and sexuality studies and public health, and is a born-and-raised midwesterner living in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband and two spoiled kitties.

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More From Forbes

5 vital things you need to do to see northern lights ‘superstorm’ this weekend.

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The northern lights flare in the sky over a farmhouse, late Friday, May 10, 2024, in Brunswick, ... [+] Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

Earth is currently experiencing some of the strongest geomagnetic storms for over 20 years, with the northern and southern lights visible at latitudes that rarely see any aurora.

Aurora have been seen as far south as Arizona and Florida, and southern Europe. The very rare displays look set to continue throughout the weekend with sustained activity expected. An X-class solar flare on the sun on Friday could mean they continue into Sunday and beyond.

However, don’t expect the aurora to be brilliantly bright in your backyard tonight, tomorrow night or any other night. Or be in a position to take incredible images with your smartphone without trying. Both may be possible, depending on your location, but here’s what you should do to maximize your chances:

1. Find Our When The Sun Sets

Auroral activity might be incredibly high at any time of the day, but unless it’s very dark you’ll see nothing. Finding out the time of sunset where you are is easy enough, but you also need to know that at this time of year in the northern hemisphere, twilight lasts for an hour or more. Don’t count on seeing much before astronomical darkness roughly 90 minutes after sunset.

2. Check The Cloud Cover

If it’s cloudy, you’ll see nothing. But there are different types of clouds. Low cloud is the only one you need to be really worried about. If you have 90% low cloud, it’s probably game over. However, if you have no low cloud—whether or not you have high cloud—it could be game on. High cloud is cirrus, which is typically thin and wispy, and doesn’t much affect the view of aurora. Check you location on Clear Outside , the Scope Nights app or Windy —or any app or website with figures for low, medium and high cloud. Be wary of apps that just give you a percentage figure for cloud cover, which could cause you to call-off a chase unnecessarily. Of course the best way to check actual cloud cover is your Mk1 Eyeballs—just go outside and use your own eyes.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis, commonly known as the ... [+] northern lights, on May 10, 2024 in Whitley Bay, England. The UK met office said a strong solar storm may allow northern parts of the UK the chance to see displays of aurora. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images)

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Wwe smackdown results winners and grades on may 10 2024, the 8 best trampolines with insights from an industry expert, 3. check the likelihood of aurora.

There are several ways of checking whether aurora is likely where you live. Apps that will give you alerts customized to your location include My Aurora Forecast & Alerts and AuroraWatchUK . It’s also worth checking the Aurora - 30 Minute Forecast - Space Weather Prediction Center .

4. Get Out Of The City

Most people live in places that are aurora-proof. That blanket of light pollution across cities, caused by thousands of lights (most of which don’t need to be on at night), make it very difficult to see anything other than tenuous, color-less detail even in strong aurora. You might get lucky with particularly bright displays, but the best advice you’ll ever get about seeing the aurora is to get out of the city to dark country skies. Drive about 20 miles away from a city, use a Dark Sky Place finder or check the light pollution map . In the U.K. there’s a network of Dark Sky Discovery Sites .

5. Take A Tripod And Shoot In Raw

Yes, you can take images of aurora with your smartphone. Simply by using “night mode” or a long exposure will get you a good shot. Long exposures are how photographers get the wow-factor color into their aurora shots—which can look distinctly grey to the naked eye. Some support will vastly improve your shots. You can rest your phone on something—perhaps a fence, a wall or anything else stationary—but the best way to get great-looking long exposures is to use a tripod and a universal smartphone mount. Either way, shoot in raw quality if you can—you’ll then be able to make the images look awesome by editing them afterwards.

Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.

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• International

The latest on the massive solar storm

By Angela Fritz, Elise Hammond and Chris Lau, CNN

Incredible lighthouse picture from Maine

From CNN's Chris Lau

Among a flurry of surreal images capturing the dazzling auroras is one taken by Benjamin Williamson of a lighthouse in Portland, Maine.

"It's one of the most incredible things I've ever seen, the awe and wonder," Williamson told CNN.

He said he used a long-exposure technique to snap the shot, but did not edit it.

Watch the full interview with Williamson here .

Things could be about to ramp up

If you still haven't seen the aurora, hold on for another 30 minutes to an hour, according to CNN meteorologist Chad Myers.

The next wave of coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, which cause the aurora, is about to arrive, he said.

"Just wait a minute because things are going to start to ramp up here," he said, adding that the increase could arrive "anytime now." "When it comes, get outside, get ready, put your coat on."

For those who are too busy to witness the phenomenon tonight, Myers said the aurora is expected to last three nights.

Why does the aurora last for a weekend?

By CNN's Chris Lau

Generally, it takes just eight minutes for light to travel 93 million miles to the Earth from the sun, but astrophysicist Janna Levin said the energized particles causing the current wave of aurora travel a lot slower, causing the phenomenon to last for the weekend.

"Some of these mass ejections are trillions of kilograms," she said. "They're slower. So they're taking longer, but still hours, maybe tens of hours."

Here's how the solar storm looks in the South and on the East Coast

The aurora was visible across the East Coast and in the South Friday.

Here's how it looked in Chester, South Carolina.

Down in Florida, waves of color swam through the sky.

Up north in New Jersey, a purple-ish haze could be seen in the sky.

Will solar storms get more intense and risky in the future?

The answer is probably not in the short term, according to astrophysicist Hakeem Oluseyi.

He said scientists study what is constantly happening on the surface of the sun and have found a pattern.

“Geological data shows us that in the past the sun was way more active than it is today. It has cycles where it goes very quiet ... and you have events that show that the solar activity was much, much greater,” he told CNN. “So there's no evidence that we're going to see those big maxima this cycle." 

But the astrophysicist also spoke of a caveat - the limitations of modern science.

“Even though it's predictable in the short term, we still don't quite understand what creates the magnetic fields in the sun,” he said, adding: “That's why NASA has so many satellites looking at the sun.”

In Pictures: Auroras light the sky during rare solar storm

From CNN Digital's Photo Team

A series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun are creating dazzling auroras across the globe .

The rare solar storm may also disrupt communications. The last time a solar storm of this magnitude reached Earth was in October 2003, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center.

See more photos of the aurora from tonight.

Behind dazzling aurora could lie “real danger,” Bill Nye the Science Guy says

The massive solar storm could present “a real danger,” especially with the modern world relying so much on electricity, according to Bill Nye the Science Guy , a science educator and engineer.

Scientists are warning an increase in solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun have the potential to disrupt communication on Earth into the weekend. Solar flares can affect communications and GPS almost immediately because they disrupt Earth’s ionosphere, or part of the upper atmosphere. Energetic particles released by the sun can also disrupt electronics on spacecraft and affect astronauts without proper protection within 20 minutes to several hours.

In comparison to tonight's event, Nye drew comparisons with another incident in 1859, known as the Carrington Event, when telegraph communications were severely affected.

“The other thing, everybody, that is a real danger to our technological society, different from 1859, is how much we depend on electricity and our electronics and so on,” Nye said. "None of us really in the developed world could go very long without electricity."

He noted that there are systems in place to minimize the impact, but “stuff might go wrong,” stressing that not all transformers are equipped to withstand such a solar event.

“It depends on the strength of the event and it depends on how much of our infrastructures are prepared for this the sort of thing,” he said.

Bill Nye breaks down significance of the solar storm | CNN

This post has been updated with more details on solar flares' impact on electronics.

Here's where clouds will block the view of the northern lights in the US

From CNN's Angela Fritz

After an incredibly stormy week, most of the Lower 48 has clear skies to see the northern lights. But there are some areas where clouds and rainy weather are spoiling the view.

A deck of clouds is blocking the sky in the Northeast, from parts of Virginia into Maine, as an area of low pressure spins off the East Coast.

In the Midwest, the aurora will be hard to see through thick clouds in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan — including the Upper Peninsula — and Illinois.

A stripe of clouds is tracking across Texas, including Dallas-Forth Worth, and into Louisiana.

And in the Southwest, patchy clouds across the the Four Corners region could make the northern lights difficult to spot.

Aurora seen at least as far south as Georgia

Barely visible to the naked eye, the aurora can be seen in Atlanta in the 10 p.m. ET hour. 

It is easier to see through photographs using a long exposure. The photos below, taken by CNN's Eric Zerkel and Emily Smith, used 3- and 10-second exposures.

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How to Observe the Northern Lights This Weekend

The Space Weather Prediction Center said solar activity would be high again on Saturday.

Northern Lights Glow in the Sky Amid Solar Storm

Powerful solar flare activity made the aurora borealis visible unusually far south..

[Laughing] Holy moly. I know. This — I thought it would just be over on the horizon a little — Behind us, too. Yeah. A little green on the horizon. Nothing like this. This is — This is like, ‘Oh, my god.’ Everywhere.

By Claire Moses

Keep an eye on the skies on Saturday night for what could be another dazzling display of nature — or not, depending on your location and weather conditions.

An unusual amount of solar flare activity means that the aurora borealis, or the northern lights, could continue to appear over the weekend.

The solar storm was a level 5 on Friday, which gave some star gazers a clear view of streaks of green, purple and red that arced across the skies. Those conditions are expected to continue, Mike Bettwy, the operations chief of the Space Weather Prediction Center, said on Saturday.

“It should be fairly similar to what we saw last night, maybe not as widespread but fairly close,” Mr. Bettwy said.

“Depending on how everything evolves,” he added, “tomorrow night might actually be better than tonight” for views of the aurora.

In areas with clear skies, the display on Sunday could be similar to what people witnessed on Friday.

If you’re in a place with a lot of bright lights — like a city — it’s going to be hard to see anything. And then there are other complications, like the weather.

Two weather systems on Saturday night could impair viewing of the solar display, said Bryan Jackson, a forecaster at the Weather Prediction Center.

The Northeast is likely to be overcast because of a cloud system that could stretch from the Midwest and center over Pennsylvania. Cloud coverage might also extend as far as Maine, with the potential to clear around New Hampshire.

“This event is strong enough that the Northeast United States pretty much universally has a good shot at seeing it,” Mr. Bettwy said. “It’s just a matter of making sure that the cloud cover is absent.”

A second storm system, which was predicted to produce a fair amount of rain and cloud coverage, is possible over the Southwest.

Mr. Jackson said Michigan was likely to have clear skies between waves of rain. Other regions of the country could have clear views, too.

“In Seattle, it was pretty clear last night and it looks to be pretty clear again,” Mr. Jackson said on Saturday. “Portions of the southern Rockies, portions of the southern Plains are not overcast, but not completely clear either.”

The lights were particularly brilliant over England on Friday, and images of the solar show awed onlookers in parts of Maine and Massachusetts.

A tip: If you are in a clear area, even south of where the aurora is forecast, snap a picture or record a video with your cellphone.

The sensor on the camera is more sensitive to the wavelengths produced by the aurora and may produce an image you can’t see with the naked eye.

Why is this happening?

A severe solar storm is brewing.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center on Friday issued a rare warning after a solar outburst reached Earth.

As nuclear reactions occur on the sun, it routinely expels material from its surface.

Officials said that the solar activity could potentially cause electrical outages or interfere with navigation and communication systems.

When is this happening?

The expelled material from the sun could reach Earth’s atmosphere by Friday afternoon or evening, officials said.

“What we’re expecting over the next couple of days should be more significant than what we’ve seen, certainly so far,” Mike Bettwy, the operations chief at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference on Friday.

What’s flaring up?

The Space Weather Prediction Center said on Friday night that we were experiencing an extreme solar storm, a level 5 , up from a level 4 earlier in the day .

The last extreme event happened in October 2003 and resulted in power failures in Sweden and damaged transformers in South Africa, the center said.

The current storm is caused by a cluster of sunspots — dark, cool regions on the solar surface. The cluster is flaring and ejecting material every six to 12 hours.

“We anticipate that we’re going to get one shock after another through the weekend,” said Brent Gordon, chief of the space weather services branch at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

Katrina Miller , Emmett Lindner and Judson Jones contributed reporting.

Claire Moses is a Times reporter in London, focused on coverage of breaking and trending news. More about Claire Moses

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

A celestial image, an Impressionistic swirl of color in the center of the Milky Way, represents a first step toward understanding the role of magnetic fields  in the cycle of stellar death and rebirth.

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

A new set of computer simulations, which take into account the effects of stars moving past our solar system, has effectively made it harder to predict Earth’s future and reconstruct its past.

Dante Lauretta, the planetary scientist who led the OSIRIS-REx mission to retrieve a handful of space dust , discusses his next final frontier.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .

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Diana Ross is still the boss on stage at age 80

Credit: RODNEY HO/rhoaj

Chastain Park Amphitheatre, which currently has the corporate name Cadence Bank attached to it, opened in 1944 as Atlanta’s first sizable outdoor music venue and it remains beloved to this day.

That same year, Diana Ross entered the earth in Detroit. She would carve out a luminescent superstar career, first with the Supremes in the 1960s, then as a solo artist in the 1970s and 1980s. And she, too, remains beloved to this day.

Chastain and Ross would cross paths numerous times over the years, doing so yet again Friday night on an uncommonly cool, dry evening, picture-perfect weather for star gazing on multiple levels.

Ross chose to go “no tables,” which meant no clinking wine glasses, fake candles and picnic baskets. All eyes were on her, not the brie and crackers.

She also opted for no opening act. Subtext: Ross is her own opening act.

So at 8 p.m. sharp, the show opened with an eight-minute video retrospective of her illustrious career, an appetizer of sorts as lines of fans were still waiting to enter the nearly full 6,900-seat open air theater. And just as she’s done for almost every concert since 1980, she opened with her joyous dance classic “I’m Coming Out,” setting the stage for a fast-paced, shimmery ride through decades of amazing tunes.

She efficiently ran through a laundry list of Supremes songs and solo hits including “Stop! In The Name of Love,” “You Can’t Hurry Love” and “Baby Love,” along with solo smashes like “Touch Me in the Morning” and “The Boss.”

Credit: RODNEY HO

‘I’m so grateful’

Ross was radiant, her voice still bringing a silky effervescence. Her nine-piece band and four back-up singers provided a dynamic backdrop. She doesn’t run around the stage the way she did in the 1980s, but she can still shimmy her hips with a smile while singing “Upside Down.”

“I’m 47!” she said midway through the concert with a twinkle in her eye, then mock corrected herself. “You know that I’m 80 years old? They say move it or lose it, so I’m gonna move it!”

And to prove this wasn’t 1977, she didn’t ask everyone to raise their lighters during “Reach Out (And Touch Somebody’s Hand). Instead, she said, “If you have your iPhones or cell phones, turn the flashlight on and hold them high in the air. Now move it around!”

She then asked the crowd to repeat a favorite mantra:

I’m so grateful/ for all the blessings in my life/ for there are many

All is well/ Thank you, thank you thank you

Just 45 minutes into the concert, she had reached her 15th song and slowed down with a loving version of the Billie Holiday torch song “Don’t Explain,” which Ross first sang in 1972 in her acting debut as Holiday in “Lady Sings the Blues.”

This was Ross’ first post-pandemic concert in Atlanta, having performed on March 1, 2020 at the Fox Theatre, less than two weeks before the world shut down.

She told the crowd the COVID-19 shutdown inspired her 2021 album “Thank You.”

“We recorded it virtually,” she said. “Every song was a reflection of my life spending two years not being able to tour and see you.”

She sang a couple of cuts from “Thank You” including the inspirational “Tomorrow” and the anthemic “If the World Just Danced,” which the world did do on Tik Tok during that time of isolation.

Credit: RODNEY HO/rhoa

Family affair

Ross, while making a costume change, gave her daughter and singer songwriter Rhonda Ross Kendrick some stage time for her own solo work which had a more rock edge. They also sang a touching, heartfelt duet “Count on Me.”

Ross finished the night first with a spirited cover of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” her first solo chart topper in 1970 followed by a declaration of her own resilience via the Gloria Gaynor song “I Will Survive.” Proving it’s not just about her, she gave each band member a moment in the sun, including the backup singers.

The band also cheekily interpolated a bit of DJ Khaled’s “All I Do Is Win,” a nod to a woman who has absolutely nothing to lose at this point in her life.

At 9:35 p.m., 87 minutes after she arrived on stage, Ross triumphantly sashayed off, allowing her and most of her largely 50-plus audience to get in bed long before the 11 p.m. news. (In contrast, the Wilson sisters of Heart, who are in their 70s, began their set at State Farm Arena in downtown Atlanta during Ross’ final song.)

About the Author

Rodney Ho writes about entertainment for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution including TV, radio, film, comedy and all things in between. A native New Yorker, he has covered education at The Virginian-Pilot, small business for The Wall Street Journal and a host of beats at the AJC over 20-plus years. He loves tennis, pop culture & seeing live events.

Credit: David Aaro

Credit: Miguel Martinez

Credit: Ben Hendren

Credit: Hyosub Shin [email protected]

Credit: COURTESY OF STEV

Credit: Handout

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Atlanta doesn’t settle for doing anything the way it’s always been done.

We didn’t create freedom, soda, grits or hospitality—we elevated them into something sacred. We didn’t invent hip-hop—we just took it to a whole different level.

We raise the bar, because we don’t look to others for inspiration. Instead we look ahead to our own future and see our influence on everything as we move.

And that small difference doesn’t just set us apart. It defines us.

Atlanta. On A Different Level.

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

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Events provide a glimpse into the ATL experience like nothing else, warmly welcoming visitors to the city year-round. Discover events in Atlanta .

Georgia Renaissance Festival

Multiple days until 06/02/2024

Chastain Park Arts Festival

5/11/24 – 5/12/24

Balloon Museum

5/10/24 – 5/19/24

Latino Family Festival

Sear after dark.

Multiple dates until 06/14/2024

European Film Festival of Atlanta

5/10/24 – 5/11/24

A House Ain’t A Home Stageplay

Atlanta ballet presents: liquid motion.

Multiple dates until 05/12/2024

High Risk, Baby!

5/10/24 – 5/12/24

Highlights from the Opera

Michelle malone album release, 10th annual midtown race for mac 5k run/walk.

THE KIMPTON SYLVAN HOTEL

Kimpton Shane Hotel, an IHG hotel

Hyatt Centric Buckhead

Stay in touch, ready to discover more about atlanta sign up for email updates, take a peek inside any (or all) of atlanta’s visitor guides.

Toggle on the map or buttons below to explore each area and discover more Atlanta neighborhoods.

BOBBY JONES GOLF COURSE AND BITSY GRANT TENNIS CENTER

2125 Northside Dr. NW Atlanta, GA 30305

BUCKHEAD VILLAGE DISTRICT

3035 Peachtree Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30305

BUCKHEAD THEATRE

3110 Roswell Road NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-843-2825

CHASTAIN MEMORIAL PARK

135 W. Wieuca Rd. Nw Atlanta, GA 30342

LENOX/PHIPPS

3393 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326

LEGO Discovery Center

3500 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326

SLOOMOO INSTITUTE

3637 Peachtree Road Suite D Atlanta, GA 30319

THE SWAN HOUSE AT ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER

130 West Paces Ferry Road, NW Atlanta, GA 30305 404-814-4000

ATLANTA BELTLINE (WESTSIDE TRAIL)

Atlanta University Center

Bellwood Quarry At Westside Park

Westside Park

CHATTAHOOCHEE FOOD WORKS

Hammonds House Museum

503 Peeples Street Atlanta, GA 30310 404-612-0481

Herndon Home

587 University Place, N.W. Atlanta, GA 30314 404-581-9813

TRAP MUSIC MUSEUM

630 Travis Street NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-277-8501

WESTVIEW CEMETERY

WREN’S NEST

1050 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW Atlanta, GA 30310 404-753-7735

CASCADE SPRINGS NATURE PRESERVE

CENTER PARC CREDIT UNION STADIUM

JOHN A. WHITE GOLF COURSE

SOUTHWEST PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

TYLER PERRY STUDIOS

ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN

1345 Piedmont Avenue, NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-876-5859

ALLIANCE THEATRE

1280 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-733-5000

CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS

1404 Spring Street NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-873-3391

THE FEDERAL RESERVE BANK MUSEUM

1000 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309 404-498-8764

GEORGIA TECH

800 Spring Street NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-838-2060

HIGH MUSEUM OF ART

1280 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-733-440

FOX THEATRE

660 Peachtree Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-881-2052

MILLENNIUM GATE

395 17th Street NW Atlanta, GA 30363 404-881-0900

MUSEUM OF DESIGN ATLANTA

1315 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-979-6455

PIEDMONT PARK

400 Park Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30306

CENTENNIAL OLYMPIC PARK

265 Park Avenue West, NW Atlanta, GA 30313

CHICK-FIL-A COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME

250 Marietta St., NW Atlanta, GA 30313

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA

275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive Atlanta, GA 30313

GEORGIA AQUARIUM

225 Baker Street NW Atlanta, GA 30313

GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY

33 Gilmer Street. NE Atlanta, GA 30303

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450 Auburn Avenue, N.E. Atlanta, GA 30312

THE KING CENTER

449 Auburn Avenue, NE Atlanta, GA 30312

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248 Oakland Avenue, SE Atlanta, GA 30312

STATE FARM ARENA

1 State Farm Drive Atlanta, GA 30303

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50 Upper Alabama St SW Atlanta, GA 30303

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121 Baker Street NW Atlanta, GA 30313-1807

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MICHAEL C. CARLOS MUSEUM

571 South Kilgo Circle Atlanta, GA 30322

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1049 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306

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100 Rue Charlemagne Braselton, GA 30517

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Teacher Appreciation Week 2024: Freebies, deals, discounts for educators, plus gift ideas

Restaurants and other retailers have deals for teachers and educators for national teacher day, tuesday, may 7, and national teacher appreciation week, which runs monday, may 6, to friday, may 10..

All of us have one or more teachers who assisted, inspired or coached us along on our learning path. Need an excuse to show your gratitude? There are opportunities in the days ahead.

National Teacher Day is May 7, 2024, and Teacher Appreciation Week runs Monday, May 6, to Friday, May 10. The idea for a week to honor teachers began more than 70 years ago with first lady Eleanor Roosevelt.

The National National Parent Teacher Association has deemed this year's theme "Teachers are Shining Stars," and has an online toolkit with ideas on how to thank teachers. The National Education Association website has suggestions on how to celebrate teachers, too.

"Teachers are the heart and soul of our Nation," President Biden said in a proclamation on Friday, May 3. "They care for our Nation’s students, pass on knowledge to rising generations, and inspire our children to dream up new possibilities for their futures."

National Nurses Week 2024: Chipotle's free burrito giveaway, more deals and discounts

More ways to save: Visit USA TODAY's coupons page for deals from thousands of vendor s

Many restaurants and retailers are showing their appreciation with deals, discounts, specials and freebies . Here's some, but you may want to check social media for local deals, too – try searching for #NationalTeacherAppreciationWeek or #TeacherAppreciationWeek .

National Teacher Appreciation Week deals

• Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza: Teachers get a 20% discount on all orders with a valid ID from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12.
• BIC: The pen maker has deals on its BIC 4 Color Ballpoint Pen, with packs of three starting at $6.09 (available on Amazon , Walmart , Target ); BIC Gelocity Quick Dry Gel Pens, 12-pack starting at $12.99 ( Amazon , Walmart , Target ), and Break Resistant Mechanical Pencil, pack of two starting at $4.98 ( Walmart and Staples (2-Count); Amazon (4-Count), and BIC.com (12-Count).
• Buffalo Wild Wings: From Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12, teachers and school staff get 20% off their orders with valid IDs on dine-in, call-in, and walk-in orders.
• BurgerFi: Teachers get a 20% discount on all orders with a valid ID from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12.
• edible: The fruit gift arrangement company is giving teachers, school staff and graduates of all ages a buy-one-get-one dipped fruit cone Monday through Friday until June 7, at local Edible stores.
• Firehouse Subs: The sandwich chain has a week of specials available starting Monday through its Firehouse Rewards loyalty program and app including (on Wednesday) BOGO Hook & Ladder Subs and (on Friday) two medium sandwiches for $12 or two large sandwiches for $18.
• Free Rein Coffee Company: Teachers and educators get 20% off all year long from "Yellowstone" star Cole Hauser's brew brand by verifying with ID.me. Also eligible for the 20% discount: military members.
• The Good Feet Store : The retail chain, which has more than 250 locations, wants you to nominate education professionals – teachers, educators and other personnel including crossing guards – to win a personalized arch support system from The Good Feet Store. Submit applications online starting May 6 and through May 31. There may be one winner for each participating market (there's more than 75), and once selected, each winner will receive their own personalized arch support system.
• The Greene Turtle : All faculty and staff with a valid ID get a free meal (value of up to $15) on Tuesday, May 7, for Teachers Appreciation Day.
• Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream : Teachers get a 10% discount at participating locations from Monday to Friday, May 6-10.
• Hat Creek Burger Company : All teachers and school staff get a free 6-piece order of nuggets on Tuesday, May 7 (just show a valid ID).
• HTeaO: The iced tea chain will give teachers 50% off cups of tea from Monday, May 13, to Sunday, May 26, with a valid professional school ID.
• Huddle House: Teachers get a free meal from Monday to Friday, May 6-10 (available for dine-in only at participating locations). Students can also nominate a teacher to win free meals for a year (award given at each participating location). Also, get a free kids meal with any purchase of $6 or more.
• Insomnia Cookies: The Philadelphia-based late-night bakery chain with more than 240 locations is giving all teachers and school staff who show a valid ID a free Classic cookie in-store, no purchase necessary, all week beginning Monday, May 6. (Availability varies by location.)
• Jeremiah's Italian Ice: Teachers get a free small treat of their choosing on Tuesday, May 7, for Teacher's Appreciation Day with a valid educational ID at purchase.
• KIND Snacks: Teachers get 15% off their purchases on the website all year long. Customers just verify with ID.me at checkout.
• Learning Resources: The educational toy maker has several classroom products at discounted prices for teachers including a Rainbow Sorting Set Classroom Edition ($42.63; 39% off), Letter Construction Set ($35.45; 11% off) and Weather Tracker Pocket Chart ($26.49; 5% off), all on Amazon.com.
• L ogan' s Roadhouse: Teachers get 20% off their entrée this week. Just show your badge.
• McAlis ter’ s Deli: Teachers and educators can get free tea – either one big Sweet Tea, Unsweet Tea, ½ Sweet & ½ Unsweet Tea, or ½ Lemonade & ½ Sweet/Unsweet Tea (flavor shots excluded) – at McAlister's Deli from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12, with your badge or ID. Offer valid in-store only; no purchase necessary.
• Moe’s Southwest Grill: Cater a Moe's Southwest Grill meal for teachers from Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12, and when you spend $300 or more, get a $50 E-gift card (use code THANKYOU24). Good at participating locations; not valid with other offers or third-party delivery. Doesn't include tax, tip and fees.
• Noodles & Company: Parents, school administrators, and educators alike can get $15 off catering orders of $100 or more through May 17. Log into your Noodles Rewards account and use the code THANKSTEACHERS at checkout.
• The Parking Spot: The parking company is giving teachers 25% off parking during their trips; just signup with an associated education email account .
• Peter Piper Pizza : Teachers can get a free personal pizza every day Monday through Friday (May 6-10). Redemption is limited to once per day; valid teacher or nurse ID/credentials must be shown.
• Postino: The restaurant chain, with more than 25 locations in five states , will give teachers its $25 Board and Bottle (bruschetta board, plus a bottle of wine) all day every day during the month of May with badge/ID. (The special is usually only available Monday and Tuesday 8 p.m. to closing.)
• Potbelly Sandwich Works: Teachers get a free cookie or fountain drink with the purchase of an entrée by showing their ID Monday, May 6, to Sunday, May 12. Also, all customers can get free delivery on a catering order over $150.
• Raising Cane's: The fast casual chain is giving 10 teachers an all-expenses-paid summer vacation. Teachers can enter the contest on RaisingCanesTASweepstakes.com Monday, May 6, to Friday, May 10. Winners get two round-trip tickets to any U.S. destination, two-night hotel stay and a $200 gift card.
• Rock & Brews: Teachers get a free entrée with valid ID through Friday, May 10 (maximum value of $26.99) at the chain's Southern California locations (Corona, Buena Park, Redondo Beach, El Segundo and Tustin).
• Salad and Go: Teachers get free hot or cold coffee Wednesday, May 8, to Friday, May 10, with purchase during breakfast hours (6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.)
• Salata Salad Kitchen: On Tuesday, May 7, educators get 20% off their order when they present their badge at checkout. Also from Monday to Friday (May 6-10) get 20% off catering orders of $200 or more, and get free delivery on orders through DoorDash.
• Scholastic: The publisher has special deals and giveaways in its Scholastic Teacher Store and Book Clubs beginning Monday, May 6. And when you send a Scholastic eGift card through May 10, you'll be entered for a chance to win $550 of new books and resources for an educator of your choice.
• Shipley Do-Nuts: Teachers who belong to the chain's Do-Happy loyalty program can get a free half-dozen box of glazed Do-nuts with any purchase on Monday, May 6.
• Sonic Drive -In : Educators enrolled in the Sonic Teachers’ Circle Rewards program can take advantage of several deals starting Monday, May 6, to May 20; they include BOGO free Sonic Blast, BOGO free entrée, free Sonic cheeseburger with any purchase, free Large Drink or Slush with any purchase, or free small side with any entrée. (To join the rewards program create an account in the Sonic app and select "I'm a teacher" in settings.) Also, from May 6-20, Sonic is donating a portion of every drink, slush, and shake sold to its Limeades for Learning program, which supports local public schools.
• Staples: From Sunday, May 5, to Saturday, May 11, teachers can get free supply kits at Staples stores; kits include markers, pens, pencils, and glue. (20 kits per store while supplies last; limit 1 per teacher with teacher ID.) Teachers also get 20% off in-store purchases with their teacher ID at checkout.
• Stitch Fix: The online personal styling service is giving educators $50 credit to refresh their wardrobe. Between now and May 12, go to the Stitch Fix web site to verify credentials and get a promo code to use before June 30.
• tarte cosmetics: The beauty brand gives teachers and educators 40% off sitewide all year long.
• TGI Fridays: Teachers get a free entrée on Tuesday, May 7, at participating locations; choices include a cheeseburger with fries, half rack of ribs with choice of side, and Caesar salad with grilled chicken.
• The Halal Guys: Teachers get 10% off their meal from Wednesday, May 8, to Friday, May 10, on in-store orders, with proof of a valid teacher ID.
• Twinkl: Teacher subscription service Twinkl has ideas on how to show appreciation for your favorite teachers and is giving teachers a free month trial of its education materials.
• Whataburger: School employees can get a free Taquito, Breakfast on a Bun, or Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. local time Monday, May 6, to Friday, May 10 with ID.
• Yogurtland: Through May 14, the frozen yogurt chain is offering free delivery on orders of more than $15 made through the website or mobile app (use code FREEDELIVERY).
• Zaxby's : Teachers can buy one Boneless Wings Meal and get a second one free on May 7 at participating locations (redeemable through the Zaxby's app or website for Zax Rewardz members, while supplies last).
• Zips Car Wash:  Teachers can get a $5 "Pro" Wash at any Zips Car Wash or Rocket Express location across the country through May 19 with wash code 7652.

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads:  @mikesnider  & mikegsnider .

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