Discover the Top 20 Things to Do in Atlanta

Atlanta is one of the South’s most beautiful cities, where old meets new in the most exciting ways. As you explore Georgia’s gorgeous capital, you’ll find a perfect mix of historical sites, modern attractions, and cultural landmarks that make this city truly special and visitable so that’s why it has many tourists every year. 

This city offers something for everyone so no matter how old you are or what you like you will enjoy it in the best way. History fans can walk in the footsteps of Civil Rights leaders, while art lovers can explore countless galleries and museums. 

Families will find joy in world-famous attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, and food enthusiasts can taste their way through the city’s amazing restaurant scene you see here is a part of heaven. The best things to do in Atlanta are from peaceful walks in sprawling parks to exciting adventures in bustling neighborhoods and all are great. 

If you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, you’ll find plenty of Atlanta attractions that match your interests and budget so that you can enjoy every moment. This article explores the top 20 activities in Atlanta, making it easy for you to plan the perfect travel while knowing where you like to visit. We’ve included choices for all seasons, weather conditions, and group sizes, so you can make the most of your time in this vibrant Southern city.

#1 Explore Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park 

Among the most meaningful Atlanta tourist spots, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park stands as a powerful reminder of the Civil Rights Movement. Located in the Sweet Auburn district, this park tells the story of Dr. King’s life and legacy through several important buildings and exhibits.

At the heart of the park sits Dr. King’s childhood home, a two-story Queen Anne-style house where he spent his early years. Visitors can join guided tours to see where this civil rights leader grew up. Just down the street, you’ll find the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, where both Dr. King and his father served as pastors. The church’s restored interior and audio recordings of Dr. King’s sermons bring history to life.

The park also features the King Center, where you can visit Dr. King’s and Coretta Scott King’s tomb, surrounded by a peaceful reflecting pool. Inside the visitor center, you’ll discover compelling exhibits about the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King’s work.

The center includes interactive displays, historic photographs, and personal artifacts from Dr. King’s life. A serene peace garden offers a space for reflection, making this one of the most meaningful things to see in Atlanta. The entire park serves as a living memorial to Dr. King’s dream and his lasting impact on American history.

#2 Visit the Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium stands out as one of the most exciting top activities in Atlanta. This massive aquarium, located in downtown Atlanta, holds more than 10 million gallons of water and houses thousands of sea creatures you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

When you step inside, you’ll be amazed by the Ocean Voyager exhibit, where you can watch huge whale sharks swim right over your head through the largest window of any aquarium in North America. The crystal-clear view makes you feel like you’re walking on the ocean floor, with manta rays and countless fish swimming all around you.

What makes this one of the best family-friendly activities in Atlanta is how much there is to do. You can watch dolphins perform amazing tricks during daily shows, see sea otters play in their habitat, or visit with African penguins. Kids love the touch pools, where they can safely feel stingrays and small sharks under staff supervision.

The aquarium also offers special tours that let you go behind the scenes to learn how they care for all these amazing animals. Whether you visit during the day or evening, you’ll find the Georgia Aquarium full of life and excitement.

#3 Stroll Through Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s version of Central Park, offering 185 acres of green space right in the middle of the city. This beautiful park serves as a peaceful escape from the busy streets, where locals and visitors alike come to unwind and enjoy nature.

The park features miles of paved walking paths that wind through open meadows and past beautiful Lake Clara Meer. You can join the many joggers and cyclists on the trails, or simply find a shady spot under a tree for a relaxing picnic. The park’s large dog parks let pets run free while their owners chat and enjoy the fresh air.

As one of the most popular fun things to do in Atlanta, Piedmont Park hosts exciting events throughout the year. From the Atlanta Jazz Festival to food truck rallies, there’s often something special happening on the park’s spacious lawns.

The Saturday Green Market brings local farmers and food vendors together, making it a perfect spot to sample fresh local goods. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the tennis courts, public swimming pool, and several sports fields, while kids love the modern playground areas and splash pad during warm months.

#4 Explore Natural Beauty at the Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Atlanta Botanical Garden stands out as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Atlanta, offering 30 acres of stunning natural displays. Located next to Piedmont Park, this garden brings together native plants and exotic species in a way that captivates visitors throughout the year. The centerpiece Canopy Walk lets you explore the gardens from 40 feet in the air, giving you a unique view of the woodlands below.

When looking for things to do in Atlanta this weekend, check the garden’s event calendar. Each season brings special attractions, from spring’s Atlanta Blooms festival to winter’s magical Garden Lights display. In summer, the Imagination Garden delights children with interactive water features, while fall brings harvest festivals and scarecrow displays. The indoor Fuqua Orchid Center houses rare tropical plants and the largest collection of orchids in the United States.

The garden’s Earth Goddess, a massive plant-covered sculpture, has become an Atlanta icon. The Edible Garden and Outdoor Kitchen host cooking demonstrations using fresh herbs and vegetables grown on-site. For plant lovers, the Conservation Garden showcases rare and endangered species from the Southeast, while the Japanese Garden offers a peaceful retreat with its traditional design and tranquil pond.

#5 Dive into History at the World of Coca-Cola

The World of Coca-Cola ranks among the most fun things to do in Atlanta, offering visitors a fascinating look into America’s most famous soft drink. This modern attraction near Centennial Olympic Park tells the story of how a simple soda fountain drink became a global phenomenon. The journey begins in the Lobby, where you’re greeted by a friendly Coca-Cola Polar Bear, perfect for memorable photos.

As one of the truly unique things to do in Atlanta, the museum lets you explore the complete Coca-Cola experience. The Vault room adds mystery to your visit, housing the legendary secret formula under tight security. In the Bottle Works area, you can watch the actual bottling process in action, seeing how the iconic drink gets made and packaged.

The highlight for many visitors is the Taste It! room, where you can sample over 100 different Coca-Cola products from around the world. The 4D theater provides an exciting multi-sensory adventure, while the Pop Culture Gallery shows how Coca-Cola has shaped advertising through the decades. The History Gallery takes you through more than 130 years of memories, featuring original art and historic artifacts that tell the brand’s story.

#6 Admire Art at the High Museum

The High Museum of Art represents one of the best things to do in Atlanta for anyone interested in visual arts and culture. This striking white building, designed by famous architect Richard Meier, houses an impressive collection spanning centuries of artistic achievement. The museum’s curved architecture and natural lighting create the perfect setting for viewing art.

As a premier indoor activities in Atlanta destination, the High Museum offers four floors of galleries filled with everything from classic European paintings to contemporary installations. The permanent collection includes masterpieces by Claude Monet, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Dorothea Lange. The museum takes special pride in its collection of African American art, featuring works by artists like Romare Bearden and Faith Ringgold.

Throughout the year, rotating exhibitions bring internationally acclaimed art to Atlanta. The museum’s First Fridays event turns evening visits into social gatherings with live music and themed activities. Family programs make art accessible to younger visitors through hands-on workshops and interactive tours. The museum shop offers unique art books and creative gifts, while the café provides a pleasant spot to relax and discuss the artwork you’ve seen.

#7 Experience the Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine has become one of the most loved outdoor activities in Atlanta. This walking and biking trail connects different neighborhoods through a path that used to be old train tracks. As you walk along, you’ll see local artists’ work displayed, from colorful murals to interesting sculptures that make each walk different.

What makes it one of the special hidden gems in Atlanta is how it brings the city together. The most popular part, the Eastside Trail, takes you from Piedmont Park to Ponce City Market. Along the way, you can grab a bite to eat, sit in the shade at a park, or watch street performers.

The trail comes alive with events all year round. You might catch a food festival, join a morning yoga class, or stumble upon live music. People love stopping at the Historic Fourth Ward Park to relax by the lake or cool off at the splash pad. Kids play in the modern playgrounds while parents chat on nearby benches. Whether you want to get some exercise, meet friends, or just enjoy a sunny day, the BeltLine offers something for everyone.

#8 Visit Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park

Centennial Olympic Park is the greatest remainder of the 1996 Summer Olympics with all those great memories and This 22-acre park has become one of the must-see places to visit in Atlanta. The star of the park is the Fountain of Rings, where kids and adults splash in the water jets that dance to music all the day.

The park has free concerts in summer and turns into a winter wonderland during the holidays, complete with an ice skating rink. The green lawns are perfect for picnics or just lying in the sun. You can take photos with the Olympic Rings or watch the sunset behind the Atlanta skyline.

What makes this park special is what’s around it. You can walk to the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and other fun spots nearby so it’s the best place to visit. Look down as you walk – the paths are made of bricks with messages from people who helped build the Olympic dream. On warm evenings, families gather to watch their kids play while the city lights start to twinkle and that’s a great view .

#9 Experience the Magic of the Fox Theatre

Stepping into the ornate Fox Theatre is like taking a step back in time. From the stunning ceiling decorated like a starry night sky to the walls adorned with elegant murals depicting 1920s scenes, attentive details transport visitors.

The magnificent grand staircases and gold-embellished surfaces leave guests in awe. As one of Atlanta’s most romantic places, the Fox offers a special experience whether enjoying a Broadway musical, renowned musicians, or classic films shown on the grand stage. Couples stroll through the lush lobby before shows to admire intricate designs covering every surface and snap photos.

Backstage tours provide a glimpse at the Mighty Mo Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ that plays pre-show music and stories of theatre history. Nestled in a lively downtown district, the landmark Fox makes for an unforgettable evening followed by dinner at a nearby restaurant.

#10 Natural Wonders at Fernbank Museum

As one of the top family attractions in Atlanta, Fernbank Museum enchants young ones with science and nature through its captivating indoor and outdoor exhibits. Within the Great Hall, gigantic dinosaur skeletons tower over visitors and fascinate kids from the moment they enter.

Outside in Fernbank Forest, guided trails take families on an adventure exploring Southern woodlands on elevated boardwalks and pathways to spot wildlife. Hands-on exhibits inside spark curiosity – children crawl through dark caves, pilot scientific voyages, and dig for fossils in the NatureQuest zone.

The giant-screen theatre transports guests to exotic locales and extinct eras. Seasonal displays continually renew each visit while touch tanks, cultural and natural history halls provide both education and fun for all ages under one roof.

#11 Score Big at the College Football Hall of Fame

Any college football devotee will enjoy a visit to Atlanta’s College Football Hall of Fame which celebrates the pageantry and tradition through groundbreaking interactive displays. Upon entering, attendees see their favorite team’s helmet illuminated on the towering helmet wall featuring over 750 schools.

Guests test their gridiron skills on the indoor playing field by throwing footballs, kicking field goals and more. The immersive Game Day Theater relives unforgettable moments while touch screens allow deep dives into team histories.

Kids have a blast at Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Skill Zone comparing stats to players. Families can belt out their school’s signature fight song recorded in the DJ booth. Displays showcase uniforms, trophies and artifacts that brought legendary games to life.

#12 Adventure at Stone Mountain Park

Just east of Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park is an adventure seeker’s paradise. Dominating the landscape is the massive granite outcropping with the world’s largest rock carving depicting historic Southern figures. For panoramic city and mountain views, brave souls can take the aerial cable car to its lofty summit. Hiking trails wind around the base and to the peak in varying difficulties.

Families delighted by the challenging ropes courses with breathtaking high-flying zip lines. A scenic railroad, historic settlement and wilderness encounters also entertain. Memorable laser projections dance on summer evenings with seasonal events like flower festivals, concerts and more. Real snow faciliteates sledding and fun winter activities too at Snow Mountain.

#13 Feast at Krog Street Market

Krog Street Market is a one-of-a-kind indoor marketplace in Atlanta that brings together food, shopping and culture. Located in a restored 1920s warehouse, the atmosphere is lively and bustling. As you walk through the entrance, tempting aromas of fresh bread, spices and coffee fill the air from various open kitchens.

The expansive food hall offers a diverse selection, from Southern barbecue and sushi to artisan ice cream and craft beers served from small stalls and restaurants. Between meals, browse locally made art, jewelry and souvenirs.

The industrial architecture of exposed brick and beams creates the perfect backdrop for photos. On weekends, it is a social hub as people socialize over various food discoveries. Outdoor seating provides picturesque people watching along the adjacent BeltLine trail.

#14 Baseball Fun at Truist Park

Catching an Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park makes for an exceptionally fun-filled day out. Hours before first pitch, fans flock to the surrounding Battery Atlanta development to sample menu items from top local cuisine trucks and restaurants, sip craft beers, and check out live pre-game festivities aired on expansive TVs.

Inside the sleek ballpark, spacious and comfortable seating gives everyone optimal views of the diamond and vibrant replays shown on giant screens. Younger fans find endless activities at Hope & Will’s Sandlot, while history buffs learn more about past players at the interactive Monument Garden.

Between innings, audiences join in the lively tomahawk chop chant that echoes throughout the stadium. Topping it off are iconic Southern staples like Fox Bros barbecue and H&F Burger to enjoy during matchup.

#15 Discover Little Five Points

Little Five Points is an eccentric half-mile stretch that cultivates a funky, artistic culture in Atlanta. Shopfronts and building walls are decorated with colorful murals and graffiti art, giving the whole atmosphere a lively bohemian vibe.

Visitors meander along the sidewalks exploring an eclectic range of indie shops peddling goods like vintage clothing, handcrafted jewelry, zines and hard-to-find vinyl records tucked within every corner. C

afé patrons people-watch from outdoor patios or catch live music inside from local singer-songwriters. Come evening, even more energy pulses through as an assortment of street performers, from jugglers to poets, entertain passersby. Those seeking visual stimulation or simply relaxation over coffee will find unique layers of culture around each turn.

#16 Learn About a President’s Journey

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta chronicles the life and legacy of the 39th U.S. president through a compelling visitor experience. Situated on scenic grounds, exhibits employ an array of historical items, photographs and video to trace Carter’s path from modest beginnings as a Georgia farmer through his presidency and Nobel Peace Prize-winning activities.

Guests gain insight into Carter’s negotiated peace between Egypt and Israel as well as his attempts at restructuring government. Impactful quotes from his landmark speeches provide inspiration on activism. Traveling programs also share Carter’s post-presidency work through the Carter Center.

An outdoor amphitheater host programs reflecting on his enduring commitment to serve humanity. Both educational and moving, it offers meaningful lessons on leadership, ethics and diplomacy.

#17 Walk Through History at Oakland Cemetery

Little Five Points is a unique neighborhood in Atlanta known for its artistic vibe. Within its half mile stretch, the area feels like an outdoor art gallery. Bright murals painted on building sides and live street performances make it a colorful part of the city.

You’ll find many small independent shops along the sidewalks selling unique goods. Some stores to explore include Junkman’s Daughter, which has fun costumes and gifts, as well as Criminal Records for music lovers looking for rare vinyl albums.

Local coffeeshops are hotspots in the community too, often hosting live acoustic music in their spaces. People come to stroll through the district at their own pace, taking in the art and entertainment around every corner. Whether you’re searching for art, vinyl, snacks, or just wanting to relax in the atmosphere, Little Five Points promises an eclectic afternoon adventure.

#18 Rock Out at The Tabernacle

The Tabernacle is one of the top music venues in Atlanta housed within a former church building. Constructed in 1910, the church was transformed into a concert hall but kept its historic architectural elements like the detailed arched ceiling and stained glass windows that make the experience feel extra grand.

Major artists perform here on a regular basis, playing everything from rock to comedy for the crowd. No matter where in the standing-room floor or balcony seating you choose, the crystal clear sound quality means an amazing show from any vantage point.

Before and after concerts, fans gather at surrounding downtown restaurants and bars. The Tabernacle mixes the feeling of a historic religious structure with modern lights and sounds for incredible performances in the heart of Atlanta.

#19 Behind the Scenes at CNN

Taking the CNN Center tour offers a fascinating look inside one of the world’s top news networks. Visitors begin by taking the record-setting 73-person elevator up to the tour area high above the main lobby. From there, guides escort groups through the network’s busy offices where journalists draft stories and prepare live reports.

The tour shares the behind-the-scenes details of how crews around-the-clock coordinate stories from around the globe and produce broadcasts. Visitors glimpse the tech-filled control rooms shaping graphics and selecting which news clips air immediately.

On occasion, recognizable CNN personalities may be spotted in the hallways readying their segments. By journey’s end, the tour elucidates how urgent global events transform from raw footage into the breaking news Americans watch every day.

#20 Unwind at Chastain Park

Chastain Park has a lot of fun things to do outside. It has 268 acres so there is a lot of space. One nice thing is the outdoor theater where people can listen to music concerts under the stars. Families bring snacks and blankets to enjoy the shows.

The park also has a pool to cool off in the summer. Kids can play for hours at the playground. There is a golf course for people who like to golf, from beginners to experienced players. Many people also play tennis on the tennis courts, either for fun or in groups.

You can go for walks or runs on the trails through the park. It’s a good place to exercise away from busy roads. The park also has a horse area where you can take riding lessons. In the spring and summer, kids play baseball on the baseball fields.

In the warmer months, there are movie nights and festivals that bring the community together. You can also ride your bike or walk on the PATH trails that connect Chastain Park to other parts of Atlanta. It’s a nice big space to spend time outdoors relaxing and having fun.

Your Atlanta Adventure Awaits

This article talked about many great places to visit in Atlanta. There are big places like aquariums and museums that teach about animals and history. Parks and gardens are nice places to relax in nature near the city. Entertainment areas like theaters and sports stadiums are fun for shows and games. 

Neighborhoods and markets have cool things to see and yummy food. Historic places from presidents and old times are interesting to learn about. Whether you like sports, animals, exploring or enjoying nature, there are activities for everyone. Families, couples and friends can all find something fun.

Atlanta combines new exciting things with traditions from the past. It has the outdoors, learning, entertainment and Southern feel. Any of these top 20 attractions would make for a great trip to see what makes Atlanta special.

FAQs about Things to Do in Atlanta

Planning your Atlanta visit? Here are answers to commonly asked questions about the city’s attractions and activities.