The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta is one of the city’s most important cultural and educational spaces. Whether you live in metro Atlanta or are visiting for a weekend, this center offers a powerful look at both the U.S. Civil Rights Movement and ongoing global human rights issues—all in the heart of downtown.
Below is a practical guide to help you understand what the Center is, what you’ll see, how to plan your visit, and how it fits into the broader Atlanta experience.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum and educational center that connects Atlanta’s role in the Civil Rights Movement with broader struggles for human rights around the world.
It is not just a history museum. The exhibits are designed to:
The Center is especially well-known for its immersive exhibits that make you feel emotionally and personally connected to the history being told.
Address:
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
100 Ivan Allen Jr. Boulevard NW
Atlanta, GA 30313
The Center sits in downtown Atlanta, in the Centennial Park District, close to several major attractions.
You can easily pair a visit to the Center with:
This makes it a convenient stop whether you are spending a full day downtown or just a few hours.
If you prefer public transit:
This is a practical option if you want to avoid downtown parking or are staying at a hotel near a MARTA line.
If you’re driving from around Atlanta or the suburbs:
Parking options and prices can change, so it’s wise to:
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is organized into several key exhibit areas. While the specific displays may change over time, the core themes stay consistent.
This section focuses on the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, with a strong connection to Atlanta’s history. You can expect:
For Atlanta residents, this gallery helps connect neighborhoods and streets you may know today with the history of local organizing and leadership.
The Center often features archival materials related to Dr. King, reflecting Atlanta’s role as his birthplace and home.
You may see or learn about:
For visitors doing a “civil rights tour” of Atlanta, the Center pairs well with a visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park on Auburn Avenue.
This section explores human rights issues around the world, tying local history to global challenges. It typically includes:
The goal is to show how the values behind Atlanta’s civil rights struggles connect to ongoing efforts worldwide.
Many visitors comment on the Center’s interactive experiences, which may include:
These immersive features can be emotionally intense, especially for younger visitors, so families often plan time afterward to talk through what everyone has seen and felt.
Details can change, but these general tips help you plan a smooth visit in Atlanta.
The Center generally operates during daytime hours, seven days a week, with later opening or early closing on certain days or seasons.
Because hours can shift for holidays, events, or maintenance, it’s smart to:
Locals sometimes prefer visiting weekday mornings or later in the afternoon to avoid larger crowds.
Admission is typically ticketed, with pricing adjusted for:
Some visitors purchase tickets on-site, while others secure them online in advance to better plan their time downtown.
Atlanta residents sometimes look for:
If you are arranging a school field trip, church group, nonprofit visit, or corporate outing, there are usually group visit options to explore through the Center’s group services contacts.
| Topic | Key Details (Atlanta-Specific) |
|---|---|
| Name | National Center for Civil and Human Rights |
| Location | Downtown Atlanta, Centennial Park District |
| Address | 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 |
| Nearby MARTA Stations | Five Points; CNN Center/GWCC (10–15 minute walk) |
| Nearby Attractions | Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Centennial Olympic Park |
| Suggested Visit Length | 1.5–3 hours |
| Best for | Families, students, Atlanta residents, tourists, educators, community groups |
| Focus | U.S. Civil Rights Movement and global human rights, with strong Atlanta connections |
Many Atlanta families visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights with children and teenagers.
Things to consider:
For Atlanta-area schools, the Center is a frequent destination for field trips because it aligns closely with Georgia social studies standards and local history.
The Center is designed to be accessible and welcoming. While exact features can change, visitors typically find:
If you or someone in your group has specific accessibility needs, calling ahead or checking current visitor information before your visit can help you plan more comfortably.
Atlanta has several major sites connected to civil and human rights. Many visitors build a day or weekend itinerary that includes multiple locations.
Popular combinations include:
National Center for Civil and Human Rights + Centennial Olympic Park District
National Center + Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
National Center + Atlanta University Center area
For Atlanta residents, visiting these sites over time can deepen your understanding of the city’s identity as a “cradle of the Civil Rights Movement.”
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights also serves as a learning hub for Atlanta’s communities. Programs may include:
If you are an educator, community organizer, or local leader, the Center can be a starting point for:
Here are a few Atlanta-focused tips to make the most of your time at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights:
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is one of Atlanta’s most meaningful destinations, weaving together the city’s civil rights legacy with global human rights issues. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a new Atlantan, or a visitor, setting aside time to explore this Center can deepen your understanding of both Atlanta’s past and the ongoing work of building a more just future.
