Is the Cyclorama in Atlanta Still Open? Here’s What to Know Now

If you’re wondering “Is the Cyclorama in Atlanta still open?” the short answer is: yes — but it’s not where or what it used to be.

The historic Atlanta Cyclorama is still open to the public, but it is now housed inside the Atlanta History Center in Buckhead, not in its old building in Grant Park.

Where the Atlanta Cyclorama Is Now

For many longtime Atlantans, “the Cyclorama” brings to mind the circular building next to Zoo Atlanta in Grant Park. That location is no longer open as the Cyclorama museum.

Today, the “Cyclorama: The Big Picture” exhibit is located at:

Atlanta History Center
130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW
Atlanta, GA 30305
Phone: (404) 814-4000

The painting itself — the massive “Battle of Atlanta” cyclorama — was restored and moved to the Atlanta History Center, where it’s displayed in a purpose-built exhibition space.

What You’ll See at the Current Cyclorama Exhibit

At the Atlanta History Center, the Cyclorama is part of a larger, modern exhibit experience. Visitors can typically expect:

• The restored cyclorama painting of the Battle of Atlanta
• A theater-style viewing platform that gives you an elevated, 360-degree look
• Narrated presentations that explain the battle, the painting’s history, and how the story around it changed over time
• Artifacts and displays about the Civil War in Atlanta and how the city chose to remember it
• Information that connects the painting to Atlanta’s broader history, including issues of memory, myth, and identity

Instead of being its own separate museum, the Cyclorama is now one part of the full Atlanta History Center campus, which also includes permanent and temporary exhibits, historic houses, and gardens.

Is the Old Cyclorama Building in Grant Park Open?

The original Cyclorama building in Grant Park (near Zoo Atlanta) is no longer operating as the Cyclorama museum.

Key points:

• The painting and related exhibits have been moved to the Atlanta History Center.
• You cannot see the Cyclorama by going to the old building in Grant Park.
• If you’re planning a visit to “see the Cyclorama,” you’ll need to go to Buckhead, not Grant Park.

This is especially important for longtime residents who remember school field trips or family outings to the Grant Park site — going there now will not get you to the painting.

How to Visit the Cyclorama at the Atlanta History Center

General Visiting Basics

To see the Cyclorama in Atlanta now, you’ll visit the Atlanta History Center in Buckhead. Typical visit steps:

1. Arrive at the Atlanta History Center at 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW.
2. Purchase admission at the main entrance or check in if you already bought tickets.
3. Follow on-site signs or ask staff to direct you to the Cyclorama: The Big Picture exhibit.
4. Plan some extra time to explore the other exhibits and historic homes on the property.

Because ticketing and hours can change over time, it’s wise to check current hours, pricing, and any special exhibit schedules by calling ahead.

Getting There from Around Atlanta

Here’s a quick snapshot of how the current Cyclorama location compares to the old one:

Transportation tips from within Atlanta:

• Driving: The Atlanta History Center is off Peachtree Road in Buckhead, close to Buckhead Village and not far from major routes like GA-400 and I-75.
• Rideshare / Taxi: You can simply use “Atlanta History Center” as your destination.
• Transit: Bus routes and transfer options vary, so it’s best to check current MARTA routes and schedules when planning your trip.

What Locals and Visitors Should Know

Whether you live in metro Atlanta or you’re visiting the city, a few points help avoid confusion:

For Atlanta Residents

• If you grew up going to the Grant Park Cyclorama, know that the experience is different now — more interpretive, more context, and part of a broader history museum.
• The move to Buckhead makes it easier to combine a Cyclorama visit with other Buckhead stops, such as shopping or dining.
• The exhibit now places more emphasis on how Atlanta’s story has been told over time, not just on the battle itself.

For Visitors From Out of Town

• When guidebooks or older travel blogs mention the Cyclorama in Grant Park, that information is out of date.
• If you’re also planning to visit Zoo Atlanta or the Grant Park neighborhood, treat those as a separate outing from your Cyclorama visit.
• The Atlanta History Center offers a broader overview of the city’s past, so the Cyclorama visit fits well into a “learn the history of Atlanta” day.

FAQs About the Cyclorama in Atlanta

Is the Cyclorama closed?

No. The Cyclorama itself is not closed; it has simply moved. The exhibit is open as part of the Atlanta History Center in Buckhead.

Can I still visit the Cyclorama in Grant Park?

No. The Grant Park Cyclorama museum is no longer open in its old form. The painting was removed, restored, and reinstalled at the Atlanta History Center.

Is the Cyclorama part of the Atlanta History Center ticket?

The Cyclorama is generally included as part of regular admission to the Atlanta History Center, rather than a separate ticket, but it’s smart to confirm current details by contacting the History Center directly.

Is it worth visiting if I’ve seen it before?

Many Atlanta locals say the new presentation feels very different from the old one:

• The painting has been restored, so colors and details are more vivid.
• The exhibit includes more historical context, including how the painting’s meaning has changed over time.

If your memories are from school field trips years ago, the modern version is likely to feel like a new experience.

Key Takeaways for Someone in Atlanta

• Yes, the Cyclorama in Atlanta is still open, but it is now located at the Atlanta History Center in Buckhead, not in Grant Park.
• The old Cyclorama building in Grant Park is no longer an active Cyclorama museum.
• To see the famous “Battle of Atlanta” painting today, head to:
  Atlanta History Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305; Phone: (404) 814-4000.

If you’re planning your day in Atlanta and want to experience this unique piece of the city’s history, make sure your map points you to Buckhead — that’s where the Cyclorama lives now.