What To Do in Atlanta in February: A Local’s Guide to Events, Weather, and Winter Fun

February in Atlanta is cooler, quieter, and a little cozier than peak tourism season—perfect for festivals, museum days, food adventures, and pre-spring outdoor time. Whether you live in the city or are planning a visit, there’s plenty to do that feels distinctly “Atlanta”.

Below is a practical, Atlanta-focused guide to what to do in February, including weather tips, major events, indoor and outdoor activities, date ideas, family outings, and Black History Month experiences.

What February Is Really Like in Atlanta

Before planning your to‑do list, it helps to understand what February feels like in the city.

• Temperatures: Often cool and changeable—some days feel like early spring, others are damp and chilly.
• Rain: Showers are common; you’ll want a light jacket or umbrella.
• Crowds: Generally lighter than spring and summer, so museums, attractions, and restaurants are easier to enjoy without long waits.

👉 Tip: Build in a mix of indoor and outdoor options so you can pivot if the weather turns cold or rainy.

Quick-Glance: Top Things To Do in Atlanta in February

Use this as a checklist and build your own February weekend or trip around it.

Celebrate Black History Month in Atlanta

Atlanta has a central place in American civil rights history, and February (Black History Month) is one of the best times to explore that legacy.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

Located in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, this site is a must for February:

• Key features:
  • Dr. King’s birth home (tours often available with timed entry)
  • The historic Ebenezer Baptist Church
  • The King Center and reflecting pool
• Location: Around 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312

Expect special talks, tours, and educational programs throughout February. It’s a powerful experience for both locals and visitors.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

• Location: Near Centennial Olympic Park, 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

This museum connects Atlanta’s civil rights history to modern human rights struggles worldwide. February typically brings:

• Themed exhibits and events
• Educational programs focused on Black History Month
• Multimedia displays that highlight Atlanta leaders and movements

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)

Atlanta’s HBCUs—Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Clark Atlanta University—often host:

• Guest lectures
• Performances
• Exhibitions related to Black history and culture

If you’re nearby, check their public event calendars for February talks, panels, and shows.

Enjoy Atlanta’s Winter-Friendly Outdoor Spaces

February may be cool, but Atlanta’s mild climate often allows for pleasant outdoor time, especially on sunny days.

Walk or Bike the Atlanta BeltLine

The Eastside Trail is especially active, running through neighborhoods like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, and Poncey-Highland.

What to do along the BeltLine in February:

• Take a chilly but comfortable walk or bike ride
• Stop at coffee shops, casual restaurants, and breweries right off the trail
• Enjoy public art installations without summer crowds

Piedmont Park & Midtown Green Space

• Location: Near Midtown, centered around 400 Park Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

In February, you can:

• Walk or jog around the lake and meadow
• Have a simple picnic on warmer days
• Take skyline photos with the Midtown high-rises in the background

Piedmont Park pairs well with nearby attractions like the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Atlanta Botanical Garden: Orchid Daze

February is often when the Garden hosts Orchid Daze, a seasonal indoor exhibition:

• Location: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
• Features lush orchid displays in the warm Conservatory—perfect when it’s chilly outside.
• Nice for:
  • Date days
  • Photography
  • A warm indoor/outdoor combination outing

Dive into Museums and Indoor Attractions

February is ideal for museums in Atlanta—less heat, fewer crowds, and plenty to explore.

Georgia Aquarium

• Location: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Things that work well in February:

• Take your time at major exhibits (like the whale sharks and beluga whales)
• Add on optional shows or animal encounters if you want a longer visit
• Combine with nearby attractions in Centennial Olympic Park District

World of Coca‑Cola

• Location: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

This is a popular stop right next to the Georgia Aquarium. In February:

• Indoor exhibits make it easy to escape cold or rain
• Tasting areas and historic displays give a sense of Atlanta’s corporate history

Center for Puppetry Arts

• Location: 1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309

Great for both kids and adults:

• Puppet shows for families and school-age children
• Museum exhibits featuring Jim Henson’s characters and international puppetry

Winter months often have strong attendance from local families—and February is a good time to catch seasonal productions.

High Museum of Art

• Location: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

Why February is a good time to go:

• You can spend a full afternoon indoors with rotating special exhibits and permanent collections
• Easy access via MARTA Arts Center Station
• Close to the Woodruff Arts Center, home of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Alliance Theatre

See a Show: Theatre, Music, and Performing Arts

Atlanta’s performance calendar stays active in February, making it a strong time for indoor entertainment.

Fox Theatre

• Location: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

February often includes:

• Touring Broadway shows
• Concerts, comedy, and special events

The historic, ornate interior alone is worth experiencing at least once.

Alliance Theatre & Local Stages

• Alliance Theatre: Part of the Woodruff Arts Center in Midtown
• Other stages: Horizon Theatre (Inman Park/Little Five Points area), Dad’s Garage (Old Fourth Ward)

In February, look for:

• New plays, regional premieres, and local productions
• Improv and comedy nights
• Shows that are perfect for date nights or group outings

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

• Location: Woodruff Arts Center, 1280 Peachtree St NE

February performances often focus on:

• Classical masterworks
• Guest soloists and conductors

It’s a warm, indoor evening option that pairs easily with dinner in Midtown.

Plan Romantic February Date Ideas in Atlanta

With Valentine’s Day in the middle of the month, February is packed with potential date experiences.

Classic Romantic Spots

• Skyline views:

  • Take an evening ride on SkyView Atlanta, the Ferris wheel downtown near Centennial Olympic Park.
  • Head to a rooftop restaurant or lounge in Midtown, Downtown, or Buckhead for city lights.

• Botanical Garden at night (when offered):

  • Walk hand-in-hand through Orchid Daze and the lighted paths (depending on schedule).

Cozy Indoor Dates

• Museum + Dinner: Spend the afternoon at the High Museum of Art, then have dinner in Midtown.
• Theater or Symphony Night: Catch a show at the Fox Theatre, Alliance Theatre, or ASO, followed by dessert or drinks nearby.
• Cooking or art classes: Many Atlanta studios and businesses offer February classes that can become a memorable date activity.

Kid-Friendly and Family Activities in February

Families in Atlanta have plenty of ways to keep kids busy on cooler days.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

• Location: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

This hands-on museum near the park is ideal for younger children. February visits often feel less hectic than school breaks.

Zoo Atlanta

• Location: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315 (Grant Park)

Winter can be a surprisingly good time to visit:

• Many animals are more active in cooler weather
• Crowds are lighter than in warm months

Check the forecast and dress in layers.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

• Location: 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307

Good February features:

• Indoor dinosaur exhibits and natural history displays
• Science-focused hands-on areas
• Nature trails and an outdoor forest area for milder days

Eat Your Way Through Atlanta’s Neighborhoods

February is a comfortable time to explore Atlanta’s food scene without the pressure of peak patio season.

Explore Buford Highway

Just northeast of Atlanta, Buford Highway is known for its international restaurants and markets:

• Wide range of Asian, Latin American, and other global cuisines
• Great for warm, comforting meals on cool February days

In-Town Dining Neighborhoods

Consider building a day around:

• Inman Park / Old Fourth Ward: Restaurants off the BeltLine Eastside Trail
• Virginia-Highland: Walkable area with cozy restaurants and bars
• West Midtown: Trendy, industrial-style spaces with modern menus

February often means shorter waits and easier reservations compared with spring weekends.

Explore Atlanta’s Neighborhoods Without the Heat

Colder weather can actually make neighborhood exploring more pleasant—no humidity, less crowding, and clear views.

Downtown & Centennial Olympic Park

• Visit Centennial Olympic Park for a stroll and city views
• Combine nearby stops:
  • Georgia Aquarium
  • World of Coca-Cola
  • National Center for Civil and Human Rights
• Ride MARTA to Peachtree Center or walk between attractions

Midtown

Midtown is highly walkable:

• Arts-focused with the High Museum, Woodruff Arts Center, and Fox Theatre
• Lots of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops to duck into if it’s cold out

Old Fourth Ward & Sweet Auburn

In February, you can:

• Tour the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
• Walk parts of the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail
• Explore historic streets and modern development side by side

Practical Tips for Enjoying Atlanta in February

To make the most of your time in the city:

• Check hours and schedules: Many attractions have seasonal hours or special event days—always confirm before heading out.
• Layer your clothing: Atlanta weather in February can swing from chilly mornings to mild afternoons.
• Use MARTA or rideshare for busy areas: Midtown, Downtown, and popular venues can have tight parking, especially on event nights.
• Plan rain alternatives: Have a backup plan of museums, indoor attractions, or theaters in case of bad weather.

In February, Atlanta offers a blend of culture, history, food, and manageable weather that’s easier to enjoy without the bustle of peak season. Whether you’re honoring Black History Month, planning a Valentine’s date, or simply exploring the city’s neighborhoods and attractions, you’ll find plenty to do that feels uniquely Atlanta.