Best Activities in Atlanta: Top Things to Do Around the City

Atlanta offers a mix of big-city culture, historic neighborhoods, green spaces, sports, and food that appeals to locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re planning a weekend, looking for kid-friendly outings, or trying to explore your own city more deeply, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Below is a practical, Atlanta-focused guide to the best activities in Atlanta, organized by interest and neighborhood so you can actually plan your time.

Must-Do Atlanta Experiences

These are the core Atlanta activities many people try to hit first, especially if they’re short on time.

1. Explore Downtown’s “Big Three”: Aquarium, World of Coca‑Cola, and Centennial Olympic Park

Downtown Atlanta is home to some of the city’s most popular attractions, all within walking distance.

• Georgia Aquarium – 225 Baker St NW
  One of the largest aquariums in the world, with whale sharks, manta rays, and interactive exhibits. Great for families, couples, and rainy days.

  • Plan: 2–3 hours minimum
  • Tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak crowds.

• World of Coca‑Cola – 121 Baker St NW
  A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Coca‑Cola, founded in Atlanta. Features artifacts, brand history, and tasting areas.

  • Plan: 1.5–2 hours
  • Tip: It’s right next to the aquarium, so many people do both in one day.

• Centennial Olympic Park – 265 Park Ave W NW
  A large, open green space built for the 1996 Olympic Games.

  • Activities: Walking paths, splash fountains (great for kids in summer), and frequent events or festivals on weekends.
  • Tip: Bring a blanket and enjoy the skyline views between attractions.

2. See the City from Above at SkyView Atlanta

• SkyView Atlanta – 168 Luckie St NW
  A large Ferris wheel near Centennial Olympic Park offering enclosed gondolas with panoramic views of Downtown and Midtown.
  • Best time: Sunset or after dark when the city is lit up.
  • Good for: Dates, photographers, and out-of-town visitors.

Arts, Culture, and History

Atlanta has a significant place in U.S. civil rights history, plus a strong arts scene centered around Midtown and surrounding neighborhoods.

3. Walk Through History at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

• MLK Jr. National Historical Park – 450 Auburn Ave NE
  This area in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood includes:
  • Dr. King’s birth home (tours are typically free but timed)
  • Ebenezer Baptist Church
  • The King Center and reflecting pool
    This is one of the most meaningful historical activities in Atlanta.

Tip: Plan at least 2–3 hours if you want to visit multiple sites and walk between them.

4. Dive into Civil Rights and Human Rights at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights

• National Center for Civil and Human Rights – 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW (near the aquarium and Coke museum)
  Exhibits cover the American civil rights movement and modern global human rights issues.
  • Expect emotionally powerful, interactive galleries.
  • Many locals recommend this as a top must-see museum in Atlanta for teens and adults.

5. Experience Midtown’s Museums and Performing Arts

Midtown is the hub for many of Atlanta’s major arts institutions.

• High Museum of Art – 1280 Peachtree St NE
  Known for its architecture, permanent collection, and rotating exhibitions.

  • Great for: Art lovers, date nights, or a quieter weekday activity.

• Atlanta Symphony Orchestra – 1280 Peachtree St NE (adjacent to the High)
  Offers classical concerts and special performances throughout the year.

• Fox Theatre – 660 Peachtree St NE
  A historic, ornate theater hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and film events.

  • One of the best activities in Atlanta for live entertainment and architecture fans.
  • Tours are sometimes available if you’re not attending a show.

6. Step Onto Iconic TV & Film Locations

Atlanta is a major filming hub. While productions change frequently, some consistent activities include:

• Touring studio lots (when available) or booking a locally run film tour.
• Visiting recognizable neighborhoods like:
  • Inman Park – historic homes and streets seen in various productions.
  • Downtown and Midtown – often used as stand-ins for other cities.

If you’re into TV and movies, a film locations tour can be an entertaining way to see the city.

Outdoor Activities and Parks in Atlanta

Atlanta’s nickname “the city in a forest” reflects how much green space there really is, even close to skyscrapers.

7. Relax or Play at Piedmont Park

• Piedmont Park – 400 Park Dr NE (Midtown)
  A central gathering spot and one of Atlanta’s largest urban parks. Activities include:
  • Walking and running trails
  • Dog parks
  • Playgrounds
  • Seasonal festivals and farmers markets

Top uses:

• Morning jogs or yoga
• Picnics with city skyline views
• Joining pickup games or walking clubs

8. Walk, Bike, or Skate the Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine is a developing network of multi-use trails built on old rail corridors, circling the city’s core.

Most popular section:

• Eastside Trail – connecting neighborhoods like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, and Virginia-Highland.

What you can do:

• Walk, jog, bike, or rollerblade
• Stop at parks, murals, and public art
• Try cafes, breweries, and food halls just off the trail

Tip: The BeltLine is especially lively on weekends and mild evenings. If you prefer it calmer, go early mornings.

9. Hike and See the View at Stone Mountain Park

• Stone Mountain Park – 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA (just east of Atlanta)
  Popular for outdoor activities near Atlanta, including:
  • Hiking the walk-up trail to the summit
  • Lakeside walks and picnic areas
  • Seasonal events and attractions

Note: If you’re only interested in hiking, look into parking options and trail access before your visit.

10. Escape to Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Multiple access points along the Chattahoochee River north of the city (e.g., Cochran Shoals, Powers Island).

Activities include:

• Kayaking, tubing, or paddleboarding (seasonal)
• Riverside walking and running trails
• Birdwatching and photography

Tip: The river is cooler than the city in summer, making this a popular hot-weather activity for Atlantans.

Neighborhoods to Explore on Foot

One of the best ways to experience Atlanta is by picking a neighborhood and walking it.

11. Stroll Through the Old Fourth Ward & Inman Park

These areas combine history, food, and BeltLine access.

Old Fourth Ward:

• Near the MLK Jr. National Historical Park
• Adjacent to the BeltLine Eastside Trail
• Known for art murals, lofts, and nearby markets

Inman Park:

• Atlanta’s first planned suburb, with Victorian homes and leafy streets
• Great for self-guided walking tours and local restaurants

12. Enjoy Shopping and Dining in Midtown & Buckhead

Midtown:

• Walkable streets with restaurants, bars, and cultural venues
• Easy access to Piedmont Park, the High Museum, and MARTA rail stations.

Buckhead:

• Known for upscale malls, hotels, and nightlife
• Good area for shopping-focused activities and special-occasion dinners.

13. Visit the Atlanta History Center and Buckhead’s Historic Sites

• Atlanta History Center – 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW
  A large complex with:
  • Atlanta history exhibits
  • Historic houses and gardens (including the Swan House)
  • Civil War and Southern history collections

This is a top activity for people who want deeper context on Atlanta’s past, beyond just downtown landmarks.

Family-Friendly and Kid-Focused Activities

Atlanta is popular for family trips and weekend outings for locals with children.

14. Take the Kids to Zoo Atlanta

• Zoo Atlanta – 800 Cherokee Ave SE (Grant Park)
  Features:
  • Pandas, gorillas, elephants, and many more animals
  • Educational programs and keeper talks
  • Playgrounds and interactive areas

Pair it with a walk in Grant Park, one of Atlanta’s oldest parks with lots of trees and open spaces.

15. Spend a Day at Fernbank

There are two main attractions often grouped together in conversation:

• Fernbank Museum of Natural History – 767 Clifton Rd

  • Dinosaur exhibits, science displays, and giant screen theater
  • Kid-friendly but engaging for adults too

• Fernbank Forest and Outdoor Exhibits (adjacent)

  • Elevated walkways, forest trails, and outdoor play spaces

This combo is ideal for families wanting both indoor and outdoor activities in one outing.

16. Enjoy Hands-On Science at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta

• Children’s Museum of Atlanta – 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW
  Near the aquarium and Centennial Olympic Park, featuring interactive exhibits designed for younger kids.
  • Good add-on if you’re already downtown with children and want to extend your visit.

Sports and Stadium Experiences

Atlanta is a major sports city, and even non-sports fans often enjoy touring the venues.

17. Catch a Game or Tour Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

• Mercedes‑Benz Stadium – 1 AMB Dr NW (near downtown)
  Home to:
  • Atlanta Falcons (NFL)
  • Atlanta United FC (MLS)

Activities:

• Attend a game or major event
• Take a stadium tour to see locker rooms, the field, and the unique roof design

18. Visit Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta

• Truist Park – 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta (Cobb County)
  Home of the Atlanta Braves (MLB).

The Battery Atlanta (around the ballpark):

• Restaurants, bars, and shops
• Live music and entertainment
• Family-friendly public spaces

Even if you don’t attend a game, walking The Battery is a popular activity, especially on weekends.

Food, Markets, and Nightlife

Food and nightlife are central to the Atlanta experience, especially for adults and groups of friends.

19. Sample Local Food at Atlanta’s Markets and Food Halls

Several markets make it easy to try multiple vendors in one spot:

• Municipal Market (“Sweet Auburn Curb Market”) – 209 Edgewood Ave SE
  Historic indoor market with produce, local food stalls, and small shops.

• Ponce City Market – 675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE (off the BeltLine)
  A mixed-use development in a former Sears building with:

  • Food hall, retail, and office space
  • Roof-level attractions and city views (admission or ticketed activities may apply)

• Other food halls exist across the metro area, giving lots of options to sample Atlanta’s diverse food scene.

20. Explore Atlanta’s Nightlife Districts

Popular nightlife areas include:

• Midtown – Bars, clubs, lounges, and late-night dining.
• Edgewood Avenue (Old Fourth Ward area) – More casual, eclectic mix of bars and venues.
• Buckhead – Trendy bars, hotel lounges, and restaurants.

For a low-key evening, many people enjoy:

• Grab-and-go food near the BeltLine and a sunset walk
• A drink on a rooftop bar with skyline views
• A show or film screening at the Plaza Theatre (1049 Ponce de Leon Ave NE), an independent historic cinema.

Quick Planning Guide: Matching Activities to Your Interests

Practical Tips for Enjoying Atlanta Activities

• Getting around:

  • MARTA rail is useful for reaching the airport, Downtown, Midtown, and parts of Buckhead.
  • Rideshares and scooters are common for short hops between neighborhoods.
  • Parking in busy areas (Downtown, Midtown, BeltLine) can be limited; allow extra time.

• Best times to go:

  • Spring and fall are generally the most comfortable for outdoor activities.
  • Summer is hot and humid; morning and evening are better for parks and the BeltLine.
  • Weekdays often mean smaller crowds at major attractions.

• Tickets and reservations:

  • Many major attractions offer timed entries or encourage advance ticket purchases, especially on weekends or holidays.
  • For popular shows at the Fox Theatre, big games, or special museum exhibits, booking ahead is often essential.

• Combining activities:

  • Downtown day: Georgia Aquarium + World of Coca‑Cola + Centennial Olympic Park + SkyView.
  • Midtown day: High Museum + Piedmont Park + dinner/drinks in Midtown.
  • History day: MLK Jr. Historical Park + National Center for Civil and Human Rights + stroll through Sweet Auburn or Old Fourth Ward.

By mixing signature attractions, neighborhood walks, outdoor time, and local food, you can shape an Atlanta experience that fits your schedule and interests, whether you’re here for a weekend or you’ve lived in the city for years.