Best Places To Visit in Atlanta, Georgia: A Local-Focused Guide

Atlanta blends Southern history, modern culture, green spaces, and big-city energy in a way few places do. Whether you live here, you’re visiting, or you’re deciding what to do on a short trip, knowing the best places to visit in Atlanta, Georgia helps you make the most of your time.

Below is a practical, Atlanta-specific guide organized by interest: history, family fun, outdoor activities, arts and culture, neighborhoods, and more.

Must-See Atlanta Landmarks & Attractions

These are the classic “only in Atlanta” places most people want to experience at least once.

Georgia Aquarium

One of the most well-known attractions in the city, the Georgia Aquarium is a major draw for families, locals, and visitors.

• What to expect: Massive tanks, whale sharks, dolphins, sea otters, and interactive exhibits.
• Best for: Families, first-time visitors, rainy days, group outings.
• Location: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Tip: It’s next to Centennial Olympic Park and World of Coca-Cola, so you can easily plan a full day in the area.

World of Coca-Cola

Right beside the aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola explores the history of the Coca-Cola brand, which has deep roots in Atlanta.

• What to expect: Exhibits on marketing, memorabilia, and a tasting room with drinks from different countries.
• Best for: Visitors who want a uniquely “Atlanta” experience and light, easygoing activities.
• Location: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Centennial Olympic Park

Built for the 1996 Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park is now a central green space in downtown.

• What to expect: Walking paths, fountains, skyline views, seasonal events.
• Best for: Relaxing between attractions, picnics, photos, kids who want to run around.
• Location: 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Atlanta’s Historic & Civil Rights Sites

Atlanta played a central role in the Civil Rights Movement and is home to some of the most important landmarks related to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and African American history.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

This is one of the most meaningful places to visit in Atlanta.

• What to expect:
  • Dr. King’s birth home
  • Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he preached
  • The King Center, where Dr. King and Coretta Scott King are laid to rest
• Best for: Anyone interested in history, justice, and understanding Atlanta’s identity.
• Location: Visitor Center – 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

Located near Centennial Olympic Park, this museum connects the U.S. Civil Rights Movement with global human rights issues.

• What to expect: Immersive exhibits, personal stories, and powerful displays.
• Best for: Older kids, teens, adults; people who want a deeper understanding of Atlanta’s civil rights legacy.
• Location: 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Atlanta History Center

The Atlanta History Center in Buckhead offers a broad look at the region’s past.

• Highlights:
  • Museum exhibits on Atlanta’s development
  • Swan House historic mansion
  • Civil War and Southern history collections
• Best for: History buffs, families, and locals wanting to better understand the city’s roots.
• Location: 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305

Family-Friendly Places To Visit in Atlanta

Atlanta is a strong family destination with plenty of kid-friendly attractions.

Zoo Atlanta

Located in historic Grant Park, Zoo Atlanta is a favorite for locals and visitors.

• What to expect: Gorillas, pandas, reptiles, children’s zoo, and educational programs.
• Best for: Families with kids of all ages, school breaks, weekend outings.
• Location: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315

Fernbank Museum of Natural History & Fernbank Forest

Fernbank Museum pairs natural history with hands-on exhibits and an adjacent old-growth forest.

• What to expect: Dinosaurs, science exhibits, giant screen theater, and outdoor nature experiences.
• Best for: Curious kids, science lovers, and people who want indoor + outdoor options in one stop.
• Location: 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Right off Centennial Olympic Park, this museum focuses on interactive play and learning for younger children.

• Best for: Toddlers and elementary-age kids.
• Location: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Parks, Trails, and Outdoor Spaces in Atlanta

Even as a major metro area, Atlanta offers ample green space and walkable trails.

Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine is one of the city’s most popular outdoor destinations, converting old rail corridors into trails.

• What to expect: Multi-use paths for walking, biking, and jogging, plus public art and access to shops and restaurants.
• Key segments to explore:
  • Eastside Trail: Connects Krog Street Market, Ponce City Market, and Piedmont Park.
  • Westside Trail: Growing set of neighborhoods, parks, and new developments.
• Tip: It’s a favorite for both locals and visitors on weekends, so expect crowds.

Piedmont Park

Often called Atlanta’s “Central Park,” Piedmont Park sits just northeast of downtown.

• What to expect: Walking trails, dog parks, sports fields, playgrounds, and city skyline views.
• Best for: Picnics, exercise, festivals, and casual hangouts.
• Location: 1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Bordering Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a beautifully maintained space with rotating exhibits.

• What to expect: Seasonal displays, canopy walk, orchids, special evening events.
• Best for: Couples, plant lovers, photography, quieter strolls.
• Location: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

Stone Mountain Park (Nearby)

While not inside city limits, Stone Mountain Park is a frequent day trip for Atlanta residents.

• What to expect: Hiking up the mountain, scenic views, lake, and family activities.
• Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, and groups looking for a half- or full-day trip.
• Location: 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083

Arts, Culture, and Performance in Atlanta

Atlanta has a lively arts and entertainment scene, from large institutions to local galleries.

High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art is the city’s premier art museum and part of the Woodruff Arts Center complex.

• What to expect: Permanent collection, special exhibitions, modern and classic works.
• Best for: Art lovers, rainy days, and cultural outings.
• Location: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

Fox Theatre

The historic Fox Theatre is one of Atlanta’s most iconic performance venues.

• What to expect: Broadway tours, concerts, comedy shows, movie nights, and tours of the building.
• Best for: Night out in the city, live entertainment.
• Location: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

Alliance Theatre & Woodruff Arts Center

The Alliance Theatre is known for high-quality productions, sometimes premiering shows that later go to Broadway.

• Best for: Theatre fans, date nights, and residents looking to experience Atlanta’s performing arts.
• Location: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

Neighborhoods To Explore in Atlanta

Atlanta is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. Many visitors and locals like to spend an afternoon just walking and exploring.

Midtown

Midtown combines arts, dining, green space, and nightlife.

• Highlights:
  • Piedmont Park
  • Atlanta Botanical Garden
  • High Museum of Art
  • Walkable Peachtree Street corridor
• Best for: First-time visitors, people who like a central, urban feel.

Downtown

Downtown is where you’ll find many of the big-name attractions.

• Highlights:
  • Georgia Aquarium
  • World of Coca-Cola
  • Centennial Olympic Park
  • State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium (events and sports)
• Best for: Tourists, event-goers, and short, attraction-focused visits.

Old Fourth Ward & Inman Park

These adjacent neighborhoods are popular for combining history, food, and the BeltLine.

• Highlights:
  • Access to the Eastside BeltLine Trail
  • Ponce City Market (shopping, food hall, rooftop fun)
  • Historic homes and tree-lined streets
• Best for: Brunch, coffee shops, walking, and people-watching.

Virginia-Highland

Often called “Va-Hi,” this neighborhood is known for its walkable village feel.

• What to expect: Boutiques, restaurants, bars, and charming residential streets.
• Best for: Low-key afternoons or evenings, casual exploring.

Little Five Points

Little Five Points is one of Atlanta’s most eclectic areas.

• What to expect: Street art, vintage shops, music venues, and unique local businesses.
• Best for: Alternative culture, local shopping, and artsy vibes.

Sports, Events, and Big Venues

If you’re visiting Atlanta during sports season or major events, you’ll likely end up at one of these major venues.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Home to the Atlanta Falcons (NFL) and Atlanta United FC (MLS).

• What to expect: Football and soccer games, major concerts, and special events.
• Location: 1 AMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

State Farm Arena

This arena hosts the Atlanta Hawks (NBA) and a wide range of concerts and shows.

• Location: 1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303

Truist Park & The Battery Atlanta (Nearby in Cobb County)

Located just outside city limits, Truist Park is home of the Atlanta Braves.

• What to expect: Baseball games and a mixed-use development (The Battery Atlanta) with food, shops, and entertainment.
• Location: 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339

Food Halls, Markets, and Local Flavor

Atlanta’s food scene is broad, from traditional Southern to global flavors.

Ponce City Market

Located in a former Sears building along the BeltLine, Ponce City Market is one of the city’s most popular destinations.

• What to expect: Food hall, retail shops, rooftop attractions, BeltLine access.
• Best for: Trying multiple restaurants in one place, meeting friends, casual exploring.
• Location: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

Krog Street Market

Just off the BeltLine in Inman Park, Krog Street Market is another food and retail hub.

• What to expect: Smaller and more intimate than Ponce City Market, with local vendors and quick bites.
• Location: 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

Municipal Market (Sweet Auburn Curb Market)

In the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, this historic municipal market offers a blend of produce, meats, and prepared foods.

• Best for: More local, everyday feel with both traditional and modern food options.
• Location: 209 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30303

Quick Comparison: Top Atlanta Places by Interest

Below is a simple overview to help you match your interests to the right Atlanta spots:

Practical Tips for Visiting Places in Atlanta

To make the most of Atlanta’s attractions and neighborhoods, it helps to plan around traffic, transit, and timing:

• 🚗 Transportation:

  • Expect heavy traffic during weekday rush hours and event nights near stadiums.
  • Many major attractions are accessible via MARTA (Atlanta’s rail and bus system), especially downtown and Midtown.

• 🕒 When to go:

  • Weekday mornings are often quieter at big attractions like Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola.
  • Spring and fall are usually more comfortable for outdoor spots like the BeltLine and Stone Mountain.

• 📍 Clustering attractions:

  • Downtown: Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Centennial Olympic Park, Civil and Human Rights Center.
  • Midtown: High Museum, Piedmont Park, Botanical Garden, Fox Theatre (walk or short rides).
  • Eastside: BeltLine (Eastside Trail), Ponce City Market, Krog Street Market, Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward.

When you focus on what you enjoy most—history, food, outdoor time, family fun, or culture—it’s easy to build an Atlanta itinerary that feels full without being overwhelming. These Atlanta, Georgia places to visit give you a solid starting point whether you’re planning a weekend, a staycation, or a deeper exploration of the city you call home.