Atlanta’s Must-See Spots: Top Attractions in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta blends Southern history, modern skylines, and vibrant neighborhoods into one of the most interesting cities in the Southeast. Whether you live here, are planning a weekend visit, or are trying to understand what makes Atlanta unique, this guide walks you through the top attractions in Atlanta, Georgia and how to experience them like a local.

Downtown & Midtown: Atlanta’s Core Highlights

Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is one of Atlanta’s signature attractions and a go-to for families, school groups, and visitors.

• What to expect: Massive aquatic exhibits, whale sharks, manta rays, penguins, and interactive touch pools.
• Who it’s best for: Families, marine life lovers, and anyone escaping hot or rainy weather.
• Local tip: Weekdays, especially early mornings, are typically less crowded than weekends or holidays.

Location:
Georgia Aquarium
225 Baker St NW
Atlanta, GA 30313
Phone: (404) 581-4000

World of Coca-Cola

Right next to the aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola explores the history of the iconic Atlanta-born brand.

• Highlights: Vintage ads, historical artifacts, a recreated bottling line, and a tasting area with drinks from around the world.
• Good to know: Many Atlanta visitors pair the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and Centennial Olympic Park in a single day.

Location:
World of Coca-Cola
121 Baker St NW
Atlanta, GA 30313
Phone: (404) 676-5151

Centennial Olympic Park

Built for the 1996 Olympic Games, Centennial Olympic Park is now a public green space surrounded by several major attractions.

• Why go: Fountains, green lawns, and skyline views make it a relaxing break between museums.
• Family favorite: Kids often enjoy the Fountain of Rings splash area in warm weather.
• Nearby attractions: Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, College Football Hall of Fame, CNN Center area.

Location:
Centennial Olympic Park
265 Park Ave W NW
Atlanta, GA 30313

College Football Hall of Fame

For sports fans, the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame is a uniquely “Atlanta” attraction.

• What you’ll find: Interactive exhibits, memorabilia from college football programs, and themed displays.
• Best for: College sports fans, families with teens, and group outings.

Location:
College Football Hall of Fame
250 Marietta St NW
Atlanta, GA 30313
Phone: (404) 880-4800

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights

This museum connects Atlanta’s legacy in the Civil Rights Movement with ongoing global human rights issues.

• Exhibits: Collections related to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., civil rights-era multimedia, and modern human rights stories.
• Why it matters in Atlanta: The city played a central role in the movement, and this center provides vital context for understanding Atlanta’s identity today.

Location:
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30313
Phone: (678) 999-8990

SkyView Atlanta

For a different vantage point on Downtown, the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel offers a bird’s-eye view.

• Experience: Enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas circling above Centennial Olympic Park.
• Best time: At dusk or after dark for illuminated skyline views.

Location:
SkyView Atlanta
168 Luckie St NW
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (678) 949-9023

History, Heritage & Culture

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

One of the most meaningful sites in Atlanta, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park preserves locations central to Dr. King’s life.

Key features include:

• Dr. King’s Birth Home (guided tours, often with timed entry)
• Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he preached
• The King Center, including exhibits and his final resting place
• Visitor Center with educational displays

Location:
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
450 Auburn Ave NE
Atlanta, GA 30312
Phone: (404) 331-5190

📝 Tip: Parking can fill up on weekends and holidays. If you live in Atlanta, weekday visits are often more relaxed.

Atlanta History Center & Swan House

The Atlanta History Center in Buckhead goes deep into the city’s past and the wider region’s history.

• What’s there: Civil War exhibits, Southern history collections, and extensive gardens.
• Swan House: An elegant historic mansion on the grounds, often recognized from film and TV appearances.
• Who it’s for: History fans, architecture lovers, and anyone wanting to see Atlanta beyond Downtown.

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

Oakland Cemetery

Oakland Cemetery is both a historic burial ground and a public green space with skyline views.

• Why visit: Victorian-era monuments, city history, and peaceful walking paths.
• Notable: Resting place of many significant Atlantans, including author Margaret Mitchell.

Location:
Oakland Cemetery
248 Oakland Ave SE
Atlanta, GA 30312
Phone: (404) 688-2107

Art, Science & Learning

High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art is Atlanta’s premier art museum.

• Collections: American, European, African, decorative arts, photography, and rotating special exhibitions.
• Who it suits: Art enthusiasts, date nights, and visitors looking for a quieter, reflective attraction.
• Local rhythm: Special programming days can draw crowds; checking the calendar in advance can help you plan.

Location:
High Museum of Art
1280 Peachtree St NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: (404) 733-4400

Fox Theatre

The Fox Theatre is one of Atlanta’s most beloved landmarks, known for its ornate architecture and starry “sky” ceiling.

• Experiences: Touring Broadway productions, concerts, comedy shows, and guided tours of the building.
• Atlanta angle: It’s a symbol of the city’s commitment to preserving historic venues while serving as a modern performance space.

Location:
Fox Theatre
660 Peachtree St NE
Atlanta, GA 30308
Box Office Phone: (855) 285-8499

Fernbank Museum of Natural History & Fernbank Forest

Located east of Downtown, Fernbank Museum combines natural history exhibits with one of the largest urban hardwood forests in the country.

• Inside: Dinosaur displays, natural history galleries, and an immersive theater experience.
• Outside: Fernbank Forest and WildWoods trails offer walking paths and nature play areas.
• Ideal for: Families, science fans, and locals looking for a daytime outing that combines indoors and outdoors.

Location:
Fernbank Museum
767 Clifton Rd
Atlanta, GA 30307
Phone: (404) 929-6300

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

For younger kids, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers hands-on, play-based exhibits.

• Best ages: Toddlers to early elementary.
• Location benefit: Right across from Centennial Olympic Park, easy to combine with other Downtown stops.

Location:
Children’s Museum of Atlanta
275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW
Atlanta, GA 30313
Phone: (404) 659-5437

Outdoor & Nature Attractions

Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine is a developing 22-mile loop of multi-use trails, parks, and future transit running through intown neighborhoods.

• Popular segments:

  • Eastside Trail (Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, Poncey-Highland)
  • Westside Trail (Adair Park, West End)

• What you’ll see: Murals, public art, skyline views, and a mix of longtime residents and visitors walking, biking, or jogging.

Good to know for locals and visitors:

• Parking near trailheads can be competitive during peak times.
• Many people rent bikes or scooters to cover more ground.

Piedmont Park

Often called “Atlanta’s Central Park,” Piedmont Park is Midtown’s main green space.

• Activities: Walking trails, dog parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and lake views.
• Events: Many major festivals and community events take place here throughout the year.
• Views: Excellent skyline views from the park’s open lawns.

Location:
Piedmont Park (main entrance area)
1320 Monroe Dr NE
Atlanta, GA 30306

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Bordering Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden offers lush, curated gardens and seasonal displays.

• Highlights: Canopy walk through the treetops, orchid collections, and themed gardens.
• Seasonal draw: Holiday light displays and rotating exhibitions make it a repeat destination even for locals.

Location:
Atlanta Botanical Garden
1345 Piedmont Ave NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: (404) 876-5859

Stone Mountain Park (Nearby Day Trip)

Although technically outside the city limits, Stone Mountain Park is a common day trip from Atlanta.

• Activities: Hike-up trail to the summit, scenic views, and a large park with recreational areas.
• Distance: Roughly 20–30 minutes east of Atlanta by car, depending on traffic.

Location:
Stone Mountain Park
1000 Robert E Lee Blvd
Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Phone: (800) 401-2407

Neighborhoods & Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss

Ponce City Market & the BeltLine Eastside Trail

Once a historic Sears building, Ponce City Market is now a major mixed-use development.

• Why it’s popular: Food hall, shops, offices, and residential units all in a restored industrial complex.
• Rooftop: A rooftop amusement-style area (with games and skyline views) is a big draw.
• Connection: Sits directly on the BeltLine’s Eastside Trail, making it easy to walk or bike from nearby neighborhoods.

Location:
Ponce City Market
675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
Atlanta, GA 30308

Inman Park & Little Five Points

These two adjacent intown neighborhoods offer a distinctly local feel:

• Inman Park: Historic Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and easy access to the BeltLine.
• Little Five Points: Known for eclectic shops, alternative culture, and street art.

They’re ideal for:

• Strolling, people-watching, and casual dining
• Experiencing a less “corporate” side of Atlanta
• Combining with a BeltLine walk or visit to nearby parks

Westside Provisions District

The Westside area (near Howell Mill Rd NW) showcases industrial-chic Atlanta.

• Character: Renovated warehouses, design shops, and a mix of restaurants.
• Audience: Visitors who enjoy urban exploration, architecture, and design-focused spaces.

Quick Comparison: Atlanta’s Top Attractions at a Glance

Practical Tips for Enjoying Atlanta’s Top Attractions

• Traffic & timing: Atlanta traffic is well-known. When possible, plan visits outside weekday rush hours (roughly 7–9 a.m. and 4–7 p.m.).

• Parking: Many major attractions have paid parking garages or lots. In intown neighborhoods, pay attention to street parking rules and residential zones.

• Transit options:

  • MARTA Rail & Bus: Useful for reaching Downtown, Midtown, and the airport.
  • Walking & scooters: Common in central areas like the BeltLine, Midtown, and parts of Downtown.

• Weather awareness: Summers can be hot and humid. Prioritize indoor attractions mid-day and outdoor spots in the morning or evening.

• For locals: Consider returning to major attractions during special events, seasonal exhibits, or off-peak times to experience them in new ways.

Exploring these top attractions in Atlanta, Georgia will give you a clear sense of what makes the city vibrant: its civil rights legacy, green spaces, cultural institutions, and evolving neighborhoods that continue to shape Atlanta’s identity.