Atlanta, Georgia: What To Do in the ATL Right Now

Atlanta combines Southern hospitality with big-city energy, world-class attractions, and distinct neighborhoods that each feel like their own small city. Whether you live here, just moved to the metro, or are planning a short visit, there is no shortage of things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.

Below is a practical, locally focused guide to help you decide what to do in Atlanta today, this weekend, or on your next trip—from must-see landmarks to free neighborhood favorites.

Top Atlanta Attractions You Should See at Least Once

Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is one of Atlanta’s signature attractions and a popular choice for families, couples, and visitors of all ages.

• Location: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Neighborhood: Downtown / Centennial Park District

Highlights:

• Massive viewing windows with whale sharks and manta rays
• Interactive touch pools and behind-the-scenes tours
• Separate exhibits for dolphins, sea lions, and tropical fish

Plan ahead for:

• Purchasing tickets in advance, especially on weekends
• Allowing at least 2–3 hours for a relaxed visit

World of Coca-Cola

Across from the Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola focuses on the history and global reach of Atlanta’s most famous brand.

• Location: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Neighborhood: Centennial Olympic Park area

What to expect:

• Exhibits on Coca-Cola’s origins in Atlanta
• Artwork, memorabilia, and historic advertising
• A tasting room with Coke products from around the world

It’s easy to pair World of Coca-Cola + Georgia Aquarium + Centennial Olympic Park into a single downtown day.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

For a deeper look at Atlanta’s history and the Civil Rights Movement, this site is essential.

• Main Address: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
• Neighborhood: Sweet Auburn / Old Fourth Ward

Key areas within the park:

• MLK Jr.’s birth home (guided tours available on a limited basis)
• Ebenezer Baptist Church (historic sanctuary where Dr. King preached)
• The King Center and reflecting pool
• Visitor center with exhibits about Dr. King’s life and work

Visiting tips:

• Dress comfortably for walking between locations
• Allow at least 2 hours to take in the full experience

Atlanta BeltLine: Walk, Bike, Eat, and Explore

The Atlanta BeltLine is a repurposed rail corridor turned multi-use trail system that connects neighborhoods, parks, restaurants, and art installations.

Most popular section:

• Eastside Trail (connects areas like Inman Park, Poncey-Highland, Old Fourth Ward, Midtown)

Things to do on the BeltLine:

• Walk, jog, or bike the paved trail
• Stop for patio dining, coffee, or craft beer
• Check out rotating public art and murals
• Use it as a car-free way to reach parks and markets

Many locals treat the BeltLine as a daily lifestyle hub—if you’re new to town, it’s one of the best ways to get a feel for modern in-town Atlanta.

Outdoor Activities and Parks in Atlanta

Piedmont Park: Atlanta’s Central Gathering Green

Often called Atlanta’s “Central Park,” Piedmont Park is a go-to spot for outdoor time near Midtown.

• Main Access: 1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
• Neighborhood: Midtown / Virginia-Highland border

What you can do:

• Walk or jog the paved trails
• Bring a picnic and enjoy the open lawns
• Visit Dog Parks (separate small and large dog areas)
• Check out events and festivals that frequently use the park

Nearby:

• Atlanta Botanical Garden (see below)
• Midtown restaurants and cafes within a short walk or drive

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Attached to Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden offers a curated nature experience close to the city center.

• Location: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
• Neighborhood: Midtown

Highlights:

• Seasonal flower displays and themed gardens
• The Kendeda Canopy Walk through the treetops
• Indoor conservatory with tropical plants and orchids
• Special evening light displays certain times of year

This is a popular spot for:

• Date nights
• Family outings
• Quiet solo visits during less crowded weekday hours

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

For a “get out of the city” feel without going far, locals head to the Chattahoochee River for gentle hiking, picnicking, and river views.

Popular access near Atlanta:

• Cochran Shoals / Interstate North Trailhead
  Approx. address: 1956 Eugene Gunby Dr SE, Marietta, GA 30067 (just northwest of the Perimeter)

Activities:

• Easy riverside trails suitable for most fitness levels
• Kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding (typically via local outfitters)
• Fishing (check local rules and licensing requirements)

Parking areas can fill, especially on sunny weekends, so arriving earlier in the day helps.

Stone Mountain Park (Greater Atlanta Area)

While technically outside the city, Stone Mountain Park is one of the most-visited outdoor attractions in the metro area.

• Address: 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083

Things to do:

• Hike the Walk-Up Trail to the summit for views of Atlanta’s skyline
• Ride the summit skyride (when operating)
• Enjoy lakeside areas, playgrounds, and picnic spots

If you’re staying in Atlanta proper, expect around a 30–40 minute drive depending on traffic.

Neighborhoods to Explore and Where to Spend Time

Atlanta is very neighborhood-driven. Many of the best things to do are simply exploring these areas on foot, sampling food, browsing shops, and enjoying local culture.

Midtown

Known for:

• High-rise skyline, walkable streets, and cultural institutions
• Piedmont Park and Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Major arts venues like the Fox Theatre

What to do:

• Catch a show at the Fox Theatre
  Address: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
• Walk the stretch of Peachtree Street through Midtown
• Visit art museums and galleries, or join seasonal festivals

Downtown

Downtown is more business-oriented on weekdays but holds several of Atlanta’s biggest attractions.

You’ll find:

• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• Centennial Olympic Park
  Address: 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium nearby for major sports and concerts

Useful if you:

• Want a “one day of big attractions” experience
• Are attending a conference at the Georgia World Congress Center
• Are staying in a hotel cluster near Peachtree Center

Old Fourth Ward & Inman Park

These in-town neighborhoods combine historic homes with modern BeltLine energy.

Expect:

• BeltLine Eastside Trail access
• Cafes, bars, and restaurants from casual to upscale
• Street art, murals, and renovated warehouses

If you enjoy walkable urban districts, this area is a smart choice for:

• Weekend brunch
• Evening drinks
• Starting a BeltLine walk or bike ride

Little Five Points & Virginia-Highland

Little Five Points (L5P)
Known for:

• Alternative and indie shops
• Vintage clothing and record stores
• Street art and a distinctive, eclectic vibe

Virginia-Highland (Va-Hi)
Known for:

• Bungalow-style historic homes
• A relaxed, walkable commercial strip with restaurants and boutiques
• Close proximity to Piedmont Park

Both are great if you prefer:

• Wandering streets vs. structured sightseeing
• Local shops, coffee spots, and neighborhood dining

Buckhead

Buckhead is Atlanta’s upscale residential and shopping district.

You’ll find:

• High-end shopping centers and boutiques
• Many hotels, restaurants, and nightlife options
• Tree-lined streets and residential areas just off major roads

Useful for:

• Travelers looking for familiar hotel brands
• Dining out with more of a “modern city” than “historic district” feel

Sports, Music, and Major Events

Professional Sports in Atlanta

Atlanta has multiple major league teams, with most big games taking place on or near the western side of downtown.

Key venues:

Game-day tips:

• Plan for heavy traffic and paid parking
• Consider using MARTA (see transportation section) or rideshare
• Many locals arrive early to eat near the stadiums or join pre-game activities

Live Music and The Arts

Atlanta’s music and performance scene is active year-round.

Notable venues:

• Fox Theatre – Broadway tours, concerts, comedy, and special events
  660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
• Tabernacle – Concert venue in a historic church building
  152 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre – Ballet, opera, and touring shows
  2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30339

You’ll also find smaller clubs and bars with live music across neighborhoods like East Atlanta Village, Little Five Points, and Midtown.

Things To Do With Kids in Atlanta

If you’re looking for family-friendly activities, Atlanta is well-equipped.

Zoo Atlanta

• Address: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
• Neighborhood: Grant Park

Highlights:

• A wide variety of animals, including gorillas, elephants, and giant pandas (check current exhibits)
• Play areas and educational programming
• Shaded paths that are helpful in warmer months

Pair a zoo visit with:

• A walk through Grant Park’s historic neighborhood streets
• A stop at local cafes and restaurants a short drive away

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

• Address: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Neighborhood: Downtown

Geared toward younger children with:

• Hands-on exhibits and learning stations
• Interactive play spaces
• Proximity to other downtown attractions for a full-day plan

Fernbank Museum | Science & Nature

• Address: 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307
• Neighborhood: Druid Hills

Features:

• Dinosaur exhibits and natural history displays
• Giant screen theater
• Fernbank Forest and outdoor walking areas

This works especially well for school-age kids who enjoy science, nature, and interactive learning.

Free or Low-Cost Things To Do in Atlanta

You do not have to spend a lot to enjoy the city. Many locals mix high-profile attractions with free parks, trails, and self-guided sightseeing.

Ideas:

• Walk or bike the Atlanta BeltLine – Free to access; pay only for rentals or food/drink.
• Explore Piedmont Park – Open lawns, trails, dog parks, and city skyline views.
• Stroll through Centennial Olympic Park – Fountains, green space, and a central downtown location.
• Visit neighborhood districts like Little Five Points, Virginia-Highland, or West Midtown for window shopping and people-watching.
• Self-guided civil rights history walk – Visit Sweet Auburn, Auburn Avenue, and public memorials around the MLK Jr. National Historical Park area (some components are free).

You may also come across:

• Seasonal free festivals and concerts in parks or neighborhood streets
• Farmer’s markets in areas like Grant Park, Midtown, and surrounding suburbs

Check current local calendars or city websites to confirm event times and any updated rules.

Shopping and Markets

Atlanta offers a mix of modern retail centers and market-style experiences.

Large Shopping Areas

• Buckhead shopping district – High-end stores, fashion, and dining
• Perimeter Center area (Dunwoody / Sandy Springs) – Regional mall and big-box retail
• Cumberland / The Battery Atlanta – Shops and restaurants surrounding Truist Park

These are practical for:

• Travelers who need to pick up clothing, electronics, or personal items
• Residents looking for one-stop shopping

Market-Style and Food Halls

Atlanta has embraced the food hall and market trend, making it easy to sample local restaurants in one place.

You’ll find:

• Ponce City Market (off the BeltLine Eastside Trail, former Sears building)
• Other food halls and markets in various neighborhoods with rotating vendors and casual seating

These spots often combine:

• Dining
• Small retail shops
• Rooftop or patio spaces
  making them ideal for group outings or casual evenings.

Getting Around: How To Do All This in Atlanta

Atlanta is spread out, and what you choose to do may depend on how you’re getting around.

MARTA (Public Transit)

MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) operates trains and buses throughout much of the city.

• Main rail lines connect Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, and some suburbs.
• Major downtown attractions like State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium are a short walk from MARTA stations.
• Arts Center, Midtown, and North Avenue Stations work well for Midtown and nearby areas.

Using MARTA helps:

• Avoid parking costs and heavy traffic around stadiums and large events
• Make quick trips between central neighborhoods

Driving and Parking

Many residents and visitors rely on cars due to Atlanta’s size.

If you’re driving:

• Expect rush hour traffic generally in the mornings and late afternoons on weekdays, especially along I-75/85 and I-285.
• Downtown and Midtown attractions typically offer paid parking decks or surface lots.
• Some in-town neighborhoods use permit or metered street parking, so read signs carefully to avoid tickets or towing.

Walking and Biking

Certain areas are much more walkable than others.

Walkable districts include:

• Midtown (near Piedmont Park and Peachtree Street)
• Downtown attraction cluster
• Old Fourth Ward / Inman Park (especially along the BeltLine)
• Virginia-Highland and Little Five Points for shorter strolls

Bike share and rental services may operate near the BeltLine and popular parks. Always follow local bike laws and be cautious on major roads that lack protected lanes.

Quick Planning Guide: What To Do Based on Your Time

If you have 1 day in Atlanta:

• Morning: Georgia Aquarium or MLK Jr. National Historical Park
• Afternoon: Walk Centennial Olympic Park and visit World of Coca-Cola
• Evening: Dinner in Midtown or along the BeltLine Eastside Trail

If you have a weekend:

• Day 1: Downtown attractions (+ possibly a game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium or State Farm Arena)
• Day 2: Piedmont Park & Atlanta Botanical Garden, BeltLine walk, and explore Old Fourth Ward / Inman Park

If you live in Atlanta and want new ideas:

• Walk a new section of the Chattahoochee River trails
• Visit a neighborhood you rarely go to (e.g., Little Five Points or West Midtown)
• Check upcoming performances at venues like the Fox Theatre or local concert halls
• Make a day trip to Stone Mountain Park or further into North Georgia

Whether you prefer museums and history, outdoor trails, live sports, or neighborhood food adventures, Atlanta offers a steady mix of options, with many clustered enough that you can combine several into one outing. Use the attractions and areas above as a starting point, then layer in your interests—food, art, music, or nature—to decide exactly what to do in Atlanta, Georgia next.