Free Things To Do in Atlanta, Georgia: A Local’s Guide to Top Free Attractions

Atlanta has a reputation for busy highways and big-ticket attractions, but there is plenty you can see and do for free if you know where to look. Whether you live in the city, are planning a trip, or just comparing options, this guide walks through the best free attractions in Atlanta, Georgia—with local tips on when to go, how to get there, and what to expect.

Top Free Outdoor Attractions in Atlanta

Piedmont Park

Often called Atlanta’s “Central Park”, Piedmont Park is one of the city’s most popular free places to spend the day.

• Great for: Walking, jogging, picnics, skyline views, dog owners
• Location: Near Midtown Atlanta (roughly between 10th St NE and Monroe Dr NE)

What to do for free:

• Walk or bike the paved trails and enjoy skyline views around the Active Oval.
• Relax by Lake Clara Meer or spread out a blanket in the meadow areas.
• Visit the off-leash dog parks on the park’s south end.
• Enjoy free community events that frequently take place in the park (farmers markets, festivals, fitness classes—check schedules in advance).

Parking in nearby decks and streets may cost money, so using MARTA to the Midtown or Arts Center stations and walking in can help you keep the day completely free.

The Atlanta BeltLine (Eastside & Westside Trails)

The Atlanta BeltLine is a network of walking and biking paths built on old rail corridors that circle the city.

• Great for: Biking, walking, public art, people-watching
• Main free benefit: Unlimited access to paved multi-use trails and public art installations

Highlights:

• The Eastside Trail connects neighborhoods like Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park, and Virginia-Highland, with tons of murals and sculptures along the way.
• The Westside Trail runs through West End and Westview, offering a quieter, more residential feel.

You can bring your own bike, scooter, or just walk. The trail itself is free; you only spend money if you stop at shops or restaurants along the way.

Centennial Olympic Park (Note: Check Status Before Visiting)

Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta was built for the 1996 Olympic Games and has long been a free gathering spot.

• Great for: City views, casual strolls, photos by the Olympic rings

The park has walking paths, green spaces, monuments, and fountains. Access is typically free, but parts of the park may be used for ticketed special events at certain times, so it’s wise to check ahead if you’re planning your day around it.

Historic Oakland Cemetery

Oakland Cemetery is a historic garden cemetery and public park just east of downtown.

• Great for: History buffs, architecture fans, quiet walks
• Location: 248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

Free experiences:

• Explore the historic headstones, mausoleums, and sculptures.
• View city skyline views from the higher points.
• Walk self-guided through areas dedicated to notable Atlantans, soldiers, and civic leaders.

Guided tours sometimes charge a fee, but general entry to walk the grounds is typically free.

The Silver Comet Trail (Starts Near Atlanta)

While the official trailhead is outside the Atlanta city core, many residents treat the Silver Comet Trail as one of their go-to free recreation options.

• Great for: Long-distance biking, running, walking
• Trailhead (near metro Atlanta): 4573 Mavell Rd, Smyrna, GA 30082

The trail is paved and built on an old rail line, offering miles of free, car-free outdoor recreation.

Free Cultural & Historic Attractions

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

This is one of Atlanta’s most meaningful free attractions, managed by the National Park Service.

• Location: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312

Areas that are typically free to access:

• Visitor Center with exhibits about the Civil Rights Movement.
• Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King preached.
• Dr. King’s birth home (note: free but may require a timed ticket or limited entry).
• The King Center grounds, including Dr. King’s and Coretta Scott King’s crypt.

📝 Tip: If you want to tour the birth home, arrive earlier in the day—free tickets can be limited and may run out on busy days.

The Georgia State Capitol

The Georgia State Capitol offers free self-guided tours of its historic building and museum on many weekdays.

• Location: 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA 30334

What you can see for free:

• Capitol’s gold dome and historic legislative chambers.
• Museum exhibits featuring state history, artifacts, and natural history items.

You’ll go through security, so bring a valid ID and avoid carrying prohibited items. Hours and tour availability can vary around state holidays and legislative sessions.

Atlanta’s Public Art & Murals

You can turn a walk or drive around Atlanta into a free outdoor art tour. Neighborhoods rich in public art include:

• Cabbagetown & Reynoldstown: Murals along Wylie St and near the Krog Street Tunnel.
• Little Five Points: Street art on businesses, alleys, and backstreets.
• Old Fourth Ward & Edgewood: Murals along the BeltLine and side streets.
• Downtown & Midtown: Sculptures and large-scale murals on building walls.

Many visitors and locals create their own “mural tour” by planning a route through these neighborhoods, snapping photos as they go—no admission required.

Free Museums, Galleries & Educational Spaces

Some major Atlanta museums charge admission, but there are still several ways to enjoy museum-style experiences for free.

Atlanta Monetary Museum (Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta)

The Atlanta Monetary Museum explains the U.S. financial system and the history of money.

• Location: 1000 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

Typical free experiences:

• Exhibits on currency, banking, and the Federal Reserve.
• Viewing areas that may let you see portions of cash-handling operations (depending on current setup and security policies).

Expect security screening. It’s a unique free option, especially if you’re in Midtown already.

Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History

Part of the Fulton County Library System, this institution focuses on African American history and culture.

• Location: 101 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303

Free offerings:

• Access to research collections and exhibits.
• Public programs, lectures, and displays when available.

General entry and browsing are free, making it a quiet, informative stop near downtown.

Public Libraries Across Atlanta

Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System branches provide free access to:

• Books, magazines, and local history materials
• Study areas and community events
• Occasional free workshops, talks, or children’s programming

Key branches include:

• Central Library: 1 Margaret Mitchell Sq, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Neighborhood branches across the city (such as in Kirkwood, West End, and Buckhead)

Libraries are a reliable free indoor option, especially on hot or rainy days.

Free Parks, Gardens & Nature Spots

Atlanta Botanical Garden (Special Free Community Days Only)

General admission to the Atlanta Botanical Garden usually requires a ticket, but there are occasionally free or reduced-fee community days or evenings sponsored by various partners.

• Location: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
• Local tip: Check their calendar for publicized free-entry events before you go.

On standard days, this is not a free attraction, but for residents watching for special programs, it can sometimes become a no-cost outing.

Lullwater Preserve (Emory University)

On Emory University’s campus, Lullwater Preserve offers peaceful, wooded trails and a small lake.

• Location: Access off Clifton Rd NE near Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322

What’s free:

• Walking and jogging on wooded paths
• Viewing a small waterfall, suspension bridge, and wildlife

It’s a quieter alternative to larger city parks. Parking policies around the campus may vary, so check for signs or consider MARTA and campus shuttles if available.

Mason Mill Park & South Peachtree Creek Trail

Located just outside central Atlanta but commonly used by city residents, Mason Mill Park offers:

• Paved and boardwalk-style multi-use trails
• Connection to the South Peachtree Creek Trail
• Playgrounds and picnic areas

These facilities are generally free to use, other than any optional shelter reservations.

Free Events, Festivals & Seasonal Activities

Atlanta hosts many free or low-cost festivals and community events throughout the year. While exact lineups change annually, common free options include:

• Neighborhood festivals in places like Inman Park, Grant Park, and Little Five Points
• Free concerts and performances in parks or plazas at certain times of year
• Holiday parades, tree lightings, and cultural celebrations

To keep costs at zero:

• Bring your own water and snacks where allowed.
• Use MARTA, ride-share, or carpool to avoid expensive parking near popular festival sites.

While specific events shift from year to year, Atlanta residents often keep an eye on city calendars, parks department announcements, and neighborhood association notices for recurring no-admission events.

Free Experiences on College & University Campuses

Atlanta’s colleges often provide free access to certain outdoor spaces, galleries, or public events.

Georgia Tech Campus

• Location: North Avenue & Techwood Dr NW area, Atlanta, GA 30332

Free options:

• Strolling through the campus, with views of campus architecture and green spaces.
• Occasionally, free public lectures or exhibits open to community visitors (details typically posted by the university).

Georgia State University (Downtown Campus)

• Location: Around 33 Gilmer St SE, Atlanta, GA 30303

Possible free experiences:

• Public lectures, art displays, and events that are open to non-students.
• Walking through the urban campus and nearby public plaza areas.

Since campus-related free programming changes, it’s useful to check current event calendars, especially if you live in Atlanta and want regular no-cost things to do.

Free Attractions for Families and Kids

City of Atlanta Playgrounds & Splash Pads

Many city parks include free playgrounds and, in warmer months, splash pads or spraygrounds.

Popular options include:

• Historic Fourth Ward Park: Near the BeltLine, includes a large playground.
• Perkerson Park: Known for its disc golf course and open fields.
• Center Hill Park, Grant Park, and others across the city.

Playground use is free; splash pad hours and operations can be seasonal, so checking park information in advance can help prevent surprises.

Decatur Square & Downtown Decatur (Nearby but Popular)

Just a short MARTA ride east from downtown Atlanta, Decatur Square is a walkable area many Atlanta residents treat as part of their regular options.

Free activities:

• Let kids play on the open plaza or lawns.
• Attend free outdoor events that are periodically hosted there.
• Window-shop and enjoy street musicians without spending anything if you choose not to.

While not inside the Atlanta city limits, it’s close and easily accessed, so many visitors include it in free-day itineraries.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Free Attractions in Atlanta

Use these strategies to keep your day low-cost and stress-free:

Getting Around

• MARTA rail and bus: Often the most budget-friendly way to move between downtown, Midtown, and some neighborhoods with free attractions.
• Walking & biking: Many free attractions cluster around Midtown, downtown, Old Fourth Ward, and the BeltLine, making car-free days realistic.
• Parking: Some parks and attractions have free lots; others rely on paid decks or street meters. Checking parking info beforehand helps avoid surprise costs.

Staying Comfortable (and Safe) Outdoors

Atlanta’s weather can be hot and humid in summer and variable in other seasons.

Helpful habits:

• Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for outdoor spots like Piedmont Park and the BeltLine.
• Keep a light jacket or umbrella handy in cooler or rainy seasons.
• Stay aware of park hours; some close at dusk, and being out after hours can lead to citations in certain areas.

Planning Around Free Days & Special Offers

Some attractions that normally charge admission occasionally host free community days or discounted evenings. To get the most from Atlanta on a budget:

• Watch event calendars for free-entry days at places like museums or gardens.
• Check if any local government offices or visitor centers have printed guides or maps with up-to-date information on no-cost activities.

Quick Reference: Key Free Attractions in Atlanta

Exploring free attractions in Atlanta, Georgia doesn’t mean settling for second best. With historic sites, parks, public art, and community events spread across the city, you can fill entire weekends without paying admission—especially if you plan ahead, use transit smartly, and keep an eye on special free days and local calendars.