Fun Attractions in Atlanta, Georgia: Your Local Guide to What’s Worth Doing

Atlanta combines big-city energy, rich history, and a surprising amount of green space. Whether you live in the metro area or are planning a short visit, there’s no shortage of fun attractions in Atlanta, Georgia for every age and interest.

Below is a practical, locally focused guide to the must-see spots, neighborhoods, and experiences that actually feel worth your time.

Classic Atlanta Attractions You Should Know

These are the core, year-round attractions many visitors (and locals) return to again and again.

Georgia Aquarium

Located downtown at 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, the Georgia Aquarium is one of Atlanta’s signature attractions.

What to expect:

• Massive tanks with whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of fish
• Interactive exhibits and touch pools
• Popular dolphin and sea lion presentations

Tips:

• Weekday mornings are typically less crowded.
• Consider parking in nearby decks and walking, especially during busy weekends or events.

World of Coca‑Cola

Next door to the aquarium at 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, World of Coca‑Cola explores the brand’s history and global reach.

Highlights:

• Vintage advertising and memorabilia
• A behind-the-scenes look at bottling
• A tasting room with Coca‑Cola products from around the world

This is especially popular with families and brand/history enthusiasts.

Centennial Olympic Park

Right across from these attractions, Centennial Olympic Park (managed by the Georgia World Congress Center Authority) offers:

• A large, walkable green space
• The famous Fountain of Rings
• Seasonal events like concerts, festivals, and holiday lights

It’s a good “home base” area if you want to pair outdoor time with indoor attractions downtown.

Family-Friendly Fun in Atlanta

Atlanta has a strong lineup of kid-friendly attractions that still appeal to adults.

Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta, at 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, sits in historic Grant Park.

What families like:

• Giant pandas, gorillas, and elephants
• A petting zoo area for younger kids
• Train rides and a carousel on site

Grant Park itself has playgrounds and walking paths, making it easy to stretch a zoo visit into a half-day outing.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History & Forest

Located at 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307, Fernbank combines science, nature, and indoor exhibits.

You’ll find:

• Large dinosaur displays in the main hall
• Rotating science and cultural exhibits
• The Fernbank Forest and outdoor WildWoods trails

This is a great choice for a rain-or-shine day, since you can combine indoor learning with outdoor exploration.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

At 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta focuses on interactive, hands-on learning for younger kids (generally toddler to early elementary).

Expect:

• Play-based exhibits about science, arts, and daily life
• Soft play areas for very young children
• Programs and story times on many days

Because it’s downtown, it pairs well with a stop at Centennial Olympic Park or a walk past the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel on Luckie Street.

History, Culture, and Civil Rights Attractions

Atlanta plays a major role in U.S. civil rights history, and many visitors and residents see these sites as essential.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Spread across several blocks around 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, this national historical park includes:

• Dr. King’s childhood home (tours are often timed and limited)
• The Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he preached
• The King Center and reflecting pool

The area is walkable, and it’s a meaningful, focused look at Atlanta’s role in the civil rights movement. Plan enough time to read the exhibits and walk between buildings.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

At 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, near the aquarium, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights connects the U.S. civil rights movement with ongoing human rights issues worldwide.

Highlights:

• Emotional, immersive exhibits about the civil rights era
• Displays of papers and artifacts from Dr. King
• Rotating exhibits about global human rights

This attraction is best for teens and adults who can spend time with complex subject matter.

Atlanta History Center

Located in Buckhead at 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305, the Atlanta History Center covers:

• Atlanta’s development from early days through modern times
• Civil War history and local culture
• Historic homes and gardens on the grounds

The on-site Swan House and surrounding trails make this more than just a traditional museum.

Outdoor Attractions, Parks, and Trails

Atlanta is often described as a “city in a forest,” and many locals balance indoor attractions with nature and recreation.

Piedmont Park & The Atlanta BeltLine (Eastside Trail)

Piedmont Park (centered around 400 Park Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306) is Atlanta’s flagship urban park.

What you’ll find:

• Walking and running paths
• Open fields, playgrounds, and dog parks
• Seasonal festivals and farmers markets

On the park’s east side, you can connect directly to the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, a paved multi-use path that runs through neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, and Old Fourth Ward.

Along the BeltLine, expect:

• Public art installations
• Access to parks and playgrounds
• Easy walking or cycling between popular in-town neighborhoods

Atlanta BeltLine – Other Segments

Beyond the Eastside Trail, other BeltLine sections (like the Westside Trail) pass through neighborhoods such as Adair Park, West End, and Westview.

They’re popular for:

• Biking and scooters
• Casual strolls to explore new areas
• Discovering small local businesses and murals

Check signage on the trail for access points and safety guidelines, especially if you’re unfamiliar with a particular segment.

Stone Mountain Park (Just Outside Atlanta)

While not in the city limits, Stone Mountain Park at 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083 is a frequently visited attraction for Atlanta residents and visitors.

Features:

• Hiking trails, including the popular walk-up trail to the summit
• Lake views and picnic areas
• Seasonal events and attractions

If you’re staying in Atlanta, this is typically about a 30–40 minute drive from central neighborhoods, depending on traffic.

Arts, Music, and Performance Venues

Atlanta’s arts scene ranges from major theaters to neighborhood galleries and street art.

Fox Theatre

The historic Fox Theatre at 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 is one of the city’s most iconic venues.

You can expect:

• Broadway tours and concerts
• Comedy shows and special events
• A unique, ornate interior that’s an attraction by itself

If you’re planning around a specific show, consider MARTA access to North Avenue or Midtown stations to simplify parking.

Woodruff Arts Center (High Museum, Symphony Hall, Alliance Theatre)

At 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, the Woodruff Arts Center houses:

• High Museum of Art – permanent and rotating art exhibits
• Atlanta Symphony Hall – performances by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
• Alliance Theatre – regional theater productions

This complex is walkable from Midtown and near the Arts Center MARTA station, which helps if you want to avoid driving and parking during shows.

Local Music & Neighborhood Venues

Many of Atlanta’s music venues are clustered around Midtown, East Atlanta Village, Little Five Points, and Edgewood. While individual lineups and venues change over time, these areas are known for:

• Live bands and DJ sets
• Smaller, more intimate stages
• Nightlife-focused attractions (best for adults)

If you’re new to Atlanta, it’s common to pair dinner with a show in the same neighborhood to minimize late-night travel.

Neighborhoods That Feel Like Attractions

Some of Atlanta’s best “fun attractions” are actually walkable neighborhoods with a distinct feel.

Midtown

Midtown is a dense, central area that gives you a little bit of everything:

• Easy access to Piedmont Park and the BeltLine
• Major arts institutions like the High Museum
• Restaurants, cafes, and bars within walking distance

It’s particularly convenient for visitors who want to stay somewhere car-optional.

Downtown

Downtown is more attraction-heavy than residential in feel. Here you’ll find:

• Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca‑Cola, National Center for Civil and Human Rights
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena
• Centennial Olympic Park and SkyView Atlanta

This area is very accessible via Five Points, Peachtree Center, and GWCC/CNN Center MARTA stations.

Old Fourth Ward & Inman Park

These adjacent neighborhoods, connected by the BeltLine Eastside Trail, are popular for:

• BeltLine access and public art
• A mix of older homes and newer developments
• Restaurants, bars, and local shops with a more laid-back vibe

Old Fourth Ward is also close to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, making it easy to combine history with modern city life in one outing.

Sports and Big-Event Attractions

If you enjoy sports or large-scale events, Atlanta has several major venues.

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

At 1 AMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, Mercedes‑Benz Stadium hosts:

• Atlanta Falcons football
• Atlanta United FC soccer
• Concerts and large special events

For big events, many locals recommend using MARTA (Vine City or GWCC stations) and walking, instead of trying to park right at the stadium.

State Farm Arena

Right next door at 1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303, State Farm Arena is home to:

• Atlanta Hawks basketball
• Concerts and touring shows

Because it’s adjacent to CNN Center and Centennial Olympic Park, it’s easy to pair with a day of attractions downtown.

Quick Comparison: Types of Fun Attractions in Atlanta

Practical Tips for Enjoying Atlanta Attractions

A few local-style pointers can make your time in Atlanta smoother:

• Factor in traffic: Atlanta’s traffic can be heavy, especially weekdays from late afternoon into early evening. Leave extra time for driving and parking if you have timed tickets or event start times.
• Use MARTA when it helps: Many big attractions near Downtown and Midtown are close to MARTA rail stations. This can be easier than navigating busy streets and parking decks.
• Check hours and reservations: Some historic homes, specialty exhibits, and popular attractions use timed entry or limited-capacity tours, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Plan for the weather: Summers are hot and humid; spring and fall are more comfortable for long outdoor walks on the BeltLine or in parks.
• Cluster attractions by area: To cut down on travel, group your plans:
  • Downtown: Aquarium, World of Coca‑Cola, Civil and Human Rights Center, Children’s Museum, Centennial Olympic Park
  • Midtown: Piedmont Park, High Museum, Fox Theatre, BeltLine access
  • Eastside: MLK Jr. National Historical Park, Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park, BeltLine Eastside Trail

Whether you’re here for a weekend or you’ve lived in metro Atlanta for years, exploring these fun attractions in Atlanta, Georgia is an easy way to see the city’s character—from its civil rights legacy and cultural institutions to its parks, trails, and skyline views.