Interesting Things To Do in Atlanta, Georgia: A Local’s Guide to the City

Atlanta blends Southern history, modern culture, and big-city energy in a way few places do. Whether you live here, are visiting for a weekend, or planning a longer stay, there’s no shortage of interesting things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.

Below is a clear, locally focused guide to the best ways to explore the city, broken down by interests so you can easily build your own Atlanta itinerary.

Top Atlanta Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss

These are the core experiences most visitors and many locals enjoy at least once.

Downtown & Midtown Must-Do Attractions

• Georgia Aquarium – 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
  One of the most well-known aquariums in the country, with massive viewing windows, a tunnel through the shark exhibit, and regular animal presentations. It sits in Pemberton Place, an easy walk to several other major attractions.

• World of Coca‑Cola – 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
  Right next to the aquarium, this museum-style attraction tells the story of the Coca‑Cola brand with interactive exhibits and a large tasting area featuring drinks from around the world.

• Centennial Olympic Park – 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
  A central green space built for the 1996 Olympics, ideal for a quick walk, kids to run around, or to relax between attractions. The Fountain of Rings is a popular photo spot.

• SkyView Atlanta – 168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  A large Ferris wheel offering skyline views of downtown and beyond. Gondolas are enclosed and climate-controlled, which is useful in Atlanta’s hot summers.

• Atlanta BeltLine – Eastside Trail (Midtown/Inman Park/Poncey-Highland)
  Not a building or museum, but a multi-use path and greenway that has transformed how people enjoy the city. The Eastside Trail, accessible from multiple points, is lined with:

  • Public art and murals
  • Restaurants and food halls
  • Parks and playgrounds
    Walking or biking this stretch is one of the most “Atlanta” things you can do.

Explore Atlanta’s Neighborhoods

Each neighborhood has its own character, food, nightlife, and things to do.

Midtown: Arts, Culture, and Green Space

Midtown is walkable and packed with major cultural institutions.

• High Museum of Art – 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
  The city’s flagship art museum, known for modern and contemporary collections, special exhibitions, and family-friendly programming.

• Atlanta Symphony Orchestra – 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
  Shares the arts campus with the High Museum. Ideal if you enjoy classical music and live performance.

• Piedmont Park – 400 Park Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
  Often called Atlanta’s “Central Park,” this large urban park is great for:

  • Walking or jogging on paved paths
  • Picnics and playing fields
  • Dog parks and playgrounds
    It also hosts seasonal festivals and events throughout the year.

• Colony Square & Midtown dining
  Midtown offers a mix of casual and upscale dining, coffee shops, and rooftop bars, all walkable from the Arts Center and Midtown MARTA stations.

Old Fourth Ward & Inman Park: Trendy, Walkable, and Food-Focused

These intown neighborhoods are centered around the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail.

• Ponce City Market – 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
  A massive mixed-use complex in a former Sears building with:

  • A popular food hall
  • Retail shops and boutiques
  • Rooftop mini-golf and games (Skyline views are a highlight)
    It connects directly to the BeltLine.

• Krog Street Market – 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
  Another food hall, smaller than Ponce City Market but very walkable, with a mix of:

  • Food stalls and restaurants
  • Craft and specialty shops
    It’s steps from the BeltLine and Krog Street Tunnel, known for ever-changing street art.

• Krog Street Tunnel – Under DeKalb Ave NE at Krog St NE
  A local landmark filled with graffiti and murals. It’s gritty but iconic, and many people walk or bike through as they explore the BeltLine and surrounding neighborhoods.

Buckhead: Shopping, Dining, and Upscale Vibes

If you’re interested in high-end shopping and nightlife:

• Lenox Square – 3393 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
• Phipps Plaza – 3500 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326

Both malls are located in the Buckhead shopping district, with nearby restaurants, hotels, and office towers. Buckhead is also known for rooftop lounges and steakhouses, appealing to both visitors and business travelers.

Little Five Points & Edgewood: Alternative, Artsy, and Nightlife

• Little Five Points (around Moreland Ave NE & Euclid Ave NE)
  Known for:

  • Vintage and record shops
  • Street art
  • Casual eateries and bars
    It has a bohemian, alternative feel and is very walkable.

• Edgewood Avenue (east of downtown)
  A corridor known for late-night bars, clubs, and music. It’s more of a night-time destination, especially on weekends.

History, Civil Rights, and Cultural Landmarks

Atlanta plays a major role in U.S. civil rights history, and exploring that side of the city adds meaning to any visit.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

• Visitor Center & Historic Sites – 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312

This area, in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, typically includes:

• Martin Luther King Jr.’s birth home (tours are sometimes offered with timed tickets)
• Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King preached
• The King Center, which houses exhibits and his final resting place

Walking Auburn Avenue offers a deeper understanding of Atlanta’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

• Address – 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Located near the Georgia Aquarium, this museum connects the U.S. Civil Rights Movement with global human rights issues. Exhibits often use powerful visuals and interactive elements and can be emotionally intense but highly educational.

Atlanta History Center

• Address – 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 (Buckhead)

A large campus that combines:

• Traditional museum galleries on Atlanta and regional history
• The Swan House, a historic mansion
• Cyclorama: The Big Picture (a huge, immersive painting related to the Civil War, now displayed here)
• Gardens and walking paths

It’s a good option if you want a comprehensive look at how Atlanta developed.

Outdoor Activities and Parks Around Atlanta

Atlanta is sometimes called the “city in a forest” because of its tree canopy and green spaces.

In-Town Parks and Trails

• Piedmont Park (Midtown) – Great for:

  • Jogging, biking, or walking the paved paths
  • Renting bikes or scooters nearby
  • Relaxing by Lake Clara Meer

• Atlanta BeltLine (multiple segments)
  Key sections include:

  • Eastside Trail – From Piedmont Park area toward Krog Street Market and Reynoldstown
  • Westside Trail – Through neighborhoods like Adair Park and West End
    You can walk, bike, or skate, and stop at parks, breweries, and restaurants along the way.

• Historic Fourth Ward Park – 680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
  Near Ponce City Market, this park has:

  • A lake and walking trails
  • Green lawns for picnics
  • A splash pad (seasonal)

Chattahoochee River & North Atlanta Nature

If you’re willing to go slightly beyond the dense urban core:

• Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area – Palisades Unit
  Several trailheads north of Atlanta (such as Palisades: Whitewater Creek) offer:

  • Riverside hiking
  • Scenic overlooks
  • Opportunities for kayaking or tubing (seasonal, with private outfitters)

• Morgan Falls Overlook Park – 400 Morgan Falls Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30350
  A riverfront park (just outside Atlanta city limits) with:

  • Scenic views of the Chattahoochee
  • Playgrounds and picnic areas
  • Kayak and paddleboard rentals in warmer months (through local providers)

Sports, Stadiums, and Big Events

Atlanta has a strong sports and live event scene.

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

• Address – 1 AMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Home to:

• Atlanta Falcons (NFL)
• Atlanta United FC (MLS)

The stadium is known for:

• A large retractable roof
• A 360-degree “halo” video board
• Concession pricing that is often more budget-friendly than many large venues

It also hosts concerts, college football games, and other major events.

State Farm Arena

• Address – 1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303

Home to the Atlanta Hawks (NBA) and frequent host to big-name concerts and shows. It is walkable from the CNN Center area and the GWCC/CNN Center MARTA station.

Truist Park & The Battery Atlanta

• Address – 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339

Located in Cobb County, but heavily associated with Atlanta:

• Home of the Atlanta Braves (MLB)
• Surrounded by The Battery Atlanta, a mixed-use development with:
  • Restaurants and bars
  • Shops
  • Frequent outdoor events and live music

Even on non-game days, The Battery is a lively destination.

Family-Friendly Things To Do in Atlanta

For those visiting or living in Atlanta with kids, several attractions are specifically family-oriented.

Zoo Atlanta

• Address – 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315

Located in historic Grant Park, Zoo Atlanta features:

• A wide range of animals from around the world
• Educational programs and keeper talks
• Play areas for younger children

You can also enjoy the surrounding Grant Park neighborhood, which has a growing number of cafes and restaurants.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

• Address – 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Designed for younger children, this museum focuses on:

• Hands-on exhibits
• Play-based learning experiences

It’s located near Centennial Olympic Park, making it easy to combine with nearby attractions.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History & Fernbank Forest

• Address – 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307

Highlights include:

• Dinosaur exhibits and interactive science displays
• Giant screen theater
• Outdoor areas like WildWoods and access to Fernbank Forest, a large urban old-growth forest

This is a good option for families who want both indoor and outdoor activities.

Arts, Theater, and Live Music

Atlanta has a diverse arts and performance scene, from large venues to intimate neighborhood spots.

Major Performing Arts Venues

• Fox Theatre – 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
  A historic, ornate theater in Midtown that presents:

  • Touring Broadway productions
  • Concerts
  • Special events
    Even if you don’t attend a show, walking by the marquee on Peachtree Street is a classic Midtown experience.

• Alliance Theatre – 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
  On the same campus as the High Museum, this regional theater produces a mix of new plays and well-known works.

• Center for Puppetry Arts – 1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
  Offers:

  • Puppet performances for children and adults
  • A museum featuring Jim Henson’s work and famous characters

Music and Smaller Venues

Atlanta is known for its hip‑hop, R&B, and indie scenes, among others. While specific lineups change constantly, the following areas consistently host live music:

• East Atlanta Village – Bars and small venues featuring local bands and DJs.
• Edgewood Avenue – Late-night spots with DJs, live acts, and dancing.
• Midtown and Downtown – Larger concerts at State Farm Arena, Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, and other performance halls.

Food, Markets, and Local Flavor

Eating your way through Atlanta is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the city.

Food Halls and Markets

Food halls are popular gathering spots that showcase multiple vendors under one roof:

• Ponce City Market – 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
  Combines:

  • Southern-inspired dishes
  • International options
  • Dessert stands
    Easy access from the BeltLine makes it a convenient stop.

• Krog Street Market – 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
  Smaller and more intimate, with:

  • Local restaurants
  • Craft beer
  • A casual indoor/outdoor atmosphere

• Sweet Auburn Curb Market – 209 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30303
  A historic market offering:

  • Prepared foods
  • Produce
  • Specialty vendors
    It reflects a long-running local food tradition in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood.

Classic “Atlanta” Food Experiences

While specific restaurants change over time, some consistent themes include:

• Southern and Soul Food – Fried chicken, biscuits, collard greens, mac and cheese, and peach cobbler are staples around the city.
• Barbecue – Various neighborhoods have long-standing barbecue spots, often with slow-smoked meats and traditional sides.
• International Cuisine – Neighborhoods across metro Atlanta, especially along major corridors, offer diverse food options, including Korean, Vietnamese, Mexican, Ethiopian, Indian, and more. Exploring beyond downtown and Midtown can uncover excellent local favorites.

Day Trips and Nearby Destinations from Atlanta

If you’re based in Atlanta and have more time, several easy day trips give you a change of scenery.

Stone Mountain Park

• Main Entrance – 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083

About 30–40 minutes (depending on traffic) from downtown Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park offers:

• Hiking trails, including the walk-up trail to the summit for skyline views
• A large lake and picnic areas
• Seasonal events and attractions

North Georgia Mountains (Starting Around Dahlonega & Helen)

These towns are farther from Atlanta but reachable for a full-day outing or weekend:

• Dahlonega – Known for:

  • Gold rush history
  • Nearby wineries
  • Hiking in the southern Appalachian foothills

• Helen – A themed, Alpine-style village near:

  • Tubing on the Chattahoochee (seasonal)
  • Waterfalls and hiking trails

Practical Tips for Enjoying Atlanta

A few logistical pointers can make exploring Atlanta smoother.

Getting Around

• MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority)

  • Rail lines connect Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport directly to downtown, Midtown, and parts of Buckhead.
  • Stations near key attractions include Peachtree Center, Midtown, Arts Center, and GWCC/CNN Center.

• Walking & Biking

  • Certain neighborhoods (Midtown, Downtown, Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park) are pedestrian‑friendly, especially around the BeltLine.
  • Bike and scooter rentals are common in central areas, with designated paths in some corridors.

• Driving & Parking

  • Traffic can be heavy, especially during weekday rush hours.
  • Many attractions offer on-site or nearby paid parking; costs and availability vary by area and event days.

When to Visit Attractions

• Weekends and holidays can be busy at top attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca‑Cola, and Ponce City Market.
• Visiting earlier in the day or on weekdays generally means:
  • Shorter lines
  • Easier parking
  • More relaxed experiences

Quick Snapshot: Popular Things To Do in Atlanta

Atlanta offers a wide range of interesting things to do, from historic sites and museums to food halls, sports, and neighborhoods that feel like small cities within the city. Whether you’re planning a packed weekend or exploring slowly as a local, focusing on a few key areas—Downtown, Midtown, the BeltLine neighborhoods, and your choice of parks or stadiums—will give you a strong feel for what makes Atlanta unique.