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

Atlanta offers a mix of Southern history, modern culture, sports, food, and outdoor fun that can fill a weekend or an entire year. Whether you live in the city, are planning a short visit, or are helping someone make sense of what Atlanta has to offer, this guide walks through practical, easy-to-use ideas for things to do in and around Atlanta, Georgia.

Classic Atlanta Attractions You Should Know

These are the big-name things to do in Atlanta that many visitors and locals experience at least once.

Downtown Highlights

1. Georgia Aquarium (Downtown)
One of the largest aquariums in the world, the Georgia Aquarium is a go-to for families, couples, and school groups.

• Location: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• What to expect: Massive tanks with whale sharks and manta rays, interactive touch pools, and rotating exhibits.
• Tip: Weekday mornings are usually less crowded than weekends and holidays.

2. World of Coca‑Cola
Right next door, the World of Coca‑Cola explores the history and branding of one of the world’s most recognizable beverages.

• Location: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Good for: Visitors who want a quick, walkable activity near the Aquarium and Centennial Olympic Park.

3. Centennial Olympic Park
This park is a central, walkable area surrounded by major attractions.

• Location: 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Things to do:
  • Relax on the lawn with a skyline view
  • Let kids cool off in the Fountain of Rings (seasonally)
  • Join festivals, concerts, and city events throughout the year

Midtown and Surrounding Icons

4. Atlanta Botanical Garden (Midtown)
A favorite for plant lovers and anyone who enjoys peaceful outdoor spaces.

• Location: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
• Highlights: Canopy walk through the trees, seasonal light displays, and themed gardens.
• Pair with: Piedmont Park, which sits directly beside the Garden.

5. Piedmont Park
Piedmont Park is sometimes called “Atlanta’s Central Park.”

• Location: 400 Park Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 (main access)
• Activities:
  • Walking and biking paths
  • Dog parks
  • Pick-up sports and festivals
• Tip: On weekends, arrive early for easier parking or use MARTA to Midtown stations.

6. Zoo Atlanta (Grant Park)
Located in historic Grant Park, this zoo is especially popular with families.

• Location: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
• Known for: Giant pandas, reptiles, and kid-friendly exhibits.

Explore Atlanta’s Neighborhoods

Atlanta’s personality really shows up in its neighborhoods. Many things to do are less about a single attraction and more about walking, eating, shopping, and people-watching.

Inman Park & the Eastside BeltLine

Inman Park is one of Atlanta’s oldest neighborhoods, known for Victorian homes and tree-lined streets.

• Do:
  • Walk or bike the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail
  • Grab coffee, brunch, or dessert at local spots near Krog Street Market
  • Walk through residential streets to see historic homes

Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail
This multi-use trail links neighborhoods like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, and Virginia-Highland.

• Popular segments: Krog Street Market ↔ Ponce City Market
• Activities:
  • Renting scooters or bikes
  • Stopping for murals, patios, and green spaces along the way

Old Fourth Ward & Ponce City Market

Old Fourth Ward (O4W) is a mix of history and new development, closely tied to the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

• Things to do:
  • Explore Historic Fourth Ward Park
  • Browse shops and food stalls at Ponce City Market
    • Location: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
  • Use the BeltLine to connect to nearby neighborhoods

Virginia-Highland & Morningside

These adjacent neighborhoods feel walkable and village-like, with bungalows, boutiques, and restaurants.

• Do:
  • Stroll along North Highland Avenue
  • Try local bakeries and neighborhood bars
  • Visit nearby parks like John Howell Park

Little Five Points

Known for its alternative, artsy vibe, Little Five Points is popular for vintage shopping and street culture.

• Typical activities:
  • Thrift and record shopping
  • Catching a show at local music or theater venues
  • People-watching around the main intersection of Euclid Ave NE and Moreland Ave NE

History, Civil Rights, and Culture

Atlanta plays a central role in U.S. civil rights history and has a strong museum and cultural scene.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

This site includes several important locations related to Dr. King’s life and legacy.

• Location: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
• Key stops:
  • King’s childhood home (guided tours are limited and often fill quickly)
  • Ebenezer Baptist Church
  • Visitor Center with exhibits on the Civil Rights Movement
• Tip: Plan extra time to walk between buildings and view exhibits at a relaxed pace.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

This museum connects Atlanta’s civil rights history with global human rights issues.

• Location: 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Good for:
  • Visitors wanting a deeper understanding of Atlanta’s role in civil rights
  • Students and families discussing social justice

Atlanta History Center

The Atlanta History Center in Buckhead covers eras from the Civil War through modern Atlanta.

• Location: 130 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
• Features:
  • Museum exhibits
  • Historic homes, including the Swan House
  • Gardens and walking paths

Outdoor Activities in and Around Atlanta

Atlanta is often called the “city in a forest” because of its tree cover. There are many outdoor options, even close to the urban core.

In-Town Green Spaces

Chastain Park

• Location: 140 Chastain Park Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30342
• Activities:
  • Walking trails
  • Tennis courts and a golf course
  • Seasonal concerts at Chastain Park Amphitheatre

Grant Park

• Surrounds Zoo Atlanta and features:
  • Walking paths
  • Playground areas
  • Historic homes around the park’s perimeter

Hiking and Rivers Near the City

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
A series of parks along the Chattahoochee River offers easy access to water and trails.

• Popular access points near Atlanta:
  • Island Ford Unit – 8800 Roberts Dr, Sandy Springs, GA 30350
  • Powers Island / Cochran Shoals – near Interstate North Pkwy SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
• Activities:
  • Hiking and trail running
  • Tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding (seasonal, often via local outfitters)
  • Picnic areas with river views

Stone Mountain Park (about 20–30 minutes from downtown, depending on traffic)

• Location: 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
• Things to do:
  • Hike or take transportation up Stone Mountain for skyline views
  • Walk around the base trail
  • Explore family attractions, depending on the season

Sports, Events, and Live Entertainment

Atlanta is a major sports and entertainment city, with venues spread mostly around Downtown, Midtown, and the Westside.

Professional Sports

• Mercedes-Benz Stadium

  • Location: 1 AMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
  • Home teams: Atlanta Falcons (NFL), Atlanta United FC (MLS)
  • Also hosts concerts and major events

• State Farm Arena

  • Location: 1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Home team: Atlanta Hawks (NBA)
  • Common site for large concerts and performances

• Truist Park & The Battery Atlanta

  • Location: 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
  • Home team: Atlanta Braves (MLB)
  • The surrounding area, The Battery Atlanta, is a mixed-use district with dining, shopping, and entertainment even on non‑game days.

Live Music, Theater, and Arts

• Fox Theatre

  • Location: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
  • Known for: Touring Broadway shows, concerts, and special film events in a historic, ornate venue.

• Smaller venues across neighborhoods such as Midtown, Little Five Points, East Atlanta Village, and West Midtown often host local bands, comedy, and theater. Checking current listings before you go is common practice, as schedules change frequently.

Family-Friendly Things To Do in Atlanta

Families with children can find a wide range of age-appropriate outings.

Interactive Museums and Attractions

• Fernbank Museum | Fernbank Science Center
  The Fernbank Museum (often referred to as Fernbank Museum of Natural History) features dinosaurs, interactive science exhibits, and forest trails.

  • Location: 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307

• Children’s Museum of Atlanta

  • Location: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
  • Best for: Younger kids, with hands-on activities and play-based learning exhibits.

Parks and Playgrounds

• Piedmont Park – Several playground areas and open fields.
• Historic Fourth Ward Park – Modern playgrounds, water features, and green space.
• Brook Run Park (in nearby Dunwoody)
  • Location: 4770 N Peachtree Rd, Dunwoody, GA 30338
  • Known for: Large playground, skate park, and trails.

Shopping, Dining, and Markets

Atlanta’s food and shopping scenes are highly neighborhood-specific. Exploring by area is often the easiest way to discover new spots.

Food Halls and Markets

• Ponce City Market (Old Fourth Ward)

  • Location: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
  • Features: Food hall, rooftop amusement area (seasonal/ ticketed), retail shops, BeltLine access.

• Krog Street Market (Inman Park)

  • Location: 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
  • Features: Food stalls, small retailers, easy BeltLine access.

Shopping Districts

• Lenox Square & Phipps Plaza (Buckhead)

  • Located near the intersection of Peachtree Rd NE and Lenox Rd NE.
  • Known for: Major brands, luxury shops, and indoor malls.

• The Shops Around Buckhead, West Midtown, Virginia-Highland, and Inman Park

  • Offer a mix of boutiques, home goods, and local designers.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Atlanta hosts year-round festivals that range from food and music to arts and neighborhood block parties.

Common types of events include:

• Spring neighborhood festivals

  • Inman Park Festival
  • Dogwood Festival in Piedmont Park

• Summer concerts and outdoor movies

  • Often held in parks such as Piedmont Park, Chastain Park, and at venues around the metro area.

• Fall arts and food festivals

  • Events in Midtown, Candler Park, and Old Fourth Ward are common.

• Holiday lights and winter attractions

  • Light displays at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Stone Mountain Park, and other venues.

Since festival dates and times change each year, locals typically check official city calendars, venue websites, or visitor information centers shortly before attending.

Practical Tips for Getting Around and Enjoying Atlanta

Transportation Basics

• MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority)

  • Rail lines and buses connect Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, and some surrounding areas.
  • Main rail hubs for visitors: Five Points, Peachtree Center, Civic Center, North Avenue, Midtown, Arts Center, Buckhead, Lenox, Lindbergh Center.

• Walking and Biking

  • Walkability is highest in neighborhoods like Midtown, Downtown, Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park, Virginia-Highland, and Little Five Points.
  • The Atlanta BeltLine is one of the best car-free routes for biking, walking, and jogging between in-town neighborhoods.

• Driving and Parking

  • Many attractions offer paid parking; some neighborhoods have free street parking but fill quickly on weekends.
  • Event days near stadiums and major venues can significantly increase traffic and parking costs.

Visitor Information and City Resources

For general city guidance, project updates, or event information, these official resources can be helpful:

• City of Atlanta – Mayor’s Office and City Hall

  • Location: 55 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Main phone (City Hall switchboard): (404) 330‑6000

• Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB)

  • Administrative office location: 233 Peachtree St NE, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • The ACVB typically provides visitor information, maps, and event highlights through official channels and visitor services.

These offices can help if you need city service details, official guidance, or visitor support beyond what you find online.

Quick-Reference: Popular Things to Do in Atlanta

Using these ideas, you can shape an Atlanta day around one area or interest at a time—for example, “Downtown attractions,” “BeltLine and neighborhoods,” or “History and civil rights”—and adjust based on how much time, budget, and energy you have.