Atlanta Tourist Attractions: What to See, Do, and Experience in the City

Atlanta blends Southern history, modern culture, sports, food, and nature into one easy-to-explore city. Whether you live here, you’re in town for a long weekend, or you’re planning a bigger Georgia trip, there’s a lot to see—often within a short drive or MARTA ride.

Below is a practical, locally focused guide to major Atlanta tourist attractions, how they fit together, and how to plan your time.

Getting Oriented: Atlanta’s Main Visitor Areas

Most well-known Atlanta attractions cluster in a few key areas:

• Downtown – Big-ticket sights like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca‑Cola, and Centennial Olympic Park.
• Midtown – Arts and culture hub with the High Museum, the Fox Theatre, and Piedmont Park.
• Buckhead – Upscale shopping, dining, and some smaller museums.
• Old Fourth Ward / Inman Park / BeltLine Eastside – Trendy neighborhoods, street art, food halls, and access to the BeltLine.
• Westside – Industrial-chic area with restaurants, breweries, and the Westside BeltLine.

If you’re short on time, Downtown + Midtown will give you the classic “Atlanta tourist attractions” experience in a day or two.

Downtown Atlanta: Big-Name Attractions in One Walkable Cluster

Downtown is where many visitors start. Most of these can be combined in one or two days without a car.

Georgia Aquarium

One of the largest aquariums in the world, the Georgia Aquarium is often the top pick for families and first-time visitors.

• Location: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Highlights: Whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, dolphin presentations, touch pools.
• Good to know:
  • Weekday mornings are usually less crowded than weekends and holidays.
  • Buying tickets in advance can help avoid lines.
  • Plan for 2–3 hours minimum, more if you have kids who like to linger.

World of Coca‑Cola

Right next to the aquarium, World of Coca‑Cola showcases the history and branding of the world-famous soda, which has deep roots in Atlanta.

• Location: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• What to expect:
  • Exhibits on Coca‑Cola’s history and global marketing.
  • A tasting area with drinks from different countries.
• Best for: Visitors interested in branding, pop culture, and lighthearted exhibits.

Centennial Olympic Park

Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park ties together the major Downtown attractions.

• Location: 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Why go:
  • A pleasant place to walk, rest, or let kids run around between indoor attractions.
  • The Fountain of Rings is a popular photo spot.
• Tip: It’s easy to pair a park visit with the aquarium and World of Coca‑Cola in a single block of time.

SkyView Atlanta

For skyline views without leaving Downtown, SkyView Atlanta is a Ferris wheel across from Centennial Olympic Park.

• Location: 168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Good to know:
  • Enclosed gondolas make it comfortable in most weather.
  • Rides are fairly short, so it’s easy to add as a quick stop.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

This museum connects the American civil rights movement to ongoing global human rights issues.

• Location: 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Highlights:
  • Exhibits featuring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s papers and speeches.
  • Interactive galleries that explore civil rights struggles in the U.S. and beyond.
• Plan for: About 1.5–2 hours if you move steadily, longer if you read and watch everything in detail.

Midtown: Arts, Culture, and Green Space

A short MARTA ride or drive from Downtown, Midtown Atlanta mixes arts, nightlife, and some of the city’s best parks.

High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art is Atlanta’s flagship art museum, with rotating special exhibits and a strong permanent collection.

• Location: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
• What you’ll see:
  • American art, African art, European paintings, photography, and design.
• Best for: Travelers who enjoy museums, architecture, and quieter indoor time.

The Fox Theatre

The historic Fox Theatre is both a performance venue and an attraction on its own.

• Location: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
• Why it’s special:
  • Opulent, 1920s-era “movie palace” with ornate interiors.
  • Hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, and sometimes offers behind‑the‑scenes tours.
• Tip: If you can, see a show here—it’s one of the more atmospheric experiences in Atlanta.

Piedmont Park

Often called “Atlanta’s Central Park,” Piedmont Park is a major urban green space that anchors Midtown.

• Location: Main entrance near 1071 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
• Activities:
  • Walking, jogging, picnics, and seasonal festivals.
  • Playground areas and dog park sections.
• Pair with:
  • Nearby Atlanta Botanical Garden (at the park’s northern side).

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Next to Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a popular escape from busy streets.

• Location: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
• Highlights:
  • Canopy walk, orchid center, seasonal flower displays.
  • Holiday light displays and special events at certain times of year.
• Plan for: 1.5–3 hours depending on how thoroughly you explore.

Atlanta History & Civil Rights: Must-See Historic Sites

Atlanta’s role in civil rights and Southern history is central to the city’s identity. Several key sites are close together and easy to combine.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

This area in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood includes multiple important locations connected to Dr. King.

• Main Visitor Center: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
• Key elements:
  • Dr. King’s birth home (guided tours may require same-day sign-up).
  • Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he preached.
  • The King Center and his final resting place.
• Tip: Check hours in advance, especially for tours of the birth home, which can fill quickly.

Oakland Cemetery

A historic garden cemetery, Oakland offers both beautiful landscaping and insight into Atlanta’s past.

• Location: 248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
• Why visit:
  • Graves of notable Atlantans, including some Georgia politicians and authors.
  • Views of the Downtown skyline.
• Best for: Visitors who enjoy history, architecture, and quiet walking spaces.

The Atlanta BeltLine: Trails, Art, and Neighborhoods

The Atlanta BeltLine is a developing network of multi-use trails built along former rail corridors, connecting neighborhoods and attractions.

Eastside Trail: Old Fourth Ward to Inman Park

The Eastside Trail is one of the most popular sections for visitors.

• General area: Stretching roughly from Ponce City Market south toward Krog Street Market and beyond.
• What to expect:
  • Street art, murals, and sculptures.
  • Numerous restaurants, patios, and small shops steps from the trail.
  • Heavy foot and bike traffic, especially on weekends.

Ponce City Market

A major food hall and retail complex in a historic Sears building, directly on the BeltLine.

• Location: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
• Why it’s popular:
  • Wide variety of quick-service and sit-down food options.
  • Shopping and occasional events.
  • Rooftop area (admission required) with games and skyline views.

Krog Street Market & Krog Street Tunnel

Further south along the BeltLine:

• Krog Street Market
  • Location: 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
  • Indoor food hall with multiple local vendors and bars.
• Krog Street Tunnel
  • Nearby, known for ever-changing graffiti and street art.

These stops are easy to link into a walkable half‑day: BeltLine stroll → Ponce City Market → Krog Street Market → Krog Street Tunnel.

Family-Friendly Atlanta Attractions

While many sights already mentioned are family friendly, a few others stand out for kids and teens.

Zoo Atlanta

Located in historic Grant Park, Zoo Atlanta is a major draw for families.

• Location: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
• Highlights:
  • A wide range of animals and carefully designed habitats.
  • Seasonal events and educational experiences.
• Plan for: 2–4 hours, depending on your pace and kids’ ages.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

A hands-on museum close to Centennial Olympic Park.

• Location: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Best for:
  • Younger children who enjoy interactive play and learning exhibits.
• Note: It’s small enough to pair with the Georgia Aquarium or World of Coca‑Cola in one day.

Sports & Major Event Venues

Atlanta is a sports-heavy city, and its stadiums often double as attractions, especially for fans.

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

Home to the Atlanta Falcons (NFL) and Atlanta United FC (MLS).

• Location: 1 AMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Why go:
  • Guided tours (schedule varies) highlight the stadium’s design and field access.
  • Game days provide a full fan experience, especially popular with soccer fans.

State Farm Arena

Arena in Downtown for basketball and concerts.

• Location: 1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Home to:
  • Atlanta Hawks (NBA).
  • Many major touring concerts and events.

Shopping, Dining, and Evening Attractions

While not “attractions” in the traditional museum sense, these areas are consistently part of Atlanta visit plans.

Buckhead: Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza

Buckhead is known for upscale shopping and dining.

• Lenox Square
  • Location: 3393 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
• Phipps Plaza
  • Location: 3500 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
• Good for:
  • Shoppers looking for major brands and higher-end stores.
  • Air‑conditioned, indoor walking when the weather is hot or rainy.

Atlantic Station

A mixed-use complex on the Westside of Midtown.

• Location: 1380 Atlantic Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30363 (general address)
• What you’ll find:
  • Shops, restaurants, and a movie theater.
  • Occasional outdoor events and seasonal markets.

The Battery Atlanta (Truist Park Area)

A destination for baseball fans and visitors who like active entertainment districts.

• Location: 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339 (adjacent to Truist Park)
• Why go:
  • Home of the Atlanta Braves’ ballpark.
  • Restaurants, bars, live music, and game-day atmosphere.

Popular Day Trip–Style Attractions Near Atlanta

These spots are not far from the city and appeal to both locals and visitors. You may want a car for most of them.

Stone Mountain Park

A large park east of Atlanta centered on Stone Mountain.

• Location: Main entrance at 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
• Activities:
  • Hiking trails, a summit walk-up trail, and seasonal attractions.
• Note: The mountain and its carving have historical and cultural sensitivities that many visitors consider when deciding how to engage with the site.

Atlanta History Center (in Buckhead)

A comprehensive look at the city and regional history.

• Location: 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
• Includes:
  • Museum exhibits on Atlanta and Civil War history.
  • Historic houses and gardens, such as the Swan House.
• Plan for: 2–3 hours or more if you explore the grounds thoroughly.

Quick Comparison: Central Atlanta Tourist Hotspots

Practical Tips for Visiting Atlanta Attractions

A few local-style pointers can make seeing Atlanta’s tourist attractions smoother:

• Transportation
  • MARTA rail is especially useful for moving between Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead.
  • For BeltLine sections and some neighborhoods, walking or rideshare tends to be easiest.
• Timing
  • Attractions are often busiest on weekends, holidays, and school breaks.
  • Weekday mornings can be more comfortable at the aquarium, zoo, and major museums.
• Weather
  • Summers in Atlanta are hot and humid, so plan outdoor attractions (BeltLine, Piedmont Park, Zoo Atlanta) for earlier in the day.
  • Many top sights are indoors, which helps during rain or extreme heat.
• Combining Attractions
  • A common one-day plan for visitors: Georgia Aquarium → World of Coca‑Cola → Centennial Olympic Park → SkyView.
  • Another strong combination: Piedmont Park → Atlanta Botanical Garden → BeltLine Eastside Trail → Ponce City Market.

By focusing your time around Downtown, Midtown, the BeltLine, and a few key historic sites, you can get a well-rounded sense of Atlanta—from its civil rights legacy and cultural institutions to its parks, neighborhoods, and skyline views.