The Best Tourist Attractions in Atlanta: What to See, Do, and Know

Atlanta blends Southern history, modern culture, and big-city energy, making it one of the most interesting places to explore in the Southeast. Whether you’re a local planning a staycation or a visitor trying to make the most of a weekend, there’s no shortage of things to see.

Below is a clear guide to the top tourist attractions in Atlanta, Georgia, organized by interest: history, family fun, arts and culture, outdoor spaces, neighborhoods, and more.

Quick Overview: Atlanta’s Must-See Attractions

Iconic Atlanta Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

Georgia Aquarium (Downtown)

The Georgia Aquarium, at 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, is one of the city’s headlining attractions. Visitors come for:

• Massive tanks with whale sharks and manta rays
• Interactive exhibits and touch pools
• Dolphin and sea lion presentations

It’s in the heart of downtown, within walking distance of other major attractions, so it’s easy to combine with World of Coca-Cola and Centennial Olympic Park in a single day.

Tips:

• Weekdays and early mornings are usually less crowded.
• Families often plan 2–3 hours here, more if you want to see multiple shows.

World of Coca-Cola (Downtown)

Right next door at 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, World of Coca-Cola is a popular stop for visitors curious about the history of one of Atlanta’s best-known brands.

Expect:

• Historical exhibits on advertising and branding
• A short film and interactive displays
• A tasting room featuring soda flavors from around the world

It’s especially appealing for visitors who like pop culture and brand history.

Centennial Olympic Park

Located at 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, Centennial Olympic Park was built for the 1996 Olympic Games and is now a central green space downtown.

People use the park to:

• Walk between the aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and nearby museums
• Relax on the lawn or let kids enjoy the fountain area
• Attend festivals, concerts, and seasonal events

It’s a convenient place to pause, picnic, or regroup between attractions.

Civil Rights & History: Understanding Atlanta’s Legacy

Atlanta plays a central role in civil rights history. Several attractions are especially meaningful if you’re interested in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the modern civil rights movement.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, centered around 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, spans multiple important sites:

• Dr. King’s birth home (guided tours available with timed entry)
• Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he preached
• The King Center, including Dr. and Mrs. King’s tomb and exhibits on nonviolence
• Historic Fire Station No. 6 and neighborhood landmarks

This is one of Atlanta’s most powerful and educational areas, and it’s free to visit. Plan extra time if you want to walk between all the buildings and reflect at the memorial.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

Located at 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, near the aquarium and Centennial Olympic Park, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights connects American civil rights history with ongoing global human rights issues.

Highlights include:

• Exhibits focused on the U.S. civil rights movement
• Interactive experiences that give a sense of the challenges protestors faced
• Rotating displays connected to human rights around the world

This is a strong choice for teens and adults who want deeper context after visiting the King Historic District.

Atlanta History Center (Buckhead)

The Atlanta History Center, at 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305, offers a broader look at the city and region:

• Main museum galleries on Atlanta’s development, transportation, and culture
• The Cyclorama painting depicting the Battle of Atlanta
• Historic houses and gardens on the grounds

If you’re interested in how Atlanta evolved from a railroad hub to a major metro area, this is an important stop.

Family-Friendly Attractions and Activities

Atlanta is a strong family destination, with several attractions clustered close together.

Zoo Atlanta (Grant Park)

Zoo Atlanta, at 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, is located in historic Grant Park. Families come for:

• Giant pandas, gorillas, elephants, and other major animals
• A reptile house and African savanna exhibits
• Train rides and kid-focused play areas

Grant Park itself is a scenic historic neighborhood, so many visitors pair the zoo with a walk or a meal nearby.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta (Downtown)

At 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers hands-on learning and play, especially suited to younger kids.

You’ll find:

• Interactive science, art, and building zones
• Imaginative play areas and rotating exhibits
• Programs designed for preschool and elementary-age children

It’s walking distance from other downtown attractions, making it easy to build a full family day in the area.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History & Fernbank Science Center

• Fernbank Museum of Natural History: 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307
• Fernbank Science Center: 156 Heaton Park Dr, Atlanta, GA 30307

These are separate but nearby institutions often grouped together by visitors.

At the museum, you’ll see:

• Dinosaur exhibits and fossils
• Natural history galleries
• An immersive giant-screen theater and outdoor forest walk

The science center offers astronomy and science exhibits, occasionally including planetarium programs. Both are popular with school groups and families who enjoy science and nature.

Arts, Culture, and Entertainment

High Museum of Art (Midtown)

The High Museum of Art, at 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, is Atlanta’s premier art museum.

Visitors come for:

• American, European, African, and decorative arts collections
• Modern and contemporary exhibits
• Rotating special exhibitions and family-friendly programs

It’s in the Midtown Arts District, close to other cultural venues and MARTA’s Arts Center Station, making it easy to reach without a car.

Fox Theatre

The Fox Theatre, at 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, is one of Atlanta’s most beloved historic buildings and performance venues.

People go to the Fox for:

• Touring Broadway shows
• Concerts and special events
• Occasional building tours that highlight the theatre’s ornate interior and history

If you’re planning a special night out, the Fox is one of the most iconic places to see a show in the city.

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Alliance Theatre

Both located at the Woodruff Arts Center, 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, these institutions anchor the performing arts scene:

• Atlanta Symphony Orchestra: Classical and pops concerts.
• Alliance Theatre: Plays and new works, sometimes destined for larger stages.

For visitors who enjoy live performance and locals planning a cultural evening, Midtown’s arts complex offers multiple options in one spot.

Outdoor Attractions, Parks, and Scenic Spots

Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park, near 400 Park Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306, is often compared to a smaller Central Park for Atlanta. It’s one of the city’s most used green spaces.

People use the park for:

• Walking, jogging, and biking
• Picnics, pickup games, and dog-walking
• Seasonal festivals and city events

With skyline views and plenty of open space, it’s a good place to unwind after museums or meetings.

Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine is a developing loop of trails, parks, and future transit built on former rail corridors, wrapping around intown neighborhoods.

Popular segments for visitors include:

• Eastside Trail: Running through Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park, and near Ponce City Market
• Westside Trail: Connecting neighborhoods on the west side of the city

You’ll find:

• Walking and biking paths
• Murals and public art
• Access to restaurants, markets, and breweries

Locals often recommend the BeltLine as one of the best ways to experience how Atlanta’s neighborhoods connect.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Right next to Piedmont Park, at 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a peaceful, curated outdoor attraction.

Highlights include:

• Seasonal flower displays and themed gardens
• A canopy walk through the treetops
• Sculptural plant installations and children’s areas

Many visitors combine the garden with a walk through Piedmont Park in a single visit.

Stone Mountain Park (Metro Atlanta)

Located just outside the city at 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083, Stone Mountain Park is a major regional attraction.

People go for:

• Hiking up or taking a skyride to the top of Stone Mountain
• Lakeside areas, trails, and family activities in the park
• Seasonal events and evening shows

It’s best suited for visitors with a car, as it sits outside the MARTA rail service area.

Sports, Stadiums, and Big Events

Atlanta is a major sports and events city, and the stadiums themselves are attractions.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

At 1 AMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is home to:

• The Atlanta Falcons (NFL)
• Atlanta United FC (MLS)
• College football games and major concerts

Even when there’s no game, some visitors join stadium tours to see the architecture and field.

State Farm Arena

Located at 1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303, near downtown and CNN Center, State Farm Arena hosts:

• Atlanta Hawks (NBA) home games
• Concerts and touring events

If you’re staying near downtown, this arena is easy to reach on foot or via MARTA.

Truist Park & The Battery Atlanta

Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves (MLB), is at 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339, in the Cumberland area of Cobb County.

The surrounding mixed-use development, The Battery Atlanta, includes:

• Restaurants, shops, and bars
• A central plaza used for events, even on non-game days

Visitors often arrive early to eat and explore The Battery before first pitch.

Exploring Atlanta Neighborhoods: Where to Wander

Atlanta’s neighborhoods each have a distinct feel. Many visitors find that simply walking or driving through a few key districts gives them a better sense of the city.

Downtown

Good for: Major tourist attractions and first-time visitors.

Key draws:

• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• Centennial Olympic Park
• National Center for Civil and Human Rights
• State Farm Arena and nearby hotels

Downtown is transit-accessible and heavily oriented toward visitors, conventions, and events.

Midtown

Good for: Culture, nightlife, and parks.

Midtown includes:

• High Museum of Art and the Woodruff Arts Center
• Fox Theatre
• Piedmont Park and the Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Numerous restaurants and bars

With MARTA rail stations and walkable streets, Midtown is a convenient base for visitors who want to explore without driving everywhere.

Buckhead

Good for: Shopping, dining, and history.

In Buckhead you’ll find:

• Atlanta History Center
• Upscale shopping districts and dining corridors
• A mix of residential areas and business centers

This area is more spread out than Midtown or Downtown, and many visitors rely on cars or rideshare here.

Old Fourth Ward & Inman Park

Good for: BeltLine access, local restaurants, and historic charm.

Highlights:

• Proximity to the Eastside Trail of the BeltLine
• Access to food halls, local eateries, and murals
• Historic homes and leafy streets

These neighborhoods are popular with both residents and visitors who want a more local-feeling experience.

Westside (West Midtown and Nearby Areas)

Good for: Converted industrial spaces, food, and design.

The Westside features:

• Reimagined warehouses with shops and restaurants
• Breweries and design showrooms
• Easy driving access from Midtown and Downtown

It’s less traditional as a tourist “district” but increasingly popular for dining and going out.

Practical Tips for Visiting Tourist Attractions in Atlanta

• Transportation:
  • MARTA rail and bus serve many major attractions, especially in Downtown and Midtown.
  • Driving is common, but allow extra time for traffic and parking, especially around events.
• Weather:
  • Summers are hot and humid—indoor attractions like museums and aquariums can be more comfortable midday.
  • Spring and fall are ideal for the BeltLine, parks, and neighborhood walks.
• Tickets & Timing:
  • Popular spots such as the Georgia Aquarium sometimes recommend timed-entry tickets, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • If you want to see multiple downtown attractions in one day, start early and plan a rough order to avoid backtracking.
• Weekday vs. Weekend:
  • Weekdays can be less crowded at major attractions.
  • Weekends bring more festivals, games, and special events, but also heavier traffic and larger crowds.

Whether you’re in Atlanta for a few hours or you live here and want to explore your own city, focusing on a mix of Downtown icons, civil rights history sites, arts venues, and neighborhood walks will give you a well-rounded view of what makes Atlanta unique.