Fun and Free Things To Do in Atlanta: Local Guide to No-Cost Adventures

Atlanta has a reputation for traffic and big-ticket attractions, but there is plenty to do here that doesn’t cost a thing. Whether you live in the city or you’re visiting on a budget, you can fill entire weekends with free events, outdoor spaces, and cultural experiences.

Below is a locally focused guide to fun and free things to do in Atlanta, organized so you can easily plan a day, a weekend, or a staycation.

Explore Atlanta’s Best Free Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Piedmont Park: Atlanta’s Backyard

Piedmont Park in Midtown is one of the most popular free things to do in Atlanta.

What you can do for free:

• Walk, jog, or bike the paved paths
• Relax on the Meadow with a book or picnic
• Use the public tennis and basketball courts (when open to the public)
• Visit the off-leash dog park
• Enjoy skyline views, especially near Lake Clara Meer

Where it is:
1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

Pro tip: Many free festivals and cultural events happen here throughout the year, especially in spring and fall. Check current event calendars before you go.

Atlanta BeltLine: Walkable Art and Neighborhood Hopping

The Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail is a paved multi-use path that connects neighborhoods like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, and Midtown.

Free ways to enjoy it:

• Walk, run, or bike the trail
• Check out rotating public art installations and murals
• People-watch from benches and green spaces
• Explore nearby free parks like Historic Fourth Ward Park

Popular access points include:

• Near Ponce City Market (675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308)
• Historic Fourth Ward Park (680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308)

📝 Tip: The Eastside Trail can get crowded on sunny weekends. If you prefer it quieter, go earlier in the morning or on weekdays.

Centennial Olympic Park and Downtown Green Spaces

Centennial Olympic Park is right in the middle of downtown Atlanta and is free to walk through.

What you can do:

• Visit the Fountain of Rings area
• Relax on the lawn and take in downtown views
• Use it as a starting point to explore nearby landmarks on foot

Where it is:
265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Nearby free sights to pair with a visit:

• Walk around Centennial Park District
• See the exterior of Mercedes-Benz Stadium and surrounding plazas
• Browse the street-level areas around State Farm Arena

Free Nature Escapes Inside the Perimeter

You don’t have to leave the city for hiking and wooded trails.

1. Morningside Nature Preserve

• Address: 1941 Wellbourne Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
• Features: Forest trails, a sandy area along the South Fork Peachtree Creek often called the “dog beach,” and shaded walks.

2. Blue Heron Nature Preserve

• Address: 4055 Roswell Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30342
• Features: Urban nature preserve with boardwalks, trails, birdwatching, and art installations.

3. Constitution Lakes Park & Doll’s Head Trail (just southeast of the city)

• Address: 1305 South River Industrial Blvd SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
• Known for: Boardwalks over wetlands and the quirky Doll’s Head Trail, an informal art trail made from found objects.

All are free to access, though hours can vary seasonally.

Experience Free Art, Culture, and History

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

One of the most meaningful free things to do in Atlanta is visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood.

The site typically includes:

• Visitor Center with exhibits about the Civil Rights Movement
• Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church
• Dr. King’s birth home area (check in advance for tour details)
• Reflecting pool and tomb of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King (at The King Center campus)

Where it is:
450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312

There is no admission fee, but there may be timed or limited access to certain areas. It’s wise to check for current operating details before visiting.

Atlanta’s Free (or Donation-Based) Museums and Galleries

While some major Atlanta museums charge admission, there are several ways to experience art and history for free.

Atlanta Contemporary

• Focus: Contemporary art exhibitions
• Admission: Free general admission
• Address: 535 Means St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA GA)

• Often offers free admission on specific days or for certain groups.
• Address: 75 Bennett St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
• Check current policies for no-cost access days.

College and Community Galleries
Many colleges and community spaces host free art exhibits, including:

• Georgia State University art galleries (downtown campus)
• Clark Atlanta University Art Museum (varies by schedule)
• Community galleries in neighborhoods like Castleberry Hill and Westside

Because schedules change frequently, it’s helpful to confirm current exhibit hours before going, but the pattern is consistent: student and community galleries are often free to enter.

Atlanta Street Art and Murals

Atlanta has an expansive street art and mural scene, and seeing it is completely free.

Popular mural hotspots:

• Krog Street Tunnel – Constantly changing graffiti and murals
  • Location: 1 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 (approximate tunnel entrance)
• Cabbagetown – Colorful murals and painted walls throughout the neighborhood
• Along the BeltLine Eastside Trail – Rotating and permanent public art installations
• Edgewood and Old Fourth Ward – Murals reflecting local history, music, and culture

You can easily plan a self-guided mural walk by combining a BeltLine stroll with side streets in these neighborhoods.

Free Festivals, Concerts, and Community Events

Atlanta’s festival calendar is busy, and many events are free to attend, with food or extras available for purchase.

Common types of free events:

• Neighborhood festivals (e.g., Inman Park, Virginia-Highland, Little Five Points)
• Cultural and heritage festivals in city parks
• Free outdoor concerts and movie nights hosted by parks or districts
• Holiday parades and celebrations around downtown and Midtown

Large parks commonly hosting free or low-cost community events:

• Piedmont Park – 1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
• Historic Fourth Ward Park – 680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
• Woodruff Park – 91 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Grant Park – 840 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

📝 Tip: Entry is usually free, but parking near big events can be expensive. Consider MARTA or rideshare if you want to keep the outing budget-friendly.

Free Things To Do in Atlanta With Kids

Playgrounds, Splash Pads, and Open Spaces

Some of the best free family activities in Atlanta are simply well-designed parks and playgrounds.

Kid-friendly spots:

• Piedmont Park playgrounds – Multiple play areas with nearby restrooms
• Historic Fourth Ward Park – Large playground plus a scenic lake area
• Woodruff Park – Central downtown green space with seating and occasional programming
• Grant Park – Large playgrounds, open green space, and walking paths

Many city parks also have free splash pads during warm months. These are usually turned on seasonally and can vary each year.

Browsing Little Five Points and Other Walkable Districts

Walking through Little Five Points is free and often entertaining for kids and teens:

• Colorful street art and quirky storefronts
• Occasional street performers and pop-up events
• Walkable to nearby residential streets with older Atlanta homes

Nearby you can also explore:

• Candler Park (1500 McLendon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307) – playgrounds, open fields, and trails

Free Walking Routes and Scenic City Views

Skyline Views Without Paying an Observation Deck Fee

You can see great views of Atlanta’s skyline without a paid attraction.

Free or low-cost viewpoints:

• Jackson Street Bridge – Famous view of downtown Atlanta
  • Approximate location: Jackson St NE crossing Freedom Pkwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
• Higher points around Freedom Park and the surrounding trails
• Grassy areas in Piedmont Park with Midtown skyline views

Be mindful of safety and traffic, especially around bridges and busy roads; use sidewalks and designated crossings.

Self-Guided Neighborhood Walks

Many Atlanta neighborhoods are pleasant to explore on foot and offer a free look at local architecture, shops, and history:

• Inman Park – Victorian-style homes, tree-lined streets, and small parks
• Grant Park – Historic homes and easy access to the park itself
• Virginia-Highland – Bungalow-style homes, corner shops, and restaurants
• West End – Historic district with cultural landmarks and access to Westside BeltLine segments

You can design your own walking route by choosing a neighborhood, finding a central starting point, and making a loop through residential streets and nearby commercial corners.

Free or Low-Cost Educational and Government Sites

Georgia State Capitol (Free Tours)

The Georgia State Capitol in downtown Atlanta offers free self-guided tours on most weekdays when the building is open to the public.

What to expect:

• Historic architecture and exhibits
• Displays on Georgia’s political history and natural resources
• Public galleries (when the legislature is in session, access rules may vary)

Where it is:
206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA 30334

For the most accurate and up-to-date visiting information, contact the Capitol information line or check with the Georgia Building Authority or Georgia State Capitol Museum offices.

Public Libraries and Community Centers

Atlanta-Fulton Public Library locations offer far more than books, and most services are free with a library card.

Many branches provide:

• Free Wi‑Fi and study spaces
• Storytime for kids
• Community events and workshops
• Public computers

Notable branches:

• Central Library (Downtown)
  1 Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Neighborhood branches throughout the city (for example, Ponce de Leon Avenue, Buckhead, and Kirkwood areas)

City and county recreation centers also host low-cost or free community events, open gym times, and outdoor amenities. For Atlanta residents, the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation can provide current information about your nearest facility.

Simple Planner: Free Things To Do in Atlanta by Type

Practical Tips for Enjoying Free Activities in Atlanta

• Check hours and updates: Parks and public sites sometimes adjust hours for weather, maintenance, or special events.
• Plan your transportation: MARTA rail and buses, the Atlanta Streetcar (downtown), biking, and walking can help you avoid parking costs in busy areas.
• Bring the essentials: Water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a small bag make long walks and park days easier.
• Watch for added costs: Entry to a site may be free, but parking, special exhibits, or food and drinks can add up. Decide ahead where you want to spend vs. save.

With a bit of planning, you can enjoy a full Atlanta experience without spending much at all—from civil rights history and skyline views to parks, murals, and neighborhood festivals, all within reach for free.