The Best Things To Do Close to Atlanta, Georgia

Looking for things to do close to Atlanta—without spending half your day in the car? The Atlanta area is surrounded by day-trip destinations, small towns, state parks, and unique attractions that are close enough for an easy escape but far enough to feel like a change of scenery.

This guide focuses on realistic day trips and short drives from Atlanta, with options for families, outdoor lovers, history buffs, and people who just want a relaxing afternoon away from city traffic.

Quick-Glance Guide to Places Near Atlanta

Drive times are approximate and assume leaving from downtown Atlanta outside of rush hour.

Easy Outdoor Escapes Within 30–45 Minutes

If you live in Atlanta, sometimes you just want trees instead of traffic without committing to a full road trip.

1. Stone Mountain Park

Location: Stone Mountain, GA (about 25–35 minutes east of downtown)

Why go:

• Walk-Up Trail to the top of Stone Mountain for panoramic views of Atlanta and beyond.
• Loop trails around the base for easier hikes.
• Paddle boating, picnic areas, and seasonal events.

Tips:

• Arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds and heat.
• Parking fees apply at park entrances, so factor that into your plans.

2. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Locations: Multiple units along the river, such as:

• Cochran Shoals / Powers Island near I-285 in Sandy Springs
• Island Ford near Roswell

Why go:

• Easy riverside trails for walking, running, or biking.
• Tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in season.
• Good option when you want nature but don’t want to drive far.

Practical notes:

• Most river units use self-pay parking stations.
• Water levels and temperatures vary, so check conditions before getting in the water.

3. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

Location: Kennesaw, GA (roughly 30 minutes northwest)

Why go:

• Moderate hike to the top of Kennesaw Mountain with city and mountain views.
• Multiple historic battlefield trails.
• Visitor center with exhibits on the Civil War and local history.

Good for: People wanting both history and exercise in one stop.

Lakes and Water Activities Near Atlanta

When Atlanta heats up, many locals head to nearby lakes for a cooler change of pace.

4. Lake Lanier

Location: Mainly around Buford, Cumming, and Gainesville (about 45–60 minutes northeast)

Why go:

• Public swim areas and day-use parks.
• Opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking.
• Lakeside picnic spots and some beaches in designated areas.

Things to know:

• Different parts of the lake are managed by different parks and marinas, so parking and access rules vary.
• Summer weekends can be very busy; consider weekday visits if possible.

5. Lake Allatoona

Location: Near Acworth, Cartersville, and Woodstock (about 45–60 minutes northwest)

Why go:

• Multiple Army Corps of Engineers parks with picnic areas and boat ramps.
• Popular for fishing, paddling, and short camping trips.
• Often feels a little less hectic than Lanier, depending on where you go.

Charming Small Towns and Neighborhoods Close to Atlanta

If you’re looking for walkable streets, local restaurants, and small-town character without going far, several spots just outside Atlanta fit the bill.

6. Decatur

Location: Just east of Atlanta, centered around Decatur Square

Highlights:

• Pedestrian-friendly downtown with restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques.
• Seasonal festivals and events on the square.
• MARTA-accessible, so you can avoid driving and parking if you prefer.

Good for: An easy evening out, date night, or laid-back weekend afternoon.

7. Marietta Square

Location: Historic downtown Marietta, GA (about 25–35 minutes northwest)

Why go:

• Central square and park with a fountain, lawn, and regular events.
• Antique shops, local restaurants, and specialty stores.
• Nearby Marietta Fire Museum and Marietta Museum of History for added interest.

Tip: Parking options include street parking and public lots around the square.

8. Roswell Historic District

Location: Roswell, GA (about 30–40 minutes north)

Highlights:

• Canton Street lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.
• Access to the Chattahoochee River at nearby parks for walking and kayaking.
• Historic homes and sites that reflect Roswell’s early history.

This area works well if you want to combine a meal, a stroll, and some light exploring in one visit.

History and Culture Within an Hour of Atlanta

Atlanta itself has many museums and historic sites, but a short drive opens up even more options for learning and exploration.

9. Kennesaw & Civil War History

In addition to Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, the surrounding area includes:

• Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History in downtown Kennesaw.
• Historic downtown areas with markers and exhibits about the region’s role in the Civil War and railroad development.

Good for: History enthusiasts and families who want educational stops outside the city core.

10. Cartersville: Museums and More

Location: Cartersville, GA (about 45–60 minutes northwest)

Cartersville has become known as a museum town with several popular stops, including:

• A well-regarded Western-themed art museum.
• A science and natural history museum that families often pair with a day trip.
• A historic downtown with locally owned shops and restaurants.

Cartersville works well as a full-day outing: a museum visit in the morning, lunch downtown, and a stroll or short drive to nearby attractions in the afternoon.

Family-Friendly Things to Do Close to (or In) Atlanta

If you’re traveling with kids or planning a family day, you may want options that don’t require long drives and offer structured activities.

11. Atlanta Zoo Area (Grant Park)

Location: Grant Park neighborhood, southeast of downtown Atlanta

In addition to Zoo Atlanta, the surrounding Grant Park area offers:

• Shaded walking paths and playgrounds.
• Nearby neighborhoods with casual places to eat.
• Easy pairing with a short drive to downtown attractions.

Tip: Parking can be tight on busy days, so allow some extra time.

12. Georgia Aquarium and Nearby Attractions

Location: Downtown Atlanta, near Centennial Olympic Park

From a practical standpoint, this cluster of attractions works well when you’re trying to maximize activities in a small area:

• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• Centennial Olympic Park (green space, splash pad areas in season)
• College Football Hall of Fame, and other museums within walking distance

While these are technically in the city, for many visitors staying just outside Atlanta, these stops function as “close-to-Atlanta” destinations that can fill a full day.

Quick Nature Getaways for Hiking and Scenic Views

If you’re willing to drive a little further—still within what many Atlantans consider a reasonable day trip—you have access to more mountain and forest scenery.

13. Arabia Mountain and Panola Mountain

Location: East of Atlanta, around Lithonia and Stockbridge (roughly 30–45 minutes)

Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area and Panola Mountain State Park offer:

• Rocky landscapes and outcrops similar in feel to Stone Mountain but generally quieter.
• Boardwalks, lakes, and forested trails at Panola.
• A mix of paved and natural-surface trails suitable for different fitness levels.

These areas are popular with Atlanta locals who want something more low-key than Stone Mountain but still close to home.

14. Red Top Mountain State Park

Location: Near Lake Allatoona, about 45–60 minutes northwest

Why go:

• Lakeside hiking trails with wooded paths and water views.
• Designated swim areas and picnic spots.
• Often less urban-feeling than parks closer to the city.

It’s a good option if you want a true state park experience without a long drive into North Georgia.

Longer Day Trips Still Close Enough to Atlanta

These destinations are a bit farther out, but many Atlanta residents consider them reasonable full-day trips.

15. Athens, Georgia

Location: About 1.5 hours east of Atlanta

Why go:

• University of Georgia campus with classic college-town energy.
• Walkable downtown filled with music venues, restaurants, and bars.
• Local shops and historic architecture.

Athens is a favorite for people who enjoy live music, good food, and a different vibe from Atlanta’s urban core.

16. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Location: About 2–2.5 hours northwest of Atlanta

While technically out of state, Chattanooga is a classic weekend or long day trip from Atlanta, offering:

• Riverfront parks and walking paths.
• Well-known family-friendly attractions, including an aquarium and mountain viewpoints.
• A compact downtown you can explore mostly on foot.

17. Columbus, Georgia

Location: About 1.5–2 hours southwest of Atlanta

Why go:

• Chattahoochee RiverWalk for biking and walking along the river.
• Whitewater activities in season.
• A revitalized downtown with dining and historic buildings.

This is a suitable option if you want something different from North Georgia’s mountain-focused trips.

How to Choose the Right “Close to Atlanta” Activity

When deciding what to do near Atlanta, it helps to think about:

• Drive time tolerance:

  • Under 30 minutes: Decatur, Grant Park, Chattahoochee River units near I-285, Kennesaw Mountain.
  • 30–60 minutes: Stone Mountain, Marietta, Roswell, Lake Lanier, Lake Allatoona, Red Top Mountain, Cartersville.
  • 60–150 minutes: Athens, Columbus, Chattanooga, and other larger day-trip destinations.

• Type of outing:

  • Low-effort, mostly strolling: Decatur, Marietta Square, Roswell Historic District.
  • Active outdoors: Chattahoochee River, Stone Mountain, Arabia Mountain, Red Top Mountain.
  • Kid-focused: Zoo Atlanta area, Georgia Aquarium cluster, family-oriented museums in Cartersville.
  • History and culture: Kennesaw, Cartersville, historic districts in Roswell and Marietta.

• Season and weather:

  • Hot summer days: Lakes, river activities, shaded parks.
  • Mild spring/fall: Hiking, small-town exploring, outdoor festivals.
  • Cooler or rainy days: Museums, indoor attractions, downtown/Decatur food-focused trips.

Practical Planning Tips for Atlanta-Area Outings

• Avoid rush hour when possible.
  Morning and late afternoon traffic can significantly extend drive times, especially on I‑75, I‑85, and I‑285.

• Check parking and admission details in advance.
  Many parks around Atlanta have parking fees or passes; museums and attractions may offer timed entry or need advance tickets on busy days.

• Pack for quick weather shifts.
  North Georgia and lake areas can feel cooler or windier than in-town Atlanta, especially near water or at higher elevations.

• Build in flexibility.
  Atlanta-area weather, traffic, and event schedules can all change quickly. Having a backup indoor option (like a nearby museum or town square) can save your day trip if conditions shift.

By focusing on short drives, realistic time frames, and local favorites, you can enjoy a wide range of things to do close to Atlanta—whether you’re a long-time resident looking for fresh ideas or a visitor trying to experience more than just the downtown core.