10 Unmissable Things To Do in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta blends Southern charm with big-city energy, world-class culture, and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you live here, are planning a weekend visit, or just want to understand what makes Atlanta special, these top 10 things to do in Atlanta will give you a strong feel for the city.

1. Explore Downtown Icons: Georgia Aquarium & World of Coca‑Cola

If you only do one “classic Atlanta” day, start in Downtown.

Georgia Aquarium

Address: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
One of the largest aquariums in the world, Georgia Aquarium is a staple for residents and visitors alike. You can see whale sharks, manta rays, penguins, sea lions, and many more species.

Tips:

• ✅ Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and school holidays.
• ✅ Consider combining your visit with nearby attractions for a full day in Downtown.

World of Coca‑Cola

Address: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Right next door, the World of Coca‑Cola tells the story of the Atlanta-born beverage brand. Inside, you’ll find exhibits about the company’s history, global advertising, and a tasting area featuring drinks from around the world.

Nearby Highlights

You can easily walk to:

• Centennial Olympic Park – green space with fountains and skyline views.
• College Football Hall of Fame – interactive exhibits for sports fans.

This area is ideal if you’re staying in a Downtown hotel or taking MARTA to GWCC/CNN Center Station or Peachtree Center Station.

2. Walk, Bike, or Skate the Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine is one of the city’s defining features: a multi-use trail system connecting neighborhoods, parks, and public art.

Eastside Trail (Most Popular)

The Eastside Trail connects Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, Poncey-Highland, and Virginia-Highland. It’s lined with:

• Murals and public art
• Restaurants and bars
• Access points to Ponce City Market and Historic Fourth Ward Park

Local tips:

• 🚲 Rent a bike or scooter from various vendors near trail access points.
• 🌇 The trail is especially lively in the evenings and on weekends.
• 🅿️ Parking can be tight; many people use rideshare or MARTA (Inman Park/Reynoldstown or North Avenue stations, then walk or rideshare).

If you live in Atlanta, the BeltLine is perfect for running, dog walking, or exploring new neighborhoods without getting in your car.

3. Visit Ponce City Market & Historic Fourth Ward Park

Ponce City Market

Address: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

A former Sears building turned mixed-use hub, Ponce City Market is a favorite for locals and visitors. Inside you’ll find:

• A central food hall with local and regional vendors
• Shops featuring clothing, home goods, and gifts
• Offices and residential units on upper levels

The rooftop (accessed via ticketed elevator) often features games, views, and seasonal activities, with sweeping views of the Midtown and Downtown skylines.

Historic Fourth Ward Park

Address: 680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 (general area)

Across the BeltLine from Ponce City Market, Historic Fourth Ward Park offers:

• A lake and landscaped green space
• Walking paths and playgrounds
• Event spaces used for festivals and community gatherings

This combo—BeltLine + Ponce City Market + the park—is one of the best all-around Atlanta experiences in a single afternoon.

4. Dive into History at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Address: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312

Located in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is one of the most meaningful places to visit in Atlanta.

Key sites within the park area:

• Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birth Home (tours usually require free, timed tickets)
• Ebenezer Baptist Church – where Dr. King once preached
• The King Center – with exhibits and Dr. and Mrs. King’s tomb

Tips:

• 🕊️ Plan enough time to walk between buildings and read exhibits.
• 🚍 It’s reachable via MARTA (King Memorial Station) and a short walk.

For Atlanta residents, it’s worth revisiting periodically to reflect on the city’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.

5. Experience Art & Culture in Midtown: High Museum & Woodruff Arts Center

High Museum of Art

Address: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

The High Museum of Art is Atlanta’s flagship art institution. It regularly features:

• American, European, African, and folk art collections
• Rotating special exhibitions
• Family-friendly events and community days

Woodruff Arts Center

The High is part of the Woodruff Arts Center complex, which also includes:

• Alliance Theatre – known for new productions and classics
• Atlanta Symphony Orchestra – performances ranging from classical to popular programs

Midtown is also packed with restaurants and bars, making it easy to pair a museum or performance with dinner.

Transit and parking:

• 🚇 MARTA’s Arts Center Station is directly adjacent.
• 🅿️ Garage parking is available in the area, though rates vary by time and event.

6. Stroll or Picnic in Piedmont Park

Address: 1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 (main access area)

Often compared to a smaller version of Central Park, Piedmont Park is Midtown’s main green space. Locals use it year‑round for:

• Walking and jogging trails
• Dog parks
• Sports fields and tennis courts
• Lakeside views and skyline photo spots

The park frequently hosts festivals, including food, music, and arts events, many of which attract citywide crowds.

Nearby:

• Atlanta Botanical Garden (on the park’s northern edge)
• Restaurants in Midtown, Virginia-Highland, and along Monroe Drive

If you live in Atlanta, Piedmont Park is a go‑to for casual weekend time outdoors; if you’re visiting, it offers a relaxing break from more structured attractions.

7. Tour the CNN Center & Centennial Olympic Park Area

While some aspects of the CNN Center have changed over time, the surrounding Centennial Olympic Park District remains a top area to explore.

Centennial Olympic Park

Address: 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Created for the 1996 Summer Olympics, the park includes:

• Fountains, including the famous “Fountain of Rings”
• Green lawns and walking paths
• Occasional outdoor concerts and events

From the park, you can walk to:

• State Farm Arena – home to the Atlanta Hawks and major concerts
• Mercedes‑Benz Stadium – home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC
• Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca‑Cola, and more (mentioned earlier)

This district is ideal if you’re attending a game, concert, or conventions at the Georgia World Congress Center.

8. Discover Neighborhood Flavor in Little Five Points & Inman Park

To experience Atlanta’s more eclectic, everyday side, head to Little Five Points and nearby Inman Park.

Little Five Points (L5P)

General area near Moreland Ave NE & Euclid Ave NE

Known for:

• Vintage and indie clothing shops
• Record stores and bookstores
• Street art and murals
• A mix of restaurants, cafes, and pubs

L5P is especially popular on weekends, and during community events like Halloween-themed festivities.

Inman Park

Atlanta’s first planned suburb, now a tree-lined neighborhood with Victorian homes and modern townhouses. You’ll find:

• Restaurant clusters along North Highland Ave
• Access to the Eastside BeltLine
• A neighborhood festival in the spring that draws large crowds

Together, these neighborhoods show a more local, walkable side of Atlanta that many residents love.

9. Get Outdoors at Stone Mountain Park (Greater Atlanta Area)

Address: 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083

Just east of the city, Stone Mountain Park is a large outdoor recreation area centered around a massive granite outcrop. It’s in the greater Atlanta metro area and is a common day trip for locals and visitors.

Activities often include:

• Hiking up Stone Mountain for skyline views
• Scenic railroad or skyride (availability can vary)
• Lakes, picnic areas, and seasonal attractions

Important to know:

• 🅿️ There is typically a parking or entrance fee, so check current details before you go.
• ⛰️ The main hike is steep in sections; bring water and proper footwear.

Many Atlanta residents treat Stone Mountain as a regular weekend hiking spot, especially on clear days.

10. Cheer on Atlanta’s Home Teams

Sports are a major part of Atlanta’s identity, and attending a game can be one of the most memorable things to do in the city.

Atlanta Braves (MLB) – Truist Park

Address: 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339

Located in Cumberland/Vinings just northwest of city limits, Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta complex offer:

• Shops and restaurants
• Pre‑ and post‑game entertainment
• A lively atmosphere even on non‑game days

Atlanta Hawks (NBA) & Atlanta Dream (WNBA) – State Farm Arena

Address: 1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303

Right in Downtown near CNN Center and Centennial Olympic Park. Easy access via:

• MARTA’s GWCC/CNN Center Station
• Nearby parking decks and surface lots

Atlanta Falcons (NFL) & Atlanta United FC (MLS) – Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

Address: 1 AMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Known for:

• Modern retractable roof
• Fan‑friendly concessions model
• Major events like championships and concerts

Whether you’re a lifelong local or just in town for a weekend, catching a game is a fast way to feel the city’s energy.

Quick Reference: Top 10 Things To Do in Atlanta

If you live in Atlanta, these spots can become part of your regular routine—places to walk, eat, relax, and bring out-of-town guests. If you’re visiting, using this list as a guide will give you a balanced look at what to do in Atlanta, from major attractions to neighborhood experiences that locals actually enjoy.