50 Things To Do in Atlanta for a Memorable Visit

Atlanta may not seem like a tourist destination, but it’s one of the top travel destinations in the United States. From the moment you touch down at the world’s busiest airport to the moment you leave, the city will impress you with its mix of Southern charm, rich history and culture. 

In fact, there are so many things to do in Atlanta that there’s a good chance you’ll want to visit more than once. Whether you’re planning a business trip, family vacation or romantic getaway, AAA Travel can help you discover the best attractions in Atlanta.

Fun Things To Do in Atlanta

Atlanta is a historical city with a modern flair, and there’s no shortage of fun things to do during your visit. Whether you’re a pop culture enthusiast, a Civil War buff or the ultimate science or sports fan, there’s something new for you to experience.

1. Take a Private Tour of Atlanta’s Architecture

In 1864, Atlanta was burned to the ground, destroying much of its antebellum architecture. In the late 19th and early 20th century, the city embraced modern architecture, giving it a more East Coast city vibe than a Southern jewel. 

Take a tour of the city’s commercial districts including the infamous Peachtree Street, historic neighborhoods such as the Victorian and craftsman homes of Grant Park and the historical cemeteries.

Cost: $158

Hours: Daily

Reservations Needed: Yes

2. Visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights opened in 2014 and seeks to educate, inspire and empower everyone to stand up for civil and human rights. The museum has several exhibits, including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s personal artifacts and papers and a global rights exhibit. It also hosts events and educational programs for people of all ages throughout the year.

Cost: 

• Family 4 Pack: $64
• Seniors: $17.99
• Adults: $19.99
• Youth: $15.99
• Children 6 and under: Free

Hours:

• Tuesday through Friday and Sundays: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets ahead of time is recommended

Travel Tip: Plan on spending anywhere from 90 minutes to two hours at the Center.

3. Learn About the Centers for Disease Control at the CDC Museum

Science nerds, medical professionals, amateur detectives and more will enjoy the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Museum. Exhibits cover more than pandemics — explore the impact of pollution on health, how diseases are studied and controlled and the importance of water sanitation.

Cost: Free

Hours: 

• Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Closed weekends and public holidays

Reservations Needed: No

Travel Tip: While admission and parking are free, don’t come empty-handed. Anyone over 18 needs a government-issued photo ID, and non-U.S. citizens need a passport.

4. Take an Atlanta Historical Homes Tour

Buckhead, Ansley Park and Grant Park are some of the finest historical neighborhoods in Atlanta, and they contain some of the area’s most beautiful historic homes. This tour includes a stop at the Governor’s Mansion in Buckhead and a Southern Ladies lunch at the Swan Coach House. 

Cost: $89.99

Hours: Daily, weather and attendance permitting

Reservations Needed: Yes

Travel Tip: Many historical buildings are still private residences, so don’t expect to see the inside of every building on the tour.

5. See “Stranger Things” Filming Locations

Known as the “Hollywood of the South,” Atlanta has been the filming location for many popular television shows and movies including “The Vampire Diaries,” “The Walking Dead” and the incredibly popular “Stranger Things.”

Dive into the Upside Down and explore Hawkins with a “Stranger Things” film location tour. The popular show is filmed around Atlanta, and tour stops include:

• Hawkins High School
• Hawkins Middle School
• The Wheeler, Sinclair and Henderson homes
• Screen Gems Studios

Cost: $158.98

Hours: Scheduled daily

Reservations Needed: Yes

6. Score a Touchdown at the College Football Hall of Fame

Even if you aren’t a diehard football fan, you’ll love the chance to explore more than 50 interactive football exhibits perfect for all ages. Take a skills test on the indoor playing field, watch immersive game day footage in the Game Day Theater and learn more about the members of the College Football Hall of Fame.

Cost: 

• Adults: $30.25
• Kids 3-12: $22.75
• Kids under 3: Free
• Seniors: $23
• College students: $23
• Active and retired military: Free

Hours: Thursday through Monday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended

7. Tour Atlanta’s Civil War Battlefields

Atlanta experienced heavy fighting during the Civil War, especially in May and June of 1864 during the Atlanta campaign. While many battlefields are now parks you can explore on your own, consider taking a Civil War battlefield tour with an expert guide who can give you all the historical details to bring Sherman’s March to the Sea alive. 

Cost: $319.99

Hours: Scheduled daily

Reservations Needed: Yes

Travel Tip: Sorry, Civil War buffs. Most of the battlefields have strict policies about metal detecting and taking any discoveries like bullets from the park.

8. Absorb Atlanta’s Black History With a Tour

Atlanta has long been the “Black mecca” for Black history and culture, so take a tour exploring the city’s vibrant Black American heritage. Visit iconic Black historic neighborhoods like Summerhill and the Old Fourth Ward and see historic sites tied to Black culture. 

Cost: $69

Hours: Scheduled daily at 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Reservations Needed: Yes

9. Return to the Roaring ‘20s at the Swan House

Built in 1928, the iconic Swan House was designed by the architect Philip Trammell Shutze, considered one of America’s greatest classical architects. The property is now integrated into the Atlanta History Center and is fully restored, including the swan-themed wallpaper that inspired its name. 

Cost:

• Adults: $24
• Seniors: $20
• Students: $20
• Youth ages 4-12: $10
• Kids 3 and under: Free

Hours: Tuesday through Sunday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended

Travel Tip: You may recognize some of the features from “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” and “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2,” both of which were filmed on the grounds. 

10. Visit Stone Mountain Park

Georgia isn’t necessarily known for its natural vistas, but Stone Mountain Park is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. The main feature is a 1,600-foot quartz mountain with a giant carving of Confederate leaders, which is the world’s largest high relief sculpture. The park also contains nature trails and additional attractions like laser light shows, mini golf, a cable car ride and more, but you do have to pay for those. 

Cost: The park is free to enter, but you’ll need to pay for parking. The attractions and shows require tickets, and prices vary. Check out their website for more information.

Hours: The park itself is open daily from 5 a.m. to midnight, but the individual attractions have specific hours, which vary. Check out their website for more information.

Reservations Needed: Yes, for the attractions. No reservations necessary to enter the park itself.

11. Experience “The Walking Dead” Walking Tour

Explore the ESCO Feed Mill property, the site of several scenes from the cult favorite show “The Walking Dead.” The tour starts with a stop at the armory to pick out a replica prop weapon from the show to keep you safe as you trek the one-third-mile tour across the property.

Cost: $30

Hours: Daily at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Reservations Needed: Yes

Travel Tip: The ground is uneven, so bring comfortable shoes.

12. Catch a Notorious Outlaw Gang at the High Noon in the Old West Escape Room

Amateur detectives and Wild West fans will love the High Noon in the Old West Escape Room in downtown Atlanta. As a member of the Pinkerton Detective Agency, you’ll be tasked with infiltrating a gang of outlaws to recover stolen fortune and property in Hole-in-the-Wall, Wyoming.

Cost:

• Monday through Thursday: $31
• Friday and Sunday: $33
• Saturday: $35

Hours:

• Monday through Thursday: noon to 10:30 p.m.
• Friday: noon to 11:45 p.m.
• Saturday: 9:15 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.
• Sunday: 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially for larger groups

Things To Do in Atlanta With Kids

Fortunately, Atlanta is a family-friendly city with lots of great experiences that will entertain the entire family. 

13. Get a Sugar High at World of Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola was invented in 1886 in Atlanta, and the World of Coca-Cola guides you through its fascinating history. Make your own cola, tour the factory, view the pop culture gallery and taste test Coca-Cola samples from every part of the globe. 

Cost:

• General Admission Adult: $19
• General Admission Senior: $17
• General Admission youth (ages 3-12): $15
• General Admission Toddler (ages 0-2): Free
• Family 4-Packs, Guided Tour, Group Tickets and Military Appreciation Tickets are also available

Hours:

• Monday through Thursday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday through Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended

Travel Tip: On your way out, don’t forget to grab a family photo with the iconic Coca-Cola polar bear.

14. Stop and Smell the Roses at the Atlanta Botanical Garden

In the heart of Atlanta’s Midtown, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is an urban oasis with 30 acres of outdoor gardens. Kids can explore the award-winning Children’s Garden or participate in Storybook Time on Mondays and Wednesdays. There are also educational events and special exhibits offered throughout the year, although those may require ticketing in addition to general admission fees.

Cost:

• Weekday admission (Tuesday through Friday): 
  • Adult tickets start at $24.95
  • Child tickets start at $21.95
  • Children under 3 and members are free
• Weekend admission (Saturday through Sunday)
  • Adult tickets start at $27.95
  • Child tickets start at $24.95
  • Children under 3 and members are free

Hours: Vary by season, so check their website for the most accurate information

Reservations Needed: Yes, unless you are a member

15. Build Something Fun at LEGOLAND

The LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Atlanta is one of the best attractions, with 10 different build and play zones, a 4D theater and rides to entertain kids all day long. You can also sign up for interactive creative workshops with Master Model Builders — perfect for a rainy day or when Atlanta’s summer heat gets to be too much. On your way out, hit up the LEGO Shop for some LEGO fun to take home.

Cost: admission starts at $28.99 per person

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets ahead of time is recommended, especially directly after the reopening.

Travel Tip: LEGOLAND is reopening March 31, 2023, so see what’s new on your next visit.

16. Meet Miss Piggy and Other Jim Henson Characters at the Center for Puppetry Arts

If you love “The Muppets,” a stop at the Center for Puppetry Arts is a must. The center houses a collection of Jim Henson’s characters from “The Muppets,” “Fraggle Rock” and “Sesame Street” in addition to other rotating exhibits. You can even attend live shows and learn puppetry at a workshop. They also offer sensory-friendly shows and reduced-price preview shows.

Cost: A Museum-Only Ticket is $16, but special events and access to certain attractions varies

Hours: 

• Tuesday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday: noon to 5 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended

Travel Tip: Check out the Create-A-Puppet Workshop to create your own puppet and perform with it on stage. Included in a Family Series Production ticket or an add-on to the Museum-Only ticket.

17. Dive With Sharks at Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium has more than 100,000 animals, making it one of the largest aquariums in the world. Schedule an encounter with dolphins, penguins, sea lions, sharks or stingrays, explore one of the many exhibits or galleries, or take in a show or tour.

Cost: Tickets start at $42.99

Hours: 

• Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Friday through Sunday: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Hours subject to change unexpectedly, so check their website for the most accurate hours

Reservations Needed: No, but if you buy your ticket in advance you can save $5

Travel Tip: This is one of the most popular attractions in Atlanta, so book tickets and animal encounters as early as you can.

18. Play and Learn at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta

If your kids are under 8, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta is sure to be a hit. Permanent hands-on exhibits include everything from cooking and international cultures to STEM and problem-solving. They also offer special events throughout the year, like cooking and crafting workshops.

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is dedicated to keeping your kids safe while they play, so the entire museum is closed from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. for cleaning.

Cost: Prices vary by day so check their website

Hours: Daily from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Reservations Needed: Yes

Travel Tip: Tickets are not available at the door, so you’ll need to order online.

19. Meet the Dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History

As soon as you step on the grounds of the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, you’re surrounded by life-size dinosaur statues. Inside the facility, an Argentinosaurus fossilized skeleton is suspended from the ceiling in the Great Hall. In addition to dinosaurs, you can also explore the natural history of Georgia, cross aerial rope bridges in the 65-acre forest, watch a 3D movie or participate in one of the interactive programs. 

Cost:

• Adults: $25.95
• Seniors: $24.95
• Child (ages 3-12): $23.95
• Tickets to additional films are $5

Hours: Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reservations Needed: Yes, tickets must be purchased in advance online

Travel Tip: Adults can come back without the kids for Fernbank After Dark to experience the magic with live music, a full bar, appetizers and more.

20. Have a Wild Encounter With a Panda Bear at Zoo Atlanta

Visit Zoo Atlanta in Grant Park to experience wildlife from all over the world. The zoo is home to one of the largest populations of apes and houses more than 1,500 animals. Don’t miss the chance to feed one of the zoo’s two panda bears or to explore the Scaly Slimy Spectacular, home to more than 70 reptile species and one of the zoo’s most popular attractions.

Cost: Varies by entry date

Hours: Open all year, but hours change by season, so visit their website for current hours

Reservations Needed: Yes, Zoo Atlanta uses timed ticketing to limit attendance.

Travel Tip: Treetop Trail is an aerial playground with rope bridges, nets, ladders and tightropes for kids over 48 inches tall. 

21. Get Immersed in the Illuminarium

In the Old Fourth Ward, experience Atlanta’s most unique multisensory experience at the Illuminarium. The facility uses state of the art sound, smells, in-floor haptics and 360-degree screens to make you feel like you’ve left Atlanta and stepped into space, Wonderland or the African plains.

Cost: Varies by show and date so check their website

Hours:

• Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Friday: 11 a.m. through 5 p.m. 
• Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. through 5 p.m.

Reservations Needed: Yes, the shows use staggered entry times to keep the exhibits from getting too crowded.

Travel Tip: Adults can come back at night for Illuminarium After Dark to experience Space After Dark with a cocktail or watch Monday Night Football on 360-degree screens. Available Friday and Saturday nights from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

22. Race at Andretti Indoor Karting and Games

If you’re looking for someplace indoors for kids (and adults) to burn off steam when it’s raining, head to Andretti Indoor Karting and Games. Participate in ropes courses, play virtual reality games, race go-karts or try your hand at flight simulators. There are also bowling lanes, interactive zombie movies and laser tag, so it’s a great place to spend an entire day with the family. 

Cost: Varies by attraction; see website for more details

Hours:

• Monday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m. to midnight

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing your tickets in advance is recommended

23. Play at the Water Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Despite not being near an ocean, the Atlanta area has lots of water sports options thanks to the Chattahoochee River and several lakes that dot the area. If you love the outdoors, don’t miss the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Hike or mountain bike through the forest, kayak or tube down the winding river or spend the day fishing for trout, bass and catfish.

Cost: A Daily Pass is $5

Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset

Reservations Needed: No

Free Things To Do in Atlanta

Unlike a trip to Disney World or Universal Studios, you don’t have to have a savings plan to visit Atlanta. Here are some of our favorite free adventures in Atlanta.

24. Hunt for Tiny Doors ATL

Tiny Doors ATL may be one of the most unique attractions in Atlanta. A grassroots art project, 7-inch doors are painted or sculpted and placed in walls around the city. Each door is specifically designed to reflect the location. Since the doors are placed throughout the city and not just the tourist areas, you’ll find yourself off the beaten path.

Cost: Free

Hours: As long as the doors are outside, the art project is open 24 hours a day

Reservations Needed: No

Travel Tip: Consider renting a bike and exploring the city for the doors, or follow their official map.

25. Walk or Bike Through the City on the Atlanta BeltLine

For a different view of the city, follow the BeltLine. Thirty-three miles of railroad tracks converted to a pedestrian walkway winds through the city, connecting several tourist attractions like Ponce City Market and Piedmont Park. Along the way, you’ll see great street art, eat at family-friendly restaurants and see parts of the city you wouldn’t know about otherwise. The BeltLine is a work in progress, and the city expects to have the entire system completed by 2029. 

Cost: Free

Hours: Open 24 hours daily

Reservations Needed: No

26. Shop at Little Five Points

One of the trendiest locations in Atlanta, Little Five Points is an offbeat place to explore. Filled with local businesses and street art, the borough is often compared to Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco in its bohemian culture. Spend the day window shopping and popping into local cafes and restaurants.

Cost: Free 

Hours: Hours of individual shops and restaurants vary

Reservations Needed: No reservations necessary, but if you want to eat at one of the restaurants you may want to call ahead and make reservations.

27. Bring Civil War History to Life at Kennesaw Mountain

The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is the site of a battle that lasted from June 19 until July 2, 1864. You’ll see locals taking advantage of the miles of trails for walking or running, but if you’re there to explore the battlefield, start at the visitor center to get a better understanding of where you are. You can also take a guided hike with a park ranger to learn more about the area, or just enjoy the weather with a leisurely walk and a picnic.

Cost: Day passes are $5

Hours:

• Standard Time: 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Daylight Saving Time: 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Visitor center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No

Travel Tip: Explore nearby Marietta Square for great food and shopping before or after your visit to the battlefield.

28. Take a Selfie on Jackson Street Bridge

The Jackson Street Bridge over Interstate 75 is a prime spot for engagement photos in Atlanta, and it’s easy to see why. It boasts one of the best views of the Atlanta skyline, especially during golden hour (considered the hour right before sunset) when the lighting is beautiful. 

Cost: Free

Hours: Daily 24 hours

Reservations Needed: No

29. Play at Centennial Olympic Park

Atlanta hosted the 1996 Olympics and built the 22-acre park as part of the Olympic complex. The park is close to the World of Coca-Cola, the CNN building, the Georgia Aquarium and the SkyView ferris wheel, so it makes a great place to eat a picnic lunch between activities. The park also hosts free concerts throughout the year, and the Fountain of Rings is the perfect place to beat the heat.

Cost: Free

Hours: Open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No

30. Tour Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

See where civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. grew up at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. In a half-day visit, you can see the home where the civil rights leader was born, Ebenezer Baptist Church where he served as pastor and the King Center for Nonviolent Change, which houses his and Coretta Scott King’s tomb and several interesting exhibits.

Cost: Free

Hours: Daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No

Travel Tip: Consider taking one of the many Atlanta Civil Rights tours, almost all of which include a stop here, to learn more about the significance of Martin Luther King, Jr. and this area to the Civil Rights Movement.

31. See an Outdoor Movie at The Battery

Battery Park is located in Cumberland at the Atlanta Braves’ stadium. There’s always something happening at The Battery, from concerts to escape rooms and more. Xfinity hosts a family-friendly movie night on Fridays during the baseball off-season. Place a takeout order at one of the nearby restaurants (or bring your own picnic), a blanket or lawn chair and get settled in for a fun night. 

Cost: Free 

Hours: Showings begin at 7 p.m. during the fall and winter. See their website for the movie lineup.

Reservations Needed: No

Travel Tip: Get three hours of free parking in select parking garages. 

Things To Do in Downtown Atlanta

You don’t need to step a foot outside downtown Atlanta to have a good time. Pedestrian walkways, bike lanes, transit rail and the Atlanta Streetcar system make navigating the downtown area easy.

32. Shop in Buckhead

Buckhead is one the premier neighborhoods in Atlanta, filled with office buildings and hotels, but it is also known for its upscale shopping. Luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. and Jimmy Choo mix with unique local boutiques and fun antique shops. Window shop, people watch or make a few purchases to commemorate your visit.

Cost: Free other than parking

Hours: Hours of individual stores vary

Reservations Needed: No, but they are recommended at local restaurants

33. Take Flight at iFly Atlanta

Anyone with an adventurous side probably has skydiving on their bucket list, but at iFly Atlanta you can do it in a vertical wind tunnel. Because there’s no jumping out of a plane or off a cliff, guests describe it as a less frightening experience, and anyone age 3 and up can participate. 

Cost: Flights start at $74.99 per person

Hours:

• Monday and Wednesday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Tuesday and Thursday: noon to 7 p.m.
• Friday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Saturday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable clothes and lace-up shoes for safety.

34. Segway Your Way Around Midtown

Tour Midtown Atlanta in a small-group Segway tour. An experienced local guide will lead you around the neighborhood, with stops at the Fox Theatre, Piedmont Park, Georgia Tech and more. You’ll cover more ground and learn more about the landmarks and architecture of the area than if you walk it on your own.

Cost: Starts at $65 per person

Hours: 

• 2 p.m. daily fall through spring
• 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. daily during the summer

Reservations Needed: Yes

Travel Tip: Your 2.5-hour tour will start with a Segway training, so no experience on a Segway is necessary.

35. Spend a Day at Ponce City Market

Ponce City Market is a mixed-use facility, which means there’s plenty to do in the former Sears, Roebuck & Co. warehouse. Plenty of food options will keep you full while you explore the shops, see a movie or play mini golf. The rooftop features great views and carnival games and transforms into an ice skating rink during the winter.

Cost: Free other than parking and fees to enter attractions

Hours: 

• Retail shops
  • Monday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Sunday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Food hall
  • Monday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Sunday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Individual shops or restaurants may have alternate hours

Reservations Needed: Not for the market itself, but reservations for the individual restaurants are recommended

36. Root for the Home Team

Downtown Atlanta has five major professional sports teams, two NCAA Division I teams and several minor league teams, which means there's probably a game happening somewhere on any given day.

Atlanta is home to the following professional sports teams:

• Baseball: Atlanta Braves
• Football: Atlanta Falcons
• Men’s Basketball: Atlanta Hawks
• Women’s Basketball: Atlanta Dream
• Soccer: Atlanta United

You can also catch Georgia State University and Georgia Tech play without leaving the downtown area.

Cost: Depends on the sport

Hours: Depends on the sport

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended

37. Enjoy Nature at Cator Woolford Gardens

If you love photography or nature, stop by the Cator Woolford Gardens. Originally an estate built by Cator Woolford, the gardens include 39 acres of old growth forest and Italian-inspired garden areas so beautiful you’ll forget you’re in the middle of an urban area. 

Cost: Free to visit, but donations support the Frazer Center, which supports people with developmental disabilities

Hours: Daily from sunrise to sunset

Reservations Needed: Not to walk through the garden, but they are required for photography packages

Travel Tip: The site is often used for weddings and other events, so consider going during the week to have full access to the gardens without interrupting someone’s special day.

38. Snap Some Photographs on a Street Art Tour

Atlanta has a surprisingly strong art scene, but you don’t need to hit a stuffy museum to see it. Check out the more than 1,300 street art murals on a street art photography tour, and see the artwork of famous street artists like Greg Mike or Fabian Williams. While you can see most of these art installations on your own, a tour can make seeing all the best spots easier.

Cost: Starts at $89.99

Hours: Tours offered at 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Reservations Needed: Yes

Travel Tip: The city commissioned several permanent street art displays on the BeltLine, so that’s a good place to start if you don’t want to take a specific street art tour.

39. Experience the Outdoors at Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is to Atlanta what Central Park is to New York City. It’s near several of Atlanta’s main attractions, including the Atlanta Botanical Garden, so it makes a great place to have a picnic or relax between activities. You can also participate in on-site workshops, shop at the farmers market and see one of the many festivals, including the popular Dogwood Festival in the spring or the Atlanta Jazz Festival over Memorial Day weekend.

Cost: Free

Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No

Travel Tip: For a fun way to explore the park, participate in one of the many scavenger hunts.

40. See a Show at Fox Theatre

The historic Fox Theatre has an interesting history. It began as a home for the Atlanta Shriners, who were inspired by mosques and ancient temples. When construction became too expensive, they leased it to William Fox, who turned it into a movie theater and spared no expense. Today, it hosts Broadway shows, music concerts and comedy shows.

Cost: Varies by show

Hours: 

• Ticket office
  • Friday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Three hours before doors open on show days
• Tours: contact the theater to book

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended

Travel Tip: If you don’t want to see a show, opt to take one of their 60-minute tours to see the beautiful theater and hear its unique history. 

41. Escape From Mars at The Launch Escape Room Experience

Space geeks and escape room fans alike will love The Launch Escape Room Experience. Your group is on Mars in 2039 preparing for the once-every-two-years launch to return to Earth when a sandstorm strikes. You and your crew must race to get ready for launch or be trapped for another two years.

Cost:

• Monday through Thursday: $31
• Friday and Sunday: $33
• Saturday: $35

Hours:

• Monday through Thursday: noon to 10:30 p.m.
• Friday: noon to 11:45 p.m.
• Saturday: 9:15 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.
• Sunday: 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially for larger groups

Things To Do in Atlanta for Couples

If you’re looking for a night on the town, look no further than Atlanta. Whether you and your partner are looking for adventure or romance, Atlanta has you covered.

42. Enjoy the Atlanta Symphony

Music lovers will enjoy a romantic evening listening to classical music at the Atlanta Symphony Hall. If you need more than music to keep you enthralled, attend one of their Movies in Concert, when they project a popular movie while the symphony plays the score live. 

Cost: Varies based on the event

Hours: Box office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and two hours before a performance

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended

Travel Tip: Catch an outdoor performance of the Atlanta Symphony at Piedmont Park during the summer concert series.

43. Get Creative at the High Museum of Art

With more than 15,000 art pieces, the High Museum of Art is one of the best art collections in the Southeast, and the building that houses them is a work of art in and of itself. Walk hand in hand through the museum’s extensive collection of contemporary and historical art and multiple special exhibitions throughout the year. The High Museum is also known for its special events, including family nights and Toddler Tuesdays, so check out their event calendar for something unique to do with your partner.

Cost: 

• General admission: $6.50
• Children under 6: Free
• Free on the second Sunday of every month

Hours:

• Tuesday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday: noon to 5 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No, but purchasing tickets in advance is recommended

Travel Tip: You can see the entire museum in about two to three hours.

44. Go for a Test Drive at the Porsche Experience Center

If you and your partner have a need for speed, head to the Porsche Experience Center. Visit the Heritage Gallery to view a collection of car models and tour the entire facility. But the highlight for any car enthusiast is the chance to choose a Porsche and take it for spin on one of their two courses. You can ride as a passenger with one of their trained drivers or drive yourself. 

Cost: 

• Self-guided tours are free
• Guided tours start at $16 per person
• Driving simulators start at $40
• Driving experiences start at $500 but vary by car model and track

Hours: Tuesday through Saturday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Reservations Needed: Yes

45. Go Wine Tasting in North Georgia’s Wine Country

Escape the city with a full-day wine tasting trip in North Georgia wine country. You’ll visit three different wineries and taste more than 10 different wines before stopping in Helen, Georgia, for lunch and shopping.

Cost: starts at $109 per person

Hours: Daily at 8:45 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Reservations Needed: Yes

46. Shop at Atlantic Station

Atlantic Station is a unique outdoor mall in Atlanta’s Westside. Home to both chain stores and local boutiques, it’s also a popular destination for entertainment with a movie theater, a Cirque du Soleil show and an outdoor ice skating rink in the winter. 

Cost: Free

Hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., but each store and restaurant may have its own hours

Reservations Needed: No, but reservations for the restaurants are recommended

Travel Tip: Stay at one of the on-site hotels and be within walking distance of all the fun, plus close to other attractions like the Center for Puppetry Arts and the High Museum of Art.

47. View Atlanta From Above on a Helicopter Tour 

Atlanta is a sprawling city with beautiful architecture nestled in a forest. See it from the air on a helicopter tour. Choose from tours that focus on the northwest suburbs, the Westside or bonus sites like Lake Allatoona and Kennesaw Mountain.

Cost: Tours start at $219

Hours: Tours scheduled daily

Reservations Needed: Yes

Travel Tip: Ask about their proposal packages.

48. Work Up a Thirst with a Horseback Ride Before a Wine Tour

Combine the outdoors and wine with a horseback ride and winery tour. Join a professional guide on a scenic trail in either the Clayton or Athens areas. After a picnic lunch, get swept away to a winery for a tour and a wine tasting. 

Cost: Starts at $204.11 per person

Hours: Scheduled daily departing at 9:30 a.m.

Reservations Needed: Yes

49. Get a Bird’s-Eye View of Atlanta on the SkyView Atlanta Ferris Wheel

Located near Centennial Olympic Park and other popular Atlanta attractions is the 20-stories tall SkyView Atlanta ferris wheel. Each ride includes four turns, and the 42 gondolas are air conditioned against the Atlanta heat. From the highest point you’ll see downtown and the top of Kennesaw Mountain. For the most romantic views, consider a ride at sunset or at night.

For added romance, pair your ride with dinner at one of the nearby restaurants before or after, and the Date Night package, which includes a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Cost:

• Adults: $14.75
• Seniors: $12.75
• Children ages 3-11: $9.75
• Children under 2: Free
• Military: $12.75
• Students: $12.75

Hours:

• Monday through Thursday: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Friday: noon to 11 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Sunday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Reservations Needed: No, but lines can be long during peak times (weekends, dusk) so reserve your time in advance

50. Watch a Shakespeare Play at the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse

The Atlanta Shakespeare Company puts on a phenomenal performance at the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse. The theater is set up like a tavern, where you and your partner can eat traditional tavern fare like shepherd’s pie and drink draft beer. Talented actors perform a different play each month, moving through the audience for an intimate experience.

Cost: Varies by day, show and seating area, but adult tickets range from $24 to $45

Hours: Shows start at 7:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays

Reservations Needed: Yes

Travel Tip: Seating is first come, first served, so be ready when the doors open 75 minutes before the show starts.

Plan Your Atlanta Trip With AAA

Plan your next trip to Atlanta with Trip Canvas, AAA’s travel planning tool. Use your AAA membership for deals on hotels and rental cars during your stay, and take advantage of the AAA Discounts & Rewards® program for entertainment tickets and dining discounts.