Atlanta Travel Guide [2024]

A captivating city that balances a vibrant history with the buzzing hustle and bustle of a modern metropolis, Atlanta has always been a destination that enchants and inspires. Marching to the beat of its drum, this city is filled with charming historic landmarks, outstanding outdoor activities and one of the most mouthwateringly delicious food scenes in the region.

Brimming with some magnificent museums, world-class entertainment centers and a wide range of attractions, Atlanta has something special to offer to everyone who passes through its vibrant streets.

As the capital of Georgia, Atlanta has played an intrinsically important role throughout the country’s history and to this day ripples of its diverse and unique past can be felt stirring throughout the city. With charm and innovation bursting through the city’s awe-inspiring art scene to its delectable southern delights, Atlanta is a cultural haven that’s not to be missed.

How to Get to Atlanta

One of the East Coast’s most industrious cities, Atlanta has streamlined travel in, out and around its energetic streets. Home to one of the world’s busiest airports and with three main southern interstates crossing right in the middle of Downtown, Atlanta is easily accessible and a likely stop for travelers coming from near or far.

Driving In

Travelers looking to travel into the city by car are in luck. Three major highways are making their way into the center of the city, providing drivers with access to Atlanta from nearly every direction. I-285 circles the perimeter of the city while I-75 and I-85 join together just north of Downtown.

I-20 is the main East to West highway in Georgia and it conveniently runs right through the heart of Atlanta, making travel clear for anyone coming from South Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana or even as far as Texas.

However, travelers looking to enjoy a more scenic road trip experience should spend some time on the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway. Considered to be one of the most spectacular highways in the state, this beautiful roadway offers a unique look at some of Georgia’s most unbelievable landscapes, with picturesque scenery around every turn. After you’ve had your fill of these whimsical sites, pick up the US-19 South which will take you to the I-85 right into the city.

Flying In

Offering daily direct, non-stop flights to over 150 domestic cities and travel to 78 international destinations, it’s no wonder why the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) is one of the busiest in the world. The first airport to offer service to 100 million passengers in just a year, this world-class airport is nothing if not efficient.

Travelers can easily navigate the airport's various gates and terminals thanks to ATL’s multilingual gate agents and directional signs before they explore the airport's world-class shopping and dining opportunities.

Now, getting to the city is easier than ever thanks to the Marta (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) which offers direct and convenient transportation to various parts of Atlanta for domestic and international travelers alike.

Arriving by Train

For travelers looking to add a bit of nostalgia to their journey, a dreamy train ride through the scenic landscapes surrounding the city will be just the thing. The Amtrak’s Crescent Line stops in Atlanta daily on its way to New Orleans or New York City. Typically, the southbound train arrives in the morning while the Northbound train arrives in Atlanta around 11 p.m. The station itself is located between the Midtown and Buckhead neighborhoods, providing convenient access to the rest of the city after you’ve arrived.

How to Get Around Atlanta

While Atlanta may be a Southern Metropolitan hotspot, the city is ideally designed to allow for simple navigation. Whether you’ve traveled by car or plan on taking advantage of the city’s public transportation, Atlanta offers options suitable for any kind of traveler.

Driving Through Atlanta

While Atlanta’s major highways have something of a reputation for rush hour traffic, the city’s unique grid of surface streets makes navigating the various neighborhoods a breeze. Many of the city’s distinct communities and world-class destinations are within just a few miles of the main Peachtree Street, one of the city’s most renowned roadways. Additionally, Atlanta has some of the state’s best public parking opportunities, ensuring travelers have a safe place to leave their car wherever they decide to visit.

Making the Most of Mass Transit

Serving over 420,000 passengers every weekday, the MARTA’s trains, buses and para-transit vehicles offer one of the most convenient, safest and cleanest transportation options imaginable. With stops at some of the city’s favorite venues, shopping destinations and dining districts, this unique mass transit system makes getting around Atlanta both easy and affordable.

Another public transportation option is the Atlanta Streetcar. Serving a 2.7-mile loop with 12 unique stops, this fun and timely service allows visitors to make their way to Centennial Olympic Park, Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, as well as the numerous opportunities for stops found throughout the Downtown area.

Strolling Through the City

With its plethora of unique neighborhoods and picturesque parks, Atlanta is an ideal city to stretch your legs in. The city is filled with easily walkable areas filled with pockets of world-class dining destinations, shopping centers and noteworthy attractions not to be missed.

Best Time to Visit Atlanta

As with many of the cities in the Southern United States, Atlanta boasts having fabulous weather throughout much of the year. However, depending on what it is you’re looking for, there may be distinct differences that will play a heavy role in planning your upcoming Atlanta adventure.

Best Times for Fantastic Weather

For travelers looking to enjoy the very best of Atlanta’s remarkable weather, the best time of year to visit will be spring and fall. While the city is a major metropolitan hub, it is brimming with a bounty of beautiful green spaces that make Atlanta come alive during these times of year. Between March and April as well as September and October temperatures typically range from the low 60s to the mid-80s. Often some of the sunniest times of the year, these months are also the perfect time to take advantage of the city’s incredible spread of outdoor activities and al-fresco dining amongst either the fresh blooming flowers or striking colorful falling leaves.

Spring and Fall are also when some of the city’s most beloved annual events take place. The Atlanta Jazz Festival and Film Festival both take place in the spring while the Fall calendar is packed with world-class events such as the Atlanta Food and Wine Festival, the Candler Park Fall Fest and Music Midtown.

Best Times for Fewer Crowds

If you’re looking to avoid the massive crowds traveling for the gorgeous weather and premier sporting events, then you may want to consider booking your trip for either early January or June and July. These months are typically considered Atlanta’s off-season and are all but guaranteed to offer both fewer tourists and lower prices. However, while you won’t have to worry about waiting in long lines or difficulty finding parking, you should expect to face some of the city’s most extreme weather conditions on both sides of the spectrum.

Things to Do in Atlanta

Truly a sightseer’s dream come true, Atlanta is a city bursting with exciting experiences and world-class activities for travelers with a broad range of interests. You will find no shortage of things to do as you wander through this captivating city’s lively streets and make the most of the variety of sites just waiting to be explored.

Georgia Aquarium

One of the largest aquariums in the country, the Georgia Aquarium is home to over 500 species of amazing aquatic animals. An ideal destination for nature lovers of all ages, the aquarium offers guests the opportunity to explore eight distinct exhibitions including the Southern Company River Scout Gallery which highlights an exquisite array of local marine life as well as its gigantic Whale Shark tank which holds more than six million gallons.

Atlanta History Center

For travelers hoping for a more in-depth look at Atlanta’s rich and engaging history, the Atlanta History Center is an absolute must. A beautiful interactive educational complex dedicated to unraveling the city’s complicated past, this one-of-a-kind intriguing museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of American Civil War artifacts. Spread throughout 33 acres of elegant gardens and whimsical walking trails, the center offers four unique buildings filled with exceptional and inspirational exhibitions.

The Fox Theatre

One of the city’s most iconic entertainment venues, the Fox Theatre is the perfect place to catch a show. Seamlessly melding together the city’s vibrant art, culture and history, this outstanding destination offers an opulent atmosphere complete with stunning 1920s-style architecture and breathtaking design elements inspired by the Karnak Temple in Egypt and the visually stunning Alhambra in Grenada, Spain.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

A powerful and influential interactive experience, a trip to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights is unlike any other Atlanta activity. Allowing visitors to explore the intricate and complicated U.S. Civil Rights Movement as well as the ongoing fight for human rights around the world, this museum offers a life-changing look at some of the most complex issues in history.

Outdoor Activities in Atlanta

From pristine parks to nature preserves, there are plenty of things to do outdoors in Atlanta. Whether you’re a nature lover looking for a heart-pumping hike through the South’s spectacular warm and humid landscape or a relaxing break from the city’s overwhelming hustle and bustle, this city has an ideal green space for you.

The Atlanta Beltline

By transforming this revitalized railway corridor into 22 miles of idyllic trails, Atlanta created a true representation of “The City in the Forest” offering locals and travelers alike a glorious green space unlike any other. The perfect place for hiking and biking, this one-of-a-kind destination is a fantastic way to explore the city’s unique neighborhoods on foot.

Chattahoochee Nature Center

A verifiable paradise for hikers, kayakers and nature lovers alike, the Chattahoochee Nature Center offers infinite opportunities for outdoor fun. Just a short drive outside the city, this unique center allows guests to zipline across beaver ponds, wander with whirlwinds of butterflies and even wander through the local southern wetlands.

Piedmont Park

Lying in the heart of Midtown, Piedmont Park is a stunning tranquil escape filled with beautiful walking trails, exquisite gardens and unbelievable views of the iconic city skyline. Directly next to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, this park is truly a glorious green getaway for travelers in need of a break from the urban hustle.

Stone Mountain Park

Less than half an hour outside of the city lies one of Georgia’s most striking natural sites and one of the state’s most visited attractions. A unique theme park complete with cable cars, hiking trails, historic houses and the iconic bare-granite carving of Stonewall Jackson, Robert E. Lee and Jefferson Davis, Stone Mountain Park is sure to be an experience you’ll never forget.

Where to Stay in Atlanta

One of the most treasured destinations in the South, Atlanta is filled with unbelievable accommodations that can help bring your dream vacation to life.

Stonehurst Place Bed and Breakfast

Amenities: luxury accommodations and on-site dining

• Address: 923 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA
• Rating: AAA Four Diamond
• Rates: $252+
• Parking: On-Site and Valet

A true representation of luxurious boutique hotels in the South, the Stonehurst Place Bed and Breakfast is the perfect stay for travelers looking to enjoy the finer side of Atlanta. This timeless family home has been transformed into an elegant and upscale retreat offering an ideal level of hospitality to add that perfect finishing touch to your well-deserved holiday. Within walking distance of several of Midtown’s best restaurants and museums, this iconic hotel will leave you wanting for nothing.

The Kimpton Sylvan Hotel

Amenities: three on-site restaurants and full bar

• Address: 374 E Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA
• Rating: AAA Three Diamond
• Rates: $186+
• Parking: Valet Only

Located in the heart of Atlanta’s iconic Buckhead neighborhood, the Kimpton Sylvan Hotel effortlessly combines marvelous mid-century style with every modern, state-of-the-art convenience. With nearly 5,000 square feet of picturesque gardens complete with a glistening outdoor pool, this world-class hotel offers a warm and welcoming rest from the busy city.

The Reverb by Hard Rock Downtown

Amenities: two on-site restaurants

• Address: 89 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA
• Rating: AAA Three Diamond
• Rates: $169+
• Parking: On-Site and Valet

An affordable, cool and contemporary hotel, this is the perfect accommodation for younger travelers looking for a casual and convenient stay. Connecting guests to local music, culture and events, the Reverb strives to encourage social collision and engaging guest experiences. The hotel’s minimalist style and enhanced common spaces make it the perfect place to pick up a guitar and enjoy everything this immersive destination has to offer.

Where to Eat in Atlanta

An undeniable culinary mecca, Atlanta has cultivated a flavor to proudly call its own. In a city filled with world-class dining destinations and innovative eateries, epicureans will fall in love with the innumerable gastronomic opportunities around every corner.

Mary Mac’s Tea Room

A dining destination as iconic as the city itself, Mary Mac’s Tea Room has been serving some of the South’s most beloved dishes since it first opened its doors in 1945. Fried Chicken, collard greens and fried green tomatoes are just a few of the classic options found on its mouthwatering menu where everything is still made from scratch just like it always has been.

Trader Vic’s

Travelers looking to experience a bit of international cuisine during their stay should consider booking a table at Trader Vic’s. Their exotic Polynesian ambiance makes for an ideal atmosphere to enjoy some of the city’s very best South Pacific-inspired cocktails and dishes.

La Grotta Ristorante Italiano

A quintessential Atlanta tradition since 1978, this romantic Italian restaurant offers an array of mouthwatering classic dishes in an intimate setting overlooking one of Buckhead’s most beautiful courtyard gardens. Make sure you compliment your exquisite meal with any of the hundreds of top-quality wines personally selected by La Grotta’s dedicated owners.

Krog Street Market

When you wander into a beautifully restored cast-iron stove factory, the last thing you may expect to find is a wonderfully diverse food hall serving an array of culinary masterpieces. However, when you journey into Krog Street Market, that’s exactly what you’ll find. Showcasing everything from classic southern bites to exceptional international morsels, this unique foodie wonderland has everything you could think of to tantalize your tastebuds.

Best Atlanta Photo Spots

Between the city’s unbelievable Southern-style architecture and its vibrant and energetic art scene, there can be no doubt that Atlanta is one of the most Instagrammable cities on the East Coast. Between its stunning pristine parks and glorious artistic expressions, there are so many fantastic photo-ops to be found here.

Oakland Cemetery

One of the city’s oldest public parks and the final resting place of several of Atlanta’s most influential figureheads, the Oakland Cemetery is so much more than a graveyard. With 48 awe-inspiring acres of glamorous gardens, historic landmarks and hidden treasures, this Victorian cemetery is a place that brings together the city’s rich past with every promise of the future.

Centennial Olympic Park

Widely considered the crown jewel of Atlanta’s Downtown District, Centennial Olympic Park is 22 acres of picture-perfect photo-op-worthy landscape. Home of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, this beautiful public space now offers visitors a range of stunning green spaces, a thriving entertainment area and the city’s iconic Fountain of Rings, a computerized and brightly lit water fountain showcasing the Olympic logo.

Little Five Points

Renowned as one of Atlanta’s hippest neighborhoods, Little Five Points is a fabulous photo spot in the heart of the city. Known best for its fringe culture, off-beat style and diverse food scene, visitors can expect to stroll through stacks of novels at independent bookstores, indulge in some of the city’s best coffee shops and wander into an eclectic range of live music performances during their time here.

Day Trips from Atlanta

While Atlanta is certainly bursting with an array of exciting activities to choose from, travelers looking to make the most of their adventures and see what the surrounding area has to offer are in luck. The region is filled with a plethora of exhilarating experiences just a short ride away.

Six Flags Over Georgia

Known as the star thrill park of the South, Six Flags Over Georgia is the perfect amusement park experience for adrenaline seekers of all ages. With one-of-a-kind coasters and a range of attractions that will leave you loving every moment, this world-class destination has something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure you take a look at the park’s extensive list of annual events including Oktoberfest and Holiday in the Park to truly make the most of your amusement park adventures.

Savannah Historic District

By driving just four short hours outside of Atlanta, travelers can find themselves falling back in time to one of the South’s most glorious periods. The Savannah Historic District brings the Antebellum to life with its grand southern homes and historic plazas lined with oak trees draped in beautiful Spanish moss. Perfect for a day trip or even a weekend stay, visitors can pass the time wandering through the district's magnificent museums and picture-perfect parks, or even by sampling a taste of southern hospitality in any of the city’s worthwhile restaurants.

Helen

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the charm of Bavaria, but haven’t had the opportunity to journey across the ocean, a short trip to Helen might just be the perfect escape. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this one-of-a-kind Alpine destination offers travelers a taste of Germany just a short ride outside of Atlanta. Wander through the community’s captivating cobblestone streets as you take in the sights and smells of this breathtaking Bavarian town.

Atlanta on a Budget

Between the city’s wide range of amazing activities and sensational sites, visiting a larger metropolis like Atlanta can often come with a fairly hefty price tag. However, with a few tips and tricks, there are numerous ways you can stay well within your budget while still making the most of this incredible city.

AAA Advantages

Did you know that by just being a member of AAA, you are already well on your way to a budget-friendly vacation? AAA members have access to so many exclusive travel benefits including lower-price attraction tickets, discounts on rental cars and significant savings on accommodations with local hotel partners, all of which can be taken advantage of to easily stay within your budget.

Invest in the CityPASS

If you’re looking for a stress-free and economically friendly way to see the best of Atlanta then you absolutely must make the most of the Atlanta CityPASS. The ultimate ticket to the city, this exceptional pass gets you on the fast track to see some of the city’s top sightseeing wonders. In addition to faster entry to five of the city’s highest-rated attractions, you and your family can enjoy these advantages for a fraction of the price.

Enjoy the Various Annual Events

If there’s one thing Atlanta loves it’s taking advantage of the city’s incredible year-round weather. As a result, there are several annual events and local festivities taking place at almost any given time throughout the city. There is always something going on in Atlanta. Locals and travelers alike can easily take advantage of these fantastic free events, enjoying the charming atmosphere, delicious foods and outstanding live entertainment.

Travel Tips for Atlanta

Whether you’re an experienced Atlanta traveler coming back to your favorite destination or a first-time visitor excited to see everything the city has to offer, making sure you take the time to plan the perfect Atlanta holiday is an absolute must. Take a look at these travel tips that will help ensure you enjoy a world-class getaway like you deserve.

Read, Read and Read Again

It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting a destination you love or someplace you’ve never been, doing the proper research before you leave is the only way to guarantee you experience the trip you’ve been dreaming of rather than a stressful and unwanted situation. Read up on recent events, local attractions and special activities that may be taking place during your stay to prepare accordingly. Keep in mind, that the AAA Trip Canvas Tool is a great way to help organize your itinerary and find all the information you need to plan to picture-perfect Atlanta holiday.

Prepare for the Heat and Humidity

If you’re not used to the South’s infamous weather, you need to remember that “Hot-lanta” is much more than just a nickname. The Atlanta heat and humidity can quickly become overwhelming for travelers unaccustomed to the sometimes-sweltering temperatures. It’s incredibly important that you remain hydrated throughout your stay. Strive to drink at least two liters of water daily and make sure you pack appropriate clothing to help you stay cool and refreshed even on the hottest days.

Plan Ahead for the Airport

While ATL is one of the most streamlined and efficient airports in the country, it can still become quite crowded and overwhelming, especially during busy travel seasons. No matter when you decide to book your stay, make sure you leave more than enough time to make your way through booking, security and customs on your return journey. That way, you can spend your time wandering through the airport's exquisite shopping areas rather than stressing about missing your flight.

What to Pack for Atlanta

Of course, the time of year you decide to visit will certainly have an impact on what you bring with you. Travelers looking to enjoy the city’s wonderfully warm winters should make sure to bring light jackets and sweaters, a few hats and scarves as well as comfortable shoes for walking. On the other hand, guests booking a stay in the spring and summer months must remember to bring lightweight and breathable clothing as well as swimsuits and maybe even an umbrella for unpredictable rainstorms.

However, there are a few absolute must-haves that travelers should remember to pack no matter what time of year they choose to visit:

• Backpack
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Camera
• Travel Documents/ID/Health Insurance Card
• Medication
• Toiletries
• Entertainment for Travel
• Phone/Computer/Chargers
• Insect Repellent
• Exercise Clothing (If you’re planning to enjoy the numerous outdoor activities in the area)

If you’re looking to enjoy a truly one-of-a-kind stay, you may even want to consider bringing along a few of the following additional items:

• Dress Clothes for a Night Out
• Insulated Water Bottle
• Sleep Mask (For travelers looking to sleep in)
• Luggage Scale
• Quick Dry Travel Towels

Plan Your Ultimate Atlanta Vacation with AAA

Book your Atlanta trip with a AAA agent today. Our travel agents make planning a trip easy, with access to vacation packages and a la carte planning options for every budget. Use your AAA membership to access exclusive travel benefits and use Trip Canvas for travel inspiration.