52 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.

Allan Baxter / Getty Images / CC BY-SA

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.

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.

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 and sanitation.

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. An Atlanta historical homes tour includes a stop at the Governor’s Mansion in Buckhead and a Southern Ladies lunch at the Swan Coach House.

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 as well as The Wheeler, Sinclair and Henderson homes.

Bani / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA

Even those who aren’t diehard football fans might find the chance to explore more than 50 interactive football exhibits to be an ideal experience for all ages. Here, visitors can 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.

Atlanta experienced heavy fighting during the Civil War, especially in May and June of 1864, during the Atlanta campaign. While many of these 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.

Atlanta has long been the “Black mecca” for Black history and culture, with city tours being a great way to explore 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.

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.

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 those are paid-upcharge offerings.

anonymouse1 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA

For fans of the show, The Walking Dead walking tour explores the ESCO Feed Mill property, the site of several scenes from the cult favorite show. 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.

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.

Yellow Dog Productions / Getty Images / CC BY-SA

Atlanta is a city full of fun and unique attractions, with no shortage of options for those traveling with children or family.

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.

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.

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.

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.

weesen photos / Getty Images / CC BY-SA

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Zero Creatives / Getty Images / CC By-SA

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.

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.

Diane Macdonald / Getty Images / CC BY-SA

While there are countless attractions on offer in Atlanta, a lot of them come with a price. However, the city also has many great options without a price tag. Below are some ideas and suggestions for free adventures in Atlanta.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Mike Kline (notkalvin) / Getty Images / CC BY-SA

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.

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.

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.

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.

ANDREY DENISYUK / Getty Images / CC BY-SA

You don’t need to set 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Brooke Novak / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

MoMo Productions / Getty Images / CC BY-SA

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Good Brigade / Getty Images / CC BY-SA

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.

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.

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.

Located near Centennial Olympic Park and other popular Atlanta attractions is the 20-story-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.

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.

shaunl / Getty Images / CC BY-SA

What’s more romantic than an evening together at the drive-in? The Starlight Drive-In Theatre has double features, a full, traditional concessions stand and there’s even a flea market on site during the weekend. You can bring your own food if you like.

This multi-screen theater features modern movies as well as old goodies. It’s been doing this for over 60 years and has become a local favorite. There are several drive-ins from the company throughout the city, but one of the best is in DeKalb County on Moreland Avenue.

Another fabulous way to spend the day exploring is on a trip to the Atlanta Glass Treehouse. It’s a wonder of modern architecture tucked into the Georgia trees. It’s located close to Ormewood Park, though you will not see it from the street. Once you pull in and drive around, you’ll see the two-story house made of virtually all recycled materials, especially steel and glass.

It’s just as strange as it sounds! The Doll’s Head Trail is just a few minutes away from downtown Atlanta. When you get there, it seems rather simple. Constitution Lakes, which the trial surrounds, is a beautiful area. However, as you start walking around the boardwalk, you’ll notice interesting sculptures all made from trash. Called outsider art, the area pays homage to found art.

It takes place at the site of an abandoned 19th-century brick factory, where the South River Brick Company once dug into the ground to make its famous red clay bricks. Now, after the brickyard has been gone for 50 years, it’s become a birder haven, a wildlife refuge and a stunning wetlands area. The Doll’s Head Trail concept came about from a local carpenter who wanted to use discarded trash around the site. You’ll see bottle creations and all sorts of strange items.

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.