Things to do in Atlanta

Atlanta is a city where you can spend a morning tracing Martin Luther King Jr.'s footsteps, an afternoon inside one of the world's largest aquariums, a…

Neighborhoods

Atlanta is a city where you can spend a morning tracing Martin Luther King Jr.'s footsteps, an afternoon inside one of the world's largest aquariums, and an evening listening to live blues in a converted warehouse. The mix of history, big attractions, and neighborhood food spots keeps things interesting.

Start at Pemberton Place, where the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola sit side by side, then wander through Centennial Olympic Park. For a quieter pace, Piedmont Park has trails and open lawns, while the Atlanta Botanical Garden brings a burst of color. History fans should head to the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park and Ebenezer Baptist Church. Food is a big part of the city—grab a chili dog at The Varsity, or explore the food halls at Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market. In the evening, catch a show at the Fox Theatre or a comedy set at Laughing Skull Lounge. Families can also check out Zoo Atlanta or the LEGO® Discovery Center.

Frequently asked questions about Atlanta

What are the must-see attractions in Atlanta for first-time visitors?

Most people start at Pemberton Place, where you'll find the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. Centennial Olympic Park is right there too, and it's a nice spot to walk through. For history, the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park includes his birth home and Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Where can I get good local food in Atlanta?

The Varsity is a classic for burgers and chili dogs, and it's been around for decades. For more variety, Ponce City Market has a big food hall with lots of choices, and Krog Street Market is another popular spot with independent stalls. If you want barbecue, Fox Bros Bar-B-Q is a local favorite.

What are good outdoor activities in Atlanta?

Piedmont Park is the go-to for jogging, dog walks, or just relaxing. Centennial Olympic Park has fountains and walking paths. For a nature escape, Cascade Springs Nature Preserve offers a trail with a waterfall. Historic Fourth Ward Park is also nice and connects to the Beltline.

What can families do with kids in Atlanta?

Zoo Atlanta is a solid choice, and the Georgia Aquarium is another big hit. The LEGO® Discovery Center is designed for younger kids, and Skyline Park on top of Ponce City Market has mini golf and games. If you need an indoor option, HippoHopp is an indoor playground with inflatables.

Where can I find live music or nightlife in Atlanta?

For live music, the Tabernacle and Variety Playhouse host a range of acts. If you prefer comedy, Laughing Skull Lounge is an intimate spot. Kat's Cafe has live music and open-mike nights with signature martinis. For a view, SkyLounge serves cocktails with city views.

Things to do in Atlanta

Amusement CenterPhoto of Mastermind Escape Games Atlanta — Amusement Centervia Google Maps

Mastermind Escape Games Atlanta

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American RestaurantPhoto of TWO urban licks — American Restaurant

TWO urban licks

American rotisserie fare & live blues are draws at this restaurant in a warehouse with city views.

Atlanta, GA|5
Tourist AttractionPhoto of Pemberton Place — Tourist Attraction

Pemberton Place

20-acre urban hub offers the Coca-Cola museum, aquarium, civil rights learning center & green space.

Atlanta, GA|5
Shopping MallPhoto of Ponce City Market — Shopping MallOur original photo

Ponce City Market

Vibrant converted historic Sears building, now a market with a food hall, shops & living space.

Atlanta, GA|5
Steak HousePhoto of STK Steakhouse — Steak Housevia Google Maps

STK Steakhouse

Sleek Southern outpost of famed NY-based steakhouse chain with cocktails & grilled meats.

Atlanta, GA|5
Botanical GardenPhoto of Atlanta Botanical Garden — Botanical Garden

Atlanta Botanical Garden

30-acre garden with a conservatory & fountains playing host to concerts, cocktail parties & more.

Atlanta, GA|5
ZooPhoto of Zoo Atlanta — Zoo

Zoo Atlanta

Atlanta, GA|5
StadiumPhoto of Truist Park — Stadium

Truist Park

Atlanta, GA|5
Shopping MallPhoto of Cumberland Mall — Shopping Mall

Cumberland Mall

Sprawling complex with department & big-box stores, apparel & specialty shops & a food court.

Atlanta, GA|4
StadiumPhoto of Mercedes-Benz Stadium — Stadium

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Atlanta, GA|5
Shopping MallPhoto of Atlantic Station — Shopping Mall

Atlantic Station

Upmarket retail complex with department & specialty stores, a multiplex & a range of dining options.

Atlanta, GA|5
Fast Food RestaurantPhoto of The Varsity — Fast Food Restaurant

The Varsity

Long-running drive-in chain serving up burgers, hot dogs, fries, shakes & other American classics.

Atlanta, GA|4
AquariumPhoto of Georgia Aquarium — AquariumOur original photo

Georgia Aquarium

One of world's largest aquariums, with permanent exhibits, interactive galleries & animals galore.

Atlanta, GA|5
Shopping MallPhoto of Lenox Square — Shopping Mall

Lenox Square

Upscale complex featuring high-end department stores, specialty boutiques & a range of eateries.

Atlanta, GA|4
Shopping MallPhoto of Perimeter Mall — Shopping Mall

Perimeter Mall

Collection of department stores, brand-name fashion/beauty retailers & numerous dining options.

Atlanta, GA|4
ParkPhoto of Piedmont Park — ParkOur original photo

Piedmont Park

Sprawling park featuring jogging paths, basketball courts, dog parks, a farmers' market & more.

Atlanta, GA|5
ParkPhoto of Centennial Olympic Park — Park

Centennial Olympic Park

Home of the 1996 Olympic games now filled with walking paths, water gardens & the Fountain of Rings.

Atlanta, GA|5
MuseumPhoto of World of Coca-Cola — MuseumOur original photo

World of Coca-Cola

Memorabilia, films & exhibits (some interactive) about soft drink that debuted in Atlanta in 1886.

Atlanta, GA|4
Brazilian RestaurantPhoto of Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse — Brazilian Restaurant

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse

Upscale Brazilian chain for all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside plus an extensive salad bar.

Atlanta, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of The Hive Buckhead — Restaurant

The Hive Buckhead

Atlanta, GA|5