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

Mexican RestaurantPhoto of No Mas! Cantina — Mexican Restaurant

No Mas! Cantina

Mexican food & margaritas are accompanied by vibrant decor & gift shop stocked with handmade goods.

Atlanta, GA|4
Bar & GrillPhoto of The Vortex Bar & Grill — Bar & Grill

The Vortex Bar & Grill

Local fixture known for its burgers, beer & whiskey selection & offbeat, rock 'n' roll vibe.

Atlanta, GA|5
BarPhoto of Sugar Factory American Brasserie - Atlanta — Bar

Sugar Factory American Brasserie - Atlanta

Atlanta, GA|4
Barbecue RestaurantPhoto of Fox Bros Bar-B-Q — Barbecue Restaurant

Fox Bros Bar-B-Q

Texan brothers' slow-roast ribs, pulled pork & Southern sides in an informal space with a patio.

Atlanta, GA|5
Performing Arts TheaterPhoto of Fox Theatre — Performing Arts Theater

Fox Theatre

Restored opulent theater built in 1920s with 3,600-pipe organ hosts ballet, movies & other events.

Atlanta, GA|5
Amusement CenterPhoto of Sandbox VR — Amusement Centervia Google Maps

Sandbox VR

Atlanta, GA|5
Ferris wheelPhoto of SkyView Atlanta — Ferris wheelvia Google Maps

SkyView Atlanta

20-story Ferris wheel in Centennial Park providing scenic views from climate-controlled gondolas.

Atlanta, GA|5
History MuseumPhoto of Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park — History Museum

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

National Park encompassing King's birth home, Ebenezer Baptist Church & his final resting place.

Atlanta, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of 9 Mile Station — Restaurant

9 Mile Station

Rooftop beer garden with local brews, creative pub fare & city views from atop Ponce City Market.

Atlanta, GA|5
Event VenuePhoto of Georgia World Congress Center — Event Venue

Georgia World Congress Center

Atlanta, GA|5
Soul Food RestaurantPhoto of Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Atlanta — Soul Food Restaurant

Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Atlanta

Atlanta, GA|5
Japanese RestaurantPhoto of Wagyu House | Atlanta — Japanese Restaurant

Wagyu House | Atlanta

Atlanta, GA|5
Korean RestaurantPhoto of Pelicana Chicken Atlanta — Korean Restaurant

Pelicana Chicken Atlanta

Atlanta, GA|5
American RestaurantPhoto of Atlanta Breakfast Club — American Restaurant

Atlanta Breakfast Club

Modern diner with retro seating for down-home breakfast fare, plus burgers and other American staples.

Atlanta, GA|5
Seafood RestaurantPhoto of Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House - Grant Park — Seafood Restaurant

Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House - Grant Park

Relaxed restaurant offering seafood plates, a raw bar & craft beers on tap, plus cocktails & wine.

Atlanta, GA|5
Food CourtPhoto of Krog Street Market — Food Court

Krog Street Market

Independent food stalls fill this market that was built in the 1920s & is now a popular hangout.

Atlanta, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of Main Event Atlanta — Restaurant

Main Event Atlanta

Atlanta, GA|4
Amusement CenterPhoto of Beat The Bomb Atlanta — Amusement CenterOur original photo

Beat The Bomb Atlanta

Atlanta, GA|5
MuseumPhoto of Fernbank Museum | 3D Theater | Forest — Museum

Fernbank Museum | 3D Theater | Forest

Natural sciences museum with a 3-story, sky-lit Great Hall & skeletons of dinosaurs.

Atlanta, GA|5
Shopping MallPhoto of The Battery Atlanta — Shopping Mall

The Battery Atlanta

Lively venue featuring shops, bars, restaurants from local chefs & a lineup of music events.

Atlanta, GA|5