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

American RestaurantPhoto of 5Church Midtown — American Restaurant

5Church Midtown

Hip locale for steaks & New American fare in an upscale space, plus cocktails & weekend brunch.

Atlanta, GA|5
Live Music VenuePhoto of Tabernacle — Live Music Venue

Tabernacle

Wide range of acts perform at old church (ca. 1910) turned swank music venue with booze & bar bites.

Atlanta, GA|5
Photo of Woodruff Arts Center

Woodruff Arts Center

Cultural hub home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Alliance Theater & the High Museum of Art.

Atlanta, GA|5
Breakfast RestaurantPhoto of Metro Diner and Bar — Breakfast Restaurant

Metro Diner and Bar

Lively eatery with a classic diner menu featuring burgers, wraps & breakfast, plus a full bar.

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

Grant Park

Sprawling green space & recreational area is the heart of one of Atlanta's oldest neighborhoods.

Atlanta, GA|5
Fine Dining RestaurantPhoto of Ray's In the City — Fine Dining Restaurant

Ray's In the City

Upscale setting for seafood, prime cuts, and an extensive wine list, plus weekly live jazz.

Atlanta, GA|5
Chicken RestaurantPhoto of Hattie B's Hot Chicken - Atlanta East — Chicken Restaurant

Hattie B's Hot Chicken - Atlanta East

Atlanta, GA|5
Italian RestaurantPhoto of Yeppa & Co. - Buckhead — Italian Restaurant

Yeppa & Co. - Buckhead

Atlanta, GA|5
Performing Arts TheaterPhoto of Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre — Performing Arts Theater

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

Big, modern facility featuring a host of opera performances, ballets, shows, events & more.

Atlanta, GA|5
Steak HousePhoto of Malone's — Steak Housevia Google Maps

Malone's

Steak, ribs & seafood (plus large brew list) in casual setting near airport with outdoor seating.

Atlanta, GA|4
CafePhoto of Café Intermezzo - Midtown — Cafe

Café Intermezzo - Midtown

European-style coffeehouse offering many beverages & pastries, plus crêpes & sandwiches.

Atlanta, GA|5
Shopping MallPhoto of Edgewood Retail District — Shopping Mall

Edgewood Retail District

A mix of 50 national brands & boutiques is joined by 10+ restaurants & live-work rental space.

Atlanta, GA|4
Shopping MallPhoto of Plaza Fiesta — Shopping MallOur original photo

Plaza Fiesta

Mall/cultural gathering spot featuring 280-plus retailers & services with a Latin American focus.

Atlanta, GA|4
ArenaPhoto of State Farm Arena — Arenavia Google Maps

State Farm Arena

Home of the Hawks & the Dream, this state-of-the-art venue also hosts concerts & special events.

Atlanta, GA|5
Barbecue RestaurantPhoto of Fat Matt's Rib Shack — Barbecue Restaurant

Fat Matt's Rib Shack

No-frills counter-service beer & BBQ joint with nightly live blues music.

Atlanta, GA|5
Movie TheaterPhoto of Starlight Drive-In Theatre and Flea Market — Movie Theater

Starlight Drive-In Theatre and Flea Market

Double features, concessions to purchase (or BYO food) plus flea market on the weekends.

Atlanta, GA|4
Shopping MallPhoto of Phipps Plaza — Shopping Mall

Phipps Plaza

Spacious, upscale shopping center with fashionable & luxury stores, a movie theater & restaurants.

Atlanta, GA|5
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of Tacos & Tequilas Mexican Grill — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

Tacos & Tequilas Mexican Grill

Informal, rustic-chic Mexican chain with a big menu, a variety of margaritas & patio seating.

Atlanta, GA|5
Art museumPhoto of High Museum of Art — Art museum

High Museum of Art

Museum known for its diverse art collection & modern architecture by Richard Meier & Renzo Piano.

Atlanta, GA|5
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of Azotea Cantina — Mexican Restaurant

Azotea Cantina

Atlanta, GA|5