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 Zocalo — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

Zocalo

Chef Richard Sandoval offers upscale Mexican comfort food & many tequilas in casual, stylish space.

Atlanta, GA|5
American RestaurantPhoto of Cook Out — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Cook Out

Branch of a fast-food chain known for its drive-thru BBQ, burgers & more than 40 milkshake flavors.

Atlanta, GA|4
Tourist AttractionPhoto of Underground Atlanta — Tourist Attraction

Underground Atlanta

This historic area is now a shopping & entertainment center with eateries, events & tours.

Atlanta, GA|4
Television studioPhoto of CNN Studio Tours — Television studiovia Google Maps

CNN Studio Tours

Popular tour providing a behind-the-scenes look at the CNN TV news network & how it operates.

Atlanta, GA|4
Movie TheaterPhoto of Regal Atlantic Station — Movie Theater

Regal Atlantic Station

Theater complex with multiple screens featuring new release films, plush seating & concession stand.

Atlanta, GA|4
Sports BarPhoto of Hudson Grille — Sports Barvia Google Maps

Hudson Grille

Local sports-bar chain serving a menu of burgers, wings, steaks & seafood in a stylish setting.

Atlanta, GA|4
Soul Food RestaurantPhoto of Paschal's Restaurant & Bar — Soul Food Restaurantvia Google Maps

Paschal's Restaurant & Bar

The signature fried chicken stars at this popular, brick-walled spot for Southern specialties.

Atlanta, GA|4
Italian RestaurantPhoto of Maggiano's Little Italy — Italian Restaurant

Maggiano's Little Italy

Semi-upscale chain for classic Italian fare served family-style in a relaxed, polished space.

Atlanta, GA|5
Tourist AttractionPhoto of LEGO® Discovery Center Atlanta — Tourist AttractionOur original photo

LEGO® Discovery Center Atlanta

Family entertainment center featuring LEGO® toy displays, rides & 4D films, plus a gift shop.

Atlanta, GA|4
MuseumPhoto of Trap Music Museum — Museum

Trap Music Museum

Memorabilia, art & room sets, including a jail cell, tracing hip-hop culture, plus an escape room.

Atlanta, GA|4
Breakfast RestaurantPhoto of Corner Cafe — Breakfast Restaurantvia Google Maps

Corner Cafe

Fresh baked goods from next door anchor the breakfast, brunch & lunch menus at this sunny space.

Atlanta, GA|5
AmphitheaterPhoto of Lakewood Amphitheatre — Amphitheatervia Google Maps

Lakewood Amphitheatre

Major concert & festival venue with both reserved seating & a sloping lawn.

Atlanta, GA|4
Movie TheaterPhoto of AMC Parkway Pointe 15 — Movie Theatervia Google Maps

AMC Parkway Pointe 15

Atlanta, GA|4
American RestaurantPhoto of Canoe — American Restaurant

Canoe

Farm-to-table New American cuisine in an elegant garden setting overlooking the Chattahoochee River.

Atlanta, GA|5
Concert HallPhoto of Coca-Cola Roxy — Concert Hall

Coca-Cola Roxy

Sizable venue showcasing local & big-name bands in an industrial space with a balcony & chandeliers.

Atlanta, GA|4
BarPhoto of Gocha's Tapas Bar — Bar

Gocha's Tapas Bar

Atlanta, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of Hungry AF Downtown — Restaurant

Hungry AF Downtown

Atlanta, GA|5
Chinese RestaurantPhoto of P.F. Chang's — Chinese Restaurantvia Google Maps

P.F. Chang's

Family-friendly chain offering creative takes on Asian fare in a striking space.

Atlanta, GA|4
RestaurantPhoto of Cook Out — Restaurant

Cook Out

Branch of a fast-food chain known for its drive-thru BBQ, burgers & more than 40 milkshake flavors.

Atlanta, GA|4
RestaurantPhoto of True Food Kitchen — Restaurant

True Food Kitchen

Relaxed, eco-chic chain serving health-conscious fare, including vegan options, plus cocktails.

Atlanta, GA|5