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

Cultural CenterPhoto of National Center for Civil and Human Rights — Cultural Centervia Google Maps

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

Cultural attraction presents artifacts, art & photos from the Civil Rights Era & about human rights.

Atlanta, GA|5
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of Nuevo Laredo Cantina — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

Nuevo Laredo Cantina

Popular place with homestyle Mexican meals in a humble room hung with photos & travel mementos.

Atlanta, GA|5
Miniature Golf CoursePhoto of Puttshack - Atlanta - Midtown — Miniature Golf Course

Puttshack - Atlanta - Midtown

Atlanta, GA|4
Mexican RestaurantPhoto of Alma Cocina — Mexican Restaurantvia Google Maps

Alma Cocina

Inventive Mexican fare with regional influences & Latin-inspired cocktails in a stylish setting.

Atlanta, GA|5
Seafood RestaurantPhoto of The Optimist — Seafood Restaurantvia Google Maps

The Optimist

Lobster rolls, gumbo, wood-fired oysters & more in a lofty, country-modern space with a raw bar.

Atlanta, GA|5
Live Music VenuePhoto of The Masquerade — Live Music Venue

The Masquerade

Nightclub has 3 main areas: Heaven (concert hall), Hell (DJ dance party) & Purgatory (a game room).

Atlanta, GA|5
Chicken Wings RestaurantPhoto of The Original J.R. Crickets in Midtown Atlanta — Chicken Wings Restaurantvia Google Maps

The Original J.R. Crickets in Midtown Atlanta

Lively sports bar specializing in beer, Buffalo-style chicken wings & other casual eats.

Atlanta, GA|4
Asian Fusion RestaurantPhoto of Poor Calvin's — Asian Fusion Restaurantvia Google Maps

Poor Calvin's

Modern, intimate eatery featuring an Asian fusion menu plus both classic and creative cocktails.

Atlanta, GA|5
History MuseumPhoto of Birth Home of Martin Luther King, Jr — History Museum

Birth Home of Martin Luther King, Jr

Quaint, historic home where the venerable advocate for civil rights was born on January 15, 1929.

Atlanta, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View — Restaurant

The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View

Hotel restaurant & bar with 360-degree views of the city, featuring seasonal American cuisine.

Atlanta, GA|4
Steak HousePhoto of Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill — Steak Housevia Google Maps

Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill

Comfortable, lodgelike chain with an extensive menu of steaks & seafood & an innovative wine list.

Atlanta, GA|5
Spanish RestaurantPhoto of Gypsy Kitchen — Spanish Restaurantvia Google Maps

Gypsy Kitchen

Stylish modern restaurant featuring shareable Spanish snacks & plates with Moroccan & Indian hints.

Atlanta, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of Your 3rd Spot — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Your 3rd Spot

Atlanta, GA|5
RestaurantPhoto of Utopia Restaurant at the Underground Atlanta — Restaurant

Utopia Restaurant at the Underground Atlanta

Atlanta, GA|5
Breakfast RestaurantPhoto of Breakfast At Barney's — Breakfast Restaurantvia Google Maps

Breakfast At Barney's

Trendy locale whipping up all-day brunch with a Southern twist, plus smoothies, cocktails & coffee.

Atlanta, GA|4
Persian RestaurantPhoto of Rumi's Kitchen — Persian Restaurantvia Google Maps

Rumi's Kitchen

Vibrant, contemporary restaurant serving creative Persian cuisine alongside cocktails & wine.

Atlanta, GA|5
Movie TheaterPhoto of AMC Camp Creek 14 — Movie Theatervia Google Maps

AMC Camp Creek 14

Atlanta, GA|4
Cuban RestaurantPhoto of Papi's Cuban & Caribbean Grill — Cuban Restaurantvia Google Maps

Papi's Cuban & Caribbean Grill

Caribbean faves such as empanadas & jerk chicken are served alongside tropical cocktails & desserts.

Atlanta, GA|5
MuseumPhoto of College Football Hall of Fame — Museum

College Football Hall of Fame

Sleek modern museum offers exhibits on famous college football players & an indoor field for events.

Atlanta, GA|5
Shopping MallPhoto of Northlake Mall — Shopping Mallvia Google Maps

Northlake Mall

100-plus retailers including department & big-box stores, specialty shops, services & casual dining.

Atlanta, GA|4