Best Things to Do in Atlanta: A Complete Guide
10 Best Things to Do in Atlanta
Looking for what to do in Atlanta? Atlanta blends modern skyline energy with deep civil rights history, green parks, world-class museums, thriving neighbourhoods and one of the strongest food scenes in the American South. Known as the “City in a Forest,” Atlanta offers a unique mix of culture, outdoor spaces, entertainment and iconic landmarks. Its tree-lined streets, historic districts and creative hubs make it a city full of surprising layers and memorable experiences.
From historic sites and major attractions to leafy trails, film locations and dynamic districts, here are the 10 best things to do in Atlanta to help you plan the perfect trip.
1. Explore the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world, home to whale sharks, manta rays, beluga whales, dolphins, penguins and thousands of marine species. Its massive viewing windows and immersive walk-through tunnels give visitors extraordinary underwater perspectives, making it a standout attraction for families and ocean enthusiasts. The Ocean Voyager gallery — featuring one of the largest single aquatic exhibits ever built — is a highlight and an unforgettable sight.
Interactive experiences, engaging presentations and animal encounters add even more depth to a visit. The dolphin and sea lion shows are especially well-loved, combining entertainment with conservation education. Whether you’re visiting with kids or exploring on your own, the Georgia Aquarium offers hours of awe-inspiring discovery.
2. Visit the World of Coca-Cola
Atlanta is the birthplace of the world’s most famous soft drink, and the World of Coca-Cola tells the story behind the iconic brand. This interactive museum takes visitors through decades of advertisements, memorabilia, global influence and the evolution of Coke around the world. The recreated bottling line and displays showcasing historic marketing campaigns offer a nostalgic and informative experience.
One of the most popular features is the tasting room, where guests can try more than 100 Coca-Cola beverages from different countries. The exhibit about the “secret formula” — housed in a dramatic vault — adds a playful sense of mystery that makes the attraction fun for all ages.
3. Walk the Atlanta BeltLine
The Atlanta BeltLine is one of the city’s most exciting urban revitalisation projects — a network of former railroad corridors transformed into pedestrian paths, parks, public art spaces and lively gathering spots. The Eastside Trail is the most vibrant section, lined with restaurants, breweries, shops, murals and outdoor patios that create a buzzing social atmosphere.
Walking, biking or rollerblading the BeltLine offers a great way to explore Atlanta’s neighbourhoods and discover local culture. Public art installations, community events and weekend markets keep the trails dynamic and constantly evolving, making each visit feel different.
4. Explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
This historic site is one of the most powerful and meaningful places in the United States. The park includes Dr. King’s childhood home, Ebenezer Baptist Church — where he preached — and the King Center, where he and Coretta Scott King are laid to rest. Exhibits throughout the area highlight the civil rights movement through photographs, artifacts and moving educational displays.
Walking through these spaces offers a deeper understanding of Dr. King’s life, legacy and the ongoing struggle for justice. The site’s emotional impact and historical significance make it essential for anyone visiting Atlanta.
5. Visit Piedmont Park
Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s premier urban green space — a sprawling park filled with lakes, lawns, sports fields, walking paths and skyline views. It’s a favourite spot for jogging, picnicking, dog-walking, photography, festivals and outdoor recreation of all kinds. With its connection to the BeltLine and its central location, the park buzzes with activity throughout the week.
On weekends and during seasonal events, the park becomes even more vibrant as locals gather for farmers markets, concerts and cultural celebrations. Whether you’re relaxing under the trees or exploring its scenic trails, Piedmont Park offers a refreshing escape in the heart of the city.
6. Discover the High Museum of Art
The High Museum of Art is Atlanta’s most prominent art museum, known for its striking modern architecture and wide-ranging global collections. Visitors will find European classics, African art, contemporary works, photography, decorative arts and rotating major exhibitions that bring world-renowned artists to the Southeast. The bright, airy galleries make the museum a pleasure to explore.
Families and young visitors will appreciate the High’s hands-on creative spaces, educational programs and interactive installations. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply enjoy beautiful visual experiences, the High offers something unique each visit.
7. Tour the CNN Studios (tours resume based on schedule)
As the home of CNN’s global headquarters, Atlanta offers visitors the chance to explore behind the scenes of a major news network. Guided studio tours (available on select schedules) provide insights into news production, broadcasting technology and the daily operations that power live television. From the iconic escalator entrance to the control rooms, the tour reveals the inner workings of modern media.
For journalism fans, aspiring broadcasters or anyone curious about how major news stories are produced, the CNN Studio Tour is an eye-opening experience.
8. Explore Centennial Olympic Park
Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park has become a lively public gathering space in downtown Atlanta. Its wide plazas, fountains, playgrounds and scenic lawns offer a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages. The Fountain of Rings — with its choreographed water shows — is especially popular and makes for fun photos and refreshing entertainment.
The park’s central location places it next to the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola and the SkyView Ferris wheel, making it an easy addition to any sightseeing itinerary. During concerts, festivals and seasonal celebrations, the park becomes one of downtown’s most vibrant social spaces.
9. Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Adjacent to Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden offers a beautiful collection of themed gardens, forest walkways, greenhouses and seasonal displays. Highlights include the Orchid House, the Desert House, the Storza Woods and the spectacular Canopy Walk — an elevated pathway that lets visitors stroll among the treetops for a unique forest perspective.
Throughout the year, the garden hosts art exhibitions, garden shows and the dazzling “Garden Lights, Holiday Nights” winter display. Its combination of natural beauty and creative landscaping makes it one of Atlanta’s most enchanting attractions.
10. Enjoy Atlanta’s food scene
Atlanta’s food scene is rich, diverse and constantly evolving — offering everything from classic Southern comfort dishes to upscale fusion restaurants and global flavours. Iconic eats include fried chicken, peach cobbler, barbecue, biscuits and soul-food staples. Modern neighbourhoods such as Midtown, Inman Park and Westside Provisions District offer some of the city’s most inventive dining experiences.
Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market are two standout food halls where visitors can sample dozens of creative eateries in stylish, lively settings. Whether you’re craving traditional Southern cooking or bold new flavours, Atlanta delivers one of the most exciting culinary scenes in the region.
Check monthly weather averages for
Latest Secret Flying deals to Atlanta
SUMMER: Non-stop from Atlanta to Dallas, Texas (& vice versa) for only $137 roundtrip
Non-stop, summer flights from Atlanta to Dallas, Texas for only $137 roundtrip with Delta Air Lines. Also works in reverse.
View DealSUMMER: Non-stop from Atlanta to Houston, Texas (& vice versa) for only $117 roundtrip
Non-stop, summer flights from Atlanta to Houston, Texas for only $117 roundtrip with United Airlines. Also works in reverse.
View Deal
[adblockingdetector id="638efa67113bf"]