best places to visit near atlanta georgia

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15 small towns near Atlanta you need to visit right now

Here's a mapped checklist of 15 great (little) destinations to get you going in 2020

Let’s face it: Sitting in traffic jams and dealing with road rage (either your own or that of fellow drivers) can wear on ITP folks. Sure, we choose to live here—just look at the selection of restaurants, shopping, cultural destinations, etc.—but not surprisingly, lots of small towns around the state offer the same.

If all that separates you from a laidback day trip in a cool small town is a hundred miles of highway (give or take), why not put the pedal to the metal and visit one this weekend?

Here’s an updated, mapped list of 15 great little destinations to get you exploring beyond the limits of ITP in 2020.

Cartersville

Hit Interstate 75 north for about an hour, and you’ll encounter this community filled with Smithsonian-affiliated museums, a lively dining and entertainment district, and more outdoor recreation that any one weekend can accommodate.

These include the Booth Western Art Museum, home to collections that rival or even outshine museums in many larger cities, cuisine ranging from diner food to international fare, and chances to explore the great outdoors at Red Top Mountain State Park and beyond.

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For small-town enthusiasts who really don’t mind taking a good, long, scenic drive, Blue Ridge is the place to go.

The thing about a two-hour trek to Blue Ridge? It justifies renting a nearby cabin and staying the night for a full-on mountain adventure that’s sure to include beautiful vistas, fresh air, and if you’re (un)lucky, bears. The vibrant downtown area (full of art galleries and surprisingly good dining) is enough to warrant a trip to the tiny town alone.

Head west on Interstate 20, and you’ll soon find yourself at this small but thriving city. Not to be outdone by Atlanta’s Beltline, Carrollton is home to the Carrollton Greenbelt, an 18-mile, closed loop paved bike and walking trail that’s ideal for exploring the area. It’s a showcase of diverse topography and landscapes, from historic neighborhoods to idyllic marshes.

Downtown, find a growing mix of shopping and dining and an outdoor amphitheater, along with a calendar full of entertaining events. And that’s before you include all there is to see and do at the University of West Georgia. 

Picture by Melanie Boyd Posted by Main Street Carrollton Georgia on  Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Milledgeville

One of Georgia’s other college towns, former Peach State capital Milledgeville offers more than enough to fill a day-trip itinerary or even a full-fledged weekend getaway schedule.

Tour the Old Governor’s Mansion, and see where state business used to occur. Or enjoy the miles of nature trails at Lockerly Aboretum, which also makes for a fantastic picnic spot. Tip: save time to check out the many shops, bars, and restaurants that line the streets of downtown.

It’s not a traditional small town with the old-school, historical vibe one finds in other places mapped here, but Suwanee has all the amenities you’ll likely seek for escaping the ATL for a day: parks, shopping, a town green, an impressive multi-use trail system, and real Southern accents.

The city hosts concerts on the Town Green throughout the year as well as Food Truck Fridays during the summer. Also, their beer fest (coming in March) rocks.

This Walking Dead mecca boasts all the right ingredients for a quaint, small-town escape. Senoia has museums, bed and breakfast spots, gardens, covered bridges, sightseeing for fans of post-apocalyptic zombie bloodbaths … yeah, it’s pretty much got it all.

Located in Coweta County—roughly an hour and 10 minutes away—the city’s website describes the town as “the perfect setting for life.” Ahh...

Aside from ghost tours, antique stores, antebellum homes, and Civil War monuments (for history buffs), there’s something else about Covington that sets it apart. Give up? It’s known—apparently?—as the Hollywood of the South.

Covington has played host to production crews filming Vampire Diaries , The Dukes of Hazzard , In the Heat of the Night , and more than 60 other film productions. Curious? They’ve got tours, of course.

A thriving city in the northwest corner of the state, Rome is built around the meeting of three rivers. The charming downtown area is ripe for shopping and dining, while the Town Green along the riverfront is home to family fun, annual events, and relaxing views of the flowing waters.

More than 13 miles of the Downtown Heritage Trail System provides the perfect opportunity for biking, jogging, and walking. Beyond downtown, there’s much history to explore at nearby Berry College, the Chieftains Museum & Major Ridge Home, and the Duke Museum of Military History. 

Downtown Buford

Sure, it’s close to the Mall of Georgia (gasp), but venture a few miles farther and you’ll find Buford’s roots downtown. With the sprawling 9,000-square-foot Bona Allen Mansion—the 1911 European-style home of a local tannery tycoon—just a stone’s throw from the many shops and restaurants in the historic district, the City of Buford offers a unique take on charmingly preserved small-town life.

Sure, it’s a bit kitschy, but Helen remains a fun destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Kick back and relax at one of the German restaurants or breweries (make sure you grab a baked good at Hofer’s Bakery!), float down the Chattahoochee River on a brightly colored tube, or take in some fresh air along the Helen to Hardman Trail, a one-mile long, in-town jaunt through the woods and along the river.

Extend your stay at a local B&B, the adults-only Valhalla Resort Hotel, a Unicoi State Park cabin, or one of the many other accommodations available.

This is a well-known historical destination and a no-brainer for any day-tripper seeking a step back in time. And they’re proud of it.

According to the city’s website, Madison “retains its small-town character and remains the heart of the community.” For those who've been, it’s hard to deny Madison has something special going on, including some of the state’s most gorgeous historic homes and a thriving, walkable downtown. Take a guided tour through the available house museums, or check them out at your leisure during a self-guided walking tour.

Found near the northernmost end of Ga. Highway 400, the Lumpkin County seat known as Dahlonega (that’s “duh-lon-eee-guh”) has roots in gold. This mountain city was the site of the first major U.S. Gold Rush (take that, San Francisco) and now boasts a “wine trail” leading visitors on a tour of local vineyards and a wealth of natural beauty. Don’t skip the beautiful historic downtown area.

Serenbe is “a utopian experiment in new Urbanism being molded out of Georgia Red Clay.” The New York Times had that to say about the progressive community, which is immersed in nature about 40 minutes southwest of Atlanta.

It’s made up of acres and acres of preserved forests, meadows, and well-maintained nature trails. With good food. And thoughtful architecture. Yep, sounds pretty darn utopian.

Fayetteville

Established in 1823, Fayetteville also fancies itself a cultural small-town destination, housing the Old Courthouse Art Show and Main Street Festival in October (it wouldn’t be a small town without a good, old-fashioned fall festival).

It’s about 35 miles south of Atlanta, so you can get there in about an hour if you hit traffic. Save time for a stop at nearby Pinewood Forest, a new small town tied to Georgia’s TV and film industry that’s starting to materialize now.

Whether strolling the Riverwalk along the Chattahoochee, tackling the 2.4-mile urban whitewater run, or exploring the city’s more than 500 restaurants, you’ll find more than enough entertainment during a Columbus visit. (As Georgia’s second most populous city, it’s technically not a small town, but it feels like it downtown, relatively speaking.)

Military fans can explore years of history at the National Infantry Museum and the National Civil War Naval Museum, while adventure seekers can take to the air on the dual zip-line over the river. You also don’t want to miss the farmers market and craft fairs that happen every week in Uptown.

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The 30 Best Day Trips From Atlanta GA

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial & privacy policies .

[Updated May 16, 2023]

As a lifelong metro Atlanta resident, I’ve always felt that the natural beauty of the state of Georgia is vastly underrated.

In my experience, even locals tend to forget the amazing amount of green space we’re blessed with, which offers endless excellent opportunities for recreation and ecotourism adventures.

But taking day trips from Atlanta is a great way to explore all the beauty the Peach State has to offer, from cool caves, majestic mountains , and dazzling lakes to rushing rivers and wondrous waterfalls .

With hundreds of city parks, more than 40 state parks , and five national parks located in North Georgia alone, the South’s most bustling metropolis also boasts plenty of outdoor activities.

And most of them can be reached in less than two-hour road trips from Atlanta .

Whether you prefer relaxing activities like fishing, biking, and tubing, or extreme adventures like rock climbing, caving, and ziplining , read on for a diverse array of options for amazing day trips from Atlanta.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in Atlanta GA

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Best day trips from atlanta guide.

• Amicalola Falls State Park
• Apple Picking in Ellijay
• Biking the Silver Comet Trail
• Boating on Lake Lanier
• Black Rock Mountain State Park
• Callaway Gardens
• Chasing Waterfalls in Rabun County
• Check Out the Athens GA Music Scene
• Climb Blood Mountain
• Cloudland Canyon State Park
• Day Hiking the Appalachian Trail
• Driving the Richard B Russell Scenic Hwy
• Explore Downtown Blue Ridge
• Hiking in the Chattahoochee National Forest
• Fly Fishing for Trout
• Fort Mountain State Park
• Learn Native American History
• Providence Canyon State Park
• See 4 States at Brasstown Bald
• See Rock City Gardens
• Shoot the Hooch
• Seeing Northwest Georgia Caves
• Spend a Day in Dahlonega
• Sunsets on Lake Allatoona 
• Tallulah Gorge State Park
• Wine Tastings at North Georgia Wineries
• Visit Alpine Helen
• Unicoi State Park 
• Vogel State Park
• Whitewater Rafting on the Chattooga River

READ MORE: The 15 Best Fall Fairs in Georgia

1. Amicalola Falls State Park

Our of our family’s favorite North Georgia day trips ever since my daughter was born, Amicalola Falls  easily ranks among the most popular places to visit near Atlanta.

This is largely thanks to its easy access, easy hiking trails (some of which are paved with recycled rubber), and 729-foot cascading waterfalls (the tallest east of the Mississippi River).

Amicalola (Cherokee for “tumbling waters”) has seen marked improvements in recent years, including the addition of a new observation deck that provides incredible scenic vistas.

Hardcore backpackers often come this way, making the 8.5-mile hike to Springer Mountain, which marks the southern end of the 2,135-mile Appalachian Trail.

But most visitors go for more casual hikes, fish for freshwater trout in the well-stocked pond, and enjoy a quiet picnic near the base of the falls. It’s a beautiful way to spend a warm spring or autumn day!

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Scary Escape Rooms in Georgia

2. Apple Picking in Ellijay

Gilmer County is widely known as “the Apple Capital of Georgia,” so it’s no surprise that  apple picking ranks among the most popular things to do in Ellijay GA .

Apple picking in Ellijay is best from early September through the end of October, right as the fall colors in North Georgia begin to reach their peak.

There are many great apple orchards in Ellijay GA  to choose from for Atlanta day trips, including Hillcrest Orchards, Panorama Orchards, and the Red Apple Barn. But  B.J. Reece Orchards is tops among the perennial favorites.

The family-owned  farm encompasses 120 acres and offer around 30 different kinds of apples, including Cameo, Candy Crisp, Fuji, Gala, Mutsu, Red Delicious, and Winecrisp. 

They usually start offering you-pick apples around Labor Day. But the orchard’s market offers bagged apples, apple cider donuts, “World Famous” fried pies, and other tantalizing treats all year round. 

Visiting Reece Orchards is also a family favorite for other reasons, including activities such as a petting zoo, cow milking demonstrations, and old-fashioned wagon rides.

3. Biking the Silver Comet Trail

Formerly the route of the Silver Comet passenger train , this paved recreational trail extends 61.5 miles from the northwest Atlanta suburb of Smyrna all the way west to the Alabama state line.

The city’s first ever rails-to-trails project, the Silver Comet Trail is renowned for its many spectacular scenic vistas as it traverses numerous trestles and bridges.

The trail also offers direct access to Heritage Park, which features more than 14 acres of wetlands and the ruins of Concord Woolen Mill .

Don’t have a bike? No problem! Just rent one from Comet Trail Cycles , which offers full and half-day rentals on carbon road bikes, comfort hybrids, youth bicycles and child trailers.

Of course the path can also be used for hiking, jogging, and rollerblading as well. 

READ MORE: The Top 10 Treehouse Rentals in the Georgia Mountains

4. Boating/Kayaking on Lake Lanier

Encompassing 38,542 acres in Gainesville, this popular Georgia lake was named after 19th century poet Sidney Lanier.

Lake Lanier was formed when the Buford Dam was created in 1956, with water flowing in from both the Chattahoochee and Chestatee Rivers. It’s the biggest lake in Georgia , with around 700 miles of shoreline.

Recreational activities here include boating, water skiing , swimming, kayaking and standup paddle boarding.  There’s also great fishing, with commonly caught species such as bluegill, catfish, redbreast, spotted bass, striped bass, white bass, and walleye.

There are plenty of great picnic spots and camping opportunities on the lake, with 40 parks and 10 campgrounds along the shoreline.

Lake Lanier is home to Georgia’s newest state park,  Don Carter State Park , which features 4 miles of hiking trails , a recreational beach, and cabin rentals .

There’s also the upscale Lanier Islands Resort, which offers a variety of lodging options, plenty of lakeside amenities, and one of our favorite North Georgia Christmas events .

READ MORE: The 15 Best Lakes in the North Georgia Mountains

5. Black Rock Mountain State Park

Located at an altitude of 3,640 feet along the Eastern Continental Divide, Black Rock Mountain State Park offers extraordinary views of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia.

Located near the town of Clayton, it’s one of the impressive North Georgia attractions, offering 5 hiking trails that range in length from the .10-mile Norma Campbell Cove Trail to the 7.2-mile James E. Edmond Trail.

The most popular is the 2.2-mile Tennessee Rock Trail, which takes you through some of the park’s highest forest . The exceptional views span some 80 miles into North Carolina , South Carolina, and Tennessee.

There are numerous scenic overlooks in the park offering amazing sunrise and sunset vistas, as well as fishing, kayaking/canoeing in Black Rock Lake, and visiting the Foxfire Museum of Appalachian culture and history .

The park is also home to one of the most picturesque campgrounds in the region, as well as our favorite Georgia State Park cabin rentals . 

READ MORE: The Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in Georgia

6. Callaway Gardens

Although the Atlanta Botanical Garden  will always hold a special place in my heart as a hometown hotspot, Callaway Gardens is a world-class attraction located just 80 miles south of Downtown Atlanta. 

One of our favorite romantic getaways in Georgia, Callaway features over 2,500 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens nestled in the southernmost foothills of the Appalachian Mountains . 

The ever-popular resort offers four different types of accommodations, 12 restaurants, a 10-mile biking trail, and lots of different nature trails for visitors to explore. 

Family-friendly attractions at Callaway include the Azalea Garden, Butterfly Center, Discovery Center, swimming at Robin Lake Beach, and Treetop Adventure Ziplines . 

We’re also huge fans of their annual “Fantasy in Lights” holiday celebration, which is one of our favorite Christmas light displays in Georgia .

READ MORE: 25 Beautiful Birds of Georgia

7.  Chasing Waterfalls in Rabun  County

There are an estimated 700 waterfalls in the state of Georgia, the vast majority of which are located in the North Georgia mountains .

Every hiker has their personal favorite North Georgia waterfalls . But, for our money, the best place to visit multiple mind-blowing waterfalls in one day is Rabun County, in the northeast corner of the state. 

Want easy trails to wondrous waterfalls with very little hiking involved?

Check out Toccoa Falls, Minnehaha Falls , Becky Branch Falls at Warwoman Dell, and Hurricane Falls at Tallulah Gorge (which you can view from the top after a short walk to the Rim Trail). 

If you visit Minnehaha, it’s a short drive to the Lake Rabun Beach Campground, where you can hike to Panther Falls and Angel Falls on a moderate 1.75-mile round-trip trail. 

Other great waterfalls in the area include Martin Creek Falls (on the same trail as Becky Branch), Dick’s Creek Falls, Ammons Creek Falls, and the Hemlock Falls trail at Moccasin Creek State Park .

READ MORE: The 20 Best Easy Hiking Trails to Waterfalls in Georgia

8. Check Out the Athens GA Music Scene

The town of Athens GA is best-known for the University of Georgia Bulldogs, whose football team has won 16 conference championships and 4 national championships (including back-to-back wins in 2021 and 2022). 

But as a lifelong Georgia resident, I’d say the town is equally noteworthy for having the state’s best live music scene. 

In the ’80s, Athens-based bands such as the B-52’s, R.E.M., Pylon, Love Tractor, and Oh-OK (which featured Michael Stipe’s sister, Lynda, and Matthew Sweet) blazed trails for the burgeoning college rock field.

By the ’90s, the town had birthed beloved acts ranging from singer-songwriter Vic Chesnutt and Southern rockers Drive-By Truckers to the arty Elephant 6 Collective (Neutral Milk Hotel, Olivia Tremor Control, Of Montreal, etc.).

From the Boar’s Head Lounge and The Warehouse to larger venues like the 40 Watt, Classic Center Arena, and Georgia Theatre, there are still lots of good places to see great live music in Athens today. 

READ MORE: The History of the Banjo, from Africa to Appalachia

9. Climb Blood Mountain

One of the most popular North Georgia mountains for hiking , Blood Mountain is the first trail I ever remember hiking with my parents as a young boy. 

With an elevation of 4,461 feet (making the highest spot on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia ) and a distance of 4.3 miles round-trip, this is one of the more difficult hiking trails in North Georgia . 

From the Byron Reece Trailhead near Neels Gap, the adventure takes you through a creek valley lined with rhododendron and other wildflowers . You’ll meet the Appalachian Trail at .7 mile and head westbound.

The Blood Mountain trail reaches the summit at 2.15 miles, where you can take in jaw-dropping sights of the rolling  Blue Ridge Mountains landscape from a huge rocky outcrop. 

Once you’ve had time to catch your breath and get your fill of the sensational scenery, the hike retraces the outbound route to return to the trailhead.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Things to Do in Blairsville GA & Union County

10. Cloudland Canyon State Park

This 3,485-acre state park, located 35 miles north of sleepy Summerville GA, is rarely crowded except on peak summer weekends. But it offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all fitness levels.

Casual nature lovers can simply stay in the picnic area parking lot, where you can get stunning overviews of the canyon without ever breaking a sweat.

But hardy hikers will love the 4.8-mile West Rim and Waterfalls Trail, which offers more in-depth exploration of the area (which ranges in elevation from 800 to around 2,000 feet).

The gorge was cut into the mountain by Sitton Gulch Creek, producing striking rock outcroppings that are offset by colorful wildflowers . These stunning views grow increasingly spectacular in the autumn months, when the colorful Fall foliage begins to change.

The park really earns its name in the morning, when the rolling fog over the hills makes it seem as if you’re walking in the clouds. In addition to 100+ campsites, they also have recently renovated Cloudland Canyon State Park Cabins and 10 awesome yurts.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Things to Do in Summerville GA

11. Day Hiking the Appalachian Trail in Georgia

The Appalachian Trail is one of the most iconic hiking trails in the world, stretching 2,190+ miles across 14 different states. Due to its length, most thru-hikers 5 to 7 months to tackle the entire trail.

Trekking from Georgia to Maine isn’t possible (or advisable) for the average hiker. But the AT in Georgia offers an array of easy, moderate, and strenuous trails that explore some of the state’s most scenic summits.

It’s possible to take day trips from Atlanta to hike parts of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia , which begins at Springer Mountain in Blue Ridge. 

The most popular sections include the aforementioned Blood Mountain trail, the Springer Mountain Loop, Preacher’s Rock, and the Long Creek Falls trail . 

If you’re up for a more strenuous trekking challenge, there’s the 5.2-mile hike from Dicks Creek Gap to the summit of Powell Mountain, the 8.6-mile Three Forks to Springer Mountain section, and the 14.5-mile stretch from Hogpen Gap to Unicoi Gap.

READ MORE: The Best Christmas Lights in Atlanta & North Georgia

12. Drive the Richard B Russell Scenic Highway

Though North Georgia doesn’t offer any epic winding roads to rival the Blue Ridge Parkway , the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway offers a stunningly picturesque mountain route on a much smaller scale. 

Also known as Hwy 348, it stretches 23 miles from Helen to Blairsville GA. But it’s easy to extend the drive by heading further north to Young Harris and Hiawassee, or following the larger Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway  loop (40.6 miles total). 

There are plenty of cool things to do along the Richard B. Russell stretch to make a full day of it.

Start the morning fishing or hiking at Smithgall Woods State Park , then head north on Hwy 348 for fairly easy waterfall hikes at Dukes Creek Falls (2 miles round-trip) and Helton Creek Falls (0.3 miles). 

If taking a gander at jaw-dropping scenic vistas is more your speed, don’t miss the three roadside scenic overlooks that are located along Hwy 348.

All of them are worth a stop, but our favorite by far is Hogpen Gap, which is located along the Appalachian Trail. It’s a great place for an evening picnic while you soak in the dazzling colors of an amazing sunset!

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to Live in the Georgia Mountains

13. Explore Downtown Blue Ridge GA

One of our favorite Blue Ridge Mountain towns in GA , the charming town of Blue Ridge has long been considered one of the best places to visit near Atlanta. 

Founded in 1886, Downtown Blue Ridge offers upscale restaurants , shopping, and culture, including vibrant art   galleries , a theatre, and live music on weekends.

There’s an extensive array of outdoor activities nearby, including horseback riding, white water rafting on the Ocoee River, ziplining, and boating and kayaking at Lake Blue Ridge .

There’s also lots of great hiking trails, including the Benton MacKaye Trail, the AT, and several impressive  waterfalls near Blue Ridge  (including Long Creek Falls, Fall Branch Falls, and Sea Creek Falls ). 

To learn more about the Fannin County area, hop aboard the historic Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and take a train ride through North Georgia along the Toccoa River, just as travelers did in the late 19th century.

If you want to extend your visit, there are loads of accommodation options, ranging from local campgrounds to luxurious tree houses and Blue Ridge cabins . 

READ MORE: The 20 Best Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA

14. Hiking in the Chattahoochee National Forest

The Chattahoochee National Forest encompasses around 867,000 acres of largely pristine land, offering some of the most rewarding opportunities for outdoor adventure in North Georgia .

The forest spans 26 counties and boasts hundreds of miles of hiking trails that lead to wildflower-lined streams, glistening waterfalls , peaceful lakes , and jaw-dropping mountain vistas.

Our favorite easy hiking trails in the National Forest include the 0.8-mile Toccoa Swinging Bridge trail near Blue Ridge, the 0.4-mile Sosebee Cove trail near Blairsville, and the 1-mile Lake Chatuge trail in Hiawassee. 

Those seeking moderate hikes in the forest will enjoy the 3-mile Rabun Bald trek near Clayton, the 4.9-mile the Raven Cliff Falls trail near Helen, and the 3-mile Grassy Mountain Tower trail in the Cohutta Wilderness. 

Hardy hikers will love the challenging elevation gain offered by the 4.4-mile Yonah Mountain trail in Helen, the 8.4-mile Smith Creek Trail to Anna Ruby Falls , and the 12.9-mile Coosa Backcountry Trail in Vogel State Park.

READ MORE: The Best 15 Hiking Trails in the Chattahoochee National Forest

15. Fly Fishing for Trout

Atlanta anglers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the 9 to 5 life often head north of the city, where an array of different rivers and streams await.

There, colder waters provide an ideal habitat for trout, not to mention wildlife such as beaver, waterfowl, raccoons, and white-tail deer.

Experienced fly fishing guides such as River Through Atlanta ’s Chris Scalley can help you find the best hush-hush hotspots, where you can immerse yourself in Mother Nature’s pastoral beauty while also reeling in some tasty supper .

Scalley, who was recognized by Field & Stream magazine as a finalist for their 2007 Heroes of Conservation Awards for his efforts to protect the area’s sport fishery, offers a few tips on the best areas to land a big one.

“I’m a big fan of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area , specifically the areas near Bowmans Island, Settles Bridge, and Jones Bridge. I also like the Conasauga River and Jacks River section of the Cohutta Wilderness; and the Chattahoochee National Forest’s Jones Creek, and High Shoals Creek.”

READ MORE: How to Get to Horse Trough Falls in Helen GA (Upper Chattahoochee River Campground)

16. Fort Mountain State Park

Located in Chatsworth GA, Fort Mountain State Park makes an excellent North Georgia day trip, offering some of the best hiking near Ellijay GA.

In fact, the #1 thing to do at the state park is to explore its 25+ miles of hiking, horseback riding , and mountain biking trails (which includes 8+ miles on the Gahuti Trail).

If you can only do one, the CCC Fire Tower Combination Loop is our favorite. Its total distance is listed as a mile, but you can easily extend it to around 2 miles.

From the parking lot, take the trail on the right, going past the “Stone Tower Trail” sign and continuing east on the Stone Wall Trail. This takes you on a rarely-traveled path around the Fort Mountain summit, with incredible views and massive boulders. 

It eventually connects to the West Overlook Trail, which takes you to an awesome overview of the surrounding landscape.

Retrace your steps and you’ll see signs leading to the 4-story CCC Stone Tower, which was built back in the 1930s. Head back down the mountain from there to see the mysterious stone wall and CCC-built steps.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Cabin Rentals in Ellijay GA

17. Learn Native American History

Before the 1828 Georgia gold rush and Georgia land lotteries , which forced the removal of indigenous people on the tragic Trail of Tears, Cherokee people  had lived in the North GA mountains for hundreds of years.

And while you may not learn much about this sad chapter in U.S. history in school, there are plenty of North Georgia day trips that will immerse you in the 100-year history of Native American history.

For the ancient history, check out the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site in Cartersville.

The prehistoric archaeological site contains one of the largest Indian mounds in North America, which were built by indigenous peoples of the South Appalachian Mississippian culture  starting around 900 AD.

For more recent history, visit the New Echota Historic Site in Calhoun.

Established as the capital of the Cherokee Nation in 1825, the town was home to the first Indian language newspaper, the signing of the New Echota Treaty (which relinquished all tribal lands in the Southeast), and the beginning of the Trail of Tears. 

Other excellent sites where you can learn more about Native Americans in Georgia include the Track Rock Gap Archeological Site  in Blairsville, the Funk Heritage Center at Reinhardt University in Waleska, and the Chieftains Museum/Major Ridge Home in Rome. 

READ MORE: 6 incredible Indian Mounds in Georgia to Visit

18. Providence Canyon State Park 

Located in Lumpkin GA, about two hours south of the Atlanta airport, Providence Canyon State Park is known as “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon” due to the multi-colored hues of the dynamic landscape. 

The vibrant striations in Providence Canyon were formed by gradual erosion of the soil, which was caused by unsustainable  farming practices back in the 1800s.

Today, the canyon can be viewed from several great hiking trails , including one that meanders along the rim at the top and others that lead hikers down into the canyon. 

Stop by the park’s museum to learn more about the area’s history, or bring a packed lunch to be enjoy at one of the picnic tables or shelters (which are available for rent).

Backpackers are invited to camp overnight along the backcountry trails, but guests can also reserve a camping spot in the state park.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Hiking Trails In Atlanta GA (& Hikes Near Atlanta)

19. See 4 States From Brasstown Bald

Brasstown Bald is Georgia’s highest mountain, towering at 4,784 feet above sea level. It’s also arguably the best place in the state to get a view of fall colors in the North Georgia Mountains at their most radiant.

Known to the Cherokee people as Enotah, the site’s current name comes from a misunderstanding of the Cherokee word “Itse’yĭ” (New Green Place), which settlers mistook for “Ûňtsaiyĭ” (Brass).

The “Bald” refers to the unparalleled, unobstructed 360-degree view visitors get from the top, where you can see four states (Georgia, North Carolina , South Carolina, and Tennessee) simply by turning your head.

As a result, the moderate hiking trail up to the Observation Tower can get a bit crowded during peak season, as can the shuttle that takes visitors most of the way to the top.

But with rocking chairs, a small picnic area, and remarkably scenic surroundings waiting at the summit, it’s a fantastic place to spend an autumn afternoon!

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Things to Do in Hiawassee GA & Young Harris GA

20. See Rock City Gardens

Growing up in North Georgia in the 1970s, it was rare that we took a road trip without seeing one of the iconic “ See Rock City ” barns, over 900 of which were painted in 19 states between 1935 and 1969. 

Located two hours north of Atlanta on the Tennessee border, Rock City Gardens & Fairyland Caverns is a world-renowned tourist attraction that draws thousands of visitors to Lookout Mountain GA each month.

The attraction dates back to the 1920s, when Garnet Carter and his wife developed Lookout Mountain as a residential neighborhood. They built Fairyland Caverns, which included a  rock garden  and America’s first mini-golf course.

Freida Carter planned many of the Lookout Mountain hiking trails, planting wildflowers  and importing Bavarian gnomes for her unique garden .

Today, visitors can hike to Lover’s Leap, view 7 states from atop Lookout Mountain, and much more. And don’t miss Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights , one of our favorite places to celebrate Christmas in Georgia!

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Lookout Mountain GA/TN

21. Shoot the ‘Hooch on a SUP

Made famous by country singer Alan Jackson, the Chattahoochee River stretches from northeast Georgia down through metro Atlanta suburbs such as Roswell and Sandy Springs.

“Shooting the ‘hooch” on a raft, tube , canoe, or kayak has been a local tradition for decades.

In recent years, High Country Outfitters has been offering a new way to experience one of Atlanta’s favorite outdoor recreation pastimes, with 3- and 6-mile jaunts down the river’s in-town heart (from Powers Ferry Rd to Paces Mill Rd) via stand-up paddle board.

The company has several certified paddleboard instructors on staff, as well as equipment rentals for self-guided trips.

“We’ve all sat down in a kayak or canoe and floated down the river,” says veteran guide John Sloane, the son of the owners.

“But when you’re on a paddleboard, it’s like walking on water, and also a tremendous workout. It’s very easy to do, but it’s an amazing workout from your feet all the way up to your shoulders, and especially your core.”

READ MORE: The 10 Best Places for River Tubing in Georgia

22. Seeing Northwest Georgia Caves

TAG is the popular nickname for the beautiful area in the Cumberland Plateau where northwest Georgia meets Alabama and Tennessee .

Thanks in large part to the Southeastern Cave Conservancy , the area has lured cavers from all around the world eager to explore its labyrinthine underground passages. Pigeon Mountain is particularly popular, thanks to its vast network of limestone caves .

Pettyjohn’s Cave has six miles of previously mapped passageways that often attract a healthy weekend crowd. The 13 miles of Ellison’s Cave that have been explored include the 440-foot-deep Incredible Dome Pit and the 586-foot-deep Fantastic Pit.

Note that underground caves and caverns can be extremely dangerous for people without proper equipment or caving experience.

So please learn more about the sport before embarking on your first caving expedition, and we highly recommend hiring local guides if possible.

READ MORE: 7 Cool Caves & Caverns in North Carolina

23. Spend a Day in Dahlonega GA

Dahlonega GA  has been one of my favorite North Georgia mountain towns for 30+ years now, and makes for a fantastic day trip from Atlanta.

Located just an hour north of Downtown Atlanta, Dahlonega is best known as the site of the first major gold rush in the US. The Dahlonega Gold Museum is a great place to learn about the state’s early gold mining history. 

Historic Downtown Dahlonega features numerous 19th century buildings that are home to an array of charming local shops and great restaurants . 

The town is known as one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in GA. Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas   celebration is a personal favorite, including a parade, the Lighting of the Square, and free photos with Santa. 

Dahlonega also hosts an array of fun annual festivals , including the Bear On The Square Mountain Festival (a celebration of Appalachian music and culture) in April and Gold Rush Days in October.

READ MORE: Top 20 Things to Do in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia

24. Sunsets on Lake Allatoona

We’re biased towards 12,000-acre Lake Allatoona. It’s the closest of Georgia’s lakes to our house , we’ve kept our pontoon boat docked there for 13 years, and it’s our home away from home when we’re not traveling.

It’s also home to 1,562-acre Red Top Mountain State Park (named for the iron-rich soil’s deep red color). It’s 45 minutes from downtown Atlanta, making it one of the most popular Georgia day trips for nature lovers.

The lake attracts avid boaters and fishermen all year-round, and the park’s 15.5 miles of hiking trails provide frequent wildlife sightings, including herons, egrets, kingfishers, osprey, geese, and ducks.

Lake Allatoona is an incredible place for a picnic, swimming, kayaking , and standup paddle boarding, with numerous parks (including Dallas Landing Park and Cooper’s Furnace Day Use Area), campgrounds , and marinas along its shores. 

It’s also a magical place to just sit back and watch the sunset over the water . 

READ MORE: The 10 Best Romantic Getaways in the North Georgia Mountains

25. Tallulah Gorge State Park

Georgia may not be able to match the Grand Canyon for sheer size and scope. But this 2,689-acre park is arguably among the most impressive canyons east of the Mississippi.

Considered one of Georgia’s “Seven Natural Wonders,” Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep, with over 20 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. It’s also home to some of the most majestic waterfalls in North Georgia. 

Permits for hiking in the gorge (which take you close to the waterfalls) are available at the park’s Interpretive Center. But note that spots tend to fill up quickly on the weekends , so it’s best to arrive early in the morning.

If you choose to tackle this unique trekking adventure, be sure to carry plenty of water, as the bottom of gorge can get extremely hot on sunny days.

Hikers can also follow rim trails to scenic overlooks and cross a suspension bridge that is 80 feet high, offering some of the best views in the park. 

During specific times of the year, they open the Tallulah River dam to offer excellent white-water rafting and kayaking opportunities!

READ MORE: The 20 Best Things to Do in Clayton, GA (the Gem of Northeast Georgia)

26. Wine Tastings at North Georgia Wineries

The unique climate and soil conditions of the  North Georgia mountains make it the perfect place for growing grapes and producing wine. 

Despite the fact that there have been vineyards in the state for centuries, Georgia wineries didn’t gain much attention until the 1990s. But in recent years they’ve garnered national notoriety for their award-winning wines.

There are now nearly 60 licensed wineries in Georgia, which is nearly double the number of a decade ago.  Many of them offer wine tastings with breathtaking mountain views and southern hospitality. 

The town of Dahlonega GA is home to many of the most popular North Georgia wineries , including the 57-acre Frogtown Cellars, the 184-acre Three Sisters Vineyards, and the award-winning Wolf Mountain Vineyards.

But our favorite is the Montaluce Winery, which is also home to one of Dahlonega’s best restaurants .

Other wonderful wineries in North Georgia include Bear Claw Vineyards in Blue Ridge, Habersham Winery in Helen, and the Fainting Goats Vineyard & Winery in Jasper. 

READ MORE: 10 Festive Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Dahlonega GA

27. Visit Alpine Helen

Helen GA is a unique mountain town that combines the Alpine beauty  of Bavaria with the stunning landscapes and endless outdoor recreation opportunities of the Blue Ridge region.

The charming town boasts cobblestone walkways, German-inspired architecture, and lots of great German restaurants , where you can enjoy everything from schnitzel and wurst to massive steins of beer.

When you’re not exploring the tourist-oriented town, you can explore some of the myriad hiking trails, including Yonah Mountain and a diverse array of impressive waterfalls near Helen (such as Anna Ruby, Dukes Creek, Horse Trough, Raven Cliff, and Water’s Creek Falls). 

Other popular things to do in Helen GA include tubing down the Chattahoochee River, panning for gold and gems in the Dukes Creek Mines, riding the Alpine Mountain Coaster, and visiting Unicoi State Park. 

Perhaps the most famous attraction in Helen is their annual Oktoberfest festival in autumn, which is the largest in the world outside of Germany.

But we also love spending  Christmas in Helen GA , which includes the lighting of the village, a Christmas parade, Christkindlmarkt, and more.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Rental Cabins in Helen GA

28. Unicoi State Park 

Though it’s located just a few miles from downtown Helen, Unicoi State Park & Lodge feels like a secluded haven for outdoor adventure lovers. 

Popular Unicoi hiking trails include the Bottoms Loop Trail (which passes by an old homestead), the Lake Trail, and the Smith Creek Trail (which stretches from the campground to the Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area).

Other fun activities in the park include archery, an air gun range, a GPS scavenger hunt, guided nature hikes, fly fishing classes, guided kayaking , and paddle boarding classes.

The park offers an array of overnight accommodation options. They’re best known for the retro-hip Unicoi State Park Barrel Cabins , but they have cabins along Smith Creek and Deluxe Cabins as well.

There are also plenty of campsites for RV and tent camping to choose from, each of which includes water, power, a fire ring, grill, sewer, and dump station nearby.

READ MORE: Unicoi State Park & Lodge: Camping & Hiking Near Helen, GA

29. Vogel State Park

Not far from popular Blairsville GA Restaurants , Vogel is one of the oldest North Georgia State Parks . It was established in 1931, with buildings constructed during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps .

With its dynamic landscapes and spectacular views of Blood Mountain, Vogel State Park remains one of the most visited parks in north Georgia, offering 17 miles of hiking trails . 

The popular Trahlyta Lake Trail crosses an earthen dam created by the CCC in 1935, while the Bear Hair Gap Trail takes you past picturesque Trahlyta Falls and through the lower ridges of Blood Mountain.

Other fun activities in the state park include visiting the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum and renting kayaks, stand up paddle boards, pedal boats, and bikes.

If you want to make it an overnight or weekend visit, the park also offers 1- to 2-bedroom cabins , walk-in campsites, a 50-person pioneer campsite, and RV-accessible campsites.

READ MORE: Vogel State Park: Camping, Hiking & History in North Georgia

30. Whitewater Rafting on the Chattooga River

The Chattooga River (whose headwaters begin in Cashiers NC ) is most famous as the place where much of the classic action flick Deliverance  was filmed. Today it is an extremely popular place for whitewater rafting .

Designated by Congress as one of America’s “Wild and Scenic” rivers back in 1974, the Chattooga offers challenges for rafters of all skill levels in the picturesque setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains .

For more extreme adventure lovers, there’s Section IV, where Class IV and V rushing whitewater speeds you down the river at a breakneck pace, climaxing with an invigorating plunge down the legendary Five Falls and Soc-em-Dog.

For families seeking a kinder, gentler ride, there’s also Section III, a beginner-friendly float trip with a Class IV ending at Bull’s Sluice.

Going with an experienced tour outfitter such as Southeastern Expeditions will ensure safety and maximum enjoyment of your whitewater rafting adventure.   –By Bret Love; lead image by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the  Leave No Trace   principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

Bret and Mary

The BRMTG was created by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett, the award-winning team behind the world-renowned responsible travel website Green Global Travel. Born and raised in North Georgia, Editor-In-Chief Bret Love grew up hiking and camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains with his family. A professional writer/editor since 1995, he's covered travel and culture for 100+ publications, including American Way, Destination Marriott, Georgia Travel Guide, National Geographic, and Southbound. In 2010 he co-founded the award-winning website, Green Global Travel, which is ranked among the world's top travel blogs. Since launching BRMTG in 2020, he and Mary Gabbett have visited 50+ Blue Ridge Mountain towns together. Though she lived in NYC for 14 years, photographer/Business Manager Mary Gabbett's family has Georgia roots dating back 200+ years. Her great-grandfather was President of the Western Railroad of Alabama. Before moving to Atlanta in 1989, she fell in love with the North GA mountains, where her aunt owned a cabin. In 2010 she co-founded Green Global Travel, and has since traveled to more than 40 countries on six continents. Her photos have appeared in numerous travel publications (including National Geographic and Southbound) and various textbooks.

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17 Best Things to Do in Atlanta

By Jennifer Bradley Franklin and Lia Picard

Atlanta is a city that’s simultaneously known for its rich history and influence on the future. A city of transformation, it's the birthplace of Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., and remains a political hotbed in today's national discourse. And while its designation as a Hollywood of the South has allowed the city to develop quickly and in exciting ways, it's also wrapped in forest, with natural beauty woven into the urban landscape. Recent years have brought chic hotel openings , exquisite retail options, and beautifully designed green spaces. Atlanta’s dining scene has long been focused on locally grown food, and continues to shine with options ranging from no-frills to sophisticated. There’s a lot to explore; before you get lost in everything the Big Peach has to offer, start with our list of the best things to do in Atlanta.

Read our complete Atlanta travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Atlanta BeltLine Arrow

What started as an idea for a Georgia Tech graduate thesis has become one of Atlanta’s best-loved outdoor attractions. Atlanta was once called “Terminus” because of the railroads that converged in the city before the Civil War, and this project repurposes the historic 22-mile railway loop around the downtown area into a multi-use paved path lined with native plants and art installations. While only the Northside Trail, Westside Trail, Eastside Trail, and West End Trail are fully complete, the other sections are hike-able. When it’s finished (estimates say 2030) it will connect 45 in-town neighborhoods, include 33 miles of multi-use trails and 2,000 acres of parks, and become one of the largest, most wide-ranging urban redevelopment programs in the United States. If you've got limited time, pick an entry point and a destination and make your own shorter loop. For instance, park at Ponce City Market and walk north to Piedmont Park before heading back, a trip that should take less than an hour at an easy pace.

The Center for Civil and Human Rights Arrow

This downtown attraction, opened in 2014, celebrates the American Civil Rights Movement and the global Human Rights Movement. The airy, modern building was designed to inspire positive action with lofty architectural elements like a clear glass front and two bold, curved walls. Conceived by design firms HOK and Perkins+Will, the architects in charge said they were inspired by Washington, D.C.’s National Mall , Cairo’s Tahrir Square, and Beijing's Tiananmen Square. Inside, the museum includes three levels of galleries and event halls: A walk through the exhibit on American Civil Rights starts in the 1950s, illustrating the impact of Jim Crow laws and legalized racism on America. It explores communities' fights for equality, and raises questions about the systems Americans have yet to challenge.

Buford Highway Arrow

If “Atlanta is the cultural capital of the New South," as Marian Liou, founder of We Love BuHi, is fond of saying, then "Buford Highway is its multicultural heart.” Along this bustling street, you’ll find every manner of international cuisine, including Vietnamese, Peruvian, Chinese, Malaysian, Korean, Cuban, and Mexican. Use Lee’s Bakery—one of the few places where you can find equally fantastic pho and banh mi in a combo—as your jumping off point for exploration. It's emblematic of many of the gems along the road: Not fancy, but darn good. We say, go for the combo while you're there (that's half banh mi, half small pho for the uninitiated)—you just can't go wrong with the crunchy French bread baked daily and fragrant broth. And if you find yourself craving something else from an equally far-flung part of the world, just take a drive; Bangladeshi at Panahar, some of Atlanta's best sushi at Sushi Hayakawa , and Korean at Sokongdong Tofu House are all within striking distance.

Ponce City Market Arrow

Clocking in at a whopping 2.1 million square feet, this is the Southeast’s largest brick structure, and is home to big retailers, local boutiques, gyms, and more than 20 varied restaurants and food stalls (including multiple James Beard Award-winning chefs). Ponce City Market is somewhere you come for a good time, whether it's shopping at a small boutique, gallery, or larger store, or for a meal or drink in the central food hall (featuring three James Beard Award winners). Management does a great job of hosting fun events like cooking classes, art and candle making workshops, wine tastings, and more. You also can pay a small fee to take a freight elevator to the rooftop and play vintage carnival games and get some of the city's best skyline views.

Matt Ortile

Erinne Magee

Jessica Puckett

Luciana Bellini

Atlanta Botanical Garden Arrow

Adjacent to Atlanta’s verdant Piedmont Park , it’s easy to see why this 30-acre oasis in the heart of Midtown welcomes more than half a million visitors each year. In 2010 it nearly doubled its size when it opened the Canopy Walk, a 600-foot walkway suspended in the trees. Guests can visit the steamy orchid house, walk through the edible garden of native plants (though they are edible, resist the temptation!), and stop for an upscale meal at Longleaf, one of the few restaurants in the world to be housed in a botanical garden. In addition to being a serene place for a stroll, ABG leads a number of nationally recognized conservation efforts, including the Orchid Conservation Institute, the Conservation Greenhouse for endangered plants, and a program to save rare frogs, so there’s an educational element here too.

Little Five Points Arrow

There are a few places in Atlanta where freak flags fly, and proudly so—but chief among them is Little Five Points. The quirky neighborhood around the five-corner intersection of Euclid, Moreland, and McLendon Avenues on Atlanta's east side is home to Variety Playhouse (their solid roster of indie concerts is the stuff of legends), alternative clothing boutiques, vintage record shops, and plenty of off-color restaurants, but for a microcosm of what makes L5P unique, head to the Junkman’s Daughter, an emporium of novelties. There, shoppers will find gifts, clothing, and art for folks of all persuasions, from goth to hippie to punk.

Zoo Atlanta Arrow

Founded in 1889, Zoo Atlanta is one of the city’s oldest cultural destinations and one of the great zoos in the country under continuous operation. The 40 acres it occupies in the Grand Park neighborhood are home to more than 1,000 animal residents representing over 200 species, so there’s a draw whether you’re into being outdoors or seeing a particular kind of animal, whether passing through on a solo trip or here with your family. While you’ll find unique habitats and the typical zoo inhabitants (elephants, lions, giraffes, bears, alpacas, tortoises, and flamingos), it’s known for being one of only three U.S. zoos to have giant pandas and for having one of the largest populations of great apes in North America.

Atlanta History Center Arrow

One of Atlanta's best museums , the Atlanta History Center was originally founded in 1926 by a group of Atlantans dedicated to, well, preserving their city's history. The Center, as we know it today, came to fruition in the 1990s as a way of highlighting the political and cultural history of Atlanta and the surrounding region. Unsurprisingly, there's an impressive collection of Civil War art and artifacts here (including Cyclorama: The Big Picture , a painting that measures 49-feet tall by 371-feet long), along with written commentary on the Native American history of Georgia and lighter, more pop-culture-adjacent topics like Folk Art. The 33-acre campus of historic homes, exhibitions, and archives is unto itself a treat, especially the epic Swan House, former home to one of the wealthiest families in Georgia.

Westside Park Arrow

You might recognize this park from television show "The Walking Dead." The former Bellwood Quarry has been converted into this 280-acre park with beautiful skyline views. Westside Park is a thing of beauty for nature lovers and photographers alike. A sculptural gateway that resembles dinosaur ribs, designed by Portman Architects, leads you into the spacious park with two and a half miles of paved trails that loop around a reservoir. There's a playground for kids and plenty of green space for those who want to have a picnic or just sprawl out. Bring your sneakers, as it's hilly.

The Interlock Arrow

Something of a one-stop-shop for pleasure seekers that you can make a day out of, this mixed-use development in the heart of West Midtown is anchored by the 161-room Bellyard Hotel. At Drawbar, an industrial-glam vibe and an inviting lobby restaurant, sit on the terrace overlooking the skyline for maximum enjoyment of happy hour, which is held Monday through Thursday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. (with snack specials on top of drink discounts). The Interlock happens to have an open container license, so you can visit the other venues such as indoor mini-golf experience Puttshack, and open-air coffee and cocktail spot Holiday Bar. Head to St. Germain, the French bakery on the ground floor of the Interlock, and indulge in a couple of pastries that look too pretty to eat—almost. A rooftop bar and pool are also forthcoming. 

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Arrow

When Mercedes-Benz Stadium opened its doors in 2017 it became an eye-catching star in Atlanta's skyline. The unique roof's design hearkens to a falcon wing (appropriate given the football home team) and the retractable roof transforms in just a few minutes. The venue is impressive thanks to its stunning windows that give an amazing view of the city as you descend and ascend the escalators. You can visit for a football game or live music performance, but the thrill of an Atlanta United soccer game (typically occurring February through October) is unbeatable.

King Historic District Tour – Atlanta History Tours Arrow

Prepare to be inspired on the King Historic District Tour, which is meticulously researched by company founder and historian Akila McConnell. On the two-and-a-half-hour walking tour—at about 1.5 miles, the pace is leisurely—you’ll get an up-close look at some of the city’s most important Civil Rights locations and learn little-known stories in the neighborhood. With a maximum of 14 guests—there's no minimum, so it’s possible you could have the guide’s undivided attention—the experience feels intimate, even when it's at capacity.

High Museum of Art Arrow

The High is one of the biggest and best museums in the Southeast, the kind of place Yayoi Kusama might bring her Infinity Mirrors , alongside a permanent collection of some 17,000 works. The campus stands out in Midtown, Atlanta's arts district, with buildings by bold-faced names like Renzo Piano and Richard Meier. Inside, you'll find a bit of everything: photography; decorative arts; classic European and American works; photographs by Dawoud Bey. It's a day well spent. You won’t want to miss the newest collection, given to the museum in 2019. The Doris and Shouky Shaheen Collection, displayed in a gallery named in the couple’s honor, includes works from legendary artists such as Eugène Boudin, Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, Amedeo Modigliani, and Henri Matisse. If you only have time for one gallery, this is a heavy-hitter.

Oakland Cemetery Arrow

Oakland Cemetery, a 48-acre public park, is the final resting place for more than 70,000 souls and one of the city’s oldest public parks. Established in 1850 with just six acres near downtown Atlanta, it’s grown over the years and now includes miles of walking trails spread among the headstones, decorative sculptures, and mausoleums. Some of the most popular graves here include "Gone With the Wind" author Margaret Mitchell ( her house is another Atlanta landmark ), golfer Bobby Jones (co-founder of the Masters Tournament and the first golfer to win golf’s Grand Slam), and Maynard Jackson (Atlanta’s first first African-American mayor, and namesake of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport ). It's also free to visit.

Lee + White Arrow

Lee + White is an adaptive reuse development in the West End neighborhood that consists of former warehouse spaces transformed into destinations like Best End Brewing and ASW Distillery, with a food hall addition on the way. The specialty here is anything quaffable: Beer lovers should hit up Monday Night Garage, where Monday Night Brewing dreams up sours and barrel-aged brews in a spacious, funky tasting room. Even those who don't drink can enjoy a trip to the development with a stop at Honeysuckle Gelato, or Cultured South for a glass of kombucha. If you're hungry, try Boxcar, an American cuisine restaurant with splashy art and an extensive beer list (it's owned by the team behind Hop City, one of Atlanta's most iconic craft beer shops).

Virginia-Highland District

A visit to the Virginia-Highland neighborhood (named for the intersection of Virginia and North Highland Avenues) is like a mini city break, within the city limits. Just 10 minutes from downtown Atlanta, historic craftsman homes and cottages line the streets of the picturesque neighborhood that's a lovely spot for a morning or afternoon stroll. There’s also a booming retail district that includes Atlanta institutions like George’s, a bar established in 1961, and brunch go-to Murphy’s. Exciting newcomers are Kinship Butcher & Sundry and Academy Coffee; the latter is known for its cocktail-like coffee drinks (think lattes with bitters and fanciful syrups). Other must-visit spots include Doughnut Dollies and Virginia Highland Books, an independent bookstore with a cushy seating area to sit and read over a coffee.

Decatur Square Arrow

The word ‘charming’ comes to mind when you picture Decatur Square. Decatur is a city known as an "in-town" suburb thanks to its close proximity to downtown Atlanta. The town's square itself is a nice space to hang out (you may recognize it from the television show "Watchmen") with a rich scoop of local ice cream from Butter & Cream. There are plenty of things to do here, and it's a food-enthusiast's wonderland: Several of the city's top restaurants are Leon's Full Service (seasonally-driven fare in a former gas station) and the Iberian Pig, a tapas institution. Decatur is a city driven by a love for all things local, so you won't see many chains here when it comes to food or retail; instead hit beloved businesses like Squash Blossom Boutique, Wild Oats & Billy Goats art gallery, B-Side bagels, and Little Shop of Stories bookstore.

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• Last Updated On
• September 29, 2023

10 Best Things to Do Near Atlanta, GA: Fun Places to Visit Nearby!

So, you’re looking for the best things to do near Atlanta, GA?

Atlanta is more than just a city. 

It’s a gateway to a world of wonder and adventure. 

And I should know because I’ve been to some of the most amazing places near this vibrant metropolis. 

I’m talking about places that will make you and your family feel alive, inspired, and connected. 

Whether you’re into nature, history, culture, or fun, there’s something for everyone in this region. 

The best part is you don’t have to travel far to experience it all. 

In this guide, I’m going to share my personal picks for the best things to do near the city of Atlanta.

Believe me, your journey will be nothing short of extraordinary. 

And that’s just the beginning.

Brace yourself for an epic vacation by discovering my hand-picked selection of the best things to do in Georgia’s capital. 

Best Things To Do Near Atlanta, GA Compared 

These family-friendly adventures will create memories that will last a lifetime. 

Read on for my carefully curated list of the best activities and spots near Atlanta, GA.

Editor’s Choice

Old Town Trolley Tour of Nashville

It lets you see dozens of remarkable landmarks, and even includes long pit-stops to some of the city’s most Instagram-worthy sights.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 3/5
• Educational Value: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Birmingham Civil Rights Tour

Every year, tons of families and tourists come to Birmingham to learn more about its civil rights history.

• Family-Friendliness: 3/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Educational Value: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Six Flags Over Georgia

With hundreds of family attractions, thrill rides and roller coasters, this theme park is absolutely one of the most exciting things to do near Atlanta, GA.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Educational Value: 2/5

Here are the top 10 things to do near Atlanta.

1. Old Town Trolley Tour of Nashville (Editor’s Choice)

201 Broadway Nashville, TN 37201 (629) 208-0200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

I can’t think of a better way to see Nashville with the kids than a trolley tour.

There’s a live commentary onboard as well, for those who want to learn more about the city’s history and landmarks.

Ratings Criteria

• Convenient and effortless sightseeing: The Old Town Trolley Tour of Nashville provides a convenient and effortless way to sightsee and explore the city’s top attractions. 
• Engaging and knowledgeable guides: The tour guides provide insightful commentary about Nashville’s history, landmarks, and local culture. 
• A short time at each stop: While the hop-on, hop-off feature allows flexibility, the limited time at each stop can be a disadvantage. 
• Potential crowds and wait times: Depending on the season, the Old Town Trolley Tour of Nashville can attract large crowds, leading to wait times for boarding the trolley.

Why we recommend going here

This tour isn’t just a sightseeing experience.

With entertaining and knowledgeable guides, the tour highlights the current events and history of the city.

For moms and dads, you’ll love the cool places to go in this route, like the Ryman Auditorium and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Don’t rush when taking pictures of the tourist spots on this tour.

Keep in mind that you’ll have around 20 minutes to take photographs on every stop.

Recommended Hotel Near Nashville: The Hermitage Hotel

2. Birmingham Civil Rights Tour

Birmingham Civil Rights District Birmingham, AL 35203 205-240-3829 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Unfortunately, they usually have a difficult time matching the city’s landmarks to its civil rights significance since they’re only taking self-led tours.

That’s why we’re urging visitors to take a guided tour when exploring these historic landmarks.

• Historical significance: The Birmingham Civil Rights Tour guides you through historical landmarks and sites, delving into the critical history of the civil rights movement.
• Insightful guides: The tour is led by knowledgeable guides passionate about sharing the stories and experiences of the civil rights era. 
• Time constraints: Due to the extensive history of Birmingham’s civil rights movement, it can be challenging to cover all the key sites and information within a limited timeframe.
• Emotional impact: Exploring the history of struggles faced by activists during the civil rights movement can be emotionally challenging for some visitors.

To me, this tour is the perfect way to teach your kids about civil rights history.

You’ll be visiting important places, such as the location of the Freedom Riders 1961 attack and the Kelly Ingram Park.

As a bonus, you’ll have a knowledgeable tour guide who’ll give you in-depth nuggets information of every location you’ll visit.

The guides of these tours are pretty knowledgeable.

So, ask them as much as you want about Birmingham and its history.

Also, ask them if they know any hidden gem that’s worth visiting in the area.

Recommended Hotel Near Birmingham Civil Rights District: Hotel Indigo – Birmingham Five Points S – UAB

3. Six Flags Over Georgia

275 Riverside Pkwy Austell, GA 30168 (770) 739-3400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Our kids just can’t get enough of Six Flags Over Georgia.

• Thrilling rides and entertainment: Six Flags Over Georgia features exhilarating rides and attractions catering to adrenaline seekers and thrill enthusiasts. 
• Family-friendly environment: The park provides a family-friendly atmosphere with attractions suitable for different age groups. 
• Crowds and wait times: Long lines and wait times for popular rides are expected.
• Additional costs: While admission grants access to the park’s attractions, some amenities require additional fees. 

Although it’s known for its adrenaline-pumping rides, the park has tons of child-friendly attractions.

The most captivating kid-friendly rides include the Hanson Cars, Looney Tunes Adventure Cap and Marthasville Railroad Station.

And, did we mention that it’s a host to some of the country’s best roller coasters?

Plan your visit before heading to the theme park, and check their show schedules using the Six Flags app.

Also, review their map, so you can familiarize yourself with the layout of the park.

Recommended Hotel Near Six Flags Over Georgia: Home2 Suites By Hilton Atlanta Lithia Springs

Related: Top Atlanta Attractions

4. North Georgia Wildlife Park & Zoo

2912 Paradise Valley Rd Cleveland, GA 30528 (706) 348-7279 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Looking for more fun things to do with kids in Atlanta ?

I suggest that you take a short trip to North Georgia Wildlife Park & Zoo.

Home to over 400 animals, this zoo is a paradise for kids who love zoo creatures.

Spot and pet different kinds of rare and miniature breed livestock, such as deer, donkeys, mini goats and potbelly piglets.

While there, let your kids take a fun-filled pony ride.

Moreover, the park offers exciting zebra and wagon rides for the whole gang.

Spend at least a couple of hours at the zoo, and explore its other attractions and exhibits.

Besides petting and rides, there are trained animal shows and guided wildlife walks here.

Recommended Hotel Near North Georgia Wildlife Park & Zoo: Country Hearth Inn-Toccoa

5. Providence Canyon State Park

8930 Canyon Rd Lumpkin, GA 31815 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Colorful and breathtaking, this state park has views that will remind you of the iconic landscapes of Southwestern US.

In fact, a lot of people often call it “the little Grand Canyon of Georgia”, and rightfully so.

The views here are to die for, so it should be at the top of your list of places to see near Atlanta.

It’s picture-perfect. Trust me, you can’t resist the urge to snap hundreds of photographs of this park.

The canyon soil’s purple, red, orange pink hues make it a remarkable sight to behold.

There are also hiking trails suitable for all levels.

My advice is to take the Providence Canyon Trails since it’s short and easy for the kids.

The park is a year-round family destination.

But, in my opinion, it looks more heavenly and stunning in the autumn months.

Recommended Hotel Near Providence Canyon State Park: Hampton Inn Eufaula Al

Related: Best Things to Do in Atlanta

6. Chattahoochee Nature Center

9135 Willeo Rd Rosewell, GA 30075 (770) 992-2055 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No list of the best attractions near Atlanta, Georgia is complete without the inclusion Chattahoochee Nature Center.

Featuring wetland areas and forest trails, this nature trip offers a sweet escape from your hustle bustle city life. 

A natural oasis, this 127-acre reserve boasts miles of hiking rails, live animal exhibits as well as a boardwalk traversing the wetland areas.

Kids will also love the educational family programs and wildlife rehabilitation clinic.

Spend 4 hours or the whole afternoon exploring the center.

And, make sure to check out the must-visit attractions, like the Beaver Pond and the Raptor Aviaries.

Recommended Hotel Near Chattahoochee Nature Center: The Whitley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Atlanta Buckhead

Related: Best Beaches Near Atlanta

7. Callaway Gardens

17617 US Hwy 27 Pine Mountain, GA 31822 (855) 894-0420 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Callaway Gardens offers a perfect and pleasant family day trip from Atlanta.

For years, this nature escape has been one of Georgia’s most romantic places to visit, thanks to its serene atmosphere.

What’s more, it’s a terrific and diverse family-friendly spot with loads of delights for everybody.

Callaway Gardens has everything you need for a fun day out with the family.

Here, you’ll get to visit the largest man-made, white sand beach in the world.

Plus, it boasts a plethora of trails for biking and walking, making it an enticing playground for outdoor aficionados.

Other noteworthy attractions include Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center and Overlook Azalea Garden.

The garden has a few astonishing seasonal events.

The most magical one for kids is the Christmas light display called “Fantasy in Lights” in November and December.

Related: Best Family Resorts Near Atlanta

8. Lake Lanier

2875 Browns Bridge Rd Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 536-5209 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Lanie is a local’s favorite and one of the can’t-miss things to do and see near Atlanta .

From children’s playgrounds to swimming, the lake offers a plethora of free or cheap activities for the entire family.

Why we recommend going here 

The fun never ends in this lively and fun family-friendly destination.

You and your kids can even have a blast at this spot in winter, with frosty experiences like ice skating.

In summer, the lake impresses visitors with its outstanding natural scenery and aquamarine waters.

For adults, it also offers picture-perfect nature trips, like hiking the picturesque Sawnee Mountain.

For an epic family trip, I suggest that you visit LanierWorld.

Since it features a mini-golf and loads of water slides, it’s definitely a great way to spend a day in Lake Lanier with children.

Recommended Hotel Near Lake Lanier: Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge

9. Helen, Georgia

Helen, GA (800) 858-8027 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Helen is a sightseer’s dream.

As soon as you set foot on this city, you’ll feel like you’ve been magically transported to a small old village in Germany.

Helen has a small population of around 430 residents.

Yet, surprisingly, it’s the 3rd most visited city in Georgia.

Known for its cobblestone streets and uniquely designed houses, this small city is a beautiful re-creation of a quintessential Alpine Bavarian village, Plus, it offers an array of attractions, including the Unicoi State Park, Anna Ruby Falls and river tubing.

Helen has a titillating collection of restaurants that serve delicious dishes, including Mully’s Nacoochee Grill and Big Daddy’s Restaurant & Tavern.

Recommended Hotel Near Helen, Georgia: SureStay Hotel by Best Western Helen Downtown

10. Stone Mountain Theme Park

1000 Robert E Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, GA 30083 (770) 498-5690 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Introduce your little ones to the great outdoors with a visit to the famous Stone Mountain Theme Park.

Not only does it showcase the beauty of nature, but it also has over 3,000 acres of family-friendly attractions and entertainment.

Plus, it’s a short drive away from the best family hotels in Atlanta .

The park is home to the country’s largest family treetop adventure course: Sky Hike.

Also, we love the park’s Lasershow Spectacular, which is the longest running laser show on earth.

Other family-themed attractions we recommend include the Geyser Towers, Dinotorium, Scenic Railroad and Farmyard.

Don’t worry about the season or weather.

In winter, Stone Mountain turns into a winter wonderland, complete with Rudolph, Santa, tubing and snow.

Also, don’t forget to check out the park’s indoor attractions, such as museums, gift shops and glass blowing demos.

Recommended Hotel Near Stone Mountain Theme Park: Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

When choosing the perfect activity for you, it’s essential to compare your options before making a decision. 

Let’s explore three fantastic choices near Atlanta and find the one that suits your budget and preferences.

First on the list is the Old Town Trolley Tour of Nashville. 

Embarking on this tour allows you to immerse yourself in the charm and history of Music City. 

As I hopped on and off the trolley, I discovered iconic landmarks and hidden gems while enjoying informative narration. 

It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a blend of entertainment and education.

Next, we have the Birmingham Civil Rights Tour. 

This profound experience takes you on a journey through the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement. 

Walking in the footsteps of brave activists and visiting the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute left me touched with a deeper understanding of our history. 

Lastly, Six Flags Over Georgia offers non-stop thrills and excitement. 

This amusement park is perfect for adrenaline enthusiasts, with its exhilarating roller coasters to refreshing water slides. 

As I laughed and screamed joyfully on the rides, I felt an infectious energy that made the day memorable.

Whether you’re looking for historical immersion, educational experiences, or heart-pounding adventures, there’s an option for everyone. 

Compare, evaluate, and pick the activity that resonates with your family’s interests. 

How I Picked The Activities

When planning the perfect family getaway, I always turn to personal experiences, thorough research, and insightful conversations. 

Living in the state has allowed me to explore the top attractions near Atlanta.

I ventured onto these adventures, experienced the thrills firsthand, and uncovered hidden gems perfect for families.

Additionally, I delved into extensive research, gathering information about each activity’s family-friendliness, affordability, accessibility, fun factor, and educational value. 

This research, combined with my personal experiences, forms the basis for the ratings and pros and cons I provided.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these attractions based on the following criteria: 

• Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendly appeal of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is it safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate family-friendliness. 
• Affordability: This is used to evaluate the attraction’s affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it free or cheaper compared to the other options? Does it offer discounted rates, special promotions, or free entry? I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This evaluates the activity’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are there plenty of parking spaces available? Is it wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when assessing the attraction’s accessibility.
• Fun Factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the attraction is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Is it engaging, fun, and exciting? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion. 
• Educational Value: This assesses the educational benefits of the activity. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Will it teach visitors lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating educational value. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the number one attraction in atlanta, georgia.

There is no definitive answer to this question, as different attractions may appeal to different visitors. However, some of the most popular and highly rated attractions in Atlanta, Georgia are the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, which commemorates the life and legacy of the civil rights leader; the World of Coca-Cola, which showcases the history and culture of the iconic beverage brand, and the Georgia Aquarium, which is one of the largest and most diverse aquariums in the world.

What Are Three Things Atlanta Is Known For?

Atlanta is known for many things. Some of the most distinctive ones are being the birthplace and home of Martin Luther King, Jr., being the headquarters of Coca-Cola, and being a hub of culture and entertainment with its vibrant music scene, a rich diversity of cuisines, and numerous festivals and events throughout the year.

Is It Worth Visiting Atlanta, Georgia?

It depends on your personal preferences and interests, but many visitors find Atlanta, Georgia, worth visiting for its variety of attractions, its historical significance, its cultural diversity, and its southern charm. Whether you are looking for history, art, nature, sports, or fun, you can find something to enjoy in Atlanta, Georgia.

How Many Days Are Enough For Atlanta?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on how much time you have, what you want to see and do, and how fast you want to travel. However, a general recommendation is to spend at least three to four days in Atlanta, Georgia, to explore its main attractions and neighborhoods. You can also extend your stay to visit nearby destinations like Stone Mountain Park, Savannah, or Chattanooga.

Conclusion 

We’ve explored the best things to do near Atlanta, GA, and I’m here to say that life is too short for anything but the best. 

Among all the heart-throbbing adventures and soulful journeys, my top choice is no other than the Old Town Trolley Tour of Nashville.

This tour is an exquisite blend of history and entertainment.

The engaging guides are like your personal GPS through Music City. 

The Birmingham Civil Rights Tour will touch your soul with its profound historical journey, and Six Flags Over Georgia provides adrenaline-pumping excitement.

But that trolley tour? 

Its convenience, effortless sightseeing, and engaging guides will make you feel alive, connected, and inspired.

So, get ready to make some sweet memories in Atlanta.

57 Best & Fun Things To Do In Atlanta (Georgia)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: July 28, 2020  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Atlanta is one of the most important cities in the south.

It’s been at the center of everything from military conflicts to wide-reaching cultural movements; it’s hosted the Olympic games.

It’s also a hot spot for tourist attractions.

Whether you’re looking for glamorous resorts or down-home country restaurants, Atlanta has a little bit of everything.

Are you ready for a trip to one of Georgia’s ripest peaches?

Here are just a few unforgettable things to do in Atlanta.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Centennial Olympic Park

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Centennial Olympic Park is the tourist attraction of Atlanta.

Built for the 1996 Olympic Games, it’s a sprawling urban space that’s surrounded on all sides by shops, restaurants, malls, museums, amusement parks and everything else that visitors could want for an exciting and fun-filled vacation.

The centerpiece of the park is the Fountain of Rings, an interactive water fountain that shoots musical, computer-controlled jets in elaborately synchronized displays.

There are also flags, sculptures and light towers scattered around the area, so it’s a sightseeing delight.

In the summer, there are fireworks and festivals.

In the winter, there are holiday lights and shows.

An amphitheater hosts everything from rallies to outdoor concerts; open, grassy fields are free for picnics, sports games, nature tours and more.

Are you tired of the park?

Since it’s centrally located, you can use it as a gateway for other Atlanta attractions nearby, including the Georgia Aquarium, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the SkyView Atlanta Ferris Wheel.

No matter why you’re coming to the city, Centennial Olympic Park is one of the best things to do in Atlanta.

It doesn’t matter if you’re working, honeymooning or taking a vacation with the kids.

This is a stop that everyone should make at least once.

Address:  265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

2. Atlanta Botanical Garden

Nicholas Lamontanaro / Shutterstock

Brimming with roses, orchids, camellias, azaleas and magnolias, the Atlanta Botanical Garden might just be one of the most beautiful places in the US .

Not only does it have a stunning collection of flowers, but it’s also home to things like edible gardens and canopy walks in the treetops!

There’s always something fun to do at this art/nature center.

For example, if you love the wilderness, there are several rainforest areas where you can walk through dense vegetation and watch birds and tree frogs dart around.

If you prefer a tidy, well-maintained landscape, you might try the oriental gardens with their smooth rocks and peaceful koi ponds.

Outdoor enthusiasts can try the canopy walk, a 600-foot-long pathway that skims the top of oak and hickory trees.

Kids can play on the whimsical statues and sculptures of the children’s area.

If you’re wondering where to go in Atlanta, you won’t want to miss the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

From its plant-covered roofs to its fresh-blooming exhibits, it’s a must see destination in the city.

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address:  1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

3. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

alisafarov / Shutterstock

You can’t talk about Atlanta without mentioning its significance to the Civil Rights Movement, and Martin Luther King Jr. played a major role in that.

His “park” celebrates his legacy with museums, monuments, archives, resource centers and other important and informative places of interest regarding his life and his cause.

The centerpiece of the park is the tomb of Dr. King and his wife.

It’s located in the center of a reflecting pool with an eternal flame burning nearby.

You can also visit his childhood home and the church where he was ordained as a pastor.

A rose garden blooms in his memory, and a visitor’s center shares knowledge of his trials and tribulations during the Civil Rights Movement.

There’s also a hall of fame for other important figures of the time, including Rosa Parks.

If you’re interested in African-American history, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is one of the best places to visit in Atlanta.

It tells an important, far-reaching story, and it’s comprehensive enough that it can teach everyone a thing or two.

Address:  450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, United States

4. Mary Mac’s Tea Room

Mary Mac’s Tea Room

Tea rooms used to be a southern staple.

Atlanta had more than a dozen!

Today, however, they’ve become a relic of the past, and only holdouts like Mary Mac’s Tea Room remain.

Mary Mac’s Tea Room specializes in good old country-style food.

From crispy fried chicken and gravy-smothered biscuits to piping hot cornbread served with okra and collard greens, you’ll feel like you stepped back in time to a genuine southern kitchen from the ’40s and ’50s.

Drinks include lemonade and sweet tea.

Desserts include pecan pie, banana pudding and peach cobbler.

Everything is homemade. Everything is delicious.

Mary Mac’s Tea Room is the very last of Atlanta’s tea rooms, and even though it doesn’t appear to be going anywhere, you can never be sure what tomorrow will bring.

Visit it while you have the chance and enjoy classic southern fare in the heart of a classic southern city.

Address:  224 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

5. Tiny Doors ATL

Eddie Krebs / flickr

Tiny Doors ATL is one of the most unique attractions in Atlanta.

Like its name suggests, it’s devoted to tiny, doll-like doors, but it isn’t an art project by just one person.

It’s a grassroots effort by artists all around the city.

The doors range from simple paintings on bricks to elaborate plastic or stone constructions that include fences, gardens and mailboxes.

Everything is in miniature, and everything is scattered around various places in Atlanta, so it’s almost like a scavenger hunt to find them all.

Some people even leave offerings at the doors.

They have an almost legendary reputation among travelers, artists, creatives and other free-spirited types.

Are you looking for fun activities in Atlanta that will take you off the beaten path?

Hop on a bike and try to find all of the Tiny Doors ATL.

Even if you don’t succeed, you’ll get to explore cool, off-kilter destinations that aren’t on travel guides, so you’ll see the city like tourists typically don’t.

Address:  14100 Atlantic Dr Suite 14100, Atlanta, GA 30363, United States

Visiting other parts of Georgia? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Savannah, GA  & things to do in Helen, GA !

6. World of Coca-Cola

Roshito / Shutterstock

Did you know that Coca-Cola was invented in Atlanta?

It was the brainchild of a morphine-addicted pharmacist who wanted to kick the habit by inventing a painkiller without any toxic or addictive substances in it.

After much experimentation, Coca-Cola was born.

The World of Coca-Cola is a tribute to the fun, fizzy drink, and it’s currently one of the largest tourist attractions in Georgia .

Activities range from cola-making stations where you can create your own drinks to factory tours where you can see how the real stuff is bottled.

There’s also a 3D theater, a pop culture gallery, a “vault” dedicated to the secret recipe and a taste-testing site filled with strange and exotic Coca-Cola samples from all over the world.

When you’re done with all of the exhibits, snap a selfie with the Coca-Cola polar bear.

He’s a life-sized figure that’s always ready for a photo op!

If you’re looking for cool things to do in Atlanta, you should definitely stop by the World of Coca-Cola.

Its iconic red walls are home to all kinds of treats, and only some of them are drinkable.

Others are experiences that you won’t want to miss!

Address:  121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

7. Piedmont Park

As a busy, bustling city, Atlanta doesn’t have a lot of green places, but Piedmont Park is an exception to the rule.

It’s a beautiful park located just outside of the gleaming skyscrapers and shopping malls of the greater Atlanta area, and it offers fun stuff to do for visitors of all types.

Joggers can work up a sweat on the trails.

Kids and families can rent bikes, have picnics and clamber on playgrounds.

There are numerous sports fields if you want to toss around a pigskin, and depending on the day, there might be camps or classes hosted on the grass.

Piedmont Park gets a lot of special events, too.

From farmer’s markets to music festivals, there’s always something going on, so you’ll definitely want to check their schedule.

A little planning today can result in tons of entertainment this weekend!

You don’t have to say goodbye to fresh air and sunshine when you visit Atlanta.

Just swing by Piedmont Park.

It’s proof that Georgia still has lovely sights to sigh over.

Address:  400 Park Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306, United States

8. Andretti Indoor Karting and Games

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games

Georgia receives more than double the average rainfall in the United States, so there’s a chance that it’ll be drizzly during your vacation.

Fortunately, there are plenty of Atlanta attractions that aren’t hampered by bad weather.

One such place is Andretti Indoor Karting and Games .

Offering everything from rope courses to virtual reality games, it’ll provide non-stop fun for visitors of all ages.

Kids will love the arcades, go-karts and flight simulators.

Mom and dad will enjoy the bowling lanes and interactive zombie movies.

The whole family can play laser tag together, and when you’re all wiped out, the on-site grill will provide burgers and pizzas to fuel you back up for round two.

Are you wondering what to do on a rainy day in Atlanta?

Try Andretti Indoor Karting and Games.

It’s one of the best places to go when you need indoor entertainment, and it offers so many fun activities that you might just plan a return visit even when it’s nice and sunny outside.

Address:  1255 Roswell Rd, Marietta, GA 30062, United States

9. High Museum of Art

f11photo / Shutterstock

The High Museum of Art lives up to its name by serving as one of the elite art destinations of Atlanta, Georgia.

Not only does it have a highly sculptural building with white concrete wrapping around atriums and cutaway cubes, but its hallways are filled with a gorgeous natural light that only adds to the majesty of its exhibits.

As for the exhibits themselves, you’ll be amazed at some of the famous works that the museum has managed to snag.

From Monet’s water lilies to Sirlin’s abstract swirls, you’ll walk through the collections thinking, “I’ve seen that before!”

Such is the power of the High Museum of Art.

It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Atlanta, so even if you wouldn’t consider yourself an “art person,” give it a try.

You might be surprised at how much you’re able to appreciate beautiful paintings in a beautiful setting.

Address:  1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

10. Zoo Atlanta

Rob Hainer / Shutterstock

Zoo Atlanta is one of the coolest zoos that you’ll ever visit.

Not only is it home to hundreds of different species, but it also offers educational entertainment in the form of shows, demonstrations, animal feedings, summer camps, yoga classes and more.

There are even happy hour events for adults who’d like to sip a cocktail and snap a selfie with a lizard!

Most of the animals are divided by geographic region.

For example, the “African Savanna” has lions, elephants, rhinos and naked mole rats, and the “Asian Forest” is filled with pandas, tanukis and Komodo dragons.

There’s a rainforest where gorillas and lemurs roam; there’s an aviary with twittering birds of every color; there’s a reptile world where snakes slither and alligators snap.

The giant pandas are one of the biggest draws of the zoo.

Only four states in the U.S. have them, so Georgia is quite proud to be on that list.

Whether you’re into kangaroos or cockatoos, however, Zoo Atlanta is one of the top things to see in the city.

It will provide all-day fun for visitors of all ages, so the whole family will find something to “ooh” and “aww” at while they’re walking the trails!

Address:  800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, United States

Got more time? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Augusta, GA ?

11. Center for Puppetry Arts

Michael Gordon / Shutterstock

Puppets get a bad rep.

For every Slappy, there’s a Miss Piggy.

For every Chucky or Annabelle, there’s an Elmo or Tom Servo.

The Center for Puppetry Arts is dedicated to this misunderstood craft.

It’s one of the largest museums of its kind, so not only is it unique to Georgia, but it’s unique to the entire world.

You literally can’t find puppet collections on this scale anywhere else.

Exhibits include famous faces from puppetland such as Sesame Street and Mystery Science Theater 3000.

There’s also a gallery for well-known puppets and puppeteers throughout the ages, and there’s a workshop area where visitors can make their own puppets to take home.

Are you wondering what to do with your kids while you’re touring Atlanta?

Give them an unforgettable experience at the Center for Puppetry Arts.

It might be an unusual place, but that’s why it’s also one of the coolest Atlanta attractions.

Address:  1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

12. Georgia Aquarium

Rob Wilson / Shutterstock

Pumping more than 10 million gallons of water through its pools, tanks and tunnels, the Georgia Aquarium is a site to behold.

Not only is it the largest aquarium in the United States, but it’s the third-largest in the entire world.

Thousands of animals call it home.

From dolphins to manta rays to fire eels, you can see all kinds of amazing creatures here.

They even have whale sharks!

It’s the only collection of whale sharks outside of Asia, and their importation from Taiwan was a huge deal back in the day.

Other species include jellyfish, sea lions, fire eels, puffins, penguins, otters and seadragons.

A special emphasis is placed on cool and unusual breeds, but since there are literally thousands of creatures located within the aquarium, you can find a little bit of everything here.

The George Aquarium is a must see destination in Atlanta.

Even if you aren’t normally excited about marine life, the sheer size of the place will take your breath away, and its fun, exotic specimens might just awaken a new interest in you.

Address:  225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

13. Margaret Mitchell House

Margarita Soul Ray / Shutterstock

Gone With the Wind is a big claim to fame for Georgia.

Not only did the author, Margaret Mitchell, live and die there, but large parts of the book are set right on Peachtree Street in Atlanta.

The Margaret Mitchell House is a celebration of the women who created one of the world’s most enduring classics.

Part museum and part home tour, it will take you on a journey of both book and writer, and it will broaden your understanding of history, literature and southern culture.

Additionally, here’s an eerie fact for you: Margaret Mitchell died on Peachtree Street when she was struck by a drunk driver in 1949.

She was just a few miles from where Scarlett O’Hara lived.

You can’t make up stuff like this.

Address:  979 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

14. Atlanta Glass Treehouse

The Atlanta Glass Treehouse is an architectural marvel.

Like its name suggests, it’s almost entirely made out of glass; the only metal components are the steel beams that hold the panes together.

You can’t even see it from the street.

The sun-dappled leaves hide it from view, so despite its floor-to-ceiling transparency, there’s also a certain degree of concealment.

This privacy is a good thing since the Atlanta Glass Treehouse is a locally-owned residence that’s available for overnight rental.

You can’t just walk up and tour it; you have to be an interested party looking for lodging.

If you are seeking a place to stay, however, the Atlanta Glass Treehouse will provide a fun and memorable night in the treetops.

It’s certainly one of the best ways to get a good story from your vacation.

Anyone can book a hotel, but how many people say that they rented a treehouse?

Address:  865 Berne St SE, Atlanta, GA 30316, United States

15. The Basement

The Basement

Atlanta has plenty of glitzy, neon-colored nightclubs.

But what if you’re looking for something different?

What if you like exploring little-known places that function as hidden gems within the city?

The Basement might be right up your alley.

It’s a slice of Atlanta nightlife that breaks all of the usual rules and offers a fun, fresh experience for locals and tourists alike.

For starters, it has a hole-in-the-wall location that lives up to the name “The Basement.”

Its decor is also very plain and understated, so don’t expect any strobe lights here.

The music is also eclectic.

Some nights have live bands; others have DJs spinning records or hosting dance parties.

Music from the ’90s is very prevalent, but contemporary artists get their chance to shine as well.

The Basement is basically a playground for adults.

It’s a little bit spooky, a little bit nostalgic and whole lot of fun.

If you’re looking for the best places to see in Atlanta this weekend, you should definitely hit it up.

Address:  1245 Glenwood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316, United States

Looking for more thrills around Georgia? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Blue Ridge, GA  & some of the fun things to do in Columbus, GA ?

16. Buckhead

Buckhead is a swanky neighborhood that’s just a short walk from downtown Atlanta.

It gleams with office buildings and high-rise hotels that tower over the streets, but its real appeal is located down below.

It’s a mecca for upscale shopping.

Retailers include luxury brands for clothes, shoes and jewelry.

Businesses range from fancy restaurants to trendy museums and art galleries.

There are several different shopping malls either on or near the main streets, so you’re never more than a few minutes away from your favorite brands.

If you don’t want to blow all of your money at Buckhead, you can just window-shop or people-watch.

Some tourist companies even schedule tours of the neighborhood since it has such a chic atmosphere.

It’s almost like something out of a movie.

Check out the sites of Buckhead if you’re looking for the most fun things to do in Atlanta.

It’s always open, so you don’t have to worry about fitting it into a tight itinerary.

You could be walking the streets like Carrie Bradshaw as early as this week!

Address: 3060 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305, United States

17. CDC Museum

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is one of the top names in medicine, and at this museum, you can get a behind-the-scenes look at what it studies and how it operates.

Exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, including pollution, disease control, germ theory, water sanitation and emergency responses to global health issues.

You can tour collections of hazmat suits; you can watch informative videos about everything from HIV to the Ebola virus.

Admission is free, so you don’t have to worry about budgeting a trip here.

They won’t even charge you for parking.

If you’re wondering what to do on a trip to Atlanta that won’t break the bank, this is a good option.

You don’t have to be a science nerd to be fascinated by the CDC Museum .

It offers a lot of relevant, real-world information, and best of all, it’s completely free.

Sign up for a tour and get to learning!

Address:  1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States

18. Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Travel_with_me / Shutterstock

You can’t miss the Children’s Museum of Atlanta .

Its front door is flanked by a colorful, larger-than-life book stack that stretches all of the way to the top floor, and its cheerful signage really stands out against the dull gray of the surrounding office buildings.

Inside, the museum is even more vibrant.

Its open floor plan has given it the nickname “The Museum Without Walls,” and every direction has something flashing, whizzing, whirring or buzzing.

As you might have guessed, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta isn’t an ordinary museum.

It’s a fun, interactive place where kids can learn through playtime.

There are robots to program; there are tree houses to climb; there are workstations filled with blocks, circuits and scientific goos.

There are even musical numbers from costumed actors!

If you’re wondering what to do in Atlanta with kids, consider the Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

Rain or shine, it’s one of the best travel destinations in the city.

Address:  275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

19. Atlanta Symphony Hall

John Phelan / CC BY

If you’re a person of taste and class, you won’t want to miss the Atlanta Symphony Hall.

It’s home of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra , an award-winning group, and it’s easily one of the top things to do when you’re in the city.

Its biggest draw is its classic concerts where amazing instruments and harmonies come together.

However, they also offer something called “Movies in Concert” where they project blockbuster hits on a 40-foot screen while the orchestra plays the live score right below it.

Visit them tonight if you want to catch a cool flick told in an unconventional way.

Visit them next week if you want to book a ticket for an upscale experience in the heart of Atlanta.

The Atlanta Symphony Hall is a must do for music and film lovers.

It’s rare that a symphony hall has such crossover appeal, but like many things in Atlanta, Georgia, it’s full of surprises.

20. Georgia State Capitol

With its gigantic golden dome, the Georgia State Capitol is impressive inside and out.

It’s much more than a place where politicians work.

While it’s true that you can see everyone from governors to state legislators scurrying about, you can also explore halls, offices, galleries and collections of historically significant artifacts.

There are Native American displays, for example, that honor the original residents of Georgia, and there are informative exhibits that showcase state birds and flags.

There’s even a touch of nature in the Georgia State Capitol.

From mineral samples of local rivers to fossils that date back centuries, it covers every inch of the region’s sky, earth and water.

Do you want to learn more about Georgia during your trip to Atlanta?

The Georgia State Capitol is one of the best places to visit for a historical education.

If you’re lucky, you might even bump into a congressman while you’re there!

Address:  206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA 30334, United States

Going on a road trip around Georgia? Why not check out some of the things to do on Tybee Island  & some of the fun things to do in Athens, GA ?

21. College Football Hall of Fame

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How many passes were thrown by Tim Tebow?

What year marked the end of the record-breaking winning streak of the University of Oklahoma?

If you don’t know the answers to these questions, it’s time to visit the College Football Hall of Fame .

Located in downtown Atlanta, this attraction was shuffled throughout the country before finally finding its home in Georgia.

It offers all kinds of photos, documents and memorabilia in more than 90,000 square feet of space, so depending on your interest in sports, it could take you hours to get through everything.

Its most impressive feature is its gigantic wall of helmets from hall-of-famers, but there are also things like jerseys and footballs to admire, and there are countless information stations to feed your trivia hunger.

Maybe you’re a casual fan of your alma mater.

Maybe you’re obsessively dedicated to all sports on the collegiate level.

Either way, if you love college ball, you won’t want to miss the College Football Hall of Fame.

Address:  250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

22. Stone Mountain Park

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Located a few miles north of Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park offers breathtaking views of lakes, mountains, forests, cliffs and canyons.

It encapsulates all of Georgia’s rugged natural beauty in a single destination.

Visitors can hike the trails, climb the summits, boat on the waters and camp under the stars.

There are golf courses and movie theaters; there are fishing holes and biking paths.

There’s even a cable car if you want to ride to the top of the mountain without getting sweaty!

Another big draw of the park is its laser shows.

It projects them onto the side of the mountain, and it’s an amazing juxtaposition between old rock and new tech.

Many travel guides have it as a “must do” for vacationers.

Are you looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for awhile?

Take a deep breath at Stone Mountain Park.

Atlanta isn’t usually known for its natural landscapes, but when you’re surrounded by birds and pines, you might forget where you are for awhile.

Address:  1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083, United States

23. Ponce City Market

fivetonine / Shutterstock

Ponce City Market isn’t really a market.

It’s a big commercial playground that was converted from an old, unoccupied Sears building, and it offers everything from food courts to film events to mini-golf courses on the roof.

From the outside, it looks like one of the plain factory buildings of Atlanta.

Once you venture indoors, however, you’ll have dozens of paths to fun.

Are you feeling hungry?

Hit up the Central Food Hall to enjoy a crazy mishmash of bars, cafes, restaurants and street food stalls from over the world.

Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Brazilian pork or delicate Japanese sushi, you can find it here.

Do you want some entertainment for the evening?

Head up to the roof to tour a beer garden or play a few rounds of mini-golf.

You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Atlanta from every angle, so the sightseeing will be just as nice as the drinks.

Ponce City Market is one of the top things to do in Atlanta.

Its name doesn’t really convey all of the amazing things to see and do on the property.

You’ll have to check it out for yourself to see what all of the fuss is about!

Address:  675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

24. Oakland Cemetery

Vadim Fedotov / Shutterstock

Oakland Cemetery isn’t your usual cemetery.

For starters, it’s filled with elaborate tombs and headstones that make use of plaques, statues, sculptures, fountains and gardens.

It’s a wonderful place for scenic photography.

It’s also a popular destination for gatherings.

Tours go through it; classes and workshops are hosted within it; festivals use it as a backdrop for everything from music concerts to scavenger hunts.

There are even people who get married here!

As for the graves, you’ll find many of Georgia’s most noteworthy citizens buried here, including authors, athletes, scientists and politicians.

Some were residents of Atlanta itself; others were brought here to lay them to rest in a place of honor.

Oakland Cemetery isn’t one of those somber graveyards where people tiptoe around and never speak above a whisper.

It’s a lively place where flowers bloom and children play, so it’s a celebration of life just as much as a testament of death.

If you’re looking for cool things to see in Atlanta, Oakland Cemetery should definitely make your list.

Address:  248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312, United States

25. CNN Center

Have you always wanted to see where the news is made?

Have you secretly wondered if studios are really full of people waving clipboards and yelling into mics?

The CNN Center will let you tick this desire off your bucket list.

As the headquarters of one of the largest news corporations in the world, it’s always hustling and bustling, and the cool thing is that it isn’t closed off to the public.

You can take a tour right into the heart of the action.

They even make it easy for you with a gigantic escalator.

It’s the longest freestanding escalator in the world, and it will give you a bird’s eye view of anchors, cameras, newsrooms, teleprompters and wall-to-wall TV screens.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Atlanta, look no further than the CNN Center.

How often do you get the chance to see breaking news delivered in real time?

Address:  190 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

26. Porsche Experience Center

Porsche Experience Center Atlanta

Have you always dreamed of getting behind the wheel of a 911 Turbo?

At the Porsche Experience Center , you can turn this vision into an adrenaline-soaked reality.

It starts with a tour of the facility and a look at all of the gleaming luxury cars that you can buy in Atlanta.

You can also test yourself with driving simulations or go exploring in a museum that showcases famous Porches throughout history.

Most people, however, are there for the test drives.

You can book 30 – 90 minute “experiences” on a mile-long track.

This is your chance to put the pedal to the metal and fly across the asphalt at more than 100 miles per hour!

When planning your trip to Atlanta, you’ll definitely want to check out the Porsche Experience Center.

It’s one of the top destinations for car lovers, but even if you aren’t an aficionado, it’ll be hard to resist the speed and power of an Accelerated GT3 or 718 Boxster S.

It’s so much fun that you’ll be as giddy as a child behind the wheel!

Address:  One Porsche Dr, Atlanta, GA 30354, United States

27. Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium

Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium

The Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium declares itself “Atlanta’s only subterranean ping pong stadium,” and that’s probably true.

Not many people would think to build an underground ping pong arena.

For its club, however, the Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium is a place of pride.

It’s also pretty fun as a tourist attraction.

Hanging lights will lead you down the steps to the holy grail of the central ping pong table, or an elevated platform with a railing will allow you to watch games from the top of the street.

Atlanta natives can point the way if you get lost.

Only members of the club are allowed to play, so you’ll have to keep your paddles in your travel bag.

You really just go for the novelty of the experience.

When you’re done, there are plenty of neighborhood locales for drinking, dining, shopping and further entertaining yourself.

Consider a trip to the Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium if you’re looking for fun and unique destinations in Atlanta, Georgia.

It isn’t a major tourist attraction, but it’ll provide some cool pictures and a nice story to tell when you’re home.

Address:  151 Ted Turner Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

28. Atlanta History Center

Josiah True / Shutterstock

From the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, Atlanta has been at the epicenter of many different battles, campaigns, migrations and cultural shifts.

The Atlanta History Center chronicles them all.

It starts with a Native American collection.

The Creeks and the Cherokees were the original inhabitants of Georgia before European settlers arrived, and selected pieces of art, music, pottery and folklore showcase the complexity of their civilizations.

More modern exhibits include photos and artifacts from the Civil War and World Wars I and II.

There’s also a restored, life-sized train to go along with the history of locomotives and how they influenced the growth of Atlanta.

Last but not least, the Civil Rights collection documents the struggles of the African-American community during the turbulent years of segregation.

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate the wide-ranging scale of the Atlanta History Center.

It’ll provide an interesting, thought-provoking look at everything that made this city one of the biggest and most important locations in Georgia.

Address:  130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305, United States

29. Atlantic Station

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Atlantic Station is a central hub for shopping, dining and sightseeing within the city.

It was designed with pedestrians in mind, so everything is laid out in a very walkable, grid-like pattern, and it offers shops, cafes, restaurants, museums, movie theaters and more.

Are you feeling peckish?

You’ll have your choice of gourmet meals or guilty pleasure street foods.

Is your money burning a hole in your pocket?

Shop ’til you drop with everything from well-known retailers to local mom and pop vendors.

Summertime activities include fairs and festivals.

Wintertime is marked by the opening of an ice skating rink.

Georgia is a state that takes advantage of every season.

Long story short, there’s always fun stuff to do at Atlantic Station.

If you’re looking to kill some time between tourist attractions, just visit this neighborhood for awhile.

You’ll probably hear the music or smell the meat skewers before you actually see it, so follow your instincts until you’re near!

By the time that you arrive, you’ll be ready for one of the coolest locales in Atlanta.

Address: 1371 Market Street, Atlanta, GA 30363, United States

30. Videodrome

Videodrome might be one of the last remaining video rental shops in the United States.

It’s certainly one of the last in Atlanta, Georgia.

How has it survived the age of streaming?

In addition to renting out videos, it also serves as a fun, quirky tourist attraction.

Its shelves are stocked with cult classics and indie oddities; its walls are covered with vintage posters.

Toys litter the counter tops.

A television is always playing something old and obscure.

Are you interested in Serbian war films?

There’s a section for that.

Do you want to dive deep into animation reels from the 1920s?

There’s a section for that, too.

Videodrome takes its name from the trippy ’80s movie Videodrome, and it’s pretty fitting.

The whole concept of the store is like a cult film that refuses to die.

If you’re looking for the best places in Atlanta for bizarre, genre-bending fun, make a stop at Videodrome.

Address:  617 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306, United States

31. SkyView Atlanta

Mordechai Meiri / Shutterstock

For aerial views of the city, it’s tough to beat SkyView Atlanta .

This gigantic Ferris wheel is more than 200 feet tall, so you’ll be able to soar in the clouds as you overlook everything from the gleaming office buildings of downtown to the green parks and trails of the outer regions.

Each gondola is enclosed and climate-controlled, so the ride operates rain or shine.

You can also upgrade to a VIP gondola that includes a glass floor and leather seats.

If you’re headed to SkyView Atlanta with a special someone, ask about their “Date Night” package that includes a horse-drawn carriage ride and a VIP lounge experience before you climb aboard.

SkyView Atlanta is one of the must dos of a trip to Georgia.

It offers incredible sights from incredible heights, so whether you’re getting romantic with a boo or looking for cool things to see with the kids, it’s suitable for all kinds of visitors.

Address:  168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

32. The Tabernacle

Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock

With a capacity of just 2,600 people, you might not expect the Tabernacle to be one of the hottest tickets in the Atlanta music scene, but looks can be deceiving.

This concert hall has hosted some of the world’s biggest and brightest acts, including Prince, Adele, Guns N Roses, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar and more!

The Tabernacle started as a humble church in the early 1900s.

Over time, it became a House of Blues, and it was one of the major points of interest in downtown Atlanta during the 1996 Olympic Games.

Today, it serves as a cool, retro-style music hall for people who enjoy concerts in more intimate settings than arenas and stadiums.

It also hosts things like comedy shows, so if you’re a fan of Bob Saget or Lisa Lampanelli, this is the place to see them.

Are you coming to Atlanta next weekend?

Check the schedule at the Tabernacle.

You never know when a familiar face might be dropping by with a joke or a guitar!

Address:  152 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

33. Atlanta Electric Car Tour

As one of the premiere destinations of Georgia, Atlanta has so many amazing sights that you might be hard-pressed to see them all.

One way to cross off lots of destinations in travel guides is to take an Atlanta Electric Car Tour .

Hitting many of the major places of interest of the city, this tour is basically an all-in-one experience for folks who want to see the parks, museums, monuments and stadiums of Georgia’s crowned jewel.

It’s only 90 minutes, so you can easily fit it into a busy morning, and it’s eco-friendly to stave off any environmental concerns.

Another nice thing about this tour is that it can be private or semi-private, so you’re able to interact with your guide in a real, meaningful way.

You can ask questions.

You can get personalized recommendations for further sightseeing.

It isn’t like those crowded group tours where the guides can’t talk to people as individuals.

Are you looking for the coolest places to visit in and near Atlanta?

Take an Atlanta Electric Car Tour.

It’s a quick and easy way to get the rundown of the city, and when you’re finished, you can venture forth on your own for more fun!

Address:  The American Hotel, 160 Ted Turner Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

34. National Center for Civil and Human Rights

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights offers another experience that you can only get in Atlanta.

While any museum can display texts and artifacts from the Civil Rights era, this one is actually located at the heart of the movement, and you can feel the weight of its history with every step.

Popular features include an interactive tour about segregation and a collection of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s papers and personal effects.

There’s also a recreation of a diner sit-in during the time of Jim Crow laws.

Visitors can actually put on a pair of headphones and listen to taunts and threats that were leveled at African-Americans who refused to budge from their stools.

Another nice thing about the museum is that it’s located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, so it’s easily accessible to tourists.

It’s also quite close to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.

You could be there in five minutes.

Consider a stop by the National Center for Civil and Human Rights if you’re interested in history and unafraid of confronting the harsh realities that go along with it.

Atlanta was forged with blood, sweat and tears, and while it can be a difficult thing to look at, it’s also an important one.

Make it a necessary stop during your trip to Georgia.

Address:  100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

35. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

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The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is about a half-hour drive from Atlanta, so you’ll need to be comfortable taking a side trip outside of the city, but it’s very much worth the gas.

It has some of the most brilliant scenery in all of Georgia.

The river itself has calm, slow-moving waters where you can swim, raft, boat, fish and tube.

Ample trails wind around it for hiking and biking, and its groves are major points of interest for Georgia birdwatchers.

Other activities include touring the abandoned mills and factories that dot the river’s edge.

Some of the coolest are the charred ruins of a fabric mill that was burned to the ground during the Civil War.

The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is a top 10 destination in Atlanta.

It might not be quite within the city limits, but if you’ll be nearby, you won’t want to miss it.

Address:  1978 Island Ford Pkwy, Sandy Springs, GA 30350, United States

36. Peachtree Street

Running through downtown Atlanta and beyond, Peachtree Street is one of those iconic tourist places that everyone needs to see at least once.

Best of all, since it stretches for miles, it can be used as a jumping-off point for visiting many of the city’s bars, clubs, restaurants and museums.

Depending on which part of the city that you’re in, attractions on Peachtree Street range from gleaming glass office buildings to historic homes and vintage theaters.

You can go shopping at high-end malls; you can look for deals at thrift stores and consignment shops.

You can enjoy fine dining; you can score cheap eats at food trucks.

One important thing to know about Peachtree Street is that it’s commonly confused with similarly-named streets, including Peachtree Way, Peachtree Drive, Peachtree Road and so on.

It’s actually a joke in Atlanta that half of the streets are named Peachtree.

Let this be a travel hack that spares you from getting lost!

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Atlanta, Georgia, you’ll want to snap at least one selfie in front of a Peachtree Street road marker.

It’s a must see destination, but the good news is that it’s so ubiquitous in the city that you won’t have any trouble finding it.

37. Fernbank Museum of Natural History

ferita Rahayuningsih / Shutterstock

The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is another one of those sites that will stop you in your tracks.

It has gigantic, fortress-like walls that are guarded by life-sized statues of dinosaurs, and when we say “life-sized,” we mean that they literally look like they could come to life and stomp on puny little humans at any moment.

There’s even more to gawk at inside of its walls.

Dinosaur skeletons face off in epic battles; fossil and gemstone collections stretch as far as the eye can see.

You can also venture outside into the “WildWoods” to see live animals and walk across aerial rope bridges.

Lest you think that it’s all fun and games, however, rest assured that the museum is also an educational experience.

In fact, if you’re wondering what to see in Atlanta that will enrich the lives of your children, this is one of the best destinations for the job.

Grab your excavation kit and head to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History if you’re looking for fun, family-friendly places to visit while you’re in Atlanta.

Between the dinosaur bones and the dangling bridges, you’ll be stunned that there are museums like this in Georgia!

Address:  767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307, United States

38. Municipal Market

ciambellina / flickr

Municipal Market is a bustling market where you can find everything from old books to fresh pastries.

Located in a large industrial building that’s part warehouse and part grocery store, it’s jam-packed with vendors selling bread, meat, fish, cheese, wine, produce, coffee and more.

It’s also known for its small eateries.

Many people sell their dishes to go, but there are some places where you can kick your feet up and enjoy a burger or a slice of homemade apple pie.

You might hear the market referred to as “Curb Market.”

This is commonly used by locals who remember when it was segregated, forcing African-American vendors to sell their goods on the curb.

Today, however, Municipal Market is a melting pot of races and cultures, especially where food is concerned.

You can travel the world just by walking down an aisle.

Whether you’re craving Ethiopian meat skewers or Vietnamese desserts, there’s a lot of international cuisines to be enjoyed here, so loosen your belt and get ready for some mouthwatering menus!

Address:  209 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

39. State Farm Arena

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You might laugh a little at the name “ State Farm Arena ,” but once you see the awesome, state-of-the-art technology that the sponsorship has afforded, you’ll be singing the State Farm jingle with enthusiasm.

HD cameras catch every moment of the action.

Scrolling screens provide replays, slow-mos, stats, interviews and commentary.

There’s even free WiFi for visitors!

Countless games have been played here, including hockey from the NHL and basketball from the NBA and WNBA.

Concerts are also popular; the stadium has played host to everyone from Beyonce to Bruce Springsteen.

As for the amenities, you can enjoy all kinds of food, drink and entertainment, especially if you book a party suite!

The State Farm Arena is one of the most fun places to go in Atlanta.

Whether you’re making arrangements for the playoffs or planning a cross-country trip to see your favorite band, this is the place to find some action.

Address:  1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

40. Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse

Warren LeMay / flickr

The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse is one of those Atlanta spots that you’ll be talking about long after your trip is over.

It’s so fun and unique that it’ll become a vacation memory to annoy your friends with time and time again.

What makes it so special?

For starters, it has a real tavern setting with wooden tables that get laden with hearty, pub-style food and drink.

You’ll be able to dig into a shepherd’s pie or sip a draft beer as you enjoy a theater performance.

The performances are also something to behold.

They’re the real works of Shakespeare, but they have a quaint, down-home kind of quality, so the costumes are handmade and the lines are delivered by actors that move among the audience.

Georgia might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about Othello or The Tempest, but at the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse, the Bard is alive and well.

Don’t wait to buy your ticket!

Seats fill up fast at this small, intimate venue, so book early if you’re visiting Atlanta tonight or tomorrow.

Address:  499 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

41. Atlanta BeltLine

BluIz60 / Shutterstock

The Atlanta BeltLine is a long series of parks and trails that connects more than 33 miles of greenery.

This would be impressive in its own right, but it gets even more amazing when you realize that it used to be a bunch of abandoned railroads.

You see, the Atlanta BeltLine is one of the largest reconstruction projects in Georgia history.

It took old, unwanted city space and transformed it into a thriving network filled with beautiful sights, fun activities and profitable local events.

You can walk or bike through nature.

You can attend fitness classes or sign up for races and marathons.

Kids can scamper in playgrounds; adults can browse outdoor art exhibits.

There’s tons of stuff to do on the Atlanta BeltLine.

It’s still growing, too!

The city of Atlanta has lots of ideas for further developments, including the “BeltLine Emerald Necklace,” a proposal for a dozen more parks that would be known as the “BeltLine Jewels.”

Maybe you’re visiting Atlanta this weekend.

Maybe you’re making plans for next year.

Either way, the Atlanta BeltLine will be waiting for you, and it’ll probably have something new and exciting to enjoy.

Georgia attractions don’t get better than this.

Check out these tours & activities around the Atlanta BeltLine.

42. Little Five Points

ESB Professional / Shutterstock

Known as the “bohemian center of the south,” Little Five Points is a fun, offbeat neighborhood where trendy fashion boutiques jostle for space with used bookstores and quirky coffee shops.

It’s definitely a place to put on your Atlanta bucket list.

Most of the businesses are locally owned.

In fact, rumor has it that the neighborhood routinely runs off big chains.

Shops sell everything from new-age crystals to old-school vinyls.

Eateries range from classic American burger joints to exotic fusion restaurants where you can sample fare from Japan, France, Senegal and more.

Even the streets are bursting with color and creativity.

Painted murals are a common feature on brick walls, and local stores get quite funky with their signage.

One restaurant even has a gigantic skull for a doorway.

Do you like traveling off the beaten path?

Are you looking for the most fun things to do in Atlanta, Georgia?

Let your feet carry you through Little Five Points.

You could spend all day exploring, and not a second would be wasted.

Address: 299 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, United States

43. Michael C. Carlos Museum

Gary Todd / flickr

You might not expect rural Georgia to hold one of the world’s largest and most extensive collections of international art, but the Michael C. Carlos Museum does it.

It’s an absolute treasure trove of ancient cultures from around the globe, including Rome, Greece, Nubia, ancient Egypt, pre-Columbia America and more.

Some of the pieces are the old paintings and sculptures that you’d expect.

Others are more dynamic.

There are mummy urns and stone sarcophagus coffins; there are totems, pots, jewels, busts and incense burners.

One particularly noteworthy artifact was a headless statue of a Greek goddess.

The museum purchased the body from an auction, and after hearing the news, the owner of the head came forward and sold that to them as well.

After 150 years, the statue was finally whole again!

All things considered, the Michael C. Carlos Museum is one of the most fun things to do in Atlanta.

You could even say that the museum itself is a relic from the past: Built in 1876, it’s among the oldest museums in Georgia, so it has its own history to add depth and interest to its sightseeing potential.

If you’re intrigued by its possibilities, check it out at 571 South Kilgo Circle!

Address:  571 South Kilgo Cir NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States

44. Revolution Doughnuts

Revolution Doughnuts

You probably know that Georgia is famous for its peaches, so it shouldn’t come as any surprise that these fruits are cut, baked, battered and fried in a million different ways in their home state.

However, Revolution Doughnuts is a rare location that’s managed to do something new and fun with peaches: peach sliders!

Simply put, peach sliders are sugar-coated doughnut halves with fresh peaches in the middle.

They’re both sweet and tart, and they make one of the best summertime snacks that you’ll ever try.

Other menu items are just as creative, so if you don’t like peaches, you can order something like bacon caramel doughnuts or vegan raspberry sprinkle pastries.

Are you traveling through Atlanta with a sweet tooth?

Make a pit stop at Revolution Doughnuts.

They’re always coming up with new ideas, so even if you’ve been there before, your second trip won’t be like your first.

They truly embody the ever-changing, ever-evolving spirit of Georgia!

Address:  745 Edgewood Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, United States

45. Fox Theatre

The Fox Theatre was built in 1929 during the craze for elaborate “movie palaces.”

It has lavish, oriental-style architecture that draws from both Islamic and Egyptian cultures, so it’s filled with domes, towers, archways, gold leaves and ablaq stone patterns.

It also boasts an Arabian courtyard with an artificial night sky that twinkles through the power of crystal stars.

How often do you see that in a movie theater?

There aren’t a lot of films shown at the Fox Theatre today, but it’s still in use as a performing arts venue for Atlanta creatives.

It hosts everything from plays to ballets, and it also offers weekly tours for people who just want to marvel at the building.

With its grand architecture and unique history, the Fox Theatre is one of the major points of interest in Atlanta, Georgia.

It’s also one of the most fun places to go, so it hits all of the essentials for an Atlanta bucket list item!

Address:  660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

46. Chastain Park

Thomas Cizauskas / flickr

Chastain Park is one of the most well-known Atlanta attractions.

Its amphitheater has welcomed hundreds of actors, musicians and comedians to the stage, including Johnny Cash, Aretha Franklin, Adam Sandler and Idina Menzel.

While the amphitheater is its most famous feature, however, there are plenty of other exciting activities at this Georgia park.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hit the trails; animal lovers can visit the horse stables; fitness junkies can dive into the swimming pools or take a swing on the golf courses.

Something to note about Chastain Park is that certain activities have fees or member-exclusive days, so if you want to be absolutely sure that you can enjoy something during your trip to Atlanta, call ahead.

You don’t want any unpleasant surprises this weekend!

As long as you take the proper precautions, Chastain Park can be one of the most fun things that you can do in Atlanta, Georgia.

It’s beautiful; it’s centrally located; it’s filled with staggering amounts of entertainment.

What more do you need in a park?

Address:  4469 Stella Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30342, United States

47. Six Flags Over Georgia

Six Flags Over Georgia & Hurricane Harbor

The Six Flags logo brings out the kid in everyone, and Six Flags Over Georgia is no exception.

From death-defying rides to tongue-scalding carnival food, it’s sure to be a highlight of your trip to Atlanta.

Rides include roller coasters, drop towers, water slides and tilt-a-whirls.

Activities range from comedy shows to costumed performances by characters like Batman and Bugs Bunny.

Six Flags has a deal with Warner Bros, so they’re able to base rides, games, gifts and menus off a variety of famous faces.

Are you traveling with kids?

Wade into the water park for family fun.

Are you celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary?

Hold hands with your honey while you shop, dine and play to your heart’s content.

While it’s technically located outside of Atlanta, Six Flags Over Georgia is less than 15 minutes away in the neighboring county, so it won’t be a hardship to reach it.

All of the dashing, splashing and hair-raising fun is just a stone’s throw away.

You’ll definitely want to make time for it this weekend!

Address:  275 Riverside Pkwy, Austell, GA 30168, United States

48. Swan House

gracious_tiger / Shutterstock

The grand old architecture of Georgia is one of its biggest selling points as a tourist destination.

Atlanta has its fair share of mansions as well, including the Swan House .

Built in the early 1900s, the Swan House is a beautiful estate sitting on top of a picturesque hill.

It has the thick white walls of classic Renaissance-style buildings, and it’s filled with opulent touches like terraces, gardens, fountains, staircases and hedge walls.

Inside, a swan motif can be seen in everything from doorknobs to bedposts.

Costumed actors wander the hallways to greet visitors.

Some play the roles of the rich homeowners; others are domestic servants.

If you think that the Swan House looks familiar, you might be right.

It’s such a beautiful location that it’s been used for everything from The Hunger Games to The Amazing Race.

It’s definitely one of Atlanta’s most famous places to visit, so if you want to walk the same path as Katniss Everdeen, make like a swan and fly!

49. Historic Fourth Ward Park

Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock

As far as Atlanta attractions are concerned, the Historic Fourth Ward Park tends to fly under the radar.

It isn’t a secret, but it isn’t as well-known as other parks near it.

This can be a good thing if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.

Atlanta is many things, but “quiet” isn’t one of them, so you might find yourself craving some time and space away from the commotion of the city.

The Historic Fourth Ward Park offers a nice balance between fun and peaceful.

There’s a lovely pond for walks and picnics; there’s an outdoor theater where musicians play. Georgia’s natural beauty is definitely on display here.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are also places to play.

For example, there’s a skate park that was designed and funded by Tony Hawk himself.

The Historic Fourth Ward Park is one of the best spots in Atlanta to recharge your batteries.

If you’re tired of bumping elbows with other tourists, visit this vibrant green space for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Address:  680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, United States

50. 13 Stories Haunted House

13 Stories Haunted House

The 13 Stories Haunted House is one of the top destinations in Atlanta for lovers of the grim and grotesque.

You don’t even have to wait for Halloween; it’s a haunted house that’s open all year long.

You have to sign a waiver to get in, and there are no refunds once you purchase your ticket.

Once you commit, there’s no going back.

The scares include both the typical and the non-typical.

There are evil clowns that dance through twisted perversions of carnivals; there’s a “hellevator” that descends into total darkness with monsters lurking behind every corner.

Some parts of the house have an interactive element, including zombies that you can shoot with lasers.

For thrills and chills, the 13 Stories Haunted House is one of the best destinations in Atlanta.

It might even be one of the best haunted house experiences in the entire state of Georgia.

There’s a reason why they insist on waivers, so if you think that you have what it takes to survive the horrors, sign up today!

Address:  320 Temple Ave, Newnan, GA 30263, United States

51. Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta

It might be an unusual choice in Atlanta attractions, but the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta is more fun than its name implies.

Tours will take you through gleaming marble halls that end in steel vaults.

You’ll get to see how money is counted, tracked, transported and guarded within the bank.

Here’s a hint: It involves robots!

You might also want to visit the Monetary Museum, a small, on-site educational area that goes into the history of currency in the United States.

It’s a great place to learn some trivia about everything from bills to banks.

If you’re headed to Georgia, consider a stop by the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.

It might not be one of the most glamorous tourist attractions of the state, but it offers an interesting look at a rarely-visited subject, so it’s worth the trip.

Address:  1000 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

52. Cator Woolford Gardens

Cator Woolford Gardens

One of the best things to do in downtown Atlanta is to take a stroll through the Cator Woolford Gardens .

Not only are they beautiful to behold, but since they benefit a local community for disabled children in Atlanta, you’ll be supporting a great cause with your visit.

The gardens themselves are filled with dazzling displays of roses, laurels, daffodils and dogwoods.

There are shaded tree groves where you can relax and stone staircases where you can climb to the top of a hill and gaze at the paradise below.

Photo opportunities are everywhere.

In fact, Cator Woolford Gardens is one of the most popular destinations in Georgia for “big event” photography like weddings and movie shoots.

If you’re traveling to Atlanta for work, it can also be a fine location for corporate gatherings.

It’s free to visit the Cator Woolford Gardens, but they accept donations, and there are large, pavilion-style tents that you can rent for special occasions.

Consider giving them a few bucks while you’re in Atlanta.

They run on the goodwill of visitors like you, and they help Georgia’s children with every blossom.

Address:  1815 S Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, United States

53. The Painted Duck

The Painted Duck

Calling itself a “gaming parlor,” The Painted Duck is definitely one of the most unique places to go in Atlanta.

It offers entertainment in a high-class setting that elevates it from your usual amusement centers.

It’s basically a play zone for adults who want to cut loose while they’re in Georgia.

The menu offers everything from duck phat fries to chicken Cobb salad.

The games include bowling, basketball, horseshoes and air hockey.

You can play by yourself or go with a group of friends or colleagues; you can also rent out private spaces for special occasions.

Are you eager to shoot some hoops?

Are you hungry for some crispy brussels leaves in a lemon aioli?

Either way, this unusual gaming parlor will satisfy.

A little bit of shuffleboard can improve any filet mignon.

If you want to experience a fun, uncommon evening in Atlanta, hit up The Painted Duck!

Address:  976 Brady Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, United States

54. Legoland Discovery Center

There are Legolands all over the world, but the Atlanta location is one of the best.

It offers a fun, immersive and all-day experience that will take your imagination to heights that you never thought possible.

Activities include rides, play zones, building stations, factory tours and virtual reality simulations.

There’s a cinema where you can watch movies and a cafe where you can grab a bite to eat.

Adults are just as welcome to goof around as the kids, so don’t feel self-conscious if you’re a grown person who still adores Legos.

There’s nothing like the pure, wholesome joy of racing Lego cars or shaking a Lego earthquake table!

Visit the Legoland Discovery Center if you’re looking for the best places in Atlanta to unleash your inner child.

Vacations are supposed to be times when you throw caution to the wind and enjoy yourself, so there’s no shame in loving Legoland.

Address:  3500 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326, United States

55. Waldorf Astoria Spa

Waldorf Astoria Spa

Pamper yourself at the Waldorf Astoria Spa .

It offers everything from pedicures to cucumber masks, so you’ll be able to relax all of the tired, aching muscles in your body as you surrender to its bliss.

The facilities include steam rooms, dry saunas, relaxation lounges and spa treatment centers.

There’s a fitness room decked out with state-of-the-art exercise equipment if you want to work up a sweat.

There’s a swimming pool if you want to take some leisurely laps in an indoor, climate-controlled setting.

Are you traveling with a special someone?

Book a couple’s massage.

Are you seeking an escape from the harsh realities of the world?

Relax into an essential oil bath or enjoy a body renewal treatment for your skin, hair and nails.

The possibilities are endless at the Waldorf Astoria Spa.

It’s one of the premiere destinations in Atlanta to get treated like royalty, so book a visit today to wash off the sweat of a Georgia summer tomorrow!

Address:  3376 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326, United States

56. Kendeda Building

Kendeda Building

The Kendeda Building is the first “living building” to be certified in the state of Georgia.

It’s made with eco-friendly materials like wood and recycled glass, and it has many natural features like a green roof and a working collection of more than 900 solar panels.

There are truly living things in the Kendeda Building as well.

A blueberry orchard provides fresh fruit, and honeybee combs are tended and studied for ecological reasons.

The Kendeda Building is located at Georgia Tech.

Tours are free and open to the public, but their scheduling can be iffy depending on what’s happening at campus.

It’s a good idea to call before you go.

If you love the environment, however, or if you’re just curious to see a real-world example of sustainable architecture, the Kendeda Building is one of the best places to go in Atlanta.

You might even get some blueberries out of the trip!

Address:  422 Ferst Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

57. Jackson Street Bridge

Varun Chugh / Shutterstock

Say goodbye to Atlanta with the Jackson Street Bridge.

Overlooking the entire skyline, it’s one of the city’s best places to see a sunset or take long-exposure photos of the nighttime lights.

You might recognize the view from this bridge if you’re a fan of The Walking Dead.

It served as a backdrop for promotional photos of the first season.

The good news is that the zombies have all been cleared away, so you won’t have to worry about brain-eating monsters during your trip to Georgia.

Another great thing about the bridge is that it’s free.

There’s no toll to walk or bike it, so if you’re traveling to Atlanta on a budget, you can have fun here without spending a dime.

It’s hard to say farewell to a city like Atlanta, but a sweeping aerial view might soothe some of the sorrow.

You’ll be able to take in the whole skyline for one last look at a place that provided you with great memories.

Address:  Jackson St NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Atlanta

These are just a few of the best things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.

Whether you’re headed there for a honeymoon, work trip, bachelor party or fun family vacation, there are certain things that you won’t want to miss.

Use this guide to hit all of the top spots in the area!

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Best places to visit in georgia.

With big cities, iconic small towns, picturesque mountains and a prime spot along the Atlantic Ocean, Georgia is one of the most diverse vacation destinations in the South. To help you decide which Georgia locales are most worth your time and vacation dollars, U.S. News took into account the variety and uniqueness of attractions, availability of accommodations and opinions of everyday travelers to decide the best places to visit in Georgia. Vote for your favorite places below to help determine next year's list.

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Jekyll island, callaway gardens, amicalola falls state park, st. simons island, cumberland island national seashore, tybee island, marietta, ga, columbus, ga, arabia mountain national heritage area.

The charm of Savannah is undeniable. From the early 1800's architecture to the romantic Spanish moss-lined streets to the shops, eateries and party-hard reputation of River Street, Savannah gives a nod to the past while bringing its own personality into the present. Plus, the city offers a heavy dose of laid-back Southern hospitality to match, earning it its Hostess City of the South nickname. Spend your time meandering through Forsyth Park and Savannah's 22 squares, filling up on Lowcountry cuisine or spooking yourself on a ghost tour .

If you want to feel like you're in Europe without leaving the U.S., consider taking a trip to Helen . This small North Georgia town in the Blue Ridge Mountains is modeled after a Bavarian Alpine village, so you can expect to find lots of colorful architecture, authentic German fare and fun renditions of German festivals, including an annual Oktoberfest celebration. But beyond its charming atmosphere, Helen offers all kinds of amenities, including more than 200 stores and access to local wineries, plus proximity to Unicoi State Park & Lodge's lake and hiking and bike trails.

For a look at jaw-dropping natural wonders, venture to Tallulah Gorge State Park. Located just west of the Georgia-South Carolina border in the northern part of the state, the park is home to Tallulah Gorge, which measures 2 miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. Visitors can get a bird's-eye view of the gorge from its rim or obtain a free permit to see it from its floor. Tallulah Gorge State Park also features a suspension bridge that provides fantastic views of the park's five waterfalls, plus more than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails.

The southernmost of the Golden Isles, Jekyll Island beckons to travelers seeking a quiet beach getaway. The entire island is designated as a Georgia state park, meaning conservation and wildlife preservation are top priorities. Visitors can see sea turtles, alligators and other coastal animals at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center, lounge on 10 miles of pristine beaches (Driftwood Beach is one of the most photogenic in Georgia) or meander through the historic district (also known as Millionaires' Village) to see homes that have belonged to some of America's richest families, including the Vanderbilts, the Rockefellers and the Pulitzers.

A trip to Callaway Gardens is all about reconnecting with nature. Tucked away in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in the small town of Pine Mountain, Callaway Gardens features 2,500 acres of gardens, a butterfly center with 1,000-plus butterflies and more than 10 miles of bike and nature trails, among other amenities. Additionally, visitors can head to Robin Lake Beach to swim, pedal boat, paddleboard or simply soak up some sun during the warmer months. Families can also take advantage of the beach's inflatable water playground called Aqua Island.

The Empire City of the South is a hub for business (Coca-Cola, CNN and Delta Air Lines are all headquartered here) and music (rappers have long made Georgia's capital city their home), as well as a family-friendly destination with world-renowned sights like the Georgia Aquarium and Lego Discovery Center Atlanta. Atlanta also houses several impressive historical attractions, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. What's more, the city is solidly on the foodie map thanks to the combination of cultures and traditions represented in its restaurant offerings.

Amicalola Falls State Park gets its name from the Cherokee word for "tumbling waters," so you can expect to see an impressive waterfall during your visit. The North Georgia park's namesake measures 729 feet tall, making it one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. Located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Amicalola Falls State Park offers hiking trails to the base and rim of the falls, as well as the 8-mile Approach Trail, which connects to the southernmost point of the Appalachian Trail. If you're traveling with kids, consider staying at the on-site lodge, which offers activities like archery, animal encounters and guided hikes.

With its sandy beaches and laid-back lifestyle, the Golden Isles' largest island invites travelers to slow down and relax. Visitors can head to East Beach to enjoy activities like shelling and fishing or make their way to one of the island's golf courses to practice their swing. Plus, St. Simons offers more than 20 miles of bike paths, many of which lead to can't-miss attractions like the World War II Home Front Museum. While exploring, keep an eye out for tree spirits: These faces were carved into the island's oak trees in the '80s by American artist Keith Jennings.

The largest and southernmost of Georgia's barrier islands, Cumberland Island National Seashore offers both a rich history and a beautiful landscape. You'll have to catch a ferry from nearby St. Marys to get here, but the journey is well worth the effort. When you arrive, you'll discover nearly 10,000 acres of protected wilderness and 17-plus miles of secluded beaches. Cumberland Island National Seashore also features multiple historical sites, such as the Plum Orchard Mansion, the First African Baptist Church and the Dungeness Ruins, that tell the story of the Carnegie family, enslaved African Americans, Native Americans and others who once lived on the island.

Situated less than 20 miles southeast of Savannah, this small barrier island has been a popular family vacation destination for more than a century. Tybee Island's miles of sandy beaches and relatively warm weather most of the year make it a prime spot for swimming, surfing and sunbathing. Additionally, travelers can spend a few hours looking for the island's 200-plus bird species. Other Tybee must-dos include climbing up the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia, and participating in educational programs at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center.

A haven for historians, this Atlanta suburb, which sits about 20 miles northwest of the city, boasts five National Register Historic Districts and a historic town square. Must-see attractions include the William Root House, Brumby Hall (home to the Marietta Gone With the Wind Museum) and Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. And no trip would be complete without catching a show at the beautifully restored Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre. Beyond its historical draws, Marietta has an artsy side, with sleek galleries and a monthly art walk, as well as a burgeoning food scene, including a host of buzzworthy restaurants and the Marietta Square Market Food Hall.

Best known as the home of the University of Georgia, the country's first public institution of higher education, and as a bona fide music hub, Athens in northeast Georgia makes for a lively weekend getaway . The university campus is worth a visit, as it is home to the Georgia Museum of Natural History, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and the Georgia Museum of Art (not to mention some spirited football games). Meanwhile, downtown Athens is the place to go for trendy eats, sweet boutiques and live music venues like the iconic Georgia Theatre.

Georgia might not come to mind when you think of wine destinations, but Dahlonega is worth consideration. This northern town is often labeled the Heart of Georgia Wine Country and features more than a dozen wine tasting rooms, wineries and locally owned and operated vineyards. For a festive atmosphere during your vacation, arrive in May when the annual Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival takes place. Dahlonega is also where America's first gold rush occurred, so be sure to save time for a visit to the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site and a former mine.

Activities in this city on the Georgia-Alabama border are centered around the Chattahoochee River. Thrill-seekers can raft down the longest urban whitewater course in the world or zip line across the river at Blue Heron Adventure Park. Meanwhile, those who enjoy more leisurely pursuits can stroll or bike along the 15-mile Chattahoochee RiverWalk, which winds past historical monuments and sites like the National Civil War Naval Museum and the experiential National Infantry Museum. Follow the path to Uptown Columbus to shop at local boutiques and bookstores, take in a show or go out for a night on the town.

Featuring more than 40,000 acres of surreal landscapes, Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area offers plenty of opportunities for adventure close to Atlanta. The park captivates visitors with its monadnocks (stone outcrops), which were formed over the course of 400 million years. Spend your time hiking through the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve or walking or biking the more than 30-mile Arabia Mountain PATH. The heritage area also boasts nearly 90 geocaches for travelers to find. For those who enjoy fishing, there are numerous waterways ideal for casting a line. But remember, fishing here requires purchasing a Georgia fishing license.

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Lake Lanier

Augusta, GA

You may be interested in.

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40 Best Things to Do in Atlanta — From Art Museums to High-end Shopping

Here are 40 of the top things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

If you're looking for a big-city getaway with a dose of Southern charm, it's hard to beat Atlanta, Georgia. Home to incredible museums, quite a few professional sports teams, and a long list of award-winning restaurants, there are plenty of things to do in Atlanta that travelers of all ages will enjoy.

Here, we've gathered 40 of the best things to do in Atlanta, ranging from mouth-watering food halls to a bevy of fun museums, so you can start planning your next trip to ATL today.

Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

Explore the BeltLine.

One of Atlanta’s best outdoor attractions is its BeltLine trail system, a repurposed 22-mile railway loop that connects some of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Walk, run, bike, or skate around the city while enjoying native plants and art installations, including murals, sculptures, performances, and seasonal events. Start at Ponce City Market and head north on the Eastside Trail, which leads to the 200-acre Piedmont Park and Atlanta’s first public skatepark.

Stop and smell the flowers at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Adjacent to Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden boasts 30 acres of dazzling plant displays. Among its highlights are the Canopy Walk, a 600-foot walkway suspended among the treetops, and nature-themed art installations. Don’t miss the 25-foot Earth Goddess sculpture, which presides over the Cascades Garden and features more than 18,000 live annual plants. Plus, you can take classes to learn how to up your at-home gardening game.

Marvel at marine animals at the Georgia Aquarium.

One of the largest aquariums in the world, this Atlanta attraction has thousands of animals, including beluga whales, dolphins, penguins, sea lions, and even a whale shark. Visiting the Georgia Aquarium is an ideal activity for rainy or super-hot days.

Erin Hadjidakis/Travel + Leisure

Sip on a soft drink at the World of Coca-Cola.

Founded and still headquartered in Atlanta, The Coca-Cola Company is an American institution, and you can learn all about the brand while tasting soda flavors from around the world at the World of Coca-Cola .

Learn about Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and impact.

A visit to the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park is one of the best things to do in Atlanta. Highlights of this 35-acre site include Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birth home, Ebenezer Baptist Church (where he was a pastor), and The King Center.

Visit Centennial Olympic Park.

Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, this park is located near several other notable Atlanta attractions, including the World of Coca-Cola and Georgia Aquarium. Make sure to snap a photo with the Olympic rings when you visit.

Shop and eat at Ponce City Market.

With great shops, an expansive food hall, and a rooftop with a restaurant, bar, games, and more, Ponce City Market is a solid place to spend an afternoon shopping, dining, and admiring the Atlanta skyline.

Learn local history at the Atlanta History Center.

Located in the Buckhead neighborhood, the Atlanta History Center has a mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits. Visit the 1928 Swan House, an elaborate mansion that served as a filming location for The Hunger Games movies. Then, take a few moments to view the 371-foot-wide cyclorama depicting the Battle of Atlanta, a turning point in the Civil War.

Visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Atlanta was the cradle of the U.S. Civil Rights Movement. The city was the birthplace of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), which organized protests throughout the South, and a hotbed for student activism led by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Many institutions continue to honor Black history and culture, including the National Center for Civil and Human Rights . Here, you'll find exhibits about the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, the global human rights movement, and key figures in both.

Dive into sports history at the College Football Hall of Fame.

The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame honors the sport's famed players and features an indoor playing field, college football history, an art gallery, and more, making it a must-visit for sports fans.

Check out the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum.

Born in Georgia, the 39th president of the United States, Jimmy Carter, has a presidential library and museum featuring an exact replica of the Oval Office and exhibits about his life and achievements.

Stroll through Piedmont Park.

With wide-open spaces and skyline views, Piedmont Park is the place for a morning stroll or afternoon picnic. The park also hosts many events throughout the year, like Music Midtown , a massive festival drawing A-list artists.

Play around at the Children's Museum of Atlanta.

If you're traveling with kids 8 years old or younger, head to the Children's Museum of Atlanta for hands-on, educational exhibits — another great family-friendly, rainy day option.

Climb aboard a 747 at the Delta Flight Museum.

Travelers who love all things aviation should visit the Delta Flight Museum for a look at the airline's history. Visitors can get a look at vintage aircrafts, tour the first Boeing 747-400, and experience a flight simulator.

 Jackie Waldrop / Twenty20

Chow down at Krog Street Market.

From dumplings to ice cream to pizza, Krog Street Market is the perfect place to stop for a casual bite while exploring the city.

Spot some street art.

While you're in the area, head down to Krog Street Tunnel to see some of the city's street art. The tunnel is filled with graffiti and murals, making it a cool spot to snap a few photos for Instagram.

Learn about Jewish history and culture at The Breman Museum.

At The Breman Museum , you can learn about Jewish life in the South, as well as the Holocaust through the powerful stories of Atlanta-area survivors.

Admire works by local artists at the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia.

This Atlanta museum features Georgia artists through a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions. If you're still searching for an artsy experience, head to the High Museum of Art on your trip, too.

Catch a puppet show at the Center for Puppetry Arts.

That's right, this center is devoted to all things puppetry, so catch a show or visit the Worlds of Puppetry Museum , which offers a look into the art form's history and some key players, including a Jim Henson exhibit featuring puppets and props from Sesame Street, The Muppet Show , and more.

Paddle the Chattahoochee.

Between museum visits, get outside and go for a ride along the Chattahoochee River National Water Trail . Rent a tube or raft from a local outfitter (or bring your own) and "shoot the Hooch" as the locals say. This is a great way to cool off on a hot summer day — just don't forget your sunscreen.

Cheer on the Atlanta Falcons.

Depending on the time of year, you could plan to cheer on one of Atlanta's professional sports teams, like the Atlanta Falcons or Atlanta United FC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium .

Keep an eye out for tiny doors.

Tiny Doors ATL is a local project by artist Karen Anderson Singer. You can find tiny doors (inspired by the location, neighborhood, or community) around the city. The outside wall of the Krog Street Tunnel boasts Singer's first tiny door, and even the Georgia Aquarium has one near the entrance to the Ocean Voyager exhibit.

Get a taste of local flavors.

There are plenty of fantastic restaurants around the city. Atlanta's first Michelin guide spotlights Italian restaurant Bacchanalia, contemporary eatery Atlas, and Japanese restaurant Hayakawa. Make sure to sample some of the city's best soul food at Busy Bee Cafe. And don't forget about The Varsity's famous chili cheese dogs.

Catch a show at the Fox Theatre.

The Fox Theatre hosts great comedy, dance, and music shows throughout the year, but its unique design — influenced by Spain's medieval Alhambra and Egypt’s Temple of Karnak — alone makes it worth checking out.

Visit the Madam C. J. Walker Boutique Museum and WERDSTUDIO.

Known as America's first female self-made millionaire with a successful cosmetic and hair product business, Madam C.J. Walker's legacy lives on at this museum . In the same building, you can also find the home of WERD, the first Black-owned radio station.

Walk the rainbow crosswalk.

At 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue in Midtown, you'll find a brightly colored, four-way rainbow crosswalk celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.

Visit the Trap Music Museum.

Atlanta is the hometown of many famous musicians, and the Trap Music Museum pays homage to the culture and history of trap music. The museum also offers private tours with complimentary wine on Thursdays.

See Atlanta from above.

Take a ride around the 20-story SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel, located in Centennial Olympic Park, to enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city.

Shop around Buckhead.

Looking to do some swanky shopping? Head to the Buckhead Village District , packed with designer stores and delicious restaurants.

Tour famous filming locations.

Did you know that a lot of famous movies and TV shows have been filmed in Atlanta? The Hunger Games, The Walking Dead , and others feature prominent Atlanta locations — you can even take a DIY tour to see them.

Visit Zoo Atlanta.

Located in Grant Park, Zoo Atlanta offers experiences like giraffe feedings, wildlife presentations, and elephant encounters. See an African lion, an Aldabra giant tortoise, Chilean flamingos, and more. 

Bob Krist / Getty Images

Discover the Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

With giant dinosaurs, after-hours events, and a canopy walk, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History provides the perfect venue for a day (or night) out in Atlanta.  

Wander around The Battery Atlanta.

This mixed-use development 10 miles north of downtown Atlanta is more than the ballpark it’s associated with. There’s a multitude of shops, restaurants, and activities to keep you busy here in between games at Truist Park and shows at the Coca-Cola Roxy.  

Hit the track at the Porsche Experience Center.

Get behind the wheel at Porsche’s North American headquarters , where you can race around the driver development course with a professional driving coach. Gear heads will also enjoy the Simulator Lab and the Heritage Gallery full of historical Porsche models. 

Step into another world at Illuminarium Atlanta.

Images captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope and from Kenyan safaris are projected by a 4K laser and accented by touch, sound, and smell details at this otherworldly, immersive experience on the BeltLine Eastside Trail. 

Learn about the ins and outs of design.

The Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) lets you get up close and hands-on with rotating exhibits dedicated to design. The space is devoted to one exhibit at a time, covering topics like chair design, skateboard artwork, and the history of pasta shapes, so check the website before you visit.

See a movie at The Plaza Theatre.

This landmark theater in Atlanta’s Virginia-Highland neighborhood shows both new releases and classics. If you’re looking for a quote-along experience, go on any given Friday for the theater’s weekly midnight showing of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” 

Eat your way through Sweet Auburn's Curb Market.

This open-air market (also known as Municipal Market ) located in the historic Sweet Auburn neighborhood is a popular place for local fare, from seafood to produce to desserts.  

Get retro at a video store.

Step back in time at Videodrome . Atlanta’s only video store has new, independent, and cult films for you to peruse for an old-school experience.  

Browse Criminal Records.

When you’re finished browsing films at Videodrome head over to Criminal Records in the Little Five Points area for new and used music, comic books, and magazines.  

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21 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Atlanta, GA

Written by Bryan Dearsley & Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jan 24, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Atlanta is in almost all respects the principal center of the American South. Originally a military outpost, it later became an important commercial town before being reduced to rubble during the Civil War. Now a major financial and cultural center, Atlanta is also well known as an important hub for air traffic, with easy connections for travelers making it an increasingly popular US travel destination.

Whether you have a few hours or a few days, you'll find the endless list of interesting places to visit in Atlanta will keep you coming back for more. Tourist attractions here range from the arts to sports, and along the way, you'll also discover numerous historic sites, and state-of-the-art museums, as well as beautiful parks and gardens to explore.

Don't expect to find a quiet, romantic, pedestrian-friendly Southern city like Savannah when you visit Atlanta. Instead, you'll find it a rather large, always busy city of close to half a million souls. That said, Atlanta is certainly not without its Southern charm, you just have to dig a little deeper to find it. Whatever your interests, you'll easily be able to plan your visit to this vibrant city with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.

1. Visit the Georgia Aquarium

2. take a stroll through the atlanta botanical garden, 3. tour the martin luther king, jr. national historical park, 4. center for civil and human rights, 5. explore the "real thing" at world of coca-cola, 6. see a movie or performance at the fox theatre, 7. enjoy a walk or jog through piedmont park, 8. atlanta history center, 9. have fun at legoland discovery center atlanta, 10. take the kids to zoo atlanta, 11. the jimmy carter presidential library & museum, 12. high museum of art, 13. college football hall of fame, 14. historic oakland cemetery, 15. truist park tours, 16. fernbank museum of natural history, 17. watch the dancing fountains at centennial olympic park, 18. ponce city market, 19. michael c. carlos museum, 20. play outdoors at stone mountain park, 21. center for puppetry arts, where to stay in atlanta for sightseeing, atlanta, ga - climate chart.

While the Georgia Aquarium complex is one of the most popular things to do with kids, it's also a great place to visit as an adult.

The aquarium features a wide variety of marine life and some very interesting interactive activities for visitors. One of the world's largest aquariums, it houses more than 100,000 aquatic creatures, including the largest sharks in the ocean: whale sharks . These impressive sea creatures can grow up to 30 ft in length and are a thrill to observe in the aquarium's long walk-through acrylic tunnel.

You can also see rare albino alligators and watch as trainers interact with California sea lions. One unique option offered by the Georgia Aquarium is the opportunity to dive or snorkel with the fish. To participate in the dive program, however, you must have SCUBA diving certification.

For the truly adventurous, consider the shark cage experience . This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will get you up close to these awe-inspiring creatures, all the while, though, safely tucked away behind safe, secure steel bars... just in case!

Address: 225 Baker Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia

The Atlanta Botanical Garden offers a lovely space through which to stroll and spend a few hours of your time. Highlights of this must-visit Atlanta attraction include a variety of well-designed gardens, including formal flowerbeds and majestic trees that frame the urban landscape of Midtown Atlanta.

The botanical garden is a great place year-round, with something always in bloom. That said, spring is, of course, an amazing time to visit, with a riot of colors. Other notable features include the Orchid Display House in the Fuqua Orchid Center, the Winter Garden, the Japanese Garden , the Conservation Garden, and the Desert House.

Two of its major specialties are the Rose Garden and its hydrangeas, each of which comprises the largest such collections in the southeast. A special garden area is designed for children, and an elevated boardwalk gives visitors tree-top views down into the forest, another popular activity for families.

Ultimately, what you see here at this splendid garden attraction will depend on the time of year you visit. While there are numerous events and exhibits to experience throughout the year, the always-beautiful indoor gardens are reason enough to visit, whatever the weather.

Address: 1345 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia

Just 2 miles from Georgia Aquarium, two entire blocks of Auburn Avenue are now protected as a National Historic Site . They include the birthplace of the civil rights campaigner Martin Luther King Jr. at 501 Auburn Avenue, which dates from 1895; and the Ebenezer Baptist Church at 407-413 Auburn Avenue, in which he and his father were ministers.

Admission to the historic site is free , as are the half-hour tours of Martin Luther King Jr.'s birth home . These informative tours offered by the National Park Service are well worthwhile to get a better understanding of the man and his times. However, as one of the most popular Atlanta attractions, it does get busy. To avoid line-ups, consider an early morning visit or go on Sunday mornings when church service is in progress.

There are several other related places to visit within the historic site, too. Immediately adjoining it, in the Freedom Hall Complex, is King's grave. Between his birthplace and Ebenezer Baptist Church is Fire Station No. 6, which played a role in the life of the neighborhood and where volunteers tell stories of life here when King was growing up.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change is also in the area. Usually less crowded, it's worth a visit for its displays related to this undeniably influential man and the movement he so inspired.

Address: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta's place in the American Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s is marked by a beautifully conceived interpretation center/museum that places this epic struggle into the greater worldwide movement for human rights.

The Center for Civil and Human Rights explores the history of Jim Crow laws with actual television newscasts, speeches, photos, videos, personal accounts, and interactive experiences that bring visitors into the struggle. Portraits and stories of their work honor men and women who lost their lives in the struggle.

The Human Rights Movement gallery carries the story into the broader picture of human rights worldwide: Apartheid in South Africa, women's rights, the rights of children, and others, inspiring visitors to think about the rights of humans everywhere.

Address: 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, Georgia

In 1886, a chemist named Dr. John Pemberton devised a syrup designed, or so he claimed, to relieve headaches and other perceived maladies. A friend of his mixed the glutinous liquid with water and carbonic acid, and the result of the mixture soon became the world's most popular soft drink.

The World of Coca-Cola illustrates the history and triumphal progress of the world-famous drink in entertaining ways that will please all ages. A new exhibit, Scent Discovery , explores the sense of smell and the origins of various fragrances, testing your sense of smell and exploring the sources of different aromas.

World of Coca-Cola is located directly opposite the Georgia Aquarium and the Center for Civil and Human Rights. You can park in any one of the nearby parking garages for the day and make the most of their handy proximity to each other. From here you can also easily explore Centennial Olympic Park , home to the impressive SkyView Atlanta Ferris Wheel ; and the College Football Hall of Fame, to name just a couple of nearby attractions.

Address: 121 Baker Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia

The historic Fox Theatre was built in the 1920s as the Yaarab Temple Shrine Mosque, with an extremely posh Arabian-themed design. It has had a varied history including facing problems during the Great Depression that almost saw it torn down, but has always been a much-loved landmark building since its construction. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The interior of the theater has seen considerable restoration work over the years in an attempt to maintain its original elegance, including the repair and restoration of the furniture collection to preserve its 1929 appearance.

Performances at the Fox include diverse entertainment options such as operas, ballet, rock concerts, and movies, with hundreds of performances each year. In addition to the theater, two ballrooms, the Egyptian Ballroom, and the Grand Salon, have been beautifully restored and are available for special events.

Address: 660 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, Georgia

Located a 15-minute drive or 45-minute walk northeast of downtown Atlanta, Piedmont Park is the oldest and largest park in the Atlanta metro region. Consisting of 180 acres of lovingly cared-for grounds and gardens, it can take a while to explore, so allow plenty of time.

The miles of walking and running trails through its gently rolling meadows and shady groves include a four-mile loop that passes the park's scenic highlights, natural areas, gardens, and historic sites. Or for an intense workout, join fitness fans on Piedmont Park's Active Oval running track.

In addition to providing walking and running trails, the park has off-leash dog parks, gardens, sports fields, a lake with fishing piers, children's playgrounds, a huge swimming pool at the Piedmont Park Aquatic Center , and a splash pad for children at the Legacy Fountain.

Local farmers and artisans gather on Saturdays at the Green Market, where you may find everything from fresh peaches, handmade soaps, and smoked meats to biscuits, Irish pancakes, sheep cheese, and sheep milk caramel. Look for chef demonstrations every Saturday from 11 am until noon.

On Saturday mornings from April through November, at 11 am, you can learn about the park's history on a free guided walking tour . And, on the first Saturday of every month, Piedmont Park Conservancy partners with the Atlanta Audubon Society for bird walks that explore the park's many different habitats.

The park also hosts various events, from musical entertainment to fitness programs. Plenty of on-site multi-story parking is available.

Address: 1071 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia

The Atlanta History Center is a large complex that comprises the Atlanta History Museum, Centennial Olympic Games Museum, Swan House, Smith Family Farm, and the Kenan Research Center, along with a number of historic gardens.

The History Museum features changing exhibitions and a permanent collection with topics such as the American Civil War, Folk Art of the South, and various other exhibits related to the history of Atlanta.

The historic houses range in age from the 1860s to the 1920s and offer a glimpse of life during these time periods. Are you a fan of American literature? If so, the Margaret Mitchell House is a must-visit and contains the apartment where Mitchell wrote Gone with the Wind . The guided tour includes a look at this room as well as a brief film and exhibition on Margaret Mitchell.

The six historic gardens are certainly fun to explore, too, and include both natural areas and formal gardens. The Frank A. Smith Rhododendron Garden , is at its best in spring when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom. You should also plan on visiting the 1860s-style garden at the Smith Farm, a small former plantation from the 1860s.

Address: 130 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta, Georgia

Who doesn't like LEGO? One of the city's top family attractions, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta gives fans young and old a great excuse to indulge their passion for these little plastic building blocks.

Located in the high-end Phipps Plaza, a ritzy shopping mall to the north of downtown Atlanta, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta opened in 2012 and offers plenty of fun activities. Highlights include a LEGO scale model of the city featuring top points of interest, including the Georgia Aquarium and the Fox Theatre, constructed from no less than 1.5 million bricks.

Kid-friendly, LEGO-themed rides are also available, and there's also a 4-D cinema showing related movie adventures. Age-appropriate workshops are frequently held, and the on-site shop offers a chance to stock up on the world's most popular building toy. A café is also located on the premises.

Address: 3500 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia

A visit to Zoo Atlanta is another fun family activity to add to your travel itinerary. Founded in 1889, the zoo has, in recent years, undergone a major transformation that has seen it propelled to the top of lists of animal attractions in the USA.

Also known as Atlanta Zoo, its central location in Grant Park makes it easy to get to, with the addition of new parking facilities making for a seamless visitor experience. Among its most popular exhibits is an African rainforest area complete with gorillas and monkeys. Other cute creatures include giant pandas in the Asian rainforest section, as well as an aviary, lemurs, and bears.

A number of unique animal experiences are also offered. These include fun after-hours visits, safari camps, and guided tours. A behind-the-scenes animal encounter is also offered and lets you get up close to a variety of creatures in the zoo's care.

Address: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, Georgia

Located in a beautiful park-like setting in the Poncey-Highland neighborhood near Freedom Park, the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum is a must-visit, whatever your political affiliations.

Opened in 1986 and recently renovated, the site is a repository for more than 27 million pages of official papers, as well as large collections of photos and videos related to the 39th US President's tenure. There are also numerous documents and memorabilia related to his personal and family life.

Other highlights include a display showcasing Carter's Nobel Peace Prize, as well as an authentic reproduction of the Oval Office as it was during his time there. The 30-acre grounds and museum can be visited as a self-guided tour. Be sure to check out the excellent views over the city of Atlanta while you're here.

Address: 441 John Lewis Freedom Pkwy N, Atlanta, Georgia

Designed by architect Richard Meier and enlarged with three new buildings designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, the High Museum of Art is noteworthy both for its architecture and its extraordinary collections, With a focus on art from the Renaissance to the present day, it is particularly well-known for its works by 19th-century French masters and an extensive collection of 19th- and 20th-century American art.

There is also a significant collection of European paintings and decorative art to explore. Newer additions include modern and contemporary art, photography, and African art. The museum forms part of the Robert W. Woodruff Arts Center and hosts an annual film series featuring foreign, independent, and classic cinema.

Address: 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, Georgia

Established in 1951, the College Football Hall of Fame is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts when visiting Atlanta. It's located adjacent to Centennial Olympic Park, close to the Georgia Aquarium, ensuring you'll be able to scratch more than one great attraction off your list with a single visit.

The Hall of Fame's unique football-shaped location only opened in 2014 and features a variety of fun interactive displays and activities suitable for all ages. Almost 100,000 square feet in size, it even includes an indoor football field big enough for kids to run around and blow off some steam.

Greeting you when you enter the building, though, is perhaps its most impressive feature, The Quad's helmet wall. This huge three-story-tall wall features helmets from 775 college teams, with visitors being able to press a button to have their favorite team's headgear illuminated, so they can spot it.

Address: 250 Marietta Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia

The Historic Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta began as a six-acre burial ground in 1850 and was originally designed as a garden cemetery. Over the years, particularly during the time of the Civil War, the site grew, accommodating those killed on the battlefield.

Eventually, the cemetery came to encompass 88 acres, and in 1884 stopped selling plots. In the ensuing years, this once lovely cemetery fell into disrepair, as those tending the plots moved away or died.

Fast forward to 1976, and the Oakland Cemetery was declared a National Historic Landmark, and the Historic Oakland Foundation was established. In combination with the city, the organization has done much work to maintain the cemetery. Today, it's promoted as a historic cemetery and parkland with gardens, sculptures, and wildlife.

There's even a Visitor Center and Museum Shop, and free parking is available directly opposite the main gate. It can get busy here though, so if you can visit on a weekday morning, you're pretty much guaranteed parking and a quieter visit.

Address: 248 Oakland Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia

Another must-do for visiting sports fans is taking a tour of Truist Park . Famous as the home of the Atlanta Braves baseball team, this state-of-the-art stadium opened in 2017 and can be visited not only on game days but as part of a fun tour.

Starting at the Right Field Gate, these must-do tours last around an hour and take in a number of important stadium features. These usually include the press box, some of the VIP lounges and seating, as well as the Monument Garden. Afterward, be sure to visit the Braves Clubhouse Store for a little souvenir shopping.

While tour tickets can be purchased at the gate, they do sometimes fill up, so plan ahead and book yours online in advance if you can. A VIP tour option is also available on game days.

Address: 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, Georgia

Opened in 1992, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History portrays the nature and environment of Georgia, as well as technical and scientific phenomena with the aid of modern techniques. Some of the most eye-catching exhibits at the museum are the huge dinosaur statues that greet you at the entrance and the dinosaur skeletons in the Great Hall.

Perhaps more entertaining are the interactive displays of the "Sensing Nature" exhibit. There are many other interesting exhibits on the natural history of the local landscape and cultures from other parts of the world. Even the floors are attention-getting, made of limestone tiles with embedded fossils.

A huge gallery is dedicated to temporary and traveling exhibits, and an IMAX theater shows nature-related films.

Address: 767 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia

Built for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, Centennial Olympic Park in central Atlanta is located near the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. It is the venue for weekly free concerts and for seasonal events, including the Christkindl Christmas Market and the Chinese Lantern Show .

The most popular thing to do in Centennial Olympic Park is watching the dancing fountain, with its choreographed program of water spouts and colored lights set to music. Officially known as the Fountain of Rings , its design is based on the Olympic rings symbol. When it's not "performing," the fountain becomes a splash pad for children to play in. It's also a popular place for joggers to cool off in the summer.

Centennial Olympic Park offers great views of the Atlanta skyline, especially from the SkyView Ferris wheel , rising almost 20 stories above the park.

Address: 265 Park Avenue West NW, Atlanta, Georgia

For a change of pace after all that Atlanta sightseeing, head over to Ponce City Market . Set in a former Sears warehouse, this site has been the subject of much urban renewal and redevelopment in recent years, resulting in it becoming one of the city's top shopping and entertainment venues.

In addition to its many boutique shops and galleries, the market houses a wide variety of food experiences, from casual cafés to elegant fine-dining restaurants. One of the best places to visit for a coffee or meal is The Roof at Ponce City Market.

This vast rooftop area features patio seating, event space, and an arcade-style attraction reminiscent of traditional fun fairs. It also offers superb views over the city and makes for the perfect place to watch the sunset over this dynamic Southern city. It's a particularly stunning vista when observed as the sun is setting, just have your camera ready!

Address: 285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW, Atlanta, Georgia

The Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University has one of the largest collections of ancient art in the Southeast. Its extensive collection includes 17,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt, the Near East, Greece, Rome, Asia, Africa, and the pre-Columbian Americas. The ancient Egypt exhibits are particularly outstanding.

In addition to these beautifully displayed and interpreted examples of pottery, goldwork, and ancient art in all media, the museum also has exceptional collections of works on paper from the Renaissance to the present, opening a window into world cultures expressed through their art.

Address: 571 South Kilgo Circle NE, Atlanta, Georgia

One of the most popular places to visit near Atlanta is Stone Mountain Par k, 16 miles east of the city center in DeKalb County. At its center is Stone Mountain, an 863-foot-high mass of exposed granite with a circumference of five miles.

On the east flank of the hill is a now-controversial relief of the three Confederate leaders, President Jefferson Davis and his two generals, Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee, hewn from the rock between 1923 and 1970.

But there is much more to do here. You can climb to the top of the hill or ascend by cable car, and around it runs a 1940s locomotive on a five-mile circuit through the park. There are endurance courses of suspended rope walks and bridges through the treetops, a petting farm for small children, and a land/lake tour on a 1940s Army DUKW that includes some local history.

Other highlights include a fully restored antebellum plantation and a museum with Native American artifacts and exhibits. A dinosaur park features 20 life-size prehistoric creatures that move and roar, one of the most popular things to do for families at Stone Mountain Park.

Inviting you to rethink everything you know about puppets, the Center for Puppetry Arts is a hands-on museum with a large collection of puppets from around the world. The Global Collection Gallery traces puppetry through four continents, and through displays as diverse as Chinese hand puppets and African rod puppets, you'll discover the five main types of puppets and learn about some of the world's major puppetry traditions.

The Jim Henson Collection Gallery will delight Sesame Street fans of all ages, with the world's largest collection of Jim Henson puppets, props, and costumes. Many of the puppets from Sesame Street and The Muppet Show are here, along with figures from The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth , and others created by Henson's imaginative mind.

Live shows, workshops, exhibits, and events are designed for all ages and include the New Directions Series performances, designed for teen and adult audiences. Programs for younger audiences include themes such as Stories of Color, exploring African folktales through music and puppets.

Address: 1404 Spring Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia

For first-time visitors to Atlanta, the downtown area is the best place to stay. Many of the main sights are located here, including the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. Below is a list of highly-rated hotels in convenient locations :

Luxury Hotels:

• The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton has a prime location overlooking Peachtree Street, in a landmark building that is on the National Register of Historic Places. In its conversion to a stylish modern hotel, the artistic features, including carvings and a marble lobby have been preserved. Kids stay free.
• One of the top hotels in the city is the Ritz-Carlton . This is a five-star property, with live jazz in the evenings, just a short stroll from the Georgia Aquarium.
• Just a bit north of downtown, in artsy Midtown, the Loews Atlanta , in a sleek glass tower, offers commanding views of the downtown buildings and outstanding dining option

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Across the street from the Ritz Carlton is the historic Ellis Hotel , with concept floors that include some exclusively for women and Fresh Air floors where the air is purified to be allergen-free.
• The Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown Atlanta includes breakfast and features large suites with full kitchens, refrigerators, and a sitting area.
• The Sheraton Atlanta Hotel has recently been renovated and features a beautiful outdoor pool and patio area.

Budget Hotels:

• Budget hotels in the city center are difficult to find, and the best option is to stay a short distance outside the downtown area, such as La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Atlanta Ballpark/Galleria in Paces Ferry/Vinings. The relatively new property is about 10 to 15 minutes by car from downtown.
• A little farther away, in the Northlake area, the Hampton Inn Atlanta-Northlake features recently renovated rooms and an outdoor pool.
• The Red Roof Plus Atlanta Buckhead in trendy Buckhead, about 10 minutes by car from the city center, is another good option. There is a MARTA rail station nearby with service to downtown.

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Where to Go Nea r Atlanta : Visitors to Georgia will certainly not want to miss romantic Savannah , with its lovely parks and streets of antebellum homes. Not far north of Savanna is historic Charleston , in South Carolina , where you can also relax on the beautiful sands of Myrtle Beach .

More Places to Visit in the South: To the west of Atlanta and only about three hours by train, Birmingham is in the neighboring state of Alabama . South of Atlanta are the long sandy beaches of Florida ; the theme parks of Orlando ; and Tampa , with all the beaches and water attractions of the Gulf Coast.

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Atlanta

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The capital city of Georgia, Atlanta is a vibrant place to explore that seamlessly mixes the old with the new. Famously burnt down during the Civil War, the lively metropolis has since rebounded to become one of the most important economic and cultural centres in the Southern United States.

Now boasting not one, not two, but three separate skylines, it houses the global headquarters of major companies such as Coca-Cola and CNN. While there are plenty of modern tourist attractions in Atlanta, it also has a rich history to explore having been both the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. and the cradle of the civil rights movement.

Combine all this with the charm and elegance of the Old South and it is no surprise that Atlanta, is one of the most visited cities in all of the United States.

25. Center for Puppetry Arts

If you’re looking for a unique and unusual yet engrossing place to visit when in town then look no further than the Center for Puppetry Arts. Aside from seeing hundreds of fantastic puppets from all around the world, you can also watch a live performance or make your own little character at one of their workshops.

Founded in 1979, the highly rated museum and its interesting exhibitions can be found in Midtown – the city’s happening arts district. As well as documenting the history, techniques and traditions of puppetry in Europa, Asia, Africa and the Americas, the center boasts an entire collection dedicated to Jim Henson and his iconic creation The Muppets.

24. Krog Street Market

One of the best food halls in the world, the lively yet laid back Krog Street Market is packed with all kinds of enticing restaurants, specialty shops and fresh produce stalls. Located in a historic 1920s warehouse, its bustling businesses, bakers and butchers lie at the heart of Inman Park, just a short drive east of the center.

Since opening in 2014, the west coast-style market has been a firm favorite with locals and tourists alike due to its fabulous food and fresh fruit and vegetables. Besides sampling tasty treats and buying souvenirs or artisanal food products, visitors can stop for a sit-down meal with everything from Indian and Italian to American, Latin American and Vietnamese options on offer.

23. SkyView Atlanta

For one of the best panoramas of downtown’s skyscraper-studded skyline, make sure to head to the SkyView Atlanta at the southern end of Centennial Olympic Park. Towering almost twenty storeys above the surrounding city, the gigantic Ferris wheel has been popular with tourists ever since it first opened in 2013.

While sitting or standing in its sleek, air-conditioned gondolas, guests can view many of the city’s most important buildings and landmarks. One of the best times to enjoy a ride on the SkyView is after dark as Atlanta is lit up magically and you can watch the famous Fountain of Rings show down below.

22. Delta Flight Museum

Another great place to go if you have a head for heights is the excellent Delta Flight Museum which looks at the history and evolution of the aviation industry. Housed in two humongous hangars are a vast array of artifacts, airline equipment and aircraft while yet more gleaming planes and jets can be found outside.

Lying next to the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the corporate museum was set up in 1995 and primarily focuses on Delta’s history, expansion and the future of flight. While perusing its engaging exhibits, you’ll learn about different makes and models of planes and even enter inside a Boeing 747. On top of all this, you can also have a go on their fun flight simulator.

21. Atlanta BeltLine

One of the most popular and picturesque ways to see as much of the city as possible is to walk, run or cycle along the Atlanta BeltLine which encircles the center of The Big A. As well as connecting numerous neighborhoods and parks together, the multi-use trail takes you past interesting outdoor art installations with sports facilities, restaurants and microbreweries also lining the route.

Stretching 22 miles in length, the spectacular outdoor space follows in the tracks of what once was a railway corridor. While many more miles of trails are still to be added before the project’s intended completion date in 2030, locals and tourists already flock to the beltline for its lovely scenery and nature, its innumerable establishments and countless community events.

20. Jimmy Carter Library & Museum

A fascinating place to visit, the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum lies just five minutes’ drive to the northeast of downtown, right next to the Carter Center. Inside guests can learn all about his life and legacy and see amazing memorabilia, photos and film clips from throughout his career and one term as president (1977 – 1981).

First opened to the public in 1986, the museum covers everything from his upbringing and success as a peanut farmer to life on the campaign trail and how he opposed racial segregation. After having explored all its interactive exhibits you can also see his Nobel Peace Prize, wander around an exact replica of the Oval Office and amble about its grand library and gorgeous gardens.

19. Turner Field

If you are after a thrilling sporting spectacle, then Turner Field is definitely the place to go. Formerly the home of the Atlanta Braves of Major League Baseball, the reconverted and renovated arena now instead hosts Georgia State University’s college football games.

Originally opened in 1996, the massive stadium served as the centerpiece of the Summer Olympics held in Atlanta that year. Now called the Center Parc Stadium, it lies just south of the center, on the college campus. Besides watching the Panthers play and taking part in the team’s tailgates, you can also attend concerts and community events at what is still often known to locals as Turner Field.

18. Ponce City Market

Another very happening spot to hit up is the ever-popular Ponce City Market which encompasses everything from shops and restaurants to offices, flats and a rooftop amusement park. Once a Sears catalogue facility, the ginormous mixed-use building lies alongside part of the BeltLine in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood.

Built in 1926, the red brick building was renovated and reopened in 2014 with its cavernous Central Food Hall and all its stands and stalls lying right at the heart of things. Aside from stopping off for a bite to eat or drink, you can also enjoy its rooftop beer garden, play a round of mini-golf or try some of its kitschy carnival games.

17. Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Home to hundreds of interactive exhibits and exciting hands-on activities, the magnificent Fernbank Museum of Natural History can be found just fifteen minutes’ drive to the northeast of the center. In addition to all its fascinating dinosaur fossils and IMAX theater, there is also an expansive outdoor area with canopy walks, nature playgrounds and native wildlife to explore.

Dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of the prehistoric and present-day natural worlds, the award-winning museum was established in 1992 and has only grown since then. While ambling about its galleries you can see life-size replicas of whales and a huge 123 foot-long Argentinosaurus – the largest dinosaur ever classified. There are also sections where you can experiment with forces and new technology while the fun and immersive NatureQuest is sure to appeal to young ones.

16. Oakland Cemetery

A very peaceful place to stroll around, the atmospheric Oakland Cemetery lies just a stone’s throw from downtown. Thought to be the final resting place of some 70,000 souls, it contains rows and rows of impressive old graves, mausoleums and sculptures with ancient oaks and magnolias also dotted about.

Founded in 1850, its lovely layout and lush green gardens exemplify the Victorian-style cemeteries of that time with certain sections being dedicated to Confederate soldiers and both Jewish and black citizens. Many of its marvelous monuments, mausoleums and statues highlight the prominent role the city played in both the Civil War and civil rights movement.

15. College Football Hall of Fame

Right next to Centennial Olympic Park is another of Atlanta’s top tourist attractions that is certainly well worth checking out if you have the chance: the College Football Hall of Fame. Inside the large football-shaped building are innumerable artifacts and exhibits that immortalize some of the greatest players and coaches to have ever played the game.

A firm favorite with football fans, the engaging and entertaining museum was opened in 2014 with earlier editions having previously existed in Kings Mill and South Bend. Aside from learning about the inductees and seeing their records, helmets and uniforms, you can practice your QB skills on the facility’s indoor pitch or try out one of its augmented reality stations.

14. Zoo Atlanta

Boasting all kinds of amazing animals both large and small, Zoo Atlanta sprawls across the southern third of Grant Park. Once ranked among the worst zoos in the States, it is now widely lauded for its excellent exhibits and spacious enclosures with unforgettable animal encounters also being on offer.

Since being established in 1889, the zoo has expanded considerably with it now housing over 1,500 animals, birds and reptiles of more than 200 different species. Among its most popular residents are its giant pandas and gorillas with the zoo’s incredible elephants, rhinos and tigers also attracting lots of attention. In addition to all of this, guests can explore the wonderful World of Reptiles and attend live talks, demonstrations and feeding sessions.

13. Mercedes Benz Stadium

Another fantastic place to head if you want to enjoy a concert, show or sports event is the massive, multi-purpose Mercedes Benz Stadium. Home of the Atlanta Falcons of the NFL and Atlanta United FC of MLS, the sparkling new stadium is located just a short walk or drive west of downtown.

Only built in 2017, the enormous, state-of-the-art arena serves as a more than adequate replacement for the demolished Georgia Dome. When its retractable ‘pinwheel’ roof is closed, the stadium has an electrifying atmosphere as the two teams’ fanatic fan bases roar them onto victory. Besides watching a thrilling football game or soccer match, visitors can also catch any of the concerts, conferences or other sporting competitions that are regularly held at the stadium.

12. Atlanta History Center

If you’re interested in learning all about the city and state’s rich history, culture and heritage then the exceptional Atlanta History Center really is a must-visit. At its humongous campus at Buckhead you can find an extensive array of historic houses, farms and gardens and a brilliant museum; all packed with age-old artifacts and engrossing exhibits.

While exploring sites, such as the antebellum Smith Farm and elegant Swan House, you’ll delve into everything from settlers and the Civil War to plantation life and local Native American culture. Just as enthralling as all its exhibits and edifices are the center’s ornamental gardens which are home to a huge collection of colorful plants, flowers, trees and shrubs.

11. Center for Civil and Human Rights

As Atlanta is renowned for being the ‘cradle of the civil rights movement’ no trip to town can ever be complete without checking out the Center for Civil and Human Rights. Situated just to the north of Centennial Olympic Park, it offers an in-depth look at the history and achievements of the movement while also shining a light on other ongoing human rights struggles around the world.

Founded in 2014, the well-designed museum is full of fascinating photos, exhibits and film clips with personal stories and speeches also highlighting the considerable struggles and successes of the civil rights movement. In addition to seeing some of Martin Luther King’s personal possessions and learning about Jim Crow laws, you also hear about other inspiring fights for rights around the globe.

10. High Museum of Art

Located in the city’s arts district in Midtown, the High Museum of Art is one of the leading art museums in the South and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Atlanta. The Museum was founded in 1905 as the Atlanta Art Association. In 1926, the High family, for whom the museum is named, donated their family home on Peachtree Street to house the collection.

In 1983, a new building designed by Richard Meier opened to house the High Museum of Art. Visitors can see a variety of works from 19th and 20th century American, European, African and African-American artists, as well as decorative arts, photography, and modern and contemporary art.

9. Piedmont Park

This park in the Northeastern Atlanta near Midtown began life as an out-of-the-city gentleman’s farm owned by a doctor named Benjamin Walker. It went through a series of owners, ultimately ending up the property of the Piedmont Exposition Company. The park has had several architects of importance working on different parts, most notably Olmstead of Central Park fame, who created many pathways still in use today.

It also includes a large basketball complex, and was home of Atlanta’s first team in the early twentieth century. A large fishing lake, playscape, and large lawn that is host to many concerts are just a few of the other offerings here.

8. Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site

This historic site includes several buildings, including the boyhood home of this civil rights leader, as well as the church where his father, and later King himself first came to preach. The firehouse that was once a main community center in the sixties, a civil rights walk of fame, and the “I Have a Dream” international world peace rose garden are also a part of this historic park.

Opposite the visitor center, a large mural depicts scenes in Dr. Martin Luther King’s life. The site hosts several large events, particularly during Martin Luther King day and Black History Month.

7. Centennial Olympic Park

Created for the 1996 Summer Olympics that was hosted in this city, Olympic Park continues to be a tourist draw every year. Located downtown between the Aquarium and the CNN center, the park has several fun features. An interactive fountain of Olympic rings is synchronized with lights, water jets and music.

This is surrounded by a collection of the flags of all of the host nations of the previous Olympics. A large, air-conditioned Ferris wheel and large lawn that hosts a summer outdoor concert series are just some of the other features of this historic location of athletic excellence.

6. Atlanta Botanical Garden

This garden sits adjacent to Piedmont Park, and has a number of different sections, each highlighting a different region, plant, or animal type. These include a Japanese garden, a rose garden, woodland areas and a children’s garden.

One of the main highlights of the botanical garden is the indoor Fuqua Conservatory which hosts a range of tropical, desert and subtropical plants and animals. The nation’s largest orchid collection, tropical birds, turtles and poison dart frogs. For those who are not afraid of heights, the woodland park has a large canopy walk that allows guests to explore the treetops.

The botanical garden often hosts art exhibits and other charity events. The most notable of these was a display of the glass work of Dale Chihuly in 2004, and brought half a million guests to the gardens.

5. Stone Mountain Park

This park in Metro Atlanta boasts a huge monolith called Stone Mountain. The bas-relief on the mountain’s north face is the biggest in the world. It features a sculpture called the Confederate Memorial Carving of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, General Robert E. Lee and General Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson.The top rises 825 feet (251 meters) above the surrounding area and provides a beautiful view of Atlanta.

The nearby museum Confederate Hall has information about the mountain’s geology. There is also the Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, which is an open air museum complete with farm animals that visitors can pet and 19 historic buildings meant to depict a pre-Civil War plantation.

4. Fox Theatre

Originally planned as a Moorish architecture Shrine temple, the Fox Theatre ultimately developed as a lavish movie theater. It later became a performing arts theater, and continues to host the Atlanta Ballet, traveling Broadway events, and some music concerts. The theatre is a draw even for those who aren’t going to see a show, as the combined Egyptian and Islamic architecture creates a spectacle that is worth taking a tour.

The theater inside is fashioned like an Arabian courtyard, complete with a twinkling crystal starry sky. There is also a large ballroom designed after the temple of Ramses II, and the mezzanine for the women’s’ restroom has King Tut’s throne and little sphinxes on the makeup tables.

3. CNN Center

The world’s best-known news franchise deserves a headquarter just as spectacular, and in this case, the CNN center definitely delivers. The center connects to a large food court atrium, which is shared by Centennial Olympic Park, Phillips Arena, the Georgia Dome, and the Georgia Conference Center.

There are studio tours available, which include demonstrations of the technology used and visits to viewing galleries overlooking the newsrooms and newsreaders of CNN. There is a large, attached hotel where guests can stay, especially those hoping to get a sneak peek at their favorite newscaster or special guest to the studios.

2. World of Coca-Cola

For anyone who has ever wondered what Coca-Cola tastes like in every nation of the world, this is the place to go. One of the top attractions in Atlanta, a new museum was revamped and relocated in 2007 to house a larger collection of company paraphernalia. Sixty years of jingles, ads dating back to the 1800’s, and a 4-D movie experience are just a few of the things to experience here.

One of the biggest draws here is the updated tasting room that not only allows guests to discover the preferred formula versions from different parts of the world, as well as rare local drinks via their customized freestyle machine.

1. Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium has the honor of being the largest in the Western Hemisphere, and before it was beaten by the aquarium in Singapore, it was the largest in the world. A number of especially notable species can be found here, including beluga whales and manta rays. This aquarium is the only location outside of Asia where a whale shark, the world’s largest fish, can be found.

It is divided into five ecoregions, including tropical reefs, open ocean, arctic waters, freshwater rivers and large marine mammals. As part of a conservation project, the aquarium has been working on a captive beluga whale breeding program, though a successful calving has not yet been achieved.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Atlanta

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10 things to know before visiting Atlanta

May 26, 2024 • 6 min read

Discover the power of activism at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights © wayfarerlife / Shutterstock

My Atlanta story began in 1990, when my parents moved their young family to the metro area so they could pursue new job opportunities. It was an exciting time to grow up in the unofficial capital of the South . Atlanta’s first Black mayor, Maynard Jackson, was in his third and final term; local leaders were working on their successful bid to host the 1996 Summer Olympics; and Freaknik, the biggest college party for historically Black college and university (HBCU) students, had already gained a national reputation.

As an adult I’ve moved away from home a few times, but this city always seems to draw me back in. I find new ways to fall in love with Atlanta every time I move back. If you’re planning a visit, here are a few insider tips to help you navigate our rules, culture and even the streets.

1. Plan to spend at least three days in the A 

It’ll take a first-time visitor at least two days to see all the typical sites, starting with Atlanta’s downtown tourist district – home to the Georgia Aquarium , the World of Coca-Cola museum  and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights , all within the same square. Centennial Olympic Park is a short walk away. The King Historic District is about a five-minute drive from there, but given the legacies of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King , it needs time to absorb it all. After that, visitors can choose their own adventure by exploring Atlanta's neighborhoods; strolling along the Beltline, a 22-mile multi-use trail; or getting a seat at one of Atlanta’s award-winning restaurants. 

Add these top experiences to your Atlanta itinerary .

2. Know the pros and cons of each season 

Summertime is filled with incredible festivals and outdoor celebrations, but brace yourself for 90°F (32°C) temperatures and sweltering humidity. Winters are mild, but there’s considerably less to do in Atlanta since Southerners don’t appreciate cold weather of any kind. Spring and fall are magical times in the city, but check with your allergist first. Atlanta gets blanketed in pollen, particularly in the spring thanks to our abundant tree cover, but at least we can all admire the blooming dogwood trees while we sneeze.

3. Prepare to see and be seen in Atlanta

Atlanta doesn’t believe partying should be limited to the night. Day parties and restaurants with a lounge atmosphere – a term one website aptly called the clubstaurant – are plentiful. This style may be strange to some visitors. The popular TikTok food critic Keith Lee was shocked by the lack of hospitality at some of these businesses. But to enjoy them like a local, go for the vibes, not for traditional restaurant service.

4. Sunday booze sales can be confusing 

Southern cities have a complicated relationship with alcohol sales on Sunday, and Atlanta is no different. It can be tough to keep track of the regulations, especially when ordinances change from county to county. If you’re in the city limits of Atlanta, you can order a Sunday morning mimosa or bloody mary at brunch beginning at 11am. If you’re outside of Atlanta/Fulton County, be aware that the local laws may be different.

5. Getting around without a car is challenging 

MARTA is Atlanta’s public transportation system, and it’s generally reliable and safe. Many people use the train’s red and yellow lines to get to and from the airport, but the train system isn’t robust enough to take locals or visitors to all of the area’s best offerings, which are sprawled across a large metro area. Renting a car or using rideshare apps are your best options. Local politicians haven’t managed to keep up with infrastructure to support the city’s rapidly growing population, so spontaneous traffic jams occur regularly. Make sure you plan ahead for any timed entries.

Navigate like a local with these tips for getting around .

6. Atlanta has all the Peachtree Streets 

Whoever was in charge of naming streets in Atlanta seemed to run out of ideas. You’ll notice a lot of roads are named after peach trees. On one hand, it’s cute because Georgia is known as the peach state, but the charm tends to wear off quickly. At last count, 71 roads in Atlanta have Peachtree in the name. It can get confusing quickly, so pay attention to the details to see if you’re looking for Peachtree Street, Road, or Way.

7. Fill your soul with local cuisine

You can’t come to the South without filling up on soul food, and Atlanta has some iconic options for you. Look out for local favorites such as shrimp and grits, and fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese. Then try new classics like lemon pepper wings. For eclectic international offerings, try the food hall at Ponce City Market, Buford Highway Farmers Market or East Atlanta Village.

Other states may disagree, but here, we embrace the diner food chain Waffle House. It was founded in Avondale Estates, a suburb of Atlanta, after all. Most people have their hash brown order memorized, whether it’s smothered (with sautéed onions), covered (in melted cheese), diced (with chopped tomatoes) or capped (with mushrooms).

8. Saying Hotlanta will get you the side eye 

Yes, we know Atlanta gets hot in the summertime, and yes, we also know our city is poppin’ with fun things to do all year long. But neither of those truths would ever warrant someone calling the city Hotlanta. The nickname may have been acceptable when it was first coined in the 20th century, but today it will instantly label you as an outsider. Casual nicknames locals prefer are “the A,” and “A-T-L.” If you’re looking for more high-brow nicknames, The Gate City and the City in a Forest also apply, but are not typically used in casual conversation.

9. Black culture is intrinsically connected to Atlanta

Atlanta has the second largest population of Black Americans in the US , behind New York City. But that’s not the only reason why the Black community sees Atlanta as a central city for the culture. It's also home to four HBCUs and Tyler Perry Studios, and has deep roots in the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 60s. Atlanta has remained a major hub for hip hop, from early pioneers such as Frank Ski and Kilo Ali and legends like OutKast, Ludacris and T.I. to fresh talents including Two Chains, Gucci, Future and 21 Savage. 

10. Atlanta embraces our LGBTQ+ community 

Atlanta is also a hub for the Black queer community, and has been for at least two decades. Every Labor Day weekend the community comes together to celebrate Atlanta Black Pride . But there are opportunities to celebrate all year long, whether it’s during Atlanta Pride in October, or at any of the city’s gay bars and clubs, including the established favorites, Bulldogs and My Sister’s Room . 

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• 9 of the Most Walkable Towns in Georgia

Georgia offers a delightful mix of historic Southern charm and natural scenery. Among the state's treasures are picturesque small towns perfect for leisurely on-foot exploration. Wandering through their well-preserved downtowns reveals a sense of local character and culture while enjoying the surroundings. If you plan to visit the Peach State, consider exploring some of its top walkable communities for a unique experience.

These once-in-a-lifetime towns, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Golden Isles coastline, showcase their small-town appeal along pedestrian-friendly main drags. Colorful storefronts, inviting restaurants, and recreational access await around every corner within easy walking distance. By taking it slow, visitors experience an authentic taste of community and scenery in these charming Georgia towns.

This small town in Northern Georgia was the site of America's first major Gold Rush in the 1800s. Today, it is a bustling community with a diverse range of downtown attractions showcasing all facets of its deep heritage. From exciting museums and quaint art centers to roadside cafes, these activities are all well-connected, allowing tourists to hop from one to the other with ease. The Dahlonega Gold Museum is a vital town landmark offering visitors an up-close look at the area's mining history.

Walking along Main Street promises interesting encounters, thanks to the high concentration of businesses lining the avenue. Highlights include the Holly Theater, a welcoming performance art venue where audiences gather to enjoy comedy shows, live music, and moving plays. Dahlonega is also known for its lively winery scene, and touring Accent Cellars provides an opportunity to sample a selection of sweet, dry, and sparkling wines.

With just over 2,000 residents, Clayton, an adorable gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains, welcomes visitors to enjoy its pedestrian-friendly downtown without bumping into crowds. The streets are well-maintained and offer easy access to the main points of interest around the town. Historians can find the Rabun County Historical Society along Church Street, an excellent spot to learn about centuries of regional history as depicted by various archives, artifacts, and memorabilia. Clayton's main drag is consistently teeming with tourists, thanks to the wealth of eateries along the street. If you enjoy Cuban cuisine, consider stopping by the Hush Cuban Kitchen and Bar for a wholesome meal. Another must-visit venue in the same vicinity is the Main Street Gallery, which exhibits a stellar collection of pieces by local, regional, and folk artists.

Jefferson impresses with its small-town ambiance, evident across the quiet downtown district, which openly promotes car-free exploration. With most attractions just a few blocks from each other, visitors appreciate the convenience of a short walk between different points of interest. The Crawford W. Long Museum is a notable downtown landmark that chronicles the life and times of the legendary physician through related artifacts. A visit to Washington Street brings you to the gorgeous Jackson County Historic Courthouse. This antique building decorates the skyline with its Italianate architectural style while transporting guests back to the 19th century with its rustic interior.

When you need to quench your thirst after a long day of walking the town streets, stop by Revival Tap Room for refreshing craft beers and wines in a comfortable outdoor setting.

Located less than an hour from Atlanta, Winder offers a more walkable environment compared to the huge crowds and constant chaos in Georgia's largest city. The town houses a historic downtown district anchored by inviting eateries, cute antique shops, and beautiful museum buildings. The Barrow County Museum stands out with its beautiful red-brick construction on Athens Street. Built in 1915, the museum also hosts exhibits highlighting Winder's storied history and culture. Walking further down the street, you'll come across the Colleen O. Williams Community Center, a vibrant theater venue captivating audiences with continuous drama, music, and dance shows.

Be sure to sample the restaurant landscape in Winder by visiting Senor Tequila Grill & Bar. Enjoy mouth-watering Mexican food paired with refreshing margaritas in a family-friendly environment.

Blue Ridge may be more famous for its rich natural surroundings, punctuated with forested hiking trails and gorgeous lake views, but the small community also has a lovely downtown that should not be overlooked. A stroll through the neighborhood reveals a thriving artistic landscape, thanks to venues such as the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association. Located along Main Street, this popular exhibit features works by local and regional artists while offering an opportunity for budding creatives to hone their skills through art classes and workshops. Several craft breweries, including Grumpy Old Men Brewing, dot downtown Blue Ridge, offering guests a taste of refreshing beers.

Before you start indulging, make sure you have a full stomach by popping into the Black Sheep Restaurant, which serves a delicious menu of New American dishes in a cozy outdoor garden environment.

Thomasville

If you fancy a surreal trip down memory lane, Thomasville is one of the most enjoyable towns in Georgia to visit. This historic town in Thomas County is chock-full of museums and antique homes, offering a window into the grand Victorian era. A lazy stroll through its downtown district encourages vacationers to soak up all its rustic allure at a laid-back pace. These treasures are found along Dawson Street, including the Thomasville History Center, which offers a glimpse into local heritage by displaying diverse artifacts.

Dawson Street is also home to the Lapham-Patterson House Historic Site, featuring an 1880s mansion that exemplifies Victorian architecture in Thomasville. Another must-visit venue is Pebble Hill Plantation, a breathtaking complex occupying a 3,000-acre property and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Rich in history and full of small-town charm, Canton allows tourists to experience a unique side of Georgia. Incorporated in 1872, it hosts a quaint historic district that preserves the town's heritage and is easily navigable without a car. Walking along Main Street, visitors can't help but notice the rustic Canton Theater. This historic landmark has been operating since 1911 and continues to entertain audiences with various live-stage productions. Turning onto Marietta Street, the Cherokee County History Center provides a culturally immersive experience. This fantastic museum harbors more than 100,000 artifacts documenting the region's past from when it was occupied by the Cherokee Indians through the 21st century.

The Canton Farmers Market also takes place along the same street, bringing local farmers and craftsmen together for a delightful trade day. Vacationers can sample farm-fresh produce and shop for unique handmade crafts while enjoying the family-friendly environment.

Watkinsville

For a small town, Watkinsville impresses tourists with a rich mix of attractions concentrated around its modest downtown. The neighborhood has something for everyone, making for fulfilling car-free exploration. Historians will enjoy a tour of Eagle Tavern House along Main Street, one of the oldest structures in the town, with a legacy dating back to the early 1800s. The area also features lovely antique outlets, where souvenir hunters can search for unique finds. Attic Treasures Antiques particularly stands out for its military memorabilia.

Meanwhile, one of the best tourist experiences when exploring downtown Watkinsville involves shopping at the Oconee Farmers Market. Here, tourists can find farm-fresh produce and charming handmade crafts from the community, while interacting with friendly vendors.

Popularly known as the "First Mountain City," Jasper is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, flanked by rolling mountain views and sprawling vineyards. However, you don't have to venture into the great outdoors to experience its charm; downtown Jasper also excites with a mix of attractions. Notable stops include Tater Patch Players on Philadelphia Lane, where locals and visitors converge to watch entertaining community-based plays. Furthermore, the Antiques and Treasures Shop sells a selection of vintage items that make for perfect memorable souvenirs.

The restaurant scene is abuzz in downtown Jasper, encouraging tourists to enjoy scrumptious Southern-style dishes. You can always head to the Old Mulehouse when peckish for tasty dishes prepared from a diverse menu.

The Takeaway

From browsing unique boutiques and exploring lovely museums to peacefully soaking up picturesque small-town life, these top walkable towns in Georgia consistently deliver memorable experiences. Their historic downtown cores, packed with amenities, proximity to natural beauty, and emphasis on pedestrian access, cultivate a true sense of laidback Southern hospitality. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage synonymous with the Southern United States by meandering through their well-preserved streets.

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Attractions: must-see in atlanta, find top things to do in atlanta for your next visit.

Check these must-see Atlanta attractions off your vacation bucket list. When you visit our city, you can count on getting “only in Atlanta” experiences guaranteed to make your trip shine. These must-see attractions in Atlanta are fun for the whole family and will keep your itinerary full of memorable stops. Use this must-see Atlanta guide as your vacation bucket list and see how many you can check off!

When you visit our city, you can count on getting “only in Atlanta” experiences guaranteed to make your trip shine. These must-see attractions in Atlanta are fun for the whole family and will keep your itinerary full of memorable stops. Use this must-see Atlanta guide as your vacation bucket list and see how many you can check off!

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Experience a lush, urban oasis at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Enjoy walking through the Orchid Display House or across the Canopy Walk, a 600-foot suspension bridge. Check for special events taking place such as Cocktails in the Garden, the summer music series or one of Atlanta’s most famed holiday lighting displays.

Atlanta History Center

Watch the past come to life at the Atlanta History Center. Housing the largest collection of Civil War memorabilia in the Southeast, the Atlanta History Center guides you through Atlanta’s fall and rise as an International City. Tour the acres of gardens, then take a run on the basketball hardwood from the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games held in Atlanta.

Centennial Olympic Park

Centennial Olympic Park, housed in the center of Atlanta’s downtown convention and entertainment district, serves as Atlanta’s legacy from the 1996 Olympic Games. Visit the urban green space and make a splash in the Fountain of Rings or have a picnic in the lush grass. Centennial Olympic Park is a true must-see attraction!

Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame

Find your team on the Helmet Wall, punt a football to score a field goal, and view sports history from the 52-foot touch screen wall at Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame. The Hall honors its inductees while engaging fans through celebration of their favorite teams and love for the game.

Georgia Aquarium

Escape into an underwater paradise at Georgia Aquarium where you can see the world’s largest fish, whale sharks, as well as belugas, dolphin, otters and more. Take a behind the scenes tour or indulge in one of the animal encounters where you can swim with the whale sharks, pet a beluga or get up close with a penguin.

High Museum of Art

Mingle with the masters at the High Museum of Art, the foremost art museum in the Southeast. The High, located in the middle of Midtown Atlanta’s Arts District, features several permanent collections as well as high-profile traveling exhibits. Make the High Museum of Art a stop on your Atlanta visit!

MLK Jr. National Historical Park

Take a journey through Martin Luther King Jr.’s storied life as the leader of the Civil Rights Movement. Start with a guided tour of his birth home, then make a stop in the original Ebenezer Baptist Church and the theater where visitors can view Civil Rights films. 

Stone Mountain Park

There is a reason Stone Mountain Park is the most-visited attraction in Georgia! Go hiking, biking or jogging, take in 18 holes of golf, complete the ropes course, catch a movie projected onto the mountain and enjoy the spectacular nightly laser show! Stone Mountain offers something for everyone! 

World of Coca-Cola

What do you get when the world’s most iconic brand builds a museum dedicated to a soft drink? Well, the World of Coca-Cola of course! Take in tons of Coca-Cola memorabilia and visit the tasting room, where guests travel the globe by sipping more than 60 varieties of Coca-Cola from around the world.

Zoo Atlanta

Lions, tigers and bears! Oh my! But if you’re at Zoo Atlanta, you also get a chance to see twin giant pandas, elephants and maybe  even a kangaroo! Animal lovers of all ages unite to explore the habitats of more than 1,000 animals. Zoo Atlanta is a must-see destination for the animal lover in all of us.

Revealed: The 50 best places to live in the US

Posted: December 12, 2023 | Last updated: May 17, 2024

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For a lot of people, buying car insurance is like buying sliced bread. It’s not the most exciting purchase, and the options all seem similar. So thrifty shoppers might simply reach for the cheapest thing on the shelf. But like cheap bread, cheap car insurance may leave you wishing you spent a little more on quality.

“The cheapest is not always the best,” warns Jessica McNally, an agency owner with Goosehead Insurance in Dallas. That’s because there are lots of factors that make up a car insurance company. And while price is one of them, it’s best to look at the bigger picture.

Here’s what to look for when picking the best car insurance company.

1. Choose a financially stable company

The best car insurance companies have plenty of money on hand to pay for customers’ claims. It’s important to check an insurer’s financial stability before buying a policy, especially if it’s a smaller insurer you’ve never heard of.

There are several independent agencies that evaluate the financial strength of insurance companies. One example is A.M. Best. You can use its online search tool to find an insurer’s financial strength rating. Companies with a rating of A or higher are considered to have an excellent ability to pay out customer claims.

2. Check customer satisfaction ratings and reviews

Not every insurer is customer-first. That’s why it’s important to research the customer satisfaction of insurers you’re considering.

You can turn to surveys from companies like J.D. Power to find insurers with the best customer satisfaction scores [0] J.D. Power . Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction Plummets as Rates Continue to Surge, J.D. Power Finds . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources . Or, if you don’t mind doing a little detective work, you can compare customer complaints against insurers by using the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ website . But take other people’s emotionally charged comments about companies or agents you might read online with a grain of salt, McNally advises.

3. Look for convenience

A great auto insurer should offer multiple ways to manage a policy. For example, some insurers allow customers to use a mobile app to file and track claims. But it’s hard to tell how simple it’ll be to file a claim or perform other essential tasks, like paying your premium, before becoming a customer.

Some telltale signs that an insurer will be easy to work with are high mobile app ratings, flexible customer service hours and an easy-to-use website with helpful content. Consider asking a company representative to walk you through the claims process to learn what you’ll need to do if you have to file a claim. And pay attention to how the company communicates with you. "If they don't properly communicate, well, that's a warning sign," says Michael DeLong, a research and advocacy associate for the nonprofit Consumer Federation of America.

4. Pick an affordable company

Car insurance premiums are stretching to record-breaking heights [0] U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS . Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources , and almost half of U.S. consumers shopped for a new car insurance policy in the past year, according to an April 2024 report by J.D. Power [0] J.D. Power . Half of Auto Insurance Customers Currently Shopping for New Policies, J.D. Power Finds . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources . The best car insurance companies offer competitive rates and a variety of potential discounts.

It’s not hard to get car insurance quotes online from many companies. Make sure you compare the same coverage options throughout the quote-gathering process. And don’t forget to look for car insurance discounts, like breaks for being a good driver, paying your premium in full or driving a new car.

More tips to find the best car insurance

When shopping for the best car insurance, keep the following tips in mind.

Assess your needs. Before buying car insurance, take a moment to reflect on what’s important to you and your family. For example, maybe you prioritize affordability and a well-polished mobile app, but don’t need accident forgiveness .  

Consider small insurers. There are lots of small insurance companies you’ve probably never heard of. These regional insurers may provide lower rates and better customer service than the big companies you see advertised on TV.

Work with an independent agent. While it may be easy to get quotes yourself, independent car insurance agents and brokers can streamline the process. These experts vet companies and compile quotes from small and large insurers on your behalf. Independent agents and brokers can especially come in handy if you have a less-than-perfect driving record and can’t find insurance on your own.

Do your research. Search online for recent mentions of a company in the news before buying a policy, recommends DeLong. If you find a company has lots of recent lawsuits against it, you may want to think twice about signing on the dotted line. “And if they've had to pay out settlements, that's an even bigger red flag,” DeLong says.

Shop around once a year. Make a practice of shopping for car insurance every year — especially if price is important to you. Insurers adjust car insurance rates regularly, so what might have been the most affordable option last year may no longer be a bargain.

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