Ready for an unforgettable trip to the ATL? Atlanta is way more than just a busy airport or a backdrop in movies.
This city pulses with energy, history, culture, and some of the best food you’ll ever taste. It’s a place where Southern charm meets modern cool, and every neighborhood has its own unique vibe.
But with so much to see and do, where do you even start? Don’t sweat it. We’ve put together the ultimate insider’s guide to the absolute best things to do in Atlanta.
Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or traveling with the whole crew, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to explore world-class attractions, hidden local gems, and experiences you just can’t get anywhere else. Your adventure starts right here.
1. Step into History at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
No trip to Atlanta is complete without paying respects at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
This isn’t just a museum; it’s a profoundly moving journey through the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest heroes.
Located in the Sweet Auburn district, the park preserves the very neighborhood where Dr. King was born, lived, preached, and is laid to rest.
You can visit his childhood home, stand in the pulpit of Ebenezer Baptist Church where he moved congregations, and reflect at his final resting place.
The excellent visitor center features powerful exhibits that chronicle the Civil Rights Movement. It’s a somber but essential experience that connects you to the heart of the struggle for equality.
Give yourself a few hours here to truly absorb it all. It’s one of the most meaningful things to do in Atlanta and a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go.
2. Get a Sky-High View from the Top of the Westin Peachtree Plaza
Want to see Atlanta from a whole new angle? Head straight for the Westin Peachtree Plaza.
This iconic, cylindrical skyscraper is a fixture of the downtown skyline. The real magic happens on the 72nd floor at the Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View.
While the restaurant is a fantastic spot for a meal, you can also just go up for the breathtaking 360-degree observation deck. The views are absolutely stunning.
You can see for miles in every direction, picking out other landmarks like Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Centennial Olympic Park. It’s especially incredible at sunset as the city lights begin to twinkle on.
For photographers and sightseers, this is a top-tier Atlanta activity that gives you the lay of the land in one unforgettable panorama.
3. Wander Through the Wonders of the Georgia Aquarium
Prepare to be amazed at the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the entire world. This place is an underwater wonderland that will dazzle visitors of all ages. It’s home to thousands of animals, representing hundreds of species, all housed in state-of-the-art habitats.
The must-see exhibit is Ocean Voyager, which features a massive 6.3-million-gallon tank with whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of other fish.
Walking through the 100-foot-long underwater tunnel feels like diving into the deep sea. You can also watch playful sea lions, curious beluga whales, and lively penguins.
They offer incredible behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters, too. Spending a day here is easily one of the most fun things to do in Atlanta with family or friends.
4. Discover Art and Nature at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Escape the city bustle without ever leaving town at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Nestled right next to Piedmont Park, this 30-acre urban oasis is a feast for the senses.
No matter the season, there’s always something in spectacular bloom, making it a perfect place to visit in Atlanta year-round.
Stroll through the serene Japanese Garden, marvel at the exotic plants in the Fuqua Orchid Center, and let the kids loose in the imaginative Children’s Garden.
The spectacular Canopy Walk is a real highlight—a 600-foot-long skywalk that lets you stroll through the treetops of a mature urban forest.
During the holiday season, the Garden Lights, Holiday Nights display transforms the entire place into a twinkling, magical wonderland. It’s a peaceful and beautiful way to spend an afternoon.
5. Explore Science and Fun at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Unleash your inner scientist at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. This museum makes learning a total blast with its giant dinosaur skeletons, interactive exhibits, and a stunning 75-acre wild forest right outside.
It’s a fantastic pick for one of the best things to do in Atlanta, especially if you have curious kids in tow.
Inside, you’ll come face-to-face with the world’s largest dinosaurs, including a terrifying Argentinosaurus. The “A Walk Through Time in Georgia” exhibit tells the story of the state’s natural history.
But don’t miss the outdoor adventure! Fernbank Forest is a rare, old-growth urban forest with peaceful walking trails.
They also have a giant outdoor adventure playground called WildWoods. It’s a perfect mix of indoor education and outdoor exploration.
6. Stroll and Play in Centennial Olympic Park
Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park is now the vibrant green heart of downtown Atlanta. It’s a fabulous, free place to relax, play, and people-watch.
The park is beautifully maintained and often hosts concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year.
Kids love splashing in the iconic Fountain of Rings, a computer-controlled fountain synchronized to music. You can also find plenty of grassy spots for a picnic, read the commemorative bricks, and enjoy views of the surrounding cityscape.
Its central location makes it a great starting point for your Atlanta sightseeing, as it’s within easy walking distance of the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the CNN Center. Taking a leisurely stroll here is one of the essential free activities in Atlanta.
7. Taste a World of Flavors at Krog Street Market
Calling all food lovers! For a true taste of modern Atlanta, you have to visit Krog Street Market in the Inman Park neighborhood.
Housed in a beautifully renovated old factory, this bustling food hall is a paradise for your taste buds. It’s a community gathering spot where you can find some of the city’s most inventive chefs all under one roof.
The choices are incredible. You can grab succulent barbecue, fresh oysters, handmade pasta, gourmet tacos, artisanal pizza, or decadent desserts.
There are also great shops selling everything from fresh flowers to specialty spices. The atmosphere is always buzzing with energy. Grab a bite from different stalls and find a seat at the communal tables.
It’s a perfect way to sample the incredible diversity of Atlanta’s food scene in one lively spot.
8. Immerse Yourself in Film Magic at Illuminarium Atlanta
For an experience that’s truly out of this world, step into Illuminarium Atlanta. This isn’t your average attraction; it’s a high-tech, immersive entertainment venue that transports you to another place entirely.
Using state-of-the-art projection, audio, and sensory technology, they create experiences that you feel like you’re walking through.
Their main show, “WILD: A Safari Experience,” makes you feel like you’re on a breathtaking African safari. You might have an elephant walk right past you or a pride of lions roar in your direction.
They also feature other limited-run spectaculars. It’s completely immersive and incredibly fun for all ages. This is a newer and totally unique addition to the list of cool things to do in Atlanta, perfect for when you want an adventure that’s a little different.
9. Bike or Run the Atlanta BeltLine
To see Atlanta like a local, get on the Atlanta BeltLine. This is one of the most transformative urban redevelopment projects in the country. It’s a network of multi-use trails, built on old railway corridors, that connects dozens of neighborhoods.
The most popular section is the Eastside Trail, which links Piedmont Park to the Krog Street Market and beyond. You can rent a bike or just walk it, passing by incredible outdoor street art, funky shops, and bustling restaurants.
The energy along the trail is infectious. It’s the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon, getting exercise while soaking up the city’s vibrant, community-focused culture. Checking out the BeltLine is a must-do Atlanta activity for anyone who wants to feel the city’s pulse.
10. Meet Giant Pandas at Zoo Atlanta
For a classic family day out, you can’t beat Zoo Atlanta. Located in historic Grant Park, this zoo is a cherished institution that has evolved into a leader in animal care and conservation. It’s famous worldwide for being one of only three zoos in the U.S. that cares for giant pandas.
Seeing the pandas, Lun Lun and Yang Yang, along with their cubs, is a truly special experience.
But the zoo has so much more! You can trek through the African Savanna to see elephants and giraffes, get up close to reptiles in Scaly Slimy Spectacular, and watch the playful orangutans swinging overhead on their “Orangutan Culture Trail.”
The zoo is committed to conservation, and your visit helps support their important work. It’s a full day of fun that inspires a love for animals.
11. Tour the Grand World of Coca-Cola
Dive into the history and pop-culture phenomenon of the world’s most famous soft drink at the World of Coca-Cola. This immersive museum, located next to the Georgia Aquarium, is a fizzy, fun-filled celebration of all things Coke. It’s a hugely popular thing to do in Atlanta for a reason.
You can see over 1,200 artifacts from the drink’s 130+ year history, watch a 4D movie, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the bottling process.
The big finale is the Tasting Room, where you can sample over 100 different beverages from around the globe.
Some flavors are delicious, some are… interesting, but it’s all part of the adventure! It’s a nostalgic, interactive, and surprisingly informative look at a global brand born right here in Atlanta.
12. Hike the Trails at Stone Mountain Park
Just a short drive from downtown, Stone Mountain Park is Georgia’s most-visited attraction for a good reason. This massive, 3,200-acre park is centered around the world’s largest exposed granite mountain.
The views from the top are worth the hike, but that’s just the beginning of the fun here.
You can take a scenic railroad around the mountain’s base, hike or walk up numerous nature trails, or even take a cable car to the summit.
The park also features a historic plantation, a giant adventure golf course, and a beautiful lake for fishing and boating. During summer nights, they host a fantastic laser light show projected onto the mountain.
It’s a perfect day trip for outdoor adventure and one of the top things to do near Atlanta when you need a nature fix.
Conclusion
As you can see, the list of the best things to do in Atlanta is long and incredibly diverse.
From quiet reflection in historic parks to thrilling immersive experiences and world-class animal encounters, Atlanta delivers an unforgettable trip for every type of traveler.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Atlanta adventure today. Pick your must-see spots from this list, book those tickets in advance for popular attractions, and get ready to fall in love with the energy, history, and sheer fun of the ATL. Your Southern adventure awaits