15 Best Things to do in Atlanta, Georgia

Planning a trip to Atlanta? You’re in the right place!

This vibrant city is packed with history, culture, and incredible food, but on our first visit, we found it hard to know where to begin. However, by the end of our trip, we had well and truly fallen in love with the place!

That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you experience the very best of Atlanta. From riding around on a historic trolley to visiting filming locations of multiple movies and shows, we’ve got you covered. In this blog, you’ll find the very best activities that Atlanta has to offer, and all of the need-to-know info to make the most of your trip. 

Atlanta At a Glance

Atlanta is a big, bustling city filled with so many things to see and do. It’s easy to figure out on your own, but since it is spread out and busy, a few local tips go a long way toward getting the most out of your trip! 

Use Ubers or Public Transportation: Driving in Atlanta is not the greatest experience. We’ve always found it easier to rely on Ubers or the MARTA train system to get around the city. 

Keep accommodation central: Staying in central areas like Midtown makes it super easy to access restaurants, parks, and attractions. 

Pack light in summer: Visiting in the summer months (May – September) in Atlanta’s peak humidity calls for light, breezy clothing. You’ll be a lot more comfortable getting around in the heat with breathable fabrics!

How We Would Spend 3 Days in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta has so much going on—civil rights history, vibrant neighborhoods, and a food scene that keeps getting better every year. But since the city is so spread out, it can be tough to see it all in just a few days. After spending plenty of time exploring the city, this is how we would spend 3 days to fit in the best highlights of Atlanta! 

🚋Day 1: Trolley Tour & Civil Rights History
Kick things off with a trolley tour of Atlanta’s top sights, enjoy coal-fired pizza for a casual lunch, dive deep into Civil Rights history on a guided afternoon tour, then end the day with dinner at Fin & Feathers and retro fun at Joystick Game Bar.

🚲Day 2: Bike Tour & Botanical Garden
Start day two exploring on two wheels with a guided bike tour, grab lunch at Krog Street Market, then spend the afternoon between the High Museum of Art and the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Round out the day with Southern cuisine at South City Kitchen Midtown and a relaxed nightcap at MidCity.

🥤 Day 3: Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Tour and World of Coca-Cola
Begin your last day with breakfast at Thumbs Up Diner before walking in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s footsteps on a historic tour. Refuel with a cheesesteak at Big Dave’s, explore the World of Coca-Cola, relax at Centennial Olympic Park, and finish with a nighttime city tour that includes a dinner stop with plenty of great local options.

Things to do in Atlanta, Georgia

1. See Atlanta’s top sights on a Trolley Tour

This trolley tour is a fantastic way to get acquainted with the city! The tour starts near Centennial Olympic Park, then takes you around some of the city’s most well-known sights.

One of the most meaningful stops is the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. You’ll pass by the home where Dr. King was born and the church where he was baptized. The guide also shares stories about his life and legacy, giving you more insight than driving by on your own.

The trolley also passes the Margaret Mitchell House, where she wrote Gone With the Wind, and the Georgia State Capitol with its famous golden dome. Then you’ll visit more modern sights, like Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Seeing those older landmarks alongside Atlanta’s newer side gives the tour a good sense of how much the city has changed.

As you roll through charming neighborhoods like Inman Park and Ansley Park, you’ll be surprised by how green and scenic parts of the city are. You’ll pass by Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s largest green space, and see why locals love spending so much time there. 

Atlanta is huge and not always easy to explore on foot, so a trolley makes it much simpler. And during the hot summer months, the climate-controlled ride is definitely a bonus!

2. Learn about Atlanta’s Black History and Civil Rights Movement

This Black History and Civil Rights tour is easily our top pick for things to do in Atlanta. Atlanta is one of the best places in the USA to learn about Black history, so don’t miss this tour while you’re in town. So much rich history was packed into the experience that I think I learned more about Civil Rights in just four hours than I ever did at school!

Our guide, Omar, was super charismatic, and he kept us engaged throughout the tour with powerful stories from Atlanta’s civil rights movement. He also offered unique insights into the city’s past and present culture as we explored historic neighborhoods like Sweet Auburn and the West End.

We learned all about how Sweet Auburn was once the wealthiest Black district in America, while the West End remains one of Atlanta’s most spiritually rich and pro-Black neighborhoods. 

We also loved stopping at the Municipal Market, where we had the chance to buy lunch at one of the many Black-owned eateries. And, of course, catching a glimpse of Tyler Perry Studios and the original Madea’s House was a fun surprise!

This tour has over one thousand five-star reviews, and we can see why. It was eye-opening, inspiring, and unforgettable. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, you’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for Atlanta’s role in Black history and culture. If you’re only doing one tour in Atlanta, make it this one!

3. Discover the stunning scenery of Stone Mountain

Want to escape Atlanta’s busy streets and explore one of Georgia’s most unique natural attractions? This Stone Mountain Park tour is a fantastic way to do just that, with transportation taken care of so you can sit back and enjoy the experience!

You’ll meet your small group in downtown Atlanta before heading to Stone Mountain Park, a massive 3,200-acre (1,295-hectare) park filled with beautiful scenery, historic landmarks, and plenty to explore. Along the way, you’ll stop at spots like Stone Mountain Golf Course, Indian Island, and the Stone Mountain Grist Mill, with lots of opportunities to snap photos.

One of the biggest highlights is reaching the top of Stone Mountain! You can choose to hike up the mountain trail or take the cable car from the Skyride Plaza for an additional fee. Either way, you’ll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the surrounding Georgia landscape. And if you decide to hike up but don’t feel like walking back down, you can purchase a one-way cable car ticket for the return trip!

There’s also time to check out the Stone Mountain Museum or simply wander around and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. We love that this tour gives you the convenience of a guide and transportation without making you feel rushed or tied to a strict schedule.

If you’re looking for a fun escape from the city with a little adventure and some seriously beautiful views, this is a great addition to your Atlanta itinerary!

4. Maximize your sightseeing and bicycle around Atlanta

This bike tour was such a fun way to discover Atlanta! When we first arrived, the thought of exploring this busy city on two wheels felt quite intimidating. However, with our local guide, Robyn, showing us the safe bike routes and quiet paths, cycling around proved to be a breeze. In fact, it was the perfect way to experience Atlanta like a local!

The bikes were comfortable, and Robyn provided us with plenty of snacks and water. We started the tour by cycling through Oakland Cemetery, where we learned about many prominent Atlanteans laid to rest here. Then, we cycled through the Krog Street Tunnel while admiring its vibrant street art and graffiti. Trust me, this is a real must-see while you’re in Atlanta! 

We also rode along the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, passing murals, street performers, and the iconic Tiny Doors ATL installations. Meanwhile, the quiet,  tree-lined streets of Inman Park were a dream to ride through, and we loved seeing all of the gorgeous Victorian homes.

Stopping at the Jackson Street Bridge for that stunning skyline view was incredible! Then, we ended the ride near the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, which is obviously a must-see. 

We had such a great time on this tour, and we can totally see why it has hundreds of glowing reviews (read them here!). Just be sure to book this tour early because it always sells out ahead of time.

5. Hike around Atlanta’s surrounding beauty

Atlanta may be a major city, but there are tons of trails where you can get your nature fix! These are some of our favorite areas to hike around Atlanta.

• Sweetwater Creek State Park: The 2-mile (3.2-km) round trip to the New Manchester mill ruins is a great place to start, with beautiful creek views and Civil War-era ruins along the way. There are also longer trails if you’re up for more of a challenge!

• Sawnee Mountain Trailhead: For a moderate hike with a fantastic payoff, follow the Indian Seats Trail to the overlook, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

• Kennesaw Mountain: This is another great option, with everything from a 2.1-mile (3.4-km) summit hike to longer trails winding through the historic battlefield.

• Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: With trails for nearly every skill level, this is a fantastic place to enjoy peaceful river views, wooded scenery, and historic ruins.

You’ll need a car to reach most of these spots, and some have parking or entrance fees. If you’re visiting during summer, we recommend hitting the trails early to beat the heat and bringing plenty of water!

6. Discover Atlanta’s best food spots and street art with a local

This Inman Park food and history tour was hands down one of the best experiences we’ve had in Atlanta. I mean, yummy food and vibrant street art are always a winning combo! It’s really no surprise that this tour always sells out, so be sure to book in advance if you want to eat your way through the city. 

Exploring Southern cuisine is a must while you’re in this part of the US, and the stops on this food tour were perfectly planned to highlight a different aspect of Atlanta’s cuisine. What we love about the food here is that it’s fairly simple. Dining out in Atlanta is all about comfort, rich flavors, and warm Southern hospitality. 

During the tour, we tried everything from samosas and empanadas to decadent sweet treats. The donut sandwiches stuffed with fresh Georgia peaches were definitely our favorite! We also really liked that all of the restaurants were locally owned.

Along the way, we enjoyed learning about how Inman Park transformed from Atlanta’s first planned suburb to the vibrant, foodie hotspot it is today. And, of course, seeing the street art in the Krog Street Tunnel and along the BeltLine Eastside Trail made the whole experience even better. These parts of the city really feel like an open-air art museum! 

Atlanteans sure know how to eat, so don’t miss the chance to chow down like a local while you’re in the city. Oh, and remember to show up hungry! 

7. Get a glimpse of Y’allywood: filming locations from multiple movies and shows

Atlanta has become such a popular filming location that it even earned itself the nickname “Y’allywood.” On this private movie and TV locations tour, you’ll see places that have appeared on screen, with the tour built around the movies and shows you actually care about.

Rather than following the same set route as everyone else, you can choose the filming locations that match your interests and fandoms. Big Stranger Things fan? Want to see where Marvel movies were filmed? You can work with your private guide to create an itinerary that’s all about your favorites.

You’ll cruise around Atlanta in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, which is especially nice when the Georgia heat kicks in. Along the way, your guide will share movie trivia, behind-the-scenes stories, and little details about how Atlanta gets transformed into different places for the screen.

And because it’s a private tour, you don’t have to worry about keeping up with a big group. You can ask questions, stop to take photos, and spend more time talking about the locations that actually interest you.

The tour runs for three hours, with morning and afternoon options available. Whether you’re the kind of person who recognizes a movie location from a two-second shot or you just think it’s cool to see the real places behind your favorite shows, this is a fun way to explore Atlanta from a completely different perspective!

8. Catch a ballgame or tour one of Atlanta’s professional sports stadiums

If you’re a sports fan, Atlanta is a fantastic place to catch a game! During baseball season, head to Truist Park to cheer on the Atlanta Braves, then spend some time exploring The Battery Atlanta right next door. This lively entertainment district is packed with restaurants, bars, shops, arcade games, and occasional live music, so it’s easy to turn a baseball game into a full afternoon or evening.

Not visiting during baseball season? A guided Truist Park stadium tour is another fun option, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at parts of the ballpark you wouldn’t normally see on game day.

For football and soccer, head downtown to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC (check the game schedule here). Even if there isn’t a game scheduled, you can book a guided stadium tour on select dates, with tickets starting around $25 USD.

Basketball fans aren’t left out either! The Atlanta Hawks play at State Farm Arena downtown, making it another great option if you’re visiting during the NBA season.

9. Learn about Martin Luther King Jr.’s history on a walking tour 

There’s something incredibly moving about walking through the same neighborhood where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. grew up. This guided tour takes you into the heart of Atlanta’s Civil Rights history, visiting the places where his story began and learning about the movement that changed America.

You’ll start at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, where your guide fills you in on Dr. King’s life and legacy. Along the way, you’ll hear personal stories and lesser-known details that give you a little more insight into the person behind the history books.

From there, you’ll visit places like Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King preached, and the King Center, where you’ll find his tomb and the eternal flame. As you walk through Sweet Auburn, you’ll pass historical markers and landmarks that help connect the neighborhood to Dr. King’s early life.

One of the most powerful stops is the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame, where you’ll see the shoe prints of many other prominent figures who fought for justice alongside Dr. King. 

The whole tour is a really profound and emotional journey. As the hundreds of 5-star reviews will attest, this tour is not just for the history buffs. In fact, we think that everyone visiting Atlanta should book this tour!

10. Explore and shop in Atlanta’s trendy neighborhoods

For a taste of Atlanta’s creative, offbeat side, spend some time exploring its vibrant food and arts scene. Start at Krog Street Market, a popular food hall packed with restaurants and food stalls, making it an easy spot to grab lunch and try something new. Just outside, you’ll find the Krog Street Tunnel, famous for its colorful graffiti and ever-changing street art.

After eating, walk along the nearby Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, a lively path connecting neighborhoods filled with public art, shops, restaurants, and spots to stop for coffee or a drink.

Next, head to Little Five Points, one of Atlanta’s most eclectic neighborhoods. Browse quirky boutiques, vintage clothing stores, record shops, and independent businesses you won’t find in typical shopping districts. With its alternative vibe, street art, and lively atmosphere, it’s a fun place to wander without a strict agenda.

These areas are perfect for spending a few hours eating, shopping, and soaking up Atlanta’s creative side. Just keep in mind that Little Five Points is a short drive or ride from Krog Street Market, rather than an easy walk between the two.

11. See Atlanta at night with a local guide and have dinner 

If you ask us, the best way to spend an evening in Atlanta is on this nighttime tour! We had so much fun exploring the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods after dark with a local guide, who showed us where real Atlanteans like to shop, eat, and party! 

But first, we got to see some of Atlanta’s most iconic landmarks lit up after dark, including the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Centennial Olympic Park. We also stopped at Krog Street Market, where we had a chance to buy dinner from many delicious eateries, which ranged from barbecue to sushi. Naturally, we opted for barbecue—when in Atlanta, right?

After that, we explored the artsy Little Five Points and had so much fun checking out its unique mix of indie stores, dive bars, and quirky street art. We actually came back to hang out in this area later during our trip, so we’re SO glad the tour took us here! 

Another highlight was the breathtaking view from Jackson Street Bridge. We had already been here during the day, but seeing the city skyline glowing after dark really took it to the next level!

From the Ponce City Market to the eclectic Old 4th Ward District, every stop offered a new perspective on Atlanta. It was the perfect opportunity to see the city buzzing after dark and discover lots of local hotspots. We would definitely do it again!

12. Take a bus tour to sightsee Atlanta

If you want to see as much of Atlanta as possible, this five-hour sightseeing bus tour is a great place to start. You’ll visit historic landmarks, explore lively markets, and see some of the city’s most famous neighborhoods, with a guide sharing stories along the way.

You’ll start with some of the city’s most important historic sites, including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and Ebenezer Baptist Church. Along the way, your guide will share interesting stories about the places you pass by.

The tour then shifts to Atlanta’s modern food and shopping scene, including stops at Krog Street Market and Ponce City Market. These popular gathering spots offer a taste of the city’s trendy side, while you’ll also pass Centennial Olympic Park, Atlantic Station, the Margaret Mitchell House, and the Swan House.

You’ll also drive through Buckhead, one of Atlanta’s most upscale neighborhoods, known for its impressive homes and mansions. The tour includes a lunch stop at the CNN Center, where you can grab something to eat at your own expense.

With a climate-controlled coach, driver, and guide handling the logistics, you can sit back and take it all in. It’s a good option when you want to cover a lot of ground without spending your day trying to navigate Atlanta’s busy streets. By the end, you’ll have seen everything from historic landmarks to trendy markets and some of the city’s most famous neighborhoods.

13. Explore the World of Coca-Cola and Downtown Atlanta

Downtown Atlanta is home to several of the city’s biggest attractions, and many are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore a few in one day.

Start at the World of Coca-Cola, where you can learn about the history of the iconic drink and sample Coca-Cola products from around the world. Then, head to nearby Centennial Olympic Park to see the famous Fountain of Rings and take a break between attractions.

Right next door, the Georgia Aquarium is a highlight, with enormous underwater viewing windows and marine life ranging from whale sharks to beluga whales. If you’re a sports fan, the College Football Hall of Fame is another fun stop, while SkyView Atlanta offers a completely different perspective with sweeping views from its giant Ferris wheel.

Planning to visit several attractions? The Atlanta CityPASS bundles admission to select popular sights for less than buying individual tickets, making it worth considering for a busy sightseeing day. Depending on the pass you choose, it can also include attractions outside downtown, such as Zoo Atlanta and Fernbank Museum.

14. Wander Mid-Town with a visit to the Botanical Gardens and High Museum of Art

For a mix of beautiful gardens, open green spaces, and world-class art, head to Midtown Atlanta. This walkable area is perfect for slowing down and enjoying a different side of the city, with the Atlanta Botanical Garden and High Museum of Art making an easy pairing for a relaxed day of exploring. 

Start at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, right next to Piedmont Park. You can wander through themed gardens, tropical spaces, and seasonal displays, making it an easy place to slow down for a while. You can visit Tuesday through Sunday, 9 am to 7 pm, with admission tickets costing $33 USD.

Nearby, the High Museum of Art is an Atlanta highlight, with everything from classic works to contemporary exhibitions. General admission is $24 USD for visitors age 6 and up, while children 5 and under get in free. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from noon to 5 pm.

These two spots make such a good combination for a full day in Midtown. Spend the morning wandering through the gardens, grab lunch nearby, then take your time exploring the museum.

15. Explore North Georgia Wine Country and the town of Helen

Need a break from the Atlanta city scene? This private North Georgia winery tour is a fun way to spend a day in the mountains, with wine tastings, a visit to the charming Bavarian-style town of Helen, and plenty of beautiful scenery along the way.

One thing we love about this tour is that your private chauffeur picks you up right at your hotel, so you can skip the hassle of driving yourself. Just settle in and enjoy the ride as you leave the city behind!

You’ll visit a couple of North Georgia wineries, where you can sample local wines and soak up the mountain views. The tour also includes time to explore downtown Helen, a quirky little town with Bavarian-style buildings, cute shops, and plenty of spots to grab a bite or wander around.

Since it’s a private tour, it’s a great option for couples, families, or a small group of friends who want a more personal experience. Most tours accommodate up to six people, so you can enjoy the day together without being crammed onto a big tour bus.

Between the wineries, mountain views, and time to explore Helen, this is a lovely way to see a different side of Georgia without having to plan a thing yourself!

Related Read: To see how we put together our favorite experiences here, check out our 3-day Atlanta itinerary!

Where to Stay in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is a dynamic city with no shortage of great places to stay, whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or budget-friendly accommodations. From high-end hotels in the heart of Midtown to affordable stays with easy access to top attractions, there’s something for every traveler.

To help you find the perfect place, we’ve put together a list of the best hotels in Atlanta—so you can spend less time searching and more time exploring everything this exciting city has to offer!

Luxury – $$$

Located in Midtown, Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta is a 5-star retreat that blends Southern hospitality with world-class elegance. The hotel features stylish rooms, a saltwater pool, a full-service spa, and Park 75, a top-rated restaurant serving locally inspired cuisine. Its prime location puts you near Piedmont Park, the High Museum of Art, and top attractions—making it an ideal base for a luxurious stay.

Room rates vary by season and suite, typically ranging from $400—$800 per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia by IHG is a fantastic mid-range hotel offering a stylish and comfortable stay in a prime location. Situated near Perimeter Mall, with easy access to top Atlanta attractions, it’s a great base for exploring the city. The hotel features spacious, modern rooms, a fitness center, and a beautiful garden area with walking paths. Guests can also enjoy multiple dining options, including an on-site restaurant serving delicious Southern-inspired cuisine.

Prices typically range from $150—$250 per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.

Budget – $

For a budget-friendly stay in Atlanta, Sheraton Atlanta Perimeter North is a great pick! Located near I-285, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms with plush bedding, a work desk, and a coffee maker. Guests can relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy a meal at Parkside Grille, or grab a drink at the lounge. A fitness center, jogging path, and free shuttle service make exploring easier.

Rooms start at $88 per night, with breakfast included. Visit Booking.com to check availability and book!

For more options, see all of Atlanta’s hotels listed here!

Thanks for reading!

Our time in Atlanta was unforgettable, and this city quickly became one of our favorite places to explore! From its deep-rooted history to its vibrant neighborhoods and thriving food scene, there’s so much to love about the ATL.

For even more travel tips and inspiration, check out our other USA blogs here. And if you’re exploring more of the South, we’ve picked out some must-read articles below to help you plan your next adventure!

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