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Heading to Atlanta soon? You’ll want this guide!
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. That’s where we can help.
We’ve spent plenty of time exploring Atlanta, from its historic streets to its trendiest hangouts, and we’ve put together a 3-day itinerary that covers the must-see spots while still allowing time to enjoy the city at a leisurely pace. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re coming back for more, this guide will help you see the best of Atlanta in just three days. Let’s get to it!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Atlanta was this Civil Rights tour! We learned all about Atlanta’s key role in the Civil Rights movement and its long-standing African American history – it was so insightful and an absolute must while in the city.
Check out the 1,200+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
Atlanta is a big, spread-out city, and while public transportation exists, it isn’t the most convenient way to get around. For this 3-day itinerary, you can rely on Uber to hop between neighborhoods or rent a car if you prefer—most of the activities are within the city itself, so it really comes down to your comfort and budget.
This plan is designed to give you a mix of history, culture, food, and nightlife, without feeling rushed. Follow this plan and you’ll cover Atlanta’s must-see sights, neighborhoods, and flavors without feeling overwhelmed.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect on this three-day Atlanta itinerary:
Day 1: 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: 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: 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.
Day 1
Morning – See the city’s top sights on a trolley tour
Kicking off your first morning in Atlanta with this 90-minute trolley tour is the easiest way to get your bearings in this sprawling city. We recommend the 10:30 am time slot, which departs from right outside the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel in downtown Atlanta (make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early for pickup), and it turned out to be the perfect introduction.
The route covers a mix of Atlanta’s most famous landmarks and hidden gems. Passing the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site was especially powerful—you’ll see the home where he was born and the church where he was baptized.
Our guide, Shauna, shared stories that brought his legacy to life in such a moving way. The tour also rolls past the Margaret Mitchell House, where Gone With the Wind was written, and the impressive Georgia State Capitol with its glittering golden dome.
I loved how the ride balanced history with modern sights like the sleek Mercedes-Benz Stadium. We cruised through leafy neighborhoods such as Inman Park and Ansley Park, and Piedmont Park stood out as the kind of place you’d want to return to later for a picnic or a jog.
Since Atlanta isn’t the most walkable city and traffic can be stressful, the trolley really is the best way to cover ground without the hassle. And we clearly aren’t the only ones raving about it—check out 1,700 five-star reviews here to see why this tour is the best introduction to Atlanta!
For a fun overview of the ATL, book your trolley ride here!
Lunch – Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria
After the trolley tour, make your way to Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria, a convenient stop near the trolley tour’s end point and on the way to your afternoon activity. The timing works out perfectly since the morning and afternoon tours are only about 15 minutes apart.
Known as Atlanta’s first coal oven pizzeria, Max’s serves up smoky, crisp-crusted pies that are perfect for sharing. The Margherita is always a winner, but the meatball, sausage, and pepperoni combo is a hearty favorite if you’re craving something filling.
They also offer fresh salads, sandwiches, and pasta, so there’s plenty of variety if not everyone at the table wants pizza. With its laid-back vibe and cold drinks on hand, it’s a great place to recharge and cool off before continuing your day.
Afternoon – Learn about Atlanta’s Black History and Civil Rights
After lunch, it’s time to dive into one of Atlanta’s most meaningful experiences—this Black History and Civil Rights Tour. Starting at 2:15 pm (arrive about 15 minutes early), this 4-hour guided journey takes you deep into the city’s role in the Civil Rights Movement. Note that it isn’t offered on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, so plan your day accordingly so you don’t miss out.
Our guide, Omar, was engaging from the start, weaving powerful stories with thoughtful insights as we explored historic neighborhoods like Sweet Auburn and the West End. Sweet Auburn was once the wealthiest Black district in America, while the West End remains a hub of spirituality and pro-Black culture.
Walking those streets, hearing gospel music spill from church doors, and seeing murals honoring Civil Rights leaders gave the tour a powerful, living energy. Each stop offered context you won’t find in textbooks, and by the end of the afternoon, we felt like we’d gained a whole new perspective on Atlanta’s history.
One highlight was stopping at the Municipal Market, where you’ll have the chance to support Black-owned businesses and grab a snack if you’re hungry. And yes—catching a glimpse of Tyler Perry Studios and Madea’s original house was an unexpected bonus!
With over 1,200 five-star reviews, this tour has earned its reputation for being eye-opening and unforgettable. It wraps up around 6:15 pm, leaving you inspired and ready for dinner!
Book this Black History and Civil Rights tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Dinner – Fin & Feathers
After wrapping up the afternoon tour, take a 5-minute Uber ride or drive to Fin & Feathers, a modern soul food restaurant with a lively, welcoming vibe. It’s the kind of spot that works just as well for sharing plates with friends as it does for settling in with your own hearty entrée, making it an easy choice after a day of sightseeing.
The menu puts a creative spin on Southern favorites, from crispy wings and catfish nuggets to shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, and honey bourbon salmon. Portions are generous, drinks are a highlight, and the upbeat atmosphere makes it a fun way to transition into the evening. Reservations aren’t required, but they’re a smart move during peak hours and seasons—request a table at Fin & Feathers online here!
Evening – Joystick Game Bar
Cap off your first day in Atlanta with some lighthearted fun at Joystick Game Bar, just a quick 3-minute walk from Fin & Feathers. This retro-inspired spot combines a cozy neighborhood bar feel with all the nostalgia of classic arcade cabinets and pinball machines.
Order a specialty drink or a local brew, grab a token, and challenge your travel buddy to Pac-Man, Street Fighter, or one of the other throwback games that line the walls. It’s casual, quirky, and a perfect way to wind down the evening without rushing into bed just yet. Whether you’re there to relive your arcade glory days or simply enjoy the playful vibe, Joystick Game Bar is a great way to end your first night in the city.
Related Read: Looking for more fun activities? Check out our top things to do in Atlanta blog, and if you have time, add a few more to this itinerary!
Day 2
Morning – Bicycle around the city
There’s no better way to start your second day in Atlanta than by hopping on a bike and exploring the city like a local. This Atlanta bike tour runs at different times throughout the year, but for this itinerary, we’ll stick with the 9 am departure, which wraps up by 11:30 am. The starting point is just a quick 5–10 minute Uber from downtown, and you’ll want to arrive 15 minutes early to get checked in and ready to ride.
Biking through a bustling city might sound daunting at first, but with our guide Robyn leading the way, it was surprisingly easy. She knew all the safe routes, quiet paths, and hidden corners that made riding feel comfortable while still keeping things exciting.
Highlights along the way included pedaling through Oakland Cemetery, admiring the street art in the Krog Street Tunnel, and cruising the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail with its murals and Tiny Doors ATL installations.
We also loved the leafy streets of Inman Park, lined with colorful Victorian homes, and of course, stopping at the Jackson Street Bridge for that postcard-worthy skyline view. The ride wraps up near the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site—an inspiring place to end the morning.
You may recognize a few spots from yesterday’s trolley tour, but this ride gives you a closer look and a whole new perspective at street level—plus plenty of new stops you wouldn’t see otherwise. With hundreds of glowing five-star reviews, it’s clear this experience has become a favorite for visitors and locals alike!
Snag your spot on this popular Atlanta bike tour here before it sells out!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Lunch – Krog Street Market
After finishing the bike tour near the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, it’s just a quick 4-minute walk to Krog Street Market, one of Atlanta’s most popular food halls. Set inside a historic warehouse, this spot is buzzing at lunchtime with a mix of locals and visitors, all here for the huge variety of eats under one roof.
Whether you’re craving barbecue, Asian street food, gourmet sandwiches, or a sweet treat, there’s something here for every taste. It’s a great place to wander, sample a few things, and recharge after your morning ride. Once you’ve had your fill, grab an Uber or drive about 10 minutes up to Midtown for the afternoon’s activities.
Afternoon – Midtown Atlanta
This afternoon is all about Midtown, one of Atlanta’s most vibrant districts and home to two of the city’s top attractions: the High Museum of Art and the Atlanta Botanical Garden. After lunch, head about 10 minutes north by Uber or car, and you’ll arrive at the High Museum probably around 1 pm. Together, these two sights will easily fill the rest of your afternoon. Just note that both are closed on Mondays, so if that’s when you’re visiting, you’ll want to swap your itinerary days around to avoid missing out.
High Museum of Art
The High Museum of Art is the kind of place that surprises you with just how much there is to see. Admission is $23.50 USD, and inside you’ll find everything from classic European paintings to bold modern and contemporary works. They also host rotating special exhibitions, which often end up being the highlight of the visit.
Plan to spend 2–3 hours wandering through the galleries and admiring the building’s striking architecture—it’s almost as impressive as the art itself. Since the museum is open until 5 pm, you’ll have plenty of time to take it all in without feeling rushed.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
From the museum, it’s just a pleasant 15-minute walk to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, where lush greenery and artistic displays make for a memorable afternoon. Admission is $30 USD, and the gardens stay open until 9 pm, so you can linger as long as you like.
The grounds are vast, with everything from tropical greenhouses to themed outdoor spaces, but the real showstoppers are the whimsical Alice in Wonderland–inspired topiary sculptures, which are absolutely worth the visit. Plan to spend around 2 hours wandering the paths and taking it all in before wrapping up your Midtown adventure.
Dinner – South City Kitchen Midtown
After an afternoon of art and gardens, it’s time to sit down to some true Southern cooking at South City Kitchen Midtown. Just a short 6-minute drive or a 20-minute walk through Piedmont Park from the Botanical Garden, this spot blends classic comfort food with a modern twist in a warm, welcoming setting.
The menu is filled with Southern staples done right—think fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and buttermilk fried chicken that’s a favorite among locals. Portions are hearty, flavors are rich, and the atmosphere strikes a balance between casual and upscale, making it a great place to unwind without feeling too formal. It’s the perfect way to recharge after a busy day of sightseeing, with plenty of energy left for a final stop before calling it a night.
Evening – Grab a nightcap at MidCity
End your second day in Atlanta with a laid-back stop at MidCity, a cozy bar just a 5-minute drive from South City Kitchen Midtown. The vibe here is relaxed and welcoming, with expertly made drinks that are as creative as they are refreshing. It’s the perfect spot to toast the day and wind things down at an easy pace.
What makes MidCity even better is its location in one of Atlanta’s historic districts. After your drink, take a short stroll through the surrounding streets to admire the character and charm of the neighborhood. It’s a calm, unhurried way to wrap up the evening before heading back to rest up for another full day in the city.
Day 3
Breakfast – Thumbs Up Diner
Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at Thumbs Up Diner, a local favorite that’s been serving classic Southern breakfasts for years. The menu is stacked with all the comfort staples—fluffy pancakes, golden waffles, buttery biscuits, and savory omelets—along with plenty of coffee to get you moving. It’s casual, welcoming, and exactly the kind of spot where you’ll find both locals and travelers starting their day.
Even better, the diner is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk or quick 2-minute drive to the morning tour’s meeting point, making it the perfect place to eat before you get going. Doors open at 7 am on weekdays and 8 am on weekends, so you’ll have plenty of time to grab breakfast before heading out for the tour.
Morning – Learn about Martin Luther King Jr.’s history on a walking tour
No trip to Atlanta is complete without exploring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and this historic walking tour through Sweet Auburn is one of the most meaningful ways to do it!
The tour typically starts at either 10 am or 12 pm (except Wednesdays), depending on the season. For this itinerary, we recommend the 10 am departure, which runs for about 2.5 hours and wraps up around 12:30 pm. (If you book the later start, just shift your day’s plans accordingly.)
The experience begins at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, a place you may remember from other city tours, but this time, our guide Zoie led us on a deep dive into its history, bringing Dr. King’s story to life with personal insights you won’t find in textbooks. From there, we walked to significant landmarks, including the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King preached, and the King Center, where his tomb and eternal flame serve as moving tributes to his legacy.
As we continued through Sweet Auburn, the historic markers and preserved landmarks gave real context to how Dr. King’s upbringing shaped his role in the Civil Rights Movement. A highlight was the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame, where we stood among the shoe prints of other influential leaders who fought for justice alongside him.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just curious to learn more, it’s an eye-opening and emotional journey we think everyone should experience in Atlanta!
Read the glowing reviews and book this tour here!
Lunch – Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks
After your morning tour ends around 12:30 pm, take a 10-minute drive over to Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks for lunch, a spot that’s earned a big reputation for serving some of the best sandwiches in Atlanta. This no-frills favorite dishes out cheesesteaks piled high with juicy steak, gooey cheese, and all the fixings—Philly style with a Southern twist. Portions are generous, so come hungry!
It’s conveniently located near the World of Coca-Cola, so you can easily stop here before or after your visit, depending on how your appetite is holding up. With fast service and bold flavors, Big Dave’s is a fun, casual break in your day and well worth the detour.
Afternoon – World of Coca-Cola
After lunch, it’s just a short walk to one of Atlanta’s most iconic attractions—the World of Coca-Cola. This fun and interactive museum is dedicated to the history of the world’s most famous soft drink, which was born right here in Atlanta. Even if you’re not a soda fan, the exhibits are surprisingly engaging, with everything from vintage advertising to a behind-the-scenes look at the bottling process.
Entry ranges from $23 to $26 USD depending on the day, and it’s best to buy tickets online here in advance, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend or during peak travel season. Plan on spending about 2 hours exploring, which gives you time to check out the memorabilia, watch the short films, and, of course, sample flavors from around the world in the popular tasting room.
Late Afternoon – Centennial Olympic Park
Once you finish exploring the World of Coca-Cola, step right outside to Centennial Olympic Park, the centerpiece of Atlanta’s 1996 Summer Olympics. Today, it’s a lively green space filled with wide walking paths, fountains, and shady lawns that make it the perfect spot to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. Whether you stroll through the gardens, snap photos at the Olympic Rings, or just sit back and people-watch, the park offers a refreshing change of pace in the middle of downtown.
If you find yourself with a little extra time before dinner, walk a few minutes over to Hansel & Gretel Bakery Café for a coffee and maybe a sweet treat. It’s a great way to recharge before wrapping up your day.
Evening – See Atlanta at night with a local guide and enjoy dinner
End your last day by experiencing Atlanta after dark on this guided nighttime tour. It meets at 7 pm at the same start point as the Civil Rights tour from day one—just a 10-minute walk from Centennial Olympic Park. You can expect to finish up around 10:30 pm, making it the perfect way to round out your trip without feeling rushed. Just keep in mind it doesn’t operate on Tuesdays.
The route winds past Atlanta’s landmarks, glowing at night, like the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Centennial Olympic Park. From Friday to Monday, the dinner stop is shared between the BeltLine Eastside Trail and Krog Street Market, both packed with great options. On Thursdays, it shifts to eclectic East Atlanta Village, known for its street art, live music, and locally owned spots.
From there, the tour continues through some of Atlanta’s most colorful neighborhoods. You’ll revisit the vibrant Krog Street Tunnel, known for its ever-changing street art, and stop again briefly at the King Center, where Dr. King’s eternal flame burns as a moving reminder of his legacy.
Little Five Points buzzes with quirky shops, street art, and dive bars, while Ponce City Market and the Old Fourth Ward showcase the city’s trendier side. A highlight is stopping at the Jackson Street Bridge for Atlanta’s most famous skyline view. Seeing it during the day is one thing, but experiencing it lit up after dark is a sight you won’t ever forget!
It’s the perfect way to close out your Atlanta trip, combining sightseeing, culture, dinner, and nightlife into one exciting evening.
Check availability and book this nighttime tour here!
Related Read: If you’re continuing your travels, follow our 3-day Savannah itinerary to experience another stunning Georgia city!
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!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this 3-day itinerary is helpful as you explore Atlanta! Whether you’re here for a quick city escape or part of a longer travel route, I know you’ll have the best time in this historic city. Stick to our guide and you’ll experience the best of Atlanta!
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out our other USA blogs. We have tons of resources, including city itineraries, where to stay guides, and lists of top things to do. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!
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