Not only is Atlanta, Georgia, home to the busiest airport in the world and all the things that metropolitan cities are known for, but it also features beautiful green spaces, world-class restaurants, professional sporting teams, concert venues, plenty of interactive museums, historical sites, and family-friendly adventures.
Here’s your list of the top 53+ things to do in Atlanta when you are in town, whether you’re visiting the Georgia capital city for the first time, the second or beyond.
If you’re visiting Atlanta, the Museum of Illusions is a must-visit destination that promises unparalleled entertainment and intrigue! Having explored its wonders myself, I can attest to the captivating exhibits that challenge reality.
The vortex tunnel is particularly exhilarating, distorting your sense of balance and leaving you in awe. Its central location makes it easily accessible, fitting seamlessly into any Atlanta itinerary.
More than just a museum, it offers an interactive experience that’s perfect for all ages. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this immersive attraction offers a unique perspective, making it an essential stop to enrich your Atlanta adventure.
The Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the United States and with 10 million gallons of fresh and saltwater, it is home to the largest aquarium habitat in the world. In addition to the aquarium habitat, the center also features interactive displays, educational programs, theatres, animal interactions, and more.
Book It: Georgia Aquarium Tickets
Read More: Things to Do at the Georgia Aquarium | Aquarium Sleepover | Swim with Whale Sharks
Featuring over 1,000 animals representing over 200 species from around the globe, Zoo Atlanta is a must-visit when in town. From well-known species and animals on the brink of extinction to all-time favorites like the Giant Panda twins, the zoo is a comfortable place to get up close and personal with creatures great and small.
Kids will also love the playgrounds, splash pad, train ride, Treetop Trail, giraffe feedings, and onsite eateries.
Book It: Zoo Atlanta General Admission Tickets | Read More: Things to Do at the Zoo | CityPASS
Art enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy a visit to the High Museum of Art, the leading art museum in the Southeast. Featuring a celebrated collection of art from contemporary to classic, award-winning architecture and many educational programs and special events, it’s easy to see why the High is a top spot for tourists and locals alike.
Read More: Second Sundays | Membership | Jazz Night
The World of Coca-Cola is a dynamic, multi-media experience with tours, tastings, educational displays, a 4D movie and more.
Book It: World of Coca-Cola Tickets | Read More: Things to Do at World of Coke | CityPASS
You can always head to The Battery Atlanta to see an Atlanta Braves baseball game, but there is so much to do at this shopping, dining, play district -- including The Escape Game!
At The Escape Game, you'll find six escape rooms for all skill levels. Each game has multiple rooms to explore, and you can choose from a variety of themes and difficulties.
Far from a stuffy old natural history museum, Fernbank is a wonderland of adventure filled with living creatures, dinosaurs, artifacts, hands-on exhibits and over 75-acres of nature.
The outdoor space features interactive exhibits, giant old growth trees, boardwalks and more, making it a fun spot to explore the outdoors for families even with young kids. Check their calendar for special events and visiting exhibits.
Read More: Atlanta's Best Museum | Fernbank After Dark | CityPASS
Created in 1968, The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (“The King Center”) has been a global destination, resource center and community institution for 50 years. It is the “official, living memorial dedicated to the advancement of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., leader of America's greatest nonviolent movement for justice, equality and peace."
Visitors can view unique exhibits illustrating his life and teachings and visit the King Center, library, archives, his final resting place, his birth home, gift shop and other facilities. Admission and parking are FREE.
The Center for Civil and Human Rights is an engaging cultural attraction that connects the American Civil Rights Movement to today’s global human rights movements and how the African American community has overcome numerous triumphs throughout the years. The Center uses interactive exhibits and cutting-edge technology that enables visitors to find inspiration in each story and learn more about history's Civil Rights leaders.
Read More: 7+ Compelling Exhibits at the Civil Rights Museum Atlanta| CityPASS
Atlanta’s Piedmont Park is home to over 200 acres of green space, set up to be enjoyed by the entire family. Home to many festivals, concerts and special events, Piedmont Park also houses dog parks, playgrounds, an educational garden, a lake and beautiful public pool. The park is home to concession stands, green market, and even a restaurant, making it the perfect place the day.
Read More: Piedmont Park: 17 Free Ways You Can Have Fun
Kids of all ages will love visiting the Center for Puppetry Arts and exploring their museum of puppets from around the world.
In addition, check out the accompanying Jim Henson Collection— the most extensive in the world —with its interactive exhibits and behind-the-scenes looks at his most beloved and iconic characters. The puppet shows here are amazing.
Book It: World of Puppetry Museum Tickets
Atlanta loves its football and college ball is BIG here, so the College Football Hall of Fame is a must. 95,000 square feet. A 45-yard indoor football field. More than 50 engaging and interactive exhibits. A shrine to the greatest to ever play or coach the game. All in the heart of Downtown Atlanta.
Book It: College Football Hall of Fame Tickets | Read More: Things to Do at The Hall | CityPASS
Sweetwater Creek Park is one of our favorite spots to get outside, enjoy nature and take pictures! There are scenic backdrops at every turn and the easy walk to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company. This 215-acre park is full of places to explore, playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a museum and gift shop.
Read More: Sweetwater Creek State Park: Yurt Village & Hiking 411 | Georgia Glamping | Fall Colors | Parks with Waterfalls | Swimming Holes | Georgia State Parks Camping
If your family loves science, put Tellus Science Museum on the list for your next visit to Atlanta. Housing exhibits from dinosaurs to space, the Tellus covers all kinds of science-related things, with lots of hands-on activities for the kids, a planetarium, fossil and gem panning, and so much more.
Read More: Tellus Museum: 25 Fascinating Things To Create Lasting Family Memories
In association with the Smithsonian Institution, the Booth Western Art Museum is known as one of the premier Western Art Museums in the country. Featuring permanent exhibitions in the Cowboy Gallery, the American West Gallery, Faces of the West and more, in addition to temporary exhibitions and special events, the Booth caters to art fans and families of all ages.
Read More: Booth Museum: A Legendary Western Museum in the South
Atlanta is home to Delta Air Lines and the Delta Flight Museum offers guests an up-close look at its history. Check out historic aircraft dating back to the '20s, fly the only Boeing 737 flight simulator, experience interactive exhibits and check out artifacts, as well as cutting-edge technology.
Public tours are offered every Tuesday at 1 pm and are free with admission. Please visit here for the tour topic schedule.
The Jimmy Carter Museum is filled with fascinating facts and interactive displays that all will enjoy. Get a glimpse into a day in the life of an American President, peek into the Oval Office, and learn about the Carters' continuing endeavors to fight disease and promote democracy around the world.
Even as a resident, Ponce City Market is one of my favorite places to people watch, window shop and eat! The historic Sears & Roebuck building has been revamped into a hip, urban public market full of upscale shops, taverns and eateries. In addition, PCM offers tons of special events, like Skate the Sky, their rooftop ice skating rink (seasonal), Winemaker Wednesdays, entertainment and so much more.
The Roof at PCM is an Atlanta destination in its own right. Take a freight elevator up to The Roof for panoramic views of the city, an 18-hole mini golf course, boardwalk-style games and more. Parents, get a sitter for the evening and enjoy craft cocktails during a relaxing sunset cocktail hour.
Active visitors and explorers will want to take advantage of the Atlanta BeltLine, 33 miles of multi use trails snaking through the city of Atlanta. The BeltLine joins various neighborhoods, transportation hubs, green spaces and scenery with a convenient trail to walk, hike or bike while viewing nature and a multitude of public artistic installations.
The BeltLine conveniently meets stops such as Ponce City Market and Krog Street Market, making it a great place to spend a weekend morning.
Read More: Atlanta BeltLine: Outdoor Adventure Your Family Will Treasure
Discover the beauty of Callaway Resort & Gardens, located just over an hour from the airport. Explore 2,500-acres of gardens, trails, and natural beauty, including a visit to the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center. There are educational opportunities like shows, workshops, hikes and group programs.
Try their zipline and treetop adventure, and make sure to visit during their special events, including Fantasy in Lights!
More info: Callaway Gardens: The Ultimate Multi-Generational Getaway
Kiddos love airplanes? Then a trip to the Peachtree DeKalb Airport is on tap for your visit. Why? Because this airport has a super fun airport-themed park right within awesome runway views.
Kiddos can climb to the viewing platform, swing, slide and play; then take a break for a picnic at the covered picnic table (in a real hangar!) or hit up the Downwind Restaurant for a yummy burger as you watch the comings and goings of a multitude of aircraft!
Read More: Parks in Atlanta: Best Playgrounds & Play Spaces for Kids in the Metro
Do you like to go fast? If so, then the Porsche Experience Center is for you. Sign up for a driving course and spend 90 minutes behind the wheel of your choice of Porsche. And you'll have a coach at your side so you can learn how to handle it on the track.
Simulators and tours are also available, and you can dine at one of the onsite restaurants.
The Dragon Con annual event and parade attracts thousands of sci-fi-loving people to Atlanta each year. The multi-day event includes panels and seminars, demonstrations, and workshops, with programming that includes writing, art, anime, gaming, science fiction, and fantasy literature, comic books, costuming, robotics, and more.
Read More: Dragoncon Parade: Everything You Need To Know for an Amazing Time
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a 2,965-acre National Battlefield that preserves a Civil War battleground of the Atlanta Campaign. Here you'll find 17 miles of interpretive trails, monuments, and a museum that helps visitors understand the Battle of Atlanta during the Civil War. If you have kids, make sure to try the Jr Ranger program.
Read More: Day Tripping to the Breathtaking National Parks in Georgia
Chastain Memorial Park is the largest city park in Atlanta and includes jogging paths, playgrounds, tennis courts, a golf course, a swimming pool, a horse park, and an amphitheater.
The outdoor amphitheater is popular during the summer, with shows being offered between April and Oct. See the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra play here or one of your favorite musicians through Live Nation.
Featuring 1,500 scenic acres along the shores of Lake Sidney Lanier, Lanier Islands is a luxury resort, and the surrounding property is perfect for your next family vacation. Activities include golf, boating, camping, horseback riding, zip-lining, hiking, mini-golf, beach volleyball, and more.
Read More: 35 Amazing Lakes in Georgia You Don’t Want To Miss
This treasure is “hidden” about an hour north of Atlanta. Gibbs Gardens is a 292-acre estate, 220 of which is the house and gardens, making this one of the largest garden estates in the nation.
The garden is full of surprises...from a “Monet” bridge to waterfalls (there are 19), ponds, tree sculptures and more. The Garden Cafe serves tasty salads, sandwiches and other fare, allowing visitors to spend more time enjoying the lush surroundings.
Read More: Gibbs Gardens: Have You Heard of This Breathtaking Ball Ground Secret?
Daring visitors and residents may want to tackle a trip to iFLY for an indoor skydiving experience. Picture yourself suited up with wind rushing over your body for this thrilling activity.
Flyers ages 3 to 103 can indoor skydive. From beginners to seasoned pros, people of all shapes, sizes, and abilities can take flight and have the time of their lives.
Read More: Indoor Skydiving Atlanta: Master iFLY Like a Certified Champ (Video)
There are so many great places to stay in Atlanta! We've added hotel options to the top of this article, but here are some other options as well.
Atlanta is well-known for a number of things, including being the state capital of Georgia, being home to one of the busiest airports in the world, its thriving hip hop scene, being a filming hot spot for movies and TV shows, and for its role in the Civil Rights Movement.
If you're visiting Atlanta for the first time, about 3 days will be enough to hit some of the main points of interest. Of course, there is so much to do here, you could be here for years and not see it all!
Any time of year is a good time to visit Atlanta, but if you're looking for milder temperatures, then the spring and fall months are the best time to visit the ATL.
MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO GEORGIA
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