16 Must-Do Activities in Atlanta

From culinary delights to history, music, and sports—Atlanta truly has something for everyone.

Plus, this vibrant city allows you to enjoy lush green spaces without sacrificing urban excitement. Almost half of Atlanta is adorned with a tree canopy, letting you relish city life while staying connected to nature.

Discover unique experiences in Atlanta that you won't find anywhere else.

1. Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park

Honor the remarkable legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife, Coretta Scott King, at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park. This expansive site showcases his childhood, preaching career, and leadership in the civil rights movement.

Discover more: Key Civil Rights Landmarks in the South

Bonus Tip: After exploring the National Historic Park, stroll across the street for stunning views of Downtown Atlanta from the Jackson St Bridge.

2. Discover the Evolving Street Art at Krog Street Tunnel

Art enthusiasts can experience a dynamic showcase of local talent in the Krog Street Tunnel. The graffiti and street art frequently change, but don’t miss the commissioned pieces just outside that usually remain for a longer period.

Tip for Visitors: The Krog Street Tunnel is conveniently located along the Atlanta BeltLine’s Eastside Trail, allowing you to easily explore nearby shops and eateries, especially at the nearby Krog Street Market.

Learn more: 15 Free Ways to Experience Atlanta

3. Indulge at the Sweet Auburn Municipal Market

This indoor market brimming with artisanal shops is perfect for hungry visitors or anyone looking for a leisurely stroll. With dozens of vendors, this market has preserved its rich history, dating back to the early 20th century.

Insider Tip: Be sure to try the scrumptious sweet potato cheesecake at the Sweet Auburn Bread Company, a beloved family-owned bakery in the city since 1997.

4. Explore Atlanta's Hip Hop Heritage at the Trap Music Museum

When rapper T.I. released his 2003 album Trap Muzik, he spotlighted a subgenre of hip hop that he and fellow Atlanta artists were pioneering. The Trap Music Museum, founded by T.I., is the ultimate destination to discover Atlanta’s hip hop legacy, featuring photos and memorabilia from T.I. and other local talents like 21 Savage and 2 Chainz.

5. Enjoy a Refreshing Drink at the World of Coca-Cola

In Atlanta, the Coca-Cola brand is so deeply rooted that locals often refer to any soda simply as 'a Coke,' asking for their hometown favorite by its full name. A visit to the museum dedicated to the world's most iconic beverage, invented here in 1886, is a must. Even if the history of Coca-Cola doesn’t pique your interest, make sure to check out the exhibit featuring tastings of Coke products from across the globe.

Visitor Tip: The World of Coca-Cola is part of a larger attraction complex that also features the Georgia Aquarium and the Center for Civil and Human Rights, all located within the same square.

6. Indulge in Retail Therapy at Ponce City Market

This former warehouse, which stood vacant for many years, has transformed into a vibrant shopping destination for both locals and visitors. Ponce City Market offers dining experiences that are quintessentially Atlanta; don’t miss out on a King of Pops popsicle. Be sure to visit the rooftop for mini-golf, drinks, and stunning skyline views.

Visitor Tip: Ponce City Market is situated along the BeltLine Eastside Trail if you plan to walk. There’s also deck parking available for those who prefer to drive.

7. Experience the Essence of The Games at Centennial Olympic Park

Many official Olympic venues and courts from the Atlanta Olympics are gradually being dismantled and repurposed, but the Downtown park honoring the summer of '96 remains intact. Snap a photo of the Olympic rings at the Fountain of Rings Plaza, then take a spin on the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel.

Visitor Tip: Centennial Olympic Park is just a short stroll from the World of Coca-Cola and other attractions in Downtown. You can easily enjoy a walk in the park while you wait for your scheduled entrance to nearby sites.

8. Enjoy an Indie Classic at the Plaza Theatre

As Atlanta's sole venue dedicated to indie films, foreign movies, classics, and documentaries, the Plaza has been delighting audiences since 1939. Locals appreciate its preserved vintage atmosphere and the chance to see films not available anywhere else in the city.

9. Catch a Double Feature at Starlight Drive-In

Atlanta’s last remaining drive-in theater offers a nostalgic experience for movie enthusiasts to enjoy two films for the price of one. On weekends, the Starlight Drive-In transforms into a bustling outdoor flea market, featuring vendors selling everything from tacos to plants and household items.

Visitor Tip: Enjoying a double feature is a budget-friendly option for families, as admission for children nine and under is only $1. Plus, you're welcome to bring your own snacks.

10. Breathe in the Fragrance at Atlanta Botanical Garden

If you appreciate meticulously designed outdoor spaces, you'll love the 30 acres of exhibits at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. The garden hosts specific events tailored for various audiences, including children, families, and adults looking for cocktail experiences.

Visitor Tip: Most outdoor pathways are wheelchair accessible. Free wheelchairs are available, and scooters can be rented for convenience.

11. Discover the City's History at the Atlanta History Center

The Atlanta History Center features nine permanent exhibitions that narrate the city's past. Among them is The Battle of Atlanta cyclorama, a hand-painted, nearly 360-degree artwork created in 1886, and one of only two remaining cycloramas in the United States. Be sure to step outside to explore the trails and gardens that provide insights into botanical history.

12. Experience Renowned Art at the High Museum of Art

As the largest visual arts museum in the southeastern United States, affectionately known as “The High” by locals, it showcases artwork from around the globe through both permanent and traveling exhibitions.

Visitor Tip: On the second Sunday of each month, the High Museum of Art offers free admission, emphasizing family-friendly activities.

13. Walk or Bike the Atlanta BeltLine

Since the launch of the Atlanta BeltLine project in 2006, it has swiftly become the city’s most frequented trail system. You’ll often see people biking, scootering, exercising, or simply hanging out along the trail throughout the day. While the project continues, the completed BeltLine will form a full loop around the city, with the Eastside Trail currently being the most popular.

14. Experience “Shooting the Hooch” on the Chattahoochee River

For an authentic local experience, don’t miss tubing on the Chattahoochee River, known as “shooting the Hooch.” You can bring your own tube and enter the river at one of the popular access points within the Chattahoochee National Recreation Area. Alternatively, you can hire a tubing company that provides gear and coordinates drop-off and pick-up for you.

Visitor Tip: The river currents are gentle, especially in the commonly used areas for tubing. However, local regulations mandate that you have a life jacket on hand during your tubing experience, and all participants aged 13 and under must wear theirs while on the river.

15. Enjoy People-Watching at Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s most beloved park. In spring and summer, it hosts well-known annual events like the Atlanta Jazz Fest, but it's also an ideal spot for spontaneous dance parties with friends. Stroll along the paved paths to take in stunning city views and, even better, engage in some people-watching.

16. Experience More than Baseball at The Battery Atlanta

Baseball enthusiasts will appreciate a trip to Truist Park, the home stadium, as well as the vibrant shopping area known as The Battery. Enjoy southern cuisine at the Garden & Gun Club, then catch live music at the revitalized Coca-Cola Roxy Theater. Additionally, families (including furry ones) can enjoy plenty of parks and fountains.

Visitor Tip: The area becomes quite lively on baseball game days, but rest assured that the shops and restaurants stay open even when Truist Park is closed.

Continue planning your Atlanta trip:

• Bookmark our guide on getting around in Atlanta

• Dive deeper and discover Atlanta's best neighborhoods

• Begin budgeting with these money-saving tips