Choose from 30 Fun Things to Do in Atlanta
ShowingFilter 21-30 of 30 listings.
Piedmont Park
In the middle of Midtown, Piedmont Park is where locals come to play, picnic, and commune with nature. Indeed, the park is a glorious, rambling urban park, filled with verdant lawns, rolling hillsides, and Lake Clara Meer – all set against the backdrop of the Midtown Atlanta skyline. The park also is the setting of many cultural and music festivals, as well as some superb people watching.
For the active, Piedmont Park has softball and soccer fields, tennis courts, a public swimming pool, and fantastic paths for jogging, skating, and biking. For leisure activities, there’s fishing on Lake Clara Meer, picnic tables and benches, and expansive lawns for lazing in the sun. The Atlanta Botanical Garden is also here. Children will have endless fun, as open, car-free spaces abound. Make sure they don’t miss PlayScape, at the 12th Street gate. The geometrically shaped, modernist playground includes a soaring swing set, slide, sand pit, climbing dome, and more made of bright and exciting colors.
Come Saturday for the Saturday Green Market, where you can browse locally grown produce, artisan cheeses, fresh-cut flowers, and arts and crafts.
Practical Info
Piedmont Park is located north of Midtown Atlanta, and is accessible by bus and MARTA trains. If you’re coming by car, parking is plentiful but can fill up quickly when there are special events. The main entrances to the park is on 14th Street and 12th Street, both on Piedmont Avenue. At the 12th Street entrance is a visitor center, where you can pick up information.
Address: 400 Park Drive Northeast, Atlanta 30306, USA
Hours: Open daily 6am - 11pm
Admission: Free
From $ 59
Oakland Cemetery
More than just Atlanta’s oldest cemetery, dating back to 1850, Oakland Cemetery’s large grounds serve as a tranquil sanctuary from the urban bustle. Take a quiet moment to meander past stunning mausoleums, grand oaks, and notable graves including those of Bobby Jones, Margaret Mitchell, and Maynard Jackson.
The Basics
An astounding 70,000 people are buried in the 43-acre (17-hectare) Oakland Cemetery. Though the last plots were sold in 1884, burials still continue through the use of family-owned plots and city exceptions for notable figures. Today the site also functions as a beautiful park with winding stone paths, shade-producing trees, and blossoming flowers. You can explore the cemetery on your own at any time without paying an entry fee, or upgrade for a self-guided tour map with information about notable graves or a guided tour with the Historic Oakland Foundation on the weekends (no reservation required). When you first get to the cemetery, be sure to stop by the Visitors Center for maps and information.
To get the most out of your visit to the Oakland Cemetery, go as part of an Atlanta guided tour via Segway or a Gone with the Wind tour, which shows you the cemetery through the eyes of the famous book-turned-film.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Oakland Cemetery is lovely for anyone looking for a little serenity.
- Discounts on tours are available for students and seniors.
- Private tours and tours by golf cart are available at any time.
- The cemetery offers limited wheelchair access.
How to Get There
Oakland Cemetery is located just north of Grant Park, roughly a 10-minute drive from downtown Atlanta. There is free on-site parking. If traveling by MARTA, the closest stop is King Memorial Station.
When to Get There
The cemetery is open from dawn until dusk every day of the year; the Visitors Center is open from 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday with seasonal weekend hours. Throughout the year, Oakland Cemetery hosts events such as the very popular annual Victorian Street Festival, during which some patrons come dressed in period clothing. Music festivals, special topic tours, and various events also fill up the cemetery’s calendar.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park, just a 5-minute drive away from Oakland Cemetery. It’s also only a 10-minute drive from other must-see downtown Atlanta attractions such the CNN Center, the Georgia Aquarium, and the World of Coca-Cola.
Address: 248 Oakland Ave, SE, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
From $ 55
Little Five Points
The eclectic Atlanta neighborhood, Little Five Points, has been described as the Haight-Ashbury of the south and is known for its fringe culture, music, food and residents. Visitors who venture to this popular spot can jam out to the indie radio station, WRFG, that's a hit among locals, while combing through the stacks at two of the area's independent bookstores. Lined with skate shops, coffee shops, health food stores, local food joints and off-beat retailers, Little Five Points makes for a fun and versatile way to spend an afternoon.
For a more structured tour of the neighborhood, consider visiting Five Points on a shopping tour or as part of an Atlanta city tour including stops in Midtown, Poncey Highlands and Castleberry Hills.
Practical Info
Little Five Points is located two-and-a-half miles east of Downtown Atlanta. It is surrounded by Inman Park, Edgewood, Poncey-Highland and Candler Park neighborhoods. The neighborhood is accessible by car and via the bus from downtown; take the 16 from Peachtree St at Auburn Ave to N. Highland Ave at Freedom Pkwy on a 28 minute bus ride.
Did you know? The Five Points moniker is a nod to the busy intersection in the heart of the "˜hood where the same number of roads meet and where national retailers have more recently opened up shop.
Address: Little Five Points, Atlanta, USA
From $ 52
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park commemorates the life, work, and legacy of the Civil Rights Movement leader. The center—which takes up several blocks in Sweet Auburn, the center of black Atlanta—includes King’s birth home and the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where both King’s father and grandfather served as ministers.
The Basics
At the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, stroll around to follow the journey of Dr. King from his birth to his rise as one of the country’s most important leaders. Inside the visitor center is a museum that chronicles the American Civil Rights Movement, and Dr King’s role in it. The King Center for Nonviolent Social Change has more information on MLK’s life and work, and a few of his personal effects, including his Nobel Peace Prize. His grave, between the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church and the King Center, is surrounded by a long reflecting pool and rose garden.
The National Park Service offers free, guided tours of Dr. King’s Birth Home; pick up a timed ticket at the information desk. Other tours from downtown Atlanta via bus, electric car, or Segway make stops at this historic site along with other city sightseeing highlights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fire Station No. 6, a restored firehouse, has a gift shop selling memorabilia relating to Dr. King’s life.
- Most portions of the National Historical Park are accessible to wheelchair users. Wheelchairs are available for use on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Most exhibits and tour routes are inside, but you must pass between buildings, so dress accordingly for the weather.
How to Get There
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is in Midtown Atlanta, east of the CNN Center. The site is also part of the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic District, an area bounded roughly by Irwin, Randolph, Edgewood, Jackson, and Auburn Avenues. You can get here easily by bus and MARTA trains.
When to Get There
A typical visit to the National Historical Park takes between one and two hours. The visitor center, historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and Freedom Hall are open from 9am to 5pm daily. The Birth Home is open for ranger-led tours from 10am to 4pm daily. Fire Station No. 6 is staffed by park volunteers and is open from 9am to 5pm. All facilities are closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
The Eternal Flame
Martin Luther King Jr. and Mrs. King are buried in a crypt at the King Center. The eternal flame there symbolizes the continuing effort to realize Dr. King’s dream of the “Beloved Community,” which was his vision for a world of justice, peace, and equality for all mankind.
Address: 450 Auburn Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, Georgia 30312, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 29
Senoia
Senoia is a small suburb of Atlanta, GA with a population of about 3,300 people and was originally settled in the mid 1800s. This quiet town has gained more attention recently due to its role in the television and film industry. Senoia's significant number of historical buildings in the downtown area give it an interesting atmosphere in which to film. It has been home to several movies over the years including Fried Green Tomatoes, Sweet Home Alabama, and Drop Dead Diva.
More recently the town has become the setting for the AMC television series The Walking Dead. The town doubles for the town of Woodbury, the fictitious setting of the show. Visitors can walk through town and see some of the buildings that have been featured in the series. Tens of thousands of people visit Senoia each year to catch a glimpse of their favorite show, and stores, cafes, and tours have been created cater to them.
Practical Info
Senoia is located 40 miles south of Atlanta and can be reached using Interstate 85.
Address: Senoia, Georgia, USA
From $ 69
World of Coca-Cola
Boasting a collection of more than 200 historical artifacts, a 4-D theater experience, and interactive museum exhibits, the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta does far more than whet your whistle for a (though it does that, too). Pay homage to the birthplace of the world’s most popular soft drink and learn how a simple beverage became a global sensation and a must-see Atlanta attraction.
The Basics
Although the World of Coca-Cola is about far more than its namesake product, the tasting room remains a highlight. At the Sampling Bar, you can choose from more than 100 different Coca-Cola brand beverages from around the world, including flavors such as Bibo Candy Pine-Nut and Fanta Melon Frosty. You can also line up for a photo with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear, look behind the scenes at the bottling process, or head to the vault that contains Coca-Cola's signature secret formula. The World of Coca-Cola is easily combined with tours of Atlanta and its other major attractions such as Centennial Olympic Park, the Center for Civil and Human Rights, CNN Studios, and the Georgia Aquarium.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The World of Coca-Cola provides plenty of kid-friendly entertainment options.
- Plan to spend roughly two to three hours enjoying the exhibits.
- The museum is next to the Georgia Aquarium and the Center for Civil and Human Rights, making for an easy full day of activities.
- Purchase tickets in advance to guarantee admission.
How to Get There
The World of Coca-Cola is conveniently located in downtown Atlanta. For drivers, the parking garage is off of Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. Those staying in Midtown may prefer to walk to the attraction. Or, take a MARTA train to Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center or Peachtree Center and walk 10 to 15 minutes.
When to Get There
The World of Coca-Cola provides a cool oasis during Atlanta’s long, hot summers; visit during peak heat in summer afternoons for a much-needed air-conditioned reprieve. The museum is open daily with the exception of major holidays. Double-check operating hours before your trip.
Open More Happiness
General admission allows access to all the major attractions, but to learn more about the history of Coca-Cola, opt for a VIP guided tour, which is capped at 10 people for a personalized experience. A VIP tour also includes a special souvenir and discounts on the gift shop, photo packages, and Pemberton Cafe.
Address: 121 Baker Street Northwest Downtown, Atlanta 30313, USA
Hours: Varies, usually 10am-5pm
Admission: Adults: US$17, Seniors (65+): US$15, Children (3-12yrs): US$13
From $ 10
Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta
What would it be like to live in the world of Legos? At LEGOLAND Discovery Center, a Lego-themed entertainment park, children ages 3-10 years old have the chance to find out. The highly interactive and educational experience takes place entirely indoors, where there are play areas for kids to build anything they can dream up with more Legos than they can even imagine. The center also features a 4D cinema, special party rooms for birthdays and celebrations, two rides, a Lego-building class taught by a master model builder and an exhibit that showcases the skyline of Atlanta"“made out of Legos, of course!
The LEGOLAND Discovery Center also has the Ninjago Laser Maze, where kids can duck, dive and jump under, through and over laser beams. Of the two rides here, Kingdom Quest is by far the most popular and geared toward 5 to 10-year-olds. The play areas are separated"“one for the older kids and one for children under 5. Another favorite area is the earthquake table, where kids can build Duplo towers. All of the play areas are made of safe with soft rubber matting so that if kids take a tumble, they will jump right back up and keep on playing.
Practical Info
Admission costs $19 for adults and $17 for children ages 3-12. It is free to enter for kids under 3. The site is open from 9am to 7pm Monday through Friday, with later hours (until 9pm) on Saturday. It is open from 10am to 7pm on Sunday. The Discovery Center is located in the Phipps Plaza, accessible by car or MARTA.
Address: 3500 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m .
Admission: Adults: $19, Children (3-12) $17, children under 3 are free.
From $ 19
Road to Tara Museum
Immerse yourself in Scarlett O'Hara and Rhett Butler's enigmatic romance at the Road To Tara Museum, which brings to life Tara, the mythical plantation where Gone With the Wind takes place. Margaret Mitchell, the novel's author, created Tara based on the sprawling Victorian homes she saw in Clayton County, Georgia ,so today, Clayton County and the city of Jonesboro have been officially designated by the Georgia State Legislature as the "home of Gone With the Wind." Fittingly, the Road to Tara Museum is housed in the 1867 Train Depot in downtown historic Jonesboro.
At the museum visitors can see original props, wardrobe items and keepsakes from the 1939 Atlanta premiere of the feature film. The centerpiece is a large original oil mural depicting Rhett and Scarlett from the film, while additional oil paintings flank this large one. The museum also has an exhibit on the Civil War, featuring the Battle of Jonesboro.
Practical Info
The Road to Tara Museum is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adult tickets cost $7, and the site is located in Jonesboro, Georgia off of Interstate 75.
Address: 104 N. Main Street, Jonesboro, Georgia, USA
Hours: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: Adults: $7, Seniors & Children: $6
From $ 55
Zoo Atlanta
Founded based on a need for space for former circus animals, Zoo Atlanta has been a mainstay attraction in Atlanta since 1889. Today, it houses more than 1,500 animals and has the largest number of gorillas and orangutans of any zoo in the United States. Additionally, Zoo Atlanta is one of only four in the U.S. that houses giant pandas.
The 40-acre zoo features seven exhibits, including the popular Ford African Rain Forest and the giant pandas exhibit with its two inhabitants, a male and a female, both on loan from China. Children love the petting zoo, where they can interact with sheep, goats and pigs.
Practical Info
Zoo Atlanta hours vary by the season. Adult tickets cost $21.99, and childern's tickets are $16.99. There are discounts for military members and senior citizens. The zoo is located in historic Grant Park, easily accessible from downtown Atlanta and a mile from Turner Field.
Address: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, Georgia 30315, USA
Hours: Varies
Admission: Adults $21.99, Children $16.99
From $ 19
Margaret Mitchell House
Though much of the epic Pulitzer Prize–winning novel Gone with the Wind takes place in famously grand houses, author Margaret Mitchell penned the tome from a tiny Atlanta apartment. Today her home is the Margaret Mitchell House, which serves as a tribute to where the author lived and worked while writing the novel from 1925 to 1932.
The Basics
Though humble with its red brick and white trim, the Tudor Revival–style apartment building (formerly known as the Crescent Apartments) is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here visitors learn about Mitchell’s life in Atlanta and trivia about her writing of the novel. Guided tours are offered every half-hour and included with admission. An adjacent building houses a Making of the Movie exhibit with exceptional items such as photos from Gone with the Wind’s 1939 Atlanta movie premiere; the portrait of Scarlett O’Hara hanging in the Butler Mansion in the film; and pieces of the original Hollywood movie set.
You can visit the house independently, or as part of a Gone with the Wind tour that includes other key locations from the book and movie, an Atlanta film tour, or a tour of historic Atlanta homes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- For Atlanta history buffs and Gone with the Wind fans alike, the Margaret Mitchell House is a must. It’s not the best choice for children, who may find it uninteresting.
- If you need to grab a bite, there are a handful of restaurants on the same block as the museum.
- The house is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Margaret Mitchell House is a short walk from Atlanta’s Midtown MARTA station. Limited free parking is available at the museum, plus there is paid street parking and a nearby public parking garage.
When to Get There
The Margaret Mitchell House is open from 10am to 5:30pm Monday through Saturday and from 12pm to 5:30pm on Sunday. Tours are available 30 minutes after opening until 30 minutes before closing every day. The museum hosts events such as book readings and signings throughout the year, and every summer it hosts a series of camps for young aspiring writers.
The Atlanta History Center
The Margaret Mitchell House is part of the Atlanta History Center, though it is located 13 miles (21 kilometers) away from the center’s main campus. For a full day of exploring Atlanta history, purchase a single admission ticket that gives you access to the Atlanta History Museum, Smith Family Farm, the Swan House mansion, and other sights.
Address: 990 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
From $ 29