Discover
fun, free
& cheap
things to do
in Atlanta
Want to get out and have a great time without putting a big dent in your wallet? Check out these fun, free and cheap things to do in Atlanta. From national landmarks like the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park to all-you-need-is-a-camera murals and public art sightseeing, Atlanta is full of entertainment that will help you stay within your budget without sacrificing all the fun. Explore more great deals and discounts on attractions and things to do in Atlanta.
Insider tip: Save 40% on admission tickets to five top Atlanta attractions and skip most ticket lines with Atlanta CityPASS. Learn how it works.
Buford Highway Farmers Market
TASTE THE WORLD
Find authentic flavors and dishes from around the world on Buford Highway. Explore the more than 1,000 immigrant-owned businesses, including 100-plus restaurants. The Buford Highway Farmers Market is open daily selling hard-to-get international ingredients, as well as groceries that represent Atlanta’s diverse population and adventurous foodies.
Nearby Attractions
Fox Theatre
FEELS LIKE OLD HOLLYWOOD
The marquee outside the National Historic Landmark shines bright on Peachtree Street with stained glass windows and a stunning interior featuring a cobalt “sky” with a sea of twinkling stars. Enjoy a bite to eat or a drink nearby before or after any one of the 200 performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, movies and comedy shows.
Midtown
Music Studios
THE SOUTH GOT SOMETHING TO SAY
Atlanta is known as the Capital of Hip-Hop. Soul Asylum Studios is consistently ranked a top studio. SESSIONS Atlanta is home to Tricky Stewart’s Grammy-award winning recording studio. Find “studio row” on the Westside with OutKast’s Stankonia Studios, Icon Studios ATL and more. Doppler Studios is one of the oldest recording studios in Atlanta.
Westside
Millennium Gate Museum
A SIGHT TO SEE
Designed by artist Alexander Stoddart, this 100-foot-tall Roman style arch houses a museum, which preserves Georgia history, art and culture from the Native Indian, Spanish, British Colonial and American Revolutionary periods. See iconic pieces from Atlanta’s pioneering families, including Adair, Candler, Woodruff and more. Enjoy the skyline views from the top of the building.
Midtown
Tabernacle
SING YOUR HEART OUT
Across the street from Centennial Olympic Park, this live music venue was actually built as a church in 1910. The intimate space promises a front-row seat to performances of your favorite bands and comedians right in the heart of Downtown.
Downtown
Award-Winning Dining
Eat Your Heart Out
Every type of cuisine and flavor can be found at Atlanta restaurants, whether it’s Southern food or a one-of-a-kind dining experience. The city, in its third year as part of the MICHELIN Guide, is home to 63 MICHELIN-recognized restaurants, including eight with One Star and two with Green Stars. Atlanta restaurants also have been James Beard Award finalists, cementing the city as a culinary destination.
Nearby Attractions
Michael C. Carlos Museum
STEP INTO THE PAST
Located on Emory University’s campus, the museum holds historic collections of art and culture from the Indigenous Americas, South Asia and ancient Greece and Rome, along with American and European Works on Paper. See the East Coast’s largest collection of Ancient Egyptian, Nubian and Near Eastern art, with artifacts and mummies.
Eastside
Georgia Aquarium
YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT ANIMALS YOU’LL ‘SEA’
At the largest aquarium in the U.S., see thousands of animals and 500 species, ranging from amphibians, birds, reptiles and fish of all sizes. Catch a glimpse of the Aquarium’s beloved whale shark, the largest fish in the world. Or book an experience to swim in Ocean Voyager, encounter a sea lion and a penguin or pet a stingray.
Downtown
Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
A Trip Here is Rich in History
Explore the life of civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Tour The King Center, established by Coretta Scott King, and the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. King was baptized and later became a co-pastor alongside his father. Stop by the Historic Fire Station No. 6 and visit the home where he lived for the first 12 years of his life.
Eastside
State Farm Arena
SHOOT FOR THE HOOPS
Home to the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, State Farm Arena welcomes fans to thrilling basketball games or sold-out concerts. Enjoy elevated food and unique entertainment options, like getting a haircut while watching the action or playing a round of simulated golf. State Farm is a TRUE Platinum Certified arena for zero waste.
Downtown
Stone Mountain Park
LACE UP YOUR HIKING SHOES
Georgia’s most-visited attraction is just a short drive from Atlanta. With 3,200 acres of beautiful views and stunning trails, the park invites you to bring your hiking shoes and camera to make memories along the way. Throughout the year, come for themed events that include iconic drone and light shows.
Nearby Attractions
The Battery Atlanta at Truist Park
PLAY BALL
The Battery Atlanta is home to Truist Park, where the Atlanta Braves play. The Battery is a popular destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. Before or after the baseball game, fans can dine on pizzas, burgers, tacos and more. Even without a game in progress, there’s plenty to do: bowling, paint and sip, an escape room, virtual reality gaming and a piano bar.
Nearby Attractions
Centennial Yards
THE START OF SOMETHING NEW
Visit this revitalization project, located adjacent to Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena. Grab a locally brewed beer at Wild Leap and stroll across the Steele Bridge, which leads to Hotel Phoenix, Downtown’s newest boutique property. Take in the views at Bless Your Heart rooftop. Get ready for a live event at Cosm, a shared-reality entertainment space.
Downtown
Museum Of Design Atlanta
THE WHY BEHIND DESIGN
As the only museum in the Southeast dedicated to design, MODA seeks to answer questions about why objects were designed the way they were. Unconventional exhibits range from the design of pasta to the power of the hoodie. While visiting, feel empowered to think like designers on how they might tackle current and future challenges.
Midtown
Delta Flight Museum
TAKE TO THE SKIES
Tour the inside of a Boeing 747-400 and get up-close access to the cockpit and first-class seats. The flight simulator provides the full motion experience of a Boeing 737-200. Delta’s original 1940s-era aircraft hangar houses even more exhibits such as the history of flight, flight attendants’ evolving fashion and a deeper dive into more than 100 years of Delta Air Lines.
Airport
Porsche Experience Center Atlanta
THE NEED FOR SPEED
Get behind the wheel of a sleek Porsche on a 1.6-mile course. See nine privately owned Porsche cars on display in the Heritage Gallery, and even customize your own car in the design studio. Experience a state-of-the-art Simulator Lab and end your visit with a bite to eat from Restaurant 356 as you watch flights take off from the Atlanta airport.
Airport
Miami Circle
BRING YOUR EYE FOR DESIGN
Visit the highest concentration of fine art galleries in Atlanta. Find eclectic furniture shops, galleries, showrooms and everything in between to style your home. Grab a bite to eat at Eclipse de Luna or bowl at The Painted Pin. Miami Circle is located on PATH400, a 5.2-mile trail connecting Buckhead neighborhoods.
Buckhead
Children’s Museum Of Atlanta
FUN FOR THE KIDS
Get ready for hands-on experiences for kids ages 0 to 8 years old. They can show off cooking skills in the kitchen, go fishing, learn about construction, climb through the Museum Treehouse or enjoy story time at the puppet theater space. New exhibits are on display regularly at the largest children’s museum in Georgia.
Downtown
Atlanta Botanical Garden
WHAT’S IN BLOOM
Colorful flowers and sprouting plants fill Atlanta Botanical Garden. Explore exotic plants at the Fuqua Conservatory, let the kids have fun at the Children’s Garden or try new flavors at the Edible Garden. Marvel over the 25-foot tall Earth Goddess or see her in the winter when she becomes the Ice Goddess for Garden Lights, Holiday Nights.
Midtown
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
THE PATH TO FREEDOM
The past and present come together providing a gathering place for dialogue and change. Experience a Freedom Rider’s journey, sit at a Greensboro lunch counter and witness the power of organized, nonviolent resistance during the American Civil Rights Movement exhibit. “A Mile in My Shoes” spotlights human rights issues and defenders.
Downtown
Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum
SEE WHAT IT TAKES TO LEAD THE COUNTRY
Reflect on the legacy of the 39th U.S. president. Learn about his upbringing in Plains, Ga., the work accomplished during his presidency and his dedication to volunteering alongside First Lady Rosalynn Carter. The museum houses a replica Oval Office and his Nobel Peace Prize.
Eastside
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
FEEL THE MUSIC
Shows performed by the Grammy Award-winning orchestra bring people together in harmony as they experience the wonders of symphonic music. With more than 150 concerts per year, the orchestra offers the flagship Delta Classical Series and the CocaCola holiday series. Enjoy a concert in Midtown on the Woodruff Arts Center campus.
Midtown
Rialto Center for the Arts at Georgia State University
HISTORIC MOVIE HOUSE
Dating back to 1916, this staple in Downtown was Atlanta’s first movie house. See a range of performances from the best of international jazz, film premieres, world music and dance, and even Georgia State’s School of Music performances.
Downtown
SCAD Fash Museum of Fashion + Film
STRUT YOUR STUFF
In this nearly 10,000-square-foot museum, see fashion from around the world, artwork by top designers and styles fit for the cinema. The view from the front entrance showcases the Midtown skyline and is a must-snap photo opportunity.
Midtown
Trap Music Museum
LET THE BEAT DROP
The world’s first hip-hop museum explores the rich culture of trap music. See one of T.I.’s Grammys, meander through the Gucci Mane Kitchen, check out The Young Jeezy Snow Room and see Future’s Pluto Blast Off exhibit. Plus, see the actual pink car 2 Chainz used in one of his music videos. Outside the museum is an Atlanta Beltline Connector Trail taking you straight to Downtown.
Westside
South Downtown
THE ULTIMATE PRESERVATION
Find a neighborhood coffee shop, a vinyl record store, a Black-owned bookstore and local restaurants in this reimagined district. You’ll find historic charm within walking distance of Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena. On Saturdays, come for Smorgasburg, an outdoor food festival featuring more than 40 local vendors.
Downtown
Oakland Cemetery
HISTORY COMES ALIVE
Filled with beautiful gardens and architecture, this free-to-visit cemetery is the final resting place of more than 70,000. Among the residents are historic personalities including author Margaret Mitchell, golfer Bobby Jones and Atlanta’s first Black mayor Maynard Jackson. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes to see all Oakland Cemetery has to offer.
Eastside
Center For Puppetry Arts
WATCH THE MAGIC UNFOLD
Experience nostalgia among the more than 5,000 puppets and artifacts that were featured in top TV shows and movies. Learn about the creator of The Muppets, Jim Henson, and see icons like Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and Big Bird. Enjoy more than 600 performances a year, including holiday puppet shows of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”
Midtown
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
FOR THE LOVE OF THE ARTS
Callanwolde offers classes ranging from dance and music lessons to pottery and jewelry making. Come for concerts, including its well-known Jazz Nights. This Gothic Revival mansion once was home to Charles Howard Candler of the Coca-Cola Candlers.
Eastside
Chattahoochee Nature Center and River
BECOME ONE WITH NATURE
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere by canoeing or hiking the trails to see plants and wildlife. The new River Boardwalk Trail is the longest and is ADA-compliant. If visiting in the summer, check out the Butterfly Encounter. The Wildlife Program is focused on resident animal care, public education and rehabilitation for animals.
Nearby Attractions
Zoo Atlanta
SHOW OFF YOUR WILD SIDE
Meet animals from around the world with home habitats such as grasslands, the rainforest and wetlands. Book a Wild Encounter in advance to see what a day is like for the Animal Care Team, which helps save species. Get up close with the animals by feeding the giraffes or visiting the petting zoo.
Eastside
David J. Sencer CDC Museum
SEE SCIENCE DEVELOP
Learn about the history of the Centers for Disease Control through interactive exhibits focused on developing vaccines, identifying epidemics and producing modern-day medicine. This free museum even covers COVID-19 and the life-saving work the CDC performed during the pandemic.
Eastside
World Of Coca-Cola
TAKE A SIP OF HISTORY
Exhibits like Coca-Cola Stories and Icons focus on highlighting the notable brand’s history through artifacts, stories and photo opportunities. Learn about the five scent categories and try more than 100 beverage flavors from around the world. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the iconic polar bear.
Downtown
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
ALL EYES ON ATL
A host for FIFA World Cup 2026™, this 2-million-square-foot arena comes alive with energy whether there’s a football game, soccer match or concert taking place. The retractable roof and 58-foottall HD halo video board make it a sight to see. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a TRUE Platinum Certified stadium for zero waste.
Downtown
Plaza Theatre
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION
Atlanta’s oldest operating cinema, Plaza Theatre opened in 1939. Visit this neighborhood gem to feel the nostalgia while enjoying a new movie or a cult classic. Atlanta Film Festival, celebrating its 50th anniversary, is hosted here and features independent films and filmmaker discussion panels.
Eastside
College Football Hall Of Fame
IT’S GAME TIME
Walk into this haven for college football fans and see the helmet wall representing nearly 800 schools, one for every four-year college that has a team. Continue through the museum to find college football bowl trophies, a replica ESPN College GameDay Desk and team memorabilia. Get on the field to kick a field goal or throw a pass at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Skills Zone.
Downtown
Underground Atlanta
DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY
This 400,000-square-foot arts, entertainment and retail hub is connected to the Five Points MARTA station in Downtown. You’ll find a replica Zero Mile Post, marking the terminus of the railroads. Come for a show at The Masquerade, hit the dance floor at MJQ, relax with cats at The Whisker Lounge and visit the many underground art galleries.
Downtown
Sweet Auburn Avenue
HISTORY WAS MADE HERE
Explore what was once considered the “richest Negro street in the world” by Fortune Magazine. Iconic locations include the Auburn Avenue Research Library, Atlanta Daily World and the Municipal Market. Visit stops on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail including the APEX Museum, historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, the Madam CJ Walker Museum and WERDStudio. Ride the Atlanta Streetcar to easily see all the historic landmarks.
Downtown
Alliance Theatre
TAKE CENTER STAGE
Enjoy world-class performances and family favorite shows at this Tony Award-winning theater, located at the Woodruff Arts Center. Many of the shows even make their way to Broadway. Step into the spotlight yourself by participating in acting classes or get the kids involved with drama camps.
Midtown
Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza
SUPERB SHOPPING DESTINATIONS
Located just across Peachtree Road from one another, these two luxury malls create a shopper’s paradise. Find stores like Bloomingdale’s, Nike and Neiman Marcus, alongside luxury brands at Lenox Square. Head over to Phipps Plaza to find more luxury stores like Christian Louboutin and Hermès. Two hotels add to the convenience.
Buckhead
The Breman Museum
UNCOVER JEWISH HISTORY
This museum highlights conversations about the Holocaust and civil rights through art and live performances. The Breman aims to connect people to Jewish history, culture and the arts. The Absence of Humanity exhibit shares stories of Atlanta-area Holocaust survivors through photographs, personal memorabilia, family documents and videotaped interviews.
Midtown
Pullman Yards
A ONE-STOP SHOP
Once a site for repairing passenger train and cargo cars, and later used to develop and patent liquid carbonated gasses, Pullman Yards is now known for being an entertainment destination in the South with many movies filmed here. Enjoy food trucks and weekly events, like Chefs Market and Skate Night. There also are pickleball courts.
Eastside
Atlanta Beltline
EXPLORE THE A OUTDOORS
This 22-mile trail loops around the city connecting 45 neighborhoods and showcasing why Atlanta is The City in the Forest. Along the trail, find restaurants, bars, shops and street art. Ride a bike, show off roller blading skills or bring your furry friend to enjoy dog-friendly patios.
Eastside
High Museum Of Art
WORKS OF ART
As Atlanta’s cultural centerpiece on the Woodruff Arts Center campus, observe some of the more than 20,000 works of art from the collections of the High Museum. Pieces come from around the world, including African, American and European art. On select Friday nights, the museum stays open late for adult-only events like HIGH Frequency Friday or Friday Jazz.
Midtown
Centennial Olympic Park
GO FOR GOLD
Cool off at the Fountain of Rings splash pad or snap a picture at The Spectacular sculpture of the Olympic Rings. This 22-acre green space in the heart of Downtown serves as the legacy to the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, and today is the hub for FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Downtown
Plaza Fiesta
¡BIENVENIDOS A ATLANTA!
The heart of the Hispanic community in Georgia, Plaza Fiesta is an indoor mall along Buford Highway with more than 200 stores. Enjoy authentic tacos or freshly made pan dulce, shop for handcrafted Mexican-imported art or soccer jerseys, or come throughout the year for free events celebrating significant holidays from Latin America.
Nearby Attractions
Fernbank Museum Of Natural History
IT’S DINOMITE
Dinosaur lovers will feel right at home exploring prehistoric cultures and new science discoveries. Let the kids run wild in Fantastic Forces, a fully interactive STEAM exhibit, learn about Georgia’s natural history and catch a science-based documentary on the four-story movie screen. Head outdoors for WildWoods and Fernbank Forest to experience 75-acres of trails and wildlife.
Eastside
Film Studios
AND ACTION
Atlanta is home to studios for productions of all sizes, including Tyler Perry Studios, one of the largest production facilities in the country. Visit Trilith Studios to see where some of the highest-grossing films, including many Marvel movies, were made. Tour Assembly Studios where they’ve built structures that make you feel like you’re traveling the world.
Nearby Attractions
Atlanta History Center
A COLLECTION OF HISTORY
Explore more than 33-acres filled with history. Step back in time to the 1996 Summer Olympics, learn about the legacy of golfer Bobby Jones or take in the Cyclorama, a 49-foot-tall hand painted work of art weighing 10,000 pounds. The History Center also includes the Margaret Mitchell House in Midtown, where she wrote “Gone With the Wind.”
Buckhead
History Stops — 44th and 3rd Bookstore, Wren’s Nest, Hammonds House, Herndon Home
Embrace History and Culture
The Westside neighborhood is complete with multiple history stops within close proximity. Hammonds House showcases work by artists of African descent. 44th & 3rd Bookseller stocks multicultural reads. The Wren’s Nest is the home of author Joel Chandler Harris. Fewer than 2 miles away, near Downtown, Herndon Home was once the residence of one of the first Black millionaires in the U.S.
Westside
MORE TO EXPLORE
1-5 OF 50Buford Highway Farmers Market
TASTE THE WORLD
Find authentic flavors and dishes from around the world on Buford Highway. Explore the more than 1,000 immigrant-owned businesses, including 100-plus restaurants. The Buford Highway Farmers Market is open daily selling hard-to-get international ingredients, as well as groceries that represent Atlanta’s diverse population and adventurous foodies.
Nearby Attractions
Fox Theatre
FEELS LIKE OLD HOLLYWOOD
The marquee outside the National Historic Landmark shines bright on Peachtree Street with stained glass windows and a stunning interior featuring a cobalt “sky” with a sea of twinkling stars. Enjoy a bite to eat or a drink nearby before or after any one of the 200 performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, movies and comedy shows.
Midtown
Music Studios
THE SOUTH GOT SOMETHING TO SAY
Atlanta is known as the Capital of Hip-Hop. Soul Asylum Studios is consistently ranked a top studio. SESSIONS Atlanta is home to Tricky Stewart’s Grammy-award winning recording studio. Find “studio row” on the Westside with OutKast’s Stankonia Studios, Icon Studios ATL and more. Doppler Studios is one of the oldest recording studios in Atlanta.
Westside
Millennium Gate Museum
A SIGHT TO SEE
Designed by artist Alexander Stoddart, this 100-foot-tall Roman style arch houses a museum, which preserves Georgia history, art and culture from the Native Indian, Spanish, British Colonial and American Revolutionary periods. See iconic pieces from Atlanta’s pioneering families, including Adair, Candler, Woodruff and more. Enjoy the skyline views from the top of the building.
Midtown
Tabernacle
SING YOUR HEART OUT
Across the street from Centennial Olympic Park, this live music venue was actually built as a church in 1910. The intimate space promises a front-row seat to performances of your favorite bands and comedians right in the heart of Downtown.
Downtown
Award-Winning Dining
Eat Your Heart Out
Every type of cuisine and flavor can be found at Atlanta restaurants, whether it’s Southern food or a one-of-a-kind dining experience. The city, in its third year as part of the MICHELIN Guide, is home to 63 MICHELIN-recognized restaurants, including eight with One Star and two with Green Stars. Atlanta restaurants also have been James Beard Award finalists, cementing the city as a culinary destination.
Nearby Attractions
Michael C. Carlos Museum
STEP INTO THE PAST
Located on Emory University’s campus, the museum holds historic collections of art and culture from the Indigenous Americas, South Asia and ancient Greece and Rome, along with American and European Works on Paper. See the East Coast’s largest collection of Ancient Egyptian, Nubian and Near Eastern art, with artifacts and mummies.
Eastside
Georgia Aquarium
YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT ANIMALS YOU’LL ‘SEA’
At the largest aquarium in the U.S., see thousands of animals and 500 species, ranging from amphibians, birds, reptiles and fish of all sizes. Catch a glimpse of the Aquarium’s beloved whale shark, the largest fish in the world. Or book an experience to swim in Ocean Voyager, encounter a sea lion and a penguin or pet a stingray.
Downtown
Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
A Trip Here is Rich in History
Explore the life of civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Tour The King Center, established by Coretta Scott King, and the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. King was baptized and later became a co-pastor alongside his father. Stop by the Historic Fire Station No. 6 and visit the home where he lived for the first 12 years of his life.
Eastside
State Farm Arena
SHOOT FOR THE HOOPS
Home to the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, State Farm Arena welcomes fans to thrilling basketball games or sold-out concerts. Enjoy elevated food and unique entertainment options, like getting a haircut while watching the action or playing a round of simulated golf. State Farm is a TRUE Platinum Certified arena for zero waste.
Downtown
Stone Mountain Park
LACE UP YOUR HIKING SHOES
Georgia’s most-visited attraction is just a short drive from Atlanta. With 3,200 acres of beautiful views and stunning trails, the park invites you to bring your hiking shoes and camera to make memories along the way. Throughout the year, come for themed events that include iconic drone and light shows.
Nearby Attractions
The Battery Atlanta at Truist Park
PLAY BALL
The Battery Atlanta is home to Truist Park, where the Atlanta Braves play. The Battery is a popular destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. Before or after the baseball game, fans can dine on pizzas, burgers, tacos and more. Even without a game in progress, there’s plenty to do: bowling, paint and sip, an escape room, virtual reality gaming and a piano bar.
Nearby Attractions
Centennial Yards
THE START OF SOMETHING NEW
Visit this revitalization project, located adjacent to Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena. Grab a locally brewed beer at Wild Leap and stroll across the Steele Bridge, which leads to Hotel Phoenix, Downtown’s newest boutique property. Take in the views at Bless Your Heart rooftop. Get ready for a live event at Cosm, a shared-reality entertainment space.
Downtown
Museum Of Design Atlanta
THE WHY BEHIND DESIGN
As the only museum in the Southeast dedicated to design, MODA seeks to answer questions about why objects were designed the way they were. Unconventional exhibits range from the design of pasta to the power of the hoodie. While visiting, feel empowered to think like designers on how they might tackle current and future challenges.
Midtown
Delta Flight Museum
TAKE TO THE SKIES
Tour the inside of a Boeing 747-400 and get up-close access to the cockpit and first-class seats. The flight simulator provides the full motion experience of a Boeing 737-200. Delta’s original 1940s-era aircraft hangar houses even more exhibits such as the history of flight, flight attendants’ evolving fashion and a deeper dive into more than 100 years of Delta Air Lines.
Airport
Porsche Experience Center Atlanta
THE NEED FOR SPEED
Get behind the wheel of a sleek Porsche on a 1.6-mile course. See nine privately owned Porsche cars on display in the Heritage Gallery, and even customize your own car in the design studio. Experience a state-of-the-art Simulator Lab and end your visit with a bite to eat from Restaurant 356 as you watch flights take off from the Atlanta airport.
Airport
Miami Circle
BRING YOUR EYE FOR DESIGN
Visit the highest concentration of fine art galleries in Atlanta. Find eclectic furniture shops, galleries, showrooms and everything in between to style your home. Grab a bite to eat at Eclipse de Luna or bowl at The Painted Pin. Miami Circle is located on PATH400, a 5.2-mile trail connecting Buckhead neighborhoods.
Buckhead
Children’s Museum Of Atlanta
FUN FOR THE KIDS
Get ready for hands-on experiences for kids ages 0 to 8 years old. They can show off cooking skills in the kitchen, go fishing, learn about construction, climb through the Museum Treehouse or enjoy story time at the puppet theater space. New exhibits are on display regularly at the largest children’s museum in Georgia.
Downtown
Atlanta Botanical Garden
WHAT’S IN BLOOM
Colorful flowers and sprouting plants fill Atlanta Botanical Garden. Explore exotic plants at the Fuqua Conservatory, let the kids have fun at the Children’s Garden or try new flavors at the Edible Garden. Marvel over the 25-foot tall Earth Goddess or see her in the winter when she becomes the Ice Goddess for Garden Lights, Holiday Nights.
Midtown
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
THE PATH TO FREEDOM
The past and present come together providing a gathering place for dialogue and change. Experience a Freedom Rider’s journey, sit at a Greensboro lunch counter and witness the power of organized, nonviolent resistance during the American Civil Rights Movement exhibit. “A Mile in My Shoes” spotlights human rights issues and defenders.
Downtown
Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum
SEE WHAT IT TAKES TO LEAD THE COUNTRY
Reflect on the legacy of the 39th U.S. president. Learn about his upbringing in Plains, Ga., the work accomplished during his presidency and his dedication to volunteering alongside First Lady Rosalynn Carter. The museum houses a replica Oval Office and his Nobel Peace Prize.
Eastside
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
FEEL THE MUSIC
Shows performed by the Grammy Award-winning orchestra bring people together in harmony as they experience the wonders of symphonic music. With more than 150 concerts per year, the orchestra offers the flagship Delta Classical Series and the CocaCola holiday series. Enjoy a concert in Midtown on the Woodruff Arts Center campus.
Midtown
Rialto Center for the Arts at Georgia State University
HISTORIC MOVIE HOUSE
Dating back to 1916, this staple in Downtown was Atlanta’s first movie house. See a range of performances from the best of international jazz, film premieres, world music and dance, and even Georgia State’s School of Music performances.
Downtown
SCAD Fash Museum of Fashion + Film
STRUT YOUR STUFF
In this nearly 10,000-square-foot museum, see fashion from around the world, artwork by top designers and styles fit for the cinema. The view from the front entrance showcases the Midtown skyline and is a must-snap photo opportunity.
Midtown
Trap Music Museum
LET THE BEAT DROP
The world’s first hip-hop museum explores the rich culture of trap music. See one of T.I.’s Grammys, meander through the Gucci Mane Kitchen, check out The Young Jeezy Snow Room and see Future’s Pluto Blast Off exhibit. Plus, see the actual pink car 2 Chainz used in one of his music videos. Outside the museum is an Atlanta Beltline Connector Trail taking you straight to Downtown.
Westside
South Downtown
THE ULTIMATE PRESERVATION
Find a neighborhood coffee shop, a vinyl record store, a Black-owned bookstore and local restaurants in this reimagined district. You’ll find historic charm within walking distance of Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena. On Saturdays, come for Smorgasburg, an outdoor food festival featuring more than 40 local vendors.
Downtown
Oakland Cemetery
HISTORY COMES ALIVE
Filled with beautiful gardens and architecture, this free-to-visit cemetery is the final resting place of more than 70,000. Among the residents are historic personalities including author Margaret Mitchell, golfer Bobby Jones and Atlanta’s first Black mayor Maynard Jackson. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes to see all Oakland Cemetery has to offer.
Eastside
Center For Puppetry Arts
WATCH THE MAGIC UNFOLD
Experience nostalgia among the more than 5,000 puppets and artifacts that were featured in top TV shows and movies. Learn about the creator of The Muppets, Jim Henson, and see icons like Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and Big Bird. Enjoy more than 600 performances a year, including holiday puppet shows of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”
Midtown
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
FOR THE LOVE OF THE ARTS
Callanwolde offers classes ranging from dance and music lessons to pottery and jewelry making. Come for concerts, including its well-known Jazz Nights. This Gothic Revival mansion once was home to Charles Howard Candler of the Coca-Cola Candlers.
Eastside
Chattahoochee Nature Center and River
BECOME ONE WITH NATURE
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere by canoeing or hiking the trails to see plants and wildlife. The new River Boardwalk Trail is the longest and is ADA-compliant. If visiting in the summer, check out the Butterfly Encounter. The Wildlife Program is focused on resident animal care, public education and rehabilitation for animals.
Nearby Attractions
Zoo Atlanta
SHOW OFF YOUR WILD SIDE
Meet animals from around the world with home habitats such as grasslands, the rainforest and wetlands. Book a Wild Encounter in advance to see what a day is like for the Animal Care Team, which helps save species. Get up close with the animals by feeding the giraffes or visiting the petting zoo.
Eastside
David J. Sencer CDC Museum
SEE SCIENCE DEVELOP
Learn about the history of the Centers for Disease Control through interactive exhibits focused on developing vaccines, identifying epidemics and producing modern-day medicine. This free museum even covers COVID-19 and the life-saving work the CDC performed during the pandemic.
Eastside
World Of Coca-Cola
TAKE A SIP OF HISTORY
Exhibits like Coca-Cola Stories and Icons focus on highlighting the notable brand’s history through artifacts, stories and photo opportunities. Learn about the five scent categories and try more than 100 beverage flavors from around the world. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the iconic polar bear.
Downtown
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
ALL EYES ON ATL
A host for FIFA World Cup 2026™, this 2-million-square-foot arena comes alive with energy whether there’s a football game, soccer match or concert taking place. The retractable roof and 58-foottall HD halo video board make it a sight to see. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a TRUE Platinum Certified stadium for zero waste.
Downtown
Plaza Theatre
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION
Atlanta’s oldest operating cinema, Plaza Theatre opened in 1939. Visit this neighborhood gem to feel the nostalgia while enjoying a new movie or a cult classic. Atlanta Film Festival, celebrating its 50th anniversary, is hosted here and features independent films and filmmaker discussion panels.
Eastside
College Football Hall Of Fame
IT’S GAME TIME
Walk into this haven for college football fans and see the helmet wall representing nearly 800 schools, one for every four-year college that has a team. Continue through the museum to find college football bowl trophies, a replica ESPN College GameDay Desk and team memorabilia. Get on the field to kick a field goal or throw a pass at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Skills Zone.
Downtown
Underground Atlanta
DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY
This 400,000-square-foot arts, entertainment and retail hub is connected to the Five Points MARTA station in Downtown. You’ll find a replica Zero Mile Post, marking the terminus of the railroads. Come for a show at The Masquerade, hit the dance floor at MJQ, relax with cats at The Whisker Lounge and visit the many underground art galleries.
Downtown
Sweet Auburn Avenue
HISTORY WAS MADE HERE
Explore what was once considered the “richest Negro street in the world” by Fortune Magazine. Iconic locations include the Auburn Avenue Research Library, Atlanta Daily World and the Municipal Market. Visit stops on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail including the APEX Museum, historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, the Madam CJ Walker Museum and WERDStudio. Ride the Atlanta Streetcar to easily see all the historic landmarks.
Downtown
Alliance Theatre
TAKE CENTER STAGE
Enjoy world-class performances and family favorite shows at this Tony Award-winning theater, located at the Woodruff Arts Center. Many of the shows even make their way to Broadway. Step into the spotlight yourself by participating in acting classes or get the kids involved with drama camps.
Midtown
Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza
SUPERB SHOPPING DESTINATIONS
Located just across Peachtree Road from one another, these two luxury malls create a shopper’s paradise. Find stores like Bloomingdale’s, Nike and Neiman Marcus, alongside luxury brands at Lenox Square. Head over to Phipps Plaza to find more luxury stores like Christian Louboutin and Hermès. Two hotels add to the convenience.
Buckhead
The Breman Museum
UNCOVER JEWISH HISTORY
This museum highlights conversations about the Holocaust and civil rights through art and live performances. The Breman aims to connect people to Jewish history, culture and the arts. The Absence of Humanity exhibit shares stories of Atlanta-area Holocaust survivors through photographs, personal memorabilia, family documents and videotaped interviews.
Midtown
Pullman Yards
A ONE-STOP SHOP
Once a site for repairing passenger train and cargo cars, and later used to develop and patent liquid carbonated gasses, Pullman Yards is now known for being an entertainment destination in the South with many movies filmed here. Enjoy food trucks and weekly events, like Chefs Market and Skate Night. There also are pickleball courts.
Eastside
Atlanta Beltline
EXPLORE THE A OUTDOORS
This 22-mile trail loops around the city connecting 45 neighborhoods and showcasing why Atlanta is The City in the Forest. Along the trail, find restaurants, bars, shops and street art. Ride a bike, show off roller blading skills or bring your furry friend to enjoy dog-friendly patios.
Eastside
High Museum Of Art
WORKS OF ART
As Atlanta’s cultural centerpiece on the Woodruff Arts Center campus, observe some of the more than 20,000 works of art from the collections of the High Museum. Pieces come from around the world, including African, American and European art. On select Friday nights, the museum stays open late for adult-only events like HIGH Frequency Friday or Friday Jazz.
Midtown
Centennial Olympic Park
GO FOR GOLD
Cool off at the Fountain of Rings splash pad or snap a picture at The Spectacular sculpture of the Olympic Rings. This 22-acre green space in the heart of Downtown serves as the legacy to the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, and today is the hub for FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Downtown
Plaza Fiesta
¡BIENVENIDOS A ATLANTA!
The heart of the Hispanic community in Georgia, Plaza Fiesta is an indoor mall along Buford Highway with more than 200 stores. Enjoy authentic tacos or freshly made pan dulce, shop for handcrafted Mexican-imported art or soccer jerseys, or come throughout the year for free events celebrating significant holidays from Latin America.
Nearby Attractions
Fernbank Museum Of Natural History
IT’S DINOMITE
Dinosaur lovers will feel right at home exploring prehistoric cultures and new science discoveries. Let the kids run wild in Fantastic Forces, a fully interactive STEAM exhibit, learn about Georgia’s natural history and catch a science-based documentary on the four-story movie screen. Head outdoors for WildWoods and Fernbank Forest to experience 75-acres of trails and wildlife.
Eastside
Film Studios
AND ACTION
Atlanta is home to studios for productions of all sizes, including Tyler Perry Studios, one of the largest production facilities in the country. Visit Trilith Studios to see where some of the highest-grossing films, including many Marvel movies, were made. Tour Assembly Studios where they’ve built structures that make you feel like you’re traveling the world.
Nearby Attractions
Atlanta History Center
A COLLECTION OF HISTORY
Explore more than 33-acres filled with history. Step back in time to the 1996 Summer Olympics, learn about the legacy of golfer Bobby Jones or take in the Cyclorama, a 49-foot-tall hand painted work of art weighing 10,000 pounds. The History Center also includes the Margaret Mitchell House in Midtown, where she wrote “Gone With the Wind.”
Buckhead
History Stops — 44th and 3rd Bookstore, Wren’s Nest, Hammonds House, Herndon Home
Embrace History and Culture
The Westside neighborhood is complete with multiple history stops within close proximity. Hammonds House showcases work by artists of African descent. 44th & 3rd Bookseller stocks multicultural reads. The Wren’s Nest is the home of author Joel Chandler Harris. Fewer than 2 miles away, near Downtown, Herndon Home was once the residence of one of the first Black millionaires in the U.S.
Westside
Neighborhoods 
Categories
MORE TO EXPLORE
1-5 OF 50Discover More
Get to know Atlanta, and discover the best things to do around the city.
Downtown Atlanta Things to Do
Free Things To Do
Search Things to Do
Free & Family-Friendly Fun Things to Do in Atlanta
15 Budget-Friendly Things to Do for Weekend Getaways in Atlanta
Free Events
