Things to Do over Thanksgiving Weekend in Atlanta

By Joleen Pete

Last Updated October 8, 2025

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Thanksgiving weekend in Atlanta is the perfect mix of food, family and festive fun. After the big meal, the city comes alive with cultural experiences, seasonal celebrations and outdoor activities that everyone can enjoy. From world-class attractions to holiday traditions, here are some ways to make the most of Thanksgiving weekend in Atlanta.

Explore the City in a Forest

Soak up the crisp fall air with a brisk walk or bike ride along the Atlanta Beltline, where art, green space and local flavor come together. Atlanta’s parks and gardens, from Piedmont Park to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, offer plenty of space to unwind, play or simply enjoy the changing leaves. For the best views of fall color, head to trails at Sweetwater Creek State Park or explore the wooded paths along the Chattahoochee River. Families looking for more adventure can set out on a day hike or even an overnight backpacking trip. For ideas on where to go, check out our complete guide to hiking and backpacking in Atlanta.

Shop Deals throughout Thanksgiving Weekend

We’ve got you covered for your holiday shopping in Atlanta, with ideas for where to shop Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Giving Sunday. Head to Buckhead to shop at Atlanta’s top shopping destinations, Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza — must-visits for holiday shoppers looking for luxury brands, seasonal deals and festive decor. From designer boutiques to family favorites, both malls offer plenty of options to kick off your holiday shopping in style. With extended hours and special promotions throughout Thanksgiving weekend, it’s the perfect time to check gifts off your list and soak in the holiday spirit in one of Atlanta’s popular retail districts.

Ponce City Market is one of Atlanta’s most- loved destinations for shopping, dining and seasonal fun year round. Housed in a historic Sears building on the Beltline Eastside Trail the market features local boutiques, national brands and food stalls along with rooftop attractions that make it a favorite stop during the holidays. Here are some shops you’ll find only in Atlanta.

While many people head to big-box stores, Thanksgiving weekend is also a great time to explore Atlanta’s thrift scene. From hidden gems in Little Five Points including vintage collections at spots like Junkman’s Daughter you can discover one-of-a-kind treasures and sustainable finds. Spend your day uncovering quirky pieces, supporting local shops and giving new life to pre-loved items.

On Nov. 30, Museum Store Sunday invites shoppers around the world to find meaningful gifts while supporting cultural institutions. In Atlanta you can browse curated treasures at places like the High Museum of Art, Atlanta History Center Fernbank Museum of Natural History and the Center for Puppetry Arts. From locally inspired jewelry and art prints to educational toys and books these museum shops offer one-of-a-kind holiday gifts that give back to the community.

Volunteer as a Family

Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate gratitude, and it is also a chance to show the importance of giving back. Over Thanksgiving weekend, families can come together to volunteer and make a difference in the community. On Nov. 22, the city will join the global observance of Family Volunteer Day, which highlights the power of families working side by side to support their neighborhoods. You can also start the holiday with purpose by spending Thanksgiving morning volunteering for a local cause.

Take your Annual Family Photos

Fall is one of the best times of year to take family photos in Atlanta. Hire a local photographer or DIY your session with a tripod to capture the city’s natural beauty and colorful foliage. Iconic locations like Piedmont Park provide a stunning blend of skyline views and vibrant leaves, while the Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail offers a mix of public art and fall scenery.

For garden backdrops, the Atlanta Botanical Garden and Fernbank Forest showcase rich autumn colors and Candler Park provides a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Westside Park, the city’s largest green space, adds dramatic overlooks and wooded trails to your photo options.

For something uniquely Atlanta, consider the murals of Inman Park or the historic architecture of Oakland Cemetery framed by seasonal color. Along the Chattahoochee River, trails and riverbanks create timeless portraits surrounded by brilliant fall foliage. Wherever you choose, Atlanta’s mix of cityscapes, parks and neighborhoods makes the perfect backdrop for family photography in autumn. Here’s where to see fall color in Atlanta.

Turkey, Tailgates and Touchdowns

Get ready for one of Atlanta’s biggest fall traditions: the Georgia vs. Georgia Tech rivalry game, known as “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate.” Kicking off Nov. 28 at 3:30 p.m. at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, this classic matchup brings out tailgating fans, spirited chants and decades of friendly competition between the Bulldogs and Yellow Jackets. Whether you’re cheering from the stands or catching the action from a local sports bar, it’s a can’t-miss highlight for college football fans spending Thanksgiving weekend in Atlanta.

Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon

Pre-game Thanksgiving dinner with the annual Invesco QQQ Atlanta Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon, organized by the Atlanta Track Club. The half marathon course will take you through historic and beautiful Atlanta neighborhoods, including Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, Grant Park and Little Five Points.

Insider tip: The annual holiday race brings thousands of participants, so expect heavy traffic and road closures. Plan ahead by taking MARTA to the Georgia State rail station, then hop on a bus or enjoy a short walk to Georgia State Stadium.

Visit Atlanta’s Top Attractions

Experience Atlanta like a tourist. Take your out-of-town guests to visit Atlanta’s top must-see attractions. Save up to 49% off on combined admission prices to Atlanta’s top five attractions with an Atlanta CityPASS. Here’s which Atlanta attractions are open on Thanksgiving and what they have going on for the holidays.

Atlanta’s Michelin Restaurants Perfect for Group Dining

Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to gather your favorite people and savor a meal worthy of celebration at one of Atlanta’s Michelin-recognized restaurants. From the refined Southern fare at Miller Union to the inventive tasting menus at Bacchanalia or Lazy Betty, these spots offer an unforgettable dining experience that goes far beyond turkey and trimmings. Many of Atlanta’s award-winning chefs craft seasonal menus ideal for group dining, making it easy to turn your night out into a shared feast. Reserve early, dress up and toast to good food, great company and a long weekend well spent in one of the South’s hottest culinary destinations. Here’s where to dine with a large group at Atlanta’s Michelin Guide restaurants.

Get into the Christmas Spirit 

Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to start celebrating the holidays in Atlanta. Stroll through millions of lights at Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden (Nov. 15 through Jan. 11, 2026) or enjoy festive cheer during Holidays at Georgia Aquarium (Nov. 14 through Jan. 4, 2026). Families can head to Stone Mountain Christmas (Nov. 8 through Jan. 4, 2026) for live entertainment, holiday characters and a dazzling parade. These seasonal favorites make Atlanta one of the best places to experience the magic of the holidays right after Thanksgiving.

Discover even more ways to celebrate the season with our ultimate guide to fall in Atlanta.

Joleen Pete is a storyteller and dream-weaver, inspired by the magic in everyday moments and the untold stories waiting to be shared.

Originally Published October 7, 2025