Centennial Olympic Park: Centerpiece of downtown Atlanta

Centennial Olympic Park is a thriving destination in the heart of Atlanta. Not only does it serve as a legacy of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, but it also is the center of a robust tourist district. This downtown Atlanta park is an urban oasis offering an abundance of activities and things to do for visitors, families, convention attendees and locals. 

When exploring the park, check out the digitally interactive mural at the Visitor Information Center and snap a picture for your Insta in front of the Olympic rings sculpture. Take some time to dive into the park’s history on an Audio Walking Tour. Packed with stories of the park’s heritage, architecture, trivia and music, the walking tour is accessible for everyone with a mobile device. Among the new attractions in the park are Olympic-themed features including an interactive medal podium plaza, an Olympic sports promenade, an interactive Olympic ring feature and water attractions.

After diving into the history and heritage of the park, bring the kiddos by the Fountain of Rings for a fun-filled family activity. Not only is this one of the most sophisticated fountains in the world, but it is also the world’s largest interactive fountain to incorporate the Olympic rings symbol. Cool off from your walk around the park and play with the kiddos in a synchronized fountain, where water dances to familiar tunes, complete with sound and lighting effects. 

For the best view of the park, head across the street to the 20-stories tall SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel and catch a ride. Because of Centennial Olympic Park’s central location, you will see the Atlanta skyline as well as the numerous popular attractions nearby.

Located right next to each other, and just off the perimeter of the park are Georgia Aquarium, home to whale sharks, dolphins, beluga whales and so much more; and World of Coca-Cola, a fun romp through the history of the world’s most famous soft drink. A few steps away, find Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame, where you can register in order to customize your visit around your favorite team; and National Center for Civil and Human Rights, where you will be moved as you explore the history of the American civil rights movement and learn about worldwide human rights campaigns.

Just across Centennial Olympic Park Drive, families can find the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, where children can learn through the power of play.

Also nearby are State Farm Arena, home of the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United FC. Both stadiums offer comprehensive sports and cultural events for locals and visitors alike. Experience Atlanta’s vibrant events scene, where live music meets a loud and proud sporting scene. For funky, fun food and drink, stop in Game X on Baker Street for a bite, a drink and lots and lots of games. The Tabernacle on Luckie Street is the venue for plenty of top musical acts.

With all the activities the park has to offer, in addition to all the museums and stadiums nearby, visitors will discover a virtually endless array of uniquely Atlanta attractions. During the 1996 Summer Olympic Games Centennial Olympic Park was the gathering spot for people attending various Olympic events. Today, it is a wonderful place that continues to harbor all the excitement of the Centennial Olympic Games, while remaining free and accessible to all.