Atlanta has way more to offer beyond having the busiest airport in the world. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a true foodie, an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a change of scenery.
Once you land in Atlanta, stay in one of its picturesque, tree-lined neighborhoods like Inman Park or Grant Park, named after the parks nearby. If you’re looking for a city vibe, stay in the walkable Midtown neighborhood for easy access to MARTA and a lot of the city’s nightlife.
The best things to do in Atlanta
Atlanta may top lists related to its terrible traffic, but in between those gridlocks, there are great attractions, history, food to be enjoyed and sights to be seen.
We put together a list of the 101 best things to do in Atlanta to help you get to know the city’s soul. Just make sure you check availability and current hours before heading out.
1. Watch the whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium
The third-largest aquarium in the world, with more than 10 million gallons of fresh and saltwater, Georgia Aquarium houses beluga whales, whale sharks, sea lions and thousands of other creatures.
2. Learn something at the Atlanta History Center
The Atlanta History Center has six Georgia history-focused permanent exhibitions and one of the largest collections of Civil War artifacts. Recently Cyclorama, a cylindrical panoramic painting of the Battle of Atlanta, was moved and restored at the Atlanta History Center. It’s one of two Cycloramas left in the U.S.
3. Experience history at Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
During your visit to the M.L.K., Jr. National Historical Park, you’ll experience where Dr. King lived, walked and worshipped. From his birth home right on Auburn Avenue to a visit at Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church and the King Center, it’s a necessary, poignant tour for those who visit Atlanta.
4. Rock out at Music Midtown
Music Midtown takes over the neighborhoods of Midtown and Old Fourth Ward for one weekend a year and sets up multiple stages for established and emerging musicians from various genres. The first one was back in 1994, and after a six-year hiatus, it returned in 2011.
5. Drink soda from around the globe at World of Coca-Cola
If you’re a local, you remember when the World of Coca-Cola used to be next to Underground Atlanta. In 2007, the museum moved to its new complex a few blocks over with revitalized exhibitions, like Taste It! The display allows visitors to taste more than 100 flavors from around the world made by The Coca-Cola Company.
6. See the beauty of Atlanta Botanical Garden
It’s incredible that the Atlanta Botanical Garden currently blooms in the middle of Atlanta’s Midtown neighborhood. The 30-acre garden boasts large sculptures, a canopy walk, a greenhouse and multiple gardens. Keep an eye out for events surrounding a particular seasonal bloom.
7. Get your groove on at the Shaky Knees Festival
Indie music festival Shaky Knees attracts goers to one stage at the start of summer every year. In downtown Atlanta, the festival is currently held at Central Park, easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. Past bands include The Lumineers, Band of Horses and Spoon.
8. Celebrate sportsmanship at Centennial Olympic Park
Built right in the heart of downtown Atlanta for spectators and visitors during the 1996 Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park now hosts large music festivals and events. Watch the fountain show, look down to read all the bricks from local donors and take in the history of those summer Olympics.
9. Relive your childhood at the Center of Puppetry Arts
Did you know that Jim Henson himself cut the ribbon at the Center of Puppetry Arts’ opening in 1978? The Center also has a wing dedicated to all of his creations, more than 500 retired puppets. It remains the largest organization in the world focused on the promotion of the puppetry arts.
10. Check out famous artworks at the High Museum of Art
Right in the middle of Midtown, the High Museum of Art’s exhibitions have informed arts and culture in the Southeast for several decades. The museum has also displayed many works borrowed from Paris, London and New York. Collections include works of African, European and American art, as well as pieces by local, emerging artists.
11. Walk on the wild side at Zoo Atlanta
Visit Atlanta’s most adorable residents, Lun Lun and Yang Yang, at Zoo Atlanta in Grant Park. Yes, they are as cute as you’d imagine. After visiting them, walk around the African Savanna, the world of reptiles and the Asian forest. It’s a family-friendly way to spend one of those infamous hot days in Atlanta.
12. Have a picnic at Piedmont Park
An oasis right in the middle of the city, Piedmont Park hosts multiple festivals (like the annual Dogwood Festival) and a concert series and provides much-needed outdoor space to local residents. The park offers a dog park, a lakeside trail and plenty of space for an outdoor picnic. It’s also connected to the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail.
13. Stroll the Atlanta BeltLine
The Atlanta BeltLine, a continuous walking path circling the city, connects 45 neighborhoods in Atlanta. You can find restaurants, stores and parks along the trail. The Eastside trail is the most developed at this time and starts in Cabbagetown and goes to Midtown. It’s the best opportunity to get out of your car and see the city on foot.
14. Shop at Ponce City Market
If you hop on the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside trail, you’ll come across mixed-use development Ponce City Market — the perfect spot to pause for some shopping and a snack. A revitalized historic Sears building, Ponce City Market’s halls are lined with boutiques, big box stores and local restaurants.
15. Pretend you’re on the news at CNN Studio
Right in the heart of downtown Atlanta, CNN broadcasts news daily from its world headquarters. But you may not know that they offer tours of the studio, as well. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how a newscast gets made during your tour.
16. See dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum
Fernbank Museum of Natural History currently houses the largest dinosaur ever classified, a 123-foot long Argentinosaurus, right in its atrium. If you’re interested in science, dinosaurs and everything nature-related, make a point to stop by Fernbank and visit the interactive exhibitions.
17. Catch a show at Fox Theatre
It’s impossible not to be in complete awe of the Fox Theatre’s Moorish architectural details as you walk around the venue during your tour. In 1976, it was saved from demolition, and now it stands as an Atlanta treasure. The theater initially served as a movie theatre but has expanded to host concerts and performing art events like touring companies from Broadway.
18. Visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights
Take 75 minutes of your day to visit the poignant National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The small museum contains three exhibitions with interactive features to immerse the visitor in the experience. You’ll learn more about the civil rights movement in the U.S. and other human rights violations worldwide.
19. Tour the Margaret Mitchell House
Near the Atlanta History Center, you can visit the home of Margaret Mitchell, the author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “Gone with the Wind.” You can see the very spot where she wrote the story as you walk through the house museum.
20. Enjoy the best views of the city at Skyline Park
The roof of the renovated Ponce City Market opened to the public as Skyline Park, an area filled with fair games, small rides and mini-golf. A small restaurant provides camp-themed snacks and beverages. Grab your tickets on the first floor and take the elevator up to access.
21. Play at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Right across from Centennial Olympic Park, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers a real interactive adventure for children up to eight years old to roam free. The hands-on exhibitions help children learn about food, science, solution-based issues and art.
22. Check out (or create your own) street art in the Krog Street Tunnel
Krog Street Tunnel connects Cabbagetown and Inman Park by allowing cars, pedestrians and cyclists under the railroad tracks. Why is it an attraction? It’s an open canvas for graffiti artists in the city. You can see the latest art from emerging artists in the tunnel and outside of it, thanks to the Forward Warrior mural initiative.
23. Build something at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta
What kid doesn’t love Legos? If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity, LEGOLAND inside Buckhead‘s swanky Phipps Plaza will keep your kids (and let’s be honest, you, too) entertained. The largest display of LEGO bricks will have the kids mesmerized. Check out the latest 4-D film schedule also.
24. Visit the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum
The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum houses more than 27 million documents from the former president’s administration, from photos to film and audio. You can also catch special exhibitions on his Nobel Peace Prize and talks by authors, activists and, occasionally, Carter himself.
25. See the stars at Fernbank Science Center
Separate from the Fernbank Museum, the Science Center complex has an observatory and planetarium. On Thursday and Friday nights, you can visit the observatory, and with the help of one of their scientists, you can see various planets and stars for free.
26. Root, root, root for the home team at Truist Park
Formerly Sun Trust Part, Truist Park at the Battery is the newest home of the Braves after they moved from Turner Field in Summerhill to the Cumberland area of Cobb County. The baseball park is surrounded by the Battery Atlanta, a complex of restaurants and shops for fans to enjoy before the game. The Coca-Cola Roxy venue also hosts concerts and special events.
27. Experience “Hollywood South” with Atlanta Movie Tours
Y’allywood attracted movie stars to Atlanta to film some of the biggest blockbusters. Atlanta Movie Tours lets you geek out at the sets used around the city, from the “Avengers” movies to TV shows like “The Walking Dead.” Hop on a tour next time you’re in town and get a behind-the-scenes tour of your favorite movies.
28. Have fun at the Museum of Design Atlanta
Right across from the High Museum of Art, the Museum of Design Atlanta dedicates itself to the study of design in architecture, product design and industrial design. The exhibitions center around how design influences industries like fashion, interiors and furniture, while examining the latest trends.
29. Explore Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
A waterfall and remnants of a Civil War battle? Cascade Springs Nature Preserve offers multiple trails to hike to Cascade Falls and learn a bit of history at Utoy Creek, a Civil War battle site. Better yet, the preserve is within the perimeter right in Cascade Heights so you don’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors.
30. Walk with ghosts at Oakland Cemetery
The historic Oakland Cemetery, right in Grant Park, is one of the oldest cemetery plots of land in the city. The cemetery offers tours for visitors to get to know the inhabitants of Oakland. There’s a Confederate section, black section and Jewish section, with lots of unmarked graves, monuments and mausolea. It’s a unique way to get to know those influential in the city’s growth. And the ghost tours in the Fall are a fun way to spend a weekend evening.
31. Learn history at the APEX Museum
Atlanta’s black history is alive and well in the Sweet Auburn historic district. Just down the street from the Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic Site, you can find the APEX Museum. The museum explores the past and present history and contributions of African Americans.
32. Snap a photo on the Jackson Street Bridge
The Atlanta skyline has become quite iconic, and the Jackson Street Bridge will give you the perfect shot for Instagram. Just head at any time during the day, and you’ll be elbow to elbow with locals and tourists, alike. We recommend stopping by about an hour before sunset for the best lighting.
33. Check out up-and-coming artists at the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
On the west side of the city, the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center continues to shine a light on emerging and established contemporary artists and their work. Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming exhibitions and workshops, where the artist speaks more in-depth about their work. It’s free admission every day.
34. Tour The Wren’s Nest House Museum
The Wren’s Nest, former home of author Joel Chandler Harris, serves as a literary hub in the West End neighborhood of Atlanta. Now a museum, it promotes storytelling through activities and events with local schools and provides tours of the historic landmark.
35. Take your dog to Morningside Nature Preserve
Around 33 acres of woods, the Morningside Nature Preserve is one of Atlanta’s hidden gems. Nestled in the Morningside neighborhood, near Midtown, you can take a leisurely walk along its easy trails or visit the dog beach with your pup.
36. Eat your way down Buford Highway
While Buford Highway goes through at least four cities and multiple counties, the stretch between Atlanta, Brookhaven and Doraville (inside the perimeter) offers the best international food you’ll come across anywhere. The primarily immigrant communities have gathered on the highway’s many shopping centers, from Chinese and Mexican to Malaysian and Japanese.
37. Try out improv at Dad’s Garage
Right in Old Fourth Ward, Dad’s Garage will make you laugh so hard with their hilarious improv performances that you’ll be coming back for more. Whether it’s amateur night or one of their many scripted shows, Dad’s Garage is a must-experience in Atlanta.
38. Enjoy the other best views of the city at Hotel Clermont
The historic Hotel Clermont has attracted tourists and influencers alike, thanks to its French restaurant Tiny Lou’s, perfectly curated rooms and rooftop bar. Get there early as the rooftop bar hits capacity pretty quickly.
39. Support local in Little Five Points
Named one of the coolest neighborhoods in Atlanta year over year, Little Five Points houses Atlanta’s favorite indie shops like record stores Wax N Facts and Criminal Records, vintage shop Psycho Sisters and other offbeat boutiques. Walk around the neighborhood and see if you can spot why it’s called Little Five Points.
40. Find the best local produce at Sweet Auburn Curb Market
The historical municipal market, Sweet Auburn Curb Market, originally burned down in the 1917 Great Atlanta fire. It was rebuilt in 1924 and it quickly became essential to the community around it. Today it houses many restaurants, food vendors, butchers and other small business owners that continue the tradition of the historic black neighborhood.
41. Check out artifacts at Michael C. Carlos Museum
Emory University’s Carlos Museum has one of the largest ancient art collections in the Southeast, with objects from Egypt, Rome, Africa and Greece on display. You can see more than 16,000 artworks throughout the galleries. The museum often has new exhibitions from borrowed works beyond its permanent exhibitions.
42. Catch a movie at Plaza Theatre
The Plaza Theatre, right on Ponce de Leon Avenue, is one of Atlanta’s longest operating movie theaters. While it shows new, mainstream movies, the Plaza’s primary focus is screening classic and independent films. It also has a weekly Rocky Horror Show performance.
43. Grab a hot dog and fried apple pie at The Varsity
Wha’ll Ya Have! If you come to Atlanta for the first time, it’s tradition to stop at The Varsity on North Avenue. This location, right off the Connector, is the largest drive-in restaurant in the world. The Atlanta History Center has a small exhibit based on the restaurant.
44. Hike Sweetwater Creek State Park
You’ll learn that in Atlanta, nature is close by, no matter what direction you go. Sweetwater Creek State Park is only 15 miles from downtown Atlanta and offers nearly 3,000 acres of camping grounds, hiking, swimming holes and trails for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail along the creek is especially popular in the summer for people (and their dogs) looking for a place to cool down.
45. Go back in time at Starlight Drive-In
The city has one of the last drive-in theaters in the country, Starlight Drive-In, right on Moreland Avenue in East Atlanta. It’s a great way to spend a summer night — you can bring lawn chairs and sit outside the car or stay in the car. There’s a snack bar and one ticket gets you two movies.
46. See the best hip-hop artists at ONE Music Fest
A two-day festival, ONE Music Fest features a lineup of the most popular artists in hip-hop, soul, rap and more. After a decade of music, the festival has moved to Centennial Olympic Park. The annual event, usually in September, has been recognized by Rolling Stone Magazine as one of the best music festivals.
47. Visit Sara J. Gonzalez Memorial Park
Established in 2018, the Sara J. Gonzalez Memorial Park honors Gonzalez’s legacy as a Latinx advocate and entrepreneur in the Atlanta community. The park, located in a diverse community in Buckhead, has a learning nook and a playground. It’s Georgia’s first park to be named after a Hispanic person.
48. Book it to the Decatur Book Festival
Every year, hundreds of authors come to Decatur for Labor Day’s long weekend to interact with their fans and readers during Decatur Book Festival. It’s one of the largest independent book festivals in the U.S. Through readings, events, demonstrations and signings, visitors get to see their favorite authors and learn more about their storytelling.
49. See President Snow’s mansion from “The Hunger Games”
A beautiful historic mansion next to the Atlanta History Center, the Swan House was built in 1928 for the Inman family. The property was restored in 2004 and now it’s available for tours for visitors to admire the architecture and the mansion’s history.
50. Climb to the top of Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park takes the first spot for most visited attraction in the entire state. The massive mountain is a monadnock, a hill of bedrock, that’s about five miles in circumference. The park has events like the laser show in the summer, snow mountain in the winter and other attractions. From the top, on a clear day, you can spot the Atlanta skyline.
51. Splash around at Historic Fourth Ward Park
Just across Ponce City Market, you can see the newly revitalized Historic Fourth Ward Park. It’s currently adjacent to the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, and it provides event space, a playground and a splash pad during the summer.
52. Take a free art stroll through Castleberry Hill Arts District
A few blocks from downtown, Castleberry Hill boasts beautiful loft apartments, fine dining and a historic arts district. There’s a large concentration of galleries in the neighborhood that display work from predominantly African American artists. On the second Friday of every month, you can join the art stroll guided tour for free.
53. Eat chili at Chomp and Stomp
Cabbagetown celebrates the arrival of cold weather in Atlanta every November with a big chili cook-off. Neighbors and chefs compete for the best chili award as attendees go around sampling in little cups. The whole day starts with a 5K race and ends with a food coma.
54. Ride rollercoasters at Six Flags Over Georgia
Six Flags doesn’t need much of an introduction. The park features 11 roller coasters, including the Mind Bender, and more than 30 rides and attractions like the water park Hurricane Harbor.
55. Buy some art at the Virginia-Highland Summerfest
For the past 35 years, the Virginia-Highland Summerfest has kickstarted summer in June with live music, an artist market and food vendors along Virginia Avenue. You get to experience the festival on foot as you explore all of the booths.
56. Spend date night at SkyView Atlanta
SkyView Atlanta, a large Ferris wheel in downtown Atlanta, is not your standard Ferris wheel. You’ll be offered one of the air-conditioned cabins upon entry as you go around four times. Visit during sunset for the best views of the city from above.
57. Watch indie films at the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival
The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival takes place over some three weeks late in the winter, across different venues in Atlanta. The festival holds events for directors, creators and film enthusiasts to discuss the independent Jewish films being shown.
58. Learn about money at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta
The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta serves the Southeast region of the U.S., right from Midtown. You can visit its museum and read more about U.S. money, how it’s printed and its role in banking and the economy.
59. See exotic animals at Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary
Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary works as a rehabilitation facility for domestic and exotic wildlife. Founded in 1978, it’s currently home to more than 1,500 animals over 250 acres. Once you arrive, you can walk around and spend time with the animals.
60. Drive a sports car at Porsche Experience Center
Near the Atlanta airport, you’ll find the Porsche Experience Center, where visitors can take a 90-minute driving experience with a company coach around a 1.6-mile circuit. You get to pick out of several Porsches, or you can combine experiences with their off-road track.
61. Enjoy a craft beer at Monday Night Brewery
Atlanta craft brewery Monday Night has two taprooms in the Atlanta area — one on the Westside and another one in the West End neighborhood. Both locations have tours and beer on tap. If you’re looking to sit outdoors, we recommend taking the BeltLine down to the Westside trail and hanging out at the West End location, The Garage.
62. Get your inner nerd on at the Atlanta Science Festival
From smart cars to the latest in science, the Atlanta Science Festival gets more innovative year over year. Presentations show the latest in technology and science and how it influences our every day lives. There are also hands-on activities, workshops and performances.
63. Brave your way through Netherworld Haunted House
Netherworld Haunted House will haunt your dreams. The attraction has grown from one haunted house to several and a monster area with carnival games. The costumes and makeup are so good, you’ll forget it’s not real.
64. Chill at SweetWater 420 Fest
Organized by SweetWater Brewing Company, SweetWater 420 Fest is held close to Earth Day every year. The festival invites nonprofits, charities and environmental activists to present to attendees as well as artists, food vendors and more.
65. Find rare novels at Charis Books
The oldest independent feminist bookstore in Atlanta, Charis Books recently moved from Little Five Points to Decatur’s Agnes Scott campus. The store also holds cultural workshops to discuss social issues in the community.
66. Enjoy spring at the Atlanta Dogwood Festival
Every spring, Atlanta residents look forward to the Atlanta Dogwood Festival at Piedmont Park. The arts and crafts festival occurs during a weekend in April, when the dogwood trees are in bloom. Performances, food vendors and that wonderful Atlanta spring weather color the weekend — just make sure to pack your Claritin.
67. Watch the Little Five Points Halloween Parade
Every October, the Little Five Points Halloween Festival puts together the spookiest, most eclectic parade in the city. Get there early to grab a good spot so you can spot the weirdest costumes, the large floats and all of the marching bands. It’s the best way to start the season.
68. Devour Taste of Atlanta
Every year, Taste of Atlanta brings together the best of the best in the dining scene and invites them to challenge themselves to create their best dishes. The three-day festival showcases the best cooking skills during live-cooking demonstrations and brings together more than 90 restaurants.
69. Compete with other gamers at Axis Replay
Whether you’re a serious gamer or a casual one, Axis Replay has the game for you. At just $5 per hour, you can explore their large selection of consoles, games and VR. You can even join an eSports tournament. Gather among other gamers and compete.
70. Check out BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Bright white, detailed, hand-carved exteriors and tall pillars — Lilburn‘s BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir makes you wonder whether you’re in Atlanta or sitting in front of the Taj Mahal. After you finish admiring this intricate work of art, you can stop by the food court to enjoy some veggie snacks.
71. Visit Hammonds House Museum
Originally the residence of Atlanta physician Dr. Otis Hammonds, the Hammonds House Museum displays more than 250 pieces from his art collection. The Victorian-style house is one of the oldest houses in the West End. The museum regularly invites new and established black artists to show their work in its gallery.
72. Get classy with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
Inside the Woodruff Arts Center in Midtown, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra takes the stage weekly to play concerts for its audience. The concerts span from classical music to solo performances and even Star Wars and Harry Potter renditions.
73. Channel your inner rapper at the Trap Music Museum
The Trap Music Museum allows visitors to learn more about the history of trap and hip hop music, with rapper T.I.’s clothes and 2 Chainz’s pink car, on display. While it was supposed to be temporary, the English Avenue museum is here to stay. It now has an escape room, too.
74. Walk to Alabama (seriously!)
Did you know that there’s a trail that can take you from Smyrna to Alabama? The 62-mile Silver Comet Trail takes you through forests, historic downtowns and even a few challenging climbs. Get your road bike ready and bring a buddy on your adventure — just be sure to account for the return trip.
75. Go vintage at Junkman’s Daughter
When Junkman’s Daughter opened back in the ’80s, Little Five Points was the epicenter of alternative culture. The store became a true resource for those looking for unusual clothing, art, collectibles and goods. Don’t forget to say hi to the in-store kittens as you walk in.
76. Get a unique learning experience at the CDC Museum
The CDC Museum offers a glimpse into past epidemics, science and technology that has helped humanity stay healthy. You can learn more about the eradication of malaria, HIV testing, and as time goes, eventually, essential additions on the effects of COVID-19 around the world. It’s free admission, too.
77. Stock up on supplies at Buford Highway Farmers Market
As you walk through Buford Highway Farmers Market, you’ll discover fruits that you’ve never seen before — sugar apple, durian, red banana. The Costco-sized market’s aisles are divided by country for easier access. Even if you’re not shopping for groceries, it’s a fun cultural experience as you taste samples and find new snack favorites.
78. Find cult classics at Videodrome
Film buffs, rejoice! Videodrome, a small video store in Poncey-Highland, remains strong as residents come back every weekend to rent new and obscure movies. You can find everything from well-known titles to classics often not found on the internet. Take a look at the staff picks to narrow down your choices or ask the team for their favorites.
79. Go green at Georgia Tech’s Kendeda Building
On Georgia Tech’s campus, you can visit the Kendeda Building, the largest “living building” in the Southeast. The building uses reclaimed wood, recycled tiling from other construction sites, more than 900 solar panels and other initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint.
Source: Facebook/TinyDoorsATL
80. Take a Tiny Doors ATL tour
You can book a three-mile bike ride around Inman Park, Cabbagetown and the Atlanta BeltLine to spot all of the Tiny Doors, an art project by artist Karen Anderson Singer. Each door has a theme, and Singer will explain the story behind each door, including the one outside the Fox Theatre (shown above).
81. Stroll through Westview Cemetery
On the westside of Atlanta, Westview Cemetery spreads across more than 580 acres in the largest civilian cemetery in the south. As you walk across the graveyard, don’t miss the Westview Abbey mausoleum and chapel. Its incredibly ornate details have survived more than 130 years in Atlanta — a real preservation miracle.
82. Explore the Delta Flight Museum
One of the largest airlines in the world, Delta Air Lines calls Atlanta home. Their aviation museum, of course, is located right at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The museum displays several exhibitions with full-scale replicas, artifact collections and an outdoor area.
83. Support a good cause at Refugee Coffee
Beyond being some of the best coffee in Atlanta, Refugee Coffee has a more profound mission than keeping you caffeinated. Their job training program helps refugees in the area network and gain real-world skills to obtain jobs as baristas. Check out their event calendar for their next chai workshop, where you can learn how to make it.
84. Climb Kennesaw Mountain
Find a cooler day during your time in Atlanta and spend 90 minutes climbing Kennesaw Mountain from the National Battlefield Park. It’s a steep climb, but worth it for the view from above. Once you’re done, stop by the visitor’s center to learn more about the area’s Civil War history.
85. Show off your moves at Cascade Skating Rink
Got the moves? Bring your skates to the Cascade Skating Rink (you know, that one from the movie “ATL”) and watch the pros make their moves around the rink. Regulars come here on Sunday nights to dance to prominent DJs and compete. You can come by to be a spectator and watch the dance parties — an authentic slice of Atlanta culture.
86. Grab dinner at the Sun Dial Restaurant
In downtown Atlanta, 70 stories up, the Sun Dial restaurant offers a 360-degree view of the city. It once rotated as you ate, but now you can walk around the restaurant to take in the view of Atlanta from above. Check their events schedule as their live jazz night is highly recommended.
87. Get creeped out by Doll’s Head Trail
Near an abandoned 19th-century brick factory in East Atlanta, Doll’s Head Trail is a quirky hiking trail covered with found art and discarded doll parts. You may find it creepy as you walk through the tree-lined path, but it’s a new experience as you spot all the different installations.
88. Find a deal at Scott Antique Market
More than 3,500 exhibitor booths arrive at Scott Antique Market on the second weekend of the month with endless treasures and antiques, ready to find its new owner. If you’re headed to the market, clear out your day and make your $5 entry fee worth it.
89. Tour (and taste) the Old Fourth Distillery
Old Fourth Distillery is Atlanta’s first legal distillery since 1906, located right in the Historic Old Fourth neighborhood. Originally, they started with vodka and have now expanded to gin and bourbon. Take a tour and learn more about this Southern distillery.
90. Visit the Waffle House Museum
Located in Avondale Estates, the Waffle House Museum shows the history of the diner chain that’s now present in 25 states. The museum itself is the actual first Waffle House restaurant. The museum has a ton of memorabilia that will have you craving hash browns and waffles.
91. Cheer on the Falcons and United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United both call Mercedes-Benz Stadium home. The stadium has state of the art technology, affordable snacks and beer and a mechanical roof that opens during the city’s best weather. Schedule your visit during one of the games — Atlanta fans (especially for soccer matches) are as hardcore as they come.
92. Shoot the Hooch
Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer in Atlanta and the reminder to schedule your next “Shoot the Hooch” adventure. Grab your friends and rent a kayak, canoe or tube to float down the Chattahoochee River. There are three different routes from three to seven hours — pick one, pack your SPF and enjoy.
93. Buy unique groceries at Your Dekalb Farmers Market
You’re most likely wondering why a farmers market is an attraction. But Your Dekalb Farmers Market is not a regular farmers market — it’s a 140,000-square-foot market with food from 184 countries. Its employees also originate from around the world. You’ll get lost walking its different aisles. It’s truly a sight to be seen.
94. Play at the College Football Hall of Fame
Go Dawgs and Yellow Jackets! Fans of college football will enjoy the interactive exhibitions at the College Football Hall of Fame, including the 45-yard indoor football field, football history, wins by past players and a wall of helmets.
95. Grab a drink or bite at Krog Street Market
Right next to the Atlanta BeltLine, in Inman Park, Krog Street Market’s food hall is an excellent stop to cool down and fuel up before jumping back on your bike. The market has several restaurants to choose from, along with a few boutiques. Mix it up by grabbing a beer from Hop City, a meal from one of the restaurants and then, end with a dessert from Little Tart.
96. Dine at the first Chick-Fil-A
A good stop on your way into the city from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is the first Chick-Fil-A in Hapeville. Renamed Dwarf House, the original store opened in 1946. Grab one of the original chicken sandwiches, complete with two pickles and a side of waffle fries.
97. Join the debate at Manuel’s Tavern
Recently added to the National Register of Historic Places, Manuel’s Tavern dates back to 1956. From politicians to activists and residents, the spot attracts some of the greatest minds to debate over the latest issues. While you grab your patty melt, you can look at the walls for memorabilia and photos of days past.
98. Walk through the Atlanta Preservation Center
Due to Atlanta being set on fire during the Civil War by General Sherman, there aren’t a ton of old buildings like you would see in other cities. However, the Atlanta Preservation Center does its best to preserve what we have left. Take one of their 90-minute guided walking tours to learn more about Atlanta’s history.
99. Explore Decatur Square
Downtown Decatur has a small-town feel, with its pedestrian-friendly streets, small squares, local restaurants and sidewalk-facing boutiques. Grab an ice cream cone or a beer on one of the patios and enjoy the community’s vibrancy.
100. Hike Arabia Mountain
Arabia Mountain took four centuries to form near Lithonia. Its unique topography has allowed for plants and specimens to thrive in the area, like the bright-red diamorpha plant that covers parts of the ground. The trails are for beginners, and only 20 minutes away from downtown — it’s a nice reprieve from the city.
101. Take a self-guided Atlanta Street Art Tour
See the city on foot with the Atlanta Street Art Tour’s self-guided tour. With seven options, you’ll see how artists from all over the world have turned the city’s walls into their canvas. You’ll see artists like Yoyo Ferro and Greg Mike through different neighborhoods.
There’s no shortage of fun in Atlanta
Whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend, Atlanta has something for everyone. You just need to know where to look. The city is more than just downtown. Metro Atlanta encompasses nearly 9,000 square miles full of culture, arts, food and history.
Interested in making Atlanta your home? Then check out apartments for rent and homes to buy in the city to meet your needs!
