Atlanta is a lively cosmopolitan city with warm Southern charm!  The city of Atlanta has so much to offer – amazing food, rich history and culture, sports, entertainment, and fun family-friendly activities. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with your whole family, there’s something for everyone. You’ll be able to find a wide range of activities for kids and also find attractions for scholars, artists, music and movie-lovers.  Not to mention the fact that the Superbowl is in Atlanta this year! No doubt Atlanta is one of the most popular cities to visit in the Southeast!

Although technically, I’ve never visited before. Why? Because I’ve lived here for over 15 years. Gasp! So this isn’t a travel post? Um, yes … yes it is! Because I’m giving you the ultimate guide for what to do in Atlanta when YOU visit! Trust me, you will love this city. I know I know, I always say if you have time off try to travel somewhere else blah blah. But you know what? Sometimes you just want to relax and  take it easy (especially when you have a full-time job and a family that includes an active 18 month old). Plus my dad came to visit for the Christmas holidays! So what do you do with the combo of days off, a need for relaxation and chill time, family visiting, but still a lust for adventure?  Well that my friends is a recipe for the perfect Staycation!

My dad’s visit this Christmas inspired me to write this post, because we really saw and did a lot and had an amazing time together (we used CityPass Atlanta – more info below). Plus, although I’ve done most of the things on this list over the years, it was kind of cool to experience the places I hadn’t yet been with my dad. So here’s a list of things to do when you visit Atlanta, from your very own local :).

1. EAT EAT EAT!

Anyone who knows me knows that eating good food is my FAVORITE thing to do! Atlanta is one of the best cities in the U.S. for foodies! Make sure you experience a good ol’ Southern brunch at least once while you are visiting (the wait might annoy you but the food will make you and your tummy very happy). Mary Mac’s Tea Room, Murphy’s, Thumbs Up, Poor Calvin’s, and Two Urban Licks are great choices for brunch. Don’t forget to try the BBQ – Fat Matt’s is my go-to for delicious barbecue in Atlanta. For delicious seafood, The Optimist and Atlanta Fish Market are my picks.

But Atlanta has more to offer than just the southern cooking and barbecue … way more. Atlanta has a large influence of international cultures. As a result, the city features a wide variety of international cuisine where you can find something for everyone. A few of my ATL international favorites? Italian: La Grotta or Nino’s; Thai: Chai Yo; Jamaican: Tropics Jerk Center; Cuban: Havana or Papi’s; Ethiopian: Desta Ethiopian Kitchen;

TIP: Make reservations if you can, especially for a weekend. Most brunch places may not accept reservations (especially on a Sunday), so don’t get mad if there’s a line outside the restaurant. Just think of it as a good sign – that you’re about to eat some pretty delicious food!

2. Visit the Museums

Museums are a favorite for me, so imagine how lucky I am to live in a city that has so many. Where shall we start?

Well, since Atlanta has such a deep history and played a major role in civil rights, lets dive right into the civil rights and history museums. Atlanta is the perfect place to learn more about civil rights in America, since it was a major center for the civil rights movement.  There are two places that you must visit while in Atlanta (actually, you should visit these two centers, regardless of whether you have any interest in civil rights or not. If you didn’t before, you will now. You can thank me later): the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, the Atlanta History Center, and the Carlos C. Museum are also recommended. If you like natural history, then you’ll enjoy the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, which is included in the CityPass Altanta (as an option to the College Football Hall of Fame).

Art lovers will love the High Museum of Atlanta, located in midtown. Also, if you have kids, stop by the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, located downtown near Centennial Olympic Park.

3. Visit the Parks

There are numerous parks in Atlanta, which is perfect if you have kids. Two popular parks are Centennial Olympic Park (downtown) and Piedmont Park (midtown). Skyview (the large Ferris wheel in downtown Atlanta) is right beside Centennial Olympic Park. If you’re here with your kids during the summer, you’ll definitely want to check out Centennial Olympic Park. That’s when the Park runs its fountains, which is lots of fun for the kids because they can run through it and play in the water.

Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s largest public park. It’s a lovely picturesque park, with walking trails, playgrounds, dog parks, a public pool and a beautiful lake.  Home to numerous festivals and events throughout most of the year, Piedmont Park is a popular venue for everyone. Locals love to use Piedmont park for special events (weddings etc.) and photo-shoots.

4. Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Center/Historical Park

I know I mentioned the Martin Luther King Jr. site in item 2 (the Museums), but the King Center deserves its own listing.

Atlanta is the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent leader in the American civil rights movement. When you’re in Atlanta, I highly recommend visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site.  This goes for everyone, tourists and locals alike. The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Visitor Center showcases the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his role in the civil rights movement. The site is comprised of various buildings including the birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Ebeneezer Baptist Church.

Start off by walking along the Civil Rights Hall of Fame and go into the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site Visitor Center where you will learn more about Dr. King’s legacy. Once you are finished viewing the Visitor Center, exit the building and head toward the International World Peace Rose Garden. Then head on over to the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church at the corner of Auburn Avenue and Jackson Street. (where Dr. King went to Church and his father preached as a pastor).

After visiting the Church, walk towards Freedom Hall, where right outside, you will be able to view the Freedom Walkway and the Reflecting Pool, the Eternal Flame, and the crypt of Dr. and Mrs. King. Then go into Freedom Hall and view more exhibits about Dr. King and his work. Reserve your ticket to view Dr. King’s birth home while you’re there. After you’re done viewing Freedom Hall, head over to Dr. King’s birth home and see where Dr. King was born and raised.

Tip: Visitor parking is located on Johns Wesley Dobbs Avenue. Parking and Admission are free.

5. Go the Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is a favorite for visitors and locals alike, especially if you have children. See the beluga whales, the giant Pacific octopus, and Japanese spider crabs at the Cold Water Quest. Check out the otters and other river animals at the River Scout. Take in the tropical fish at the Tropical Diver, one of the largest living reef exhibits in the world. Check out the Dolphin and Sea Lion shows. Last but not least, walk through the Ocean Voyager and be mesmerized by the beautiful sea life swimming around you. If you’re lucky you may see a whale shark or a manta ray. They even have a 4D Theater.

My personal favorite is the section right at the end of the Ocean Voyager pictured below. The Georgia Aquarium also has various tours and experiences where you can even have an encounter with one of the sea animals (dolphin, seal, sea lion, beluga, or penguin). You can easily spend about 4-5 hours here. Plan your visit using the Georgia Aquarium Map. and don’t forget to check the schedules for the Dolphin and Sea Lion shows. If you get hungry, you can always grab a bite to eat at Cafe Aquaria.

Tip: CityPass Atlanta includes The Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the The National Center for Civil and Human Rights, which are all located beside each other on Baker Street. Go early, park at the Georgia Aquarium ($10 for members; $12 for non-members), and take a day to enjoy all three. If you are using the train, the closest Marta station is the Civic Center.

6. Visit the World of Coca-Cola

Atlanta is the home of many things, including Coca-Cola. While the headquarters is located on North Avenue, Coke has its own little world in downtown Atlanta – literally. The World of Coca-Cola allows visitors to have a fun-filled experience while exploring the story behind Coca-Cola. It’s located right beside the Georgia Aquarium and National Center for Civil Rights so it’s super-convenient.

You will first enter through the lobby and grab your complementary coke beverage. You’ll wait in line at the lobby until the countdown is over (seriously, there is a timer counting down until the door opens). Once the door opens, you will enter the Loft, where you will learn more about the history of Coca-cola. The next part of the journey is a mini-theater, where you will view a short video, Moments of Happiness.

The rest of the journey is a self-guided tour. You can opt to go to the “Vault” which houses the most closely guarded and best kept secret of Coca-Cola, the secret formula. The “Miles of Refreshment” section allows you to explore the history of Coca-Cola and the company’s journey through time. You will see various Coca-Cola items and memorabilia, dating all the way back to the 1880s. Next up is “Bottle Works”, where you’ll get a look behind-the-scenes at the Coca-Cola bottling process.

You can also go up to the upper level and view the Coca-Cola Portrait Wall and Pop Culture Gallery. Make sure you don’t leave without tasting some of the international and domestic beverages made by Coca-Cola (there are over 100). Can’t say I’m a huge fan of the World of Coca-Cola (it’s probably my least favorite on the CityPass), but many folks seem to enjoy it.

7. Do the CNN Studio Tour

Take a guided tour through the halls of CNN Center to get an inside look of the world’s first 24 hour news network. CNN (Cable News Network) was established in Atlanta by Ted Turner in 1980.  I recently did the tour with my dad over the Christmas holidays (the CNN Studios tour is included in the Atlanta CityPass) and I have to say, it’s one of my favorites.

The tour is about 50 minutes and gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the headquarters of CNN. You will learn how live broadcasts are produced and how the news network operates. Heads up, at some point you won’t be allowed to take pictures, so take as many photos as you can in the areas where you’re allowed. I have to say I felt that the tour could be a little bit longer than 50 minutes, I remember feeling kind of sad when it was over (yes, I enjoyed it that much). It’s almost surreal because this is where CNN employees actually come to work. Once you’re done with the tour, you can catch a bite to eat at the CNN food court. Don’t forget your photo of the CNN sign outside! This is definitely an experience you should have when you visit Atlanta.

TIP: Tours fill up fast so you’ll need to make a reservation for your tour date and time, even if you have the Atlanta CityPass (they are that popular). To make reservations, call 1-877-4CNNTOUR or 404-827-2300 (open daily from 9am – 5pm). You can park at the CNN parking deck across the street on Centennial Olympic Park drive ($10).

Also, the CNN Center is located beside Centennial Olympic Park, on the opposite side of the Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. As convenient as it may sound to squeeze all of these in (and some of you may be able to do this), I would not recommend cramming all four of these in one day. Keep in mind most of these places are crowded (especially on weekends) so things may take a bit longer than planned. You want to be able to enjoy the entire experience, so if you have the time then space it out.

8. Go to the Zoo

Zoo Atlanta is a perfect spot to take your kids (it’s great for adults too). You’ll see a wide array of animals from all over the world. You can view the animals from afar or get up close with select animals with the Wild Encounters. Make sure you stop by to see the pandas! The zoo is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (last admission 4:30) and is included in the Atlanta CityPass.

9. See the Botanical Gardens

Experience the beauty of Atlanta’s Botanical Gardens. Opened in 1976, the Atlanta Botanical Gardens has been described as an “urban oasis in the heart of Midtown.” The Botanical Gardens boasts 30 acres of outdoor gardens, including the award winning Children’s Garden and the Skyline Garden. Make sure you see the Storza Woods and Canopy Walk.

Generally, the Atlanta Botanical Gardens is open Tuesdays and Sundays 9:00 a.m.– 7:00 p.m. (April to October) and 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (November to March). The Botanical Gardens hosts many events and exhibitions, so make sure you check the website for dates, times etc. The Botanical Gardens also offer classes and education on gardening, art, and even beekeeping! The Atlanta Botanical Gardens is located in Midtown Atlanta, adjacent to Piedmont Park. Parking is available on-site (maximum daily rate is $15).

10. Walk Along the Atlanta Beltline

The Beltline is a continuous walking path that links parks and neighborhoods around Atlanta. The beltline is based on former railway corridors that encircle the city. (If you’re still not sure what I’m talking about, think the High Line in New York, minus the “high” part). One of my favorite spots on the beltline is right behind Ponce City Market.

Why is the beltline so cool? Well, you’ll just have to take a walk and see for yourself. For me, I find it relaxing and therapeutic (kind of the same way I feel walking across bridges).

Cyclists can enjoy riding their bikes. Art-lovers are in for a treat with the public artwork such as sculptures and street art displayed along various points along the beltline.

There are also cool little shops and restaurants at various points on the beltline. If you’re walking along the beltline behind Ponce City Market, lookout for the little red door (a favorite of mine).

11. Visit Stone Mountain Park

Stone Mountain Park is a popular, family-friendly attraction where you can do numerous outdoor activities. The Park itself has 15 miles of wooded nature trails, and many folks actually hike up Stone Mountain itself. You can have family picnics and enjoy the views of the lake or the forest. There are also various sites throughout the Park where you can learn more about its history and the history of Georgia. If you want something more fast-paced, go on the Summit Skyride where you can have an amazing view of the Atlanta skyline and the Appalachian Mountains.

There’s a farmyard for the kids, miniature golf, a train, and a laser show. There’s “Snow Mountain” during the winter and numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year. I actually went to the Native American Festival and Pow Wow at Stone Mountain last year. You can pretty much spend the whole day at Stone Mountain. You can even spend the night or a whole weekend at the Stone Mountain Inn or the Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort if you wish!

Tip: One thing about Stone Mountain of which I’m not a fan: Parking. It’s $20 per vehicle. Even if you are there for 10 minutes. So if you drive to Stone Mountain, make sure you stay there for the whole day!

12. See a Show at the Fox Theater

If you have time while you’re in Atlanta, why not catch a show at the Fox Theater? Once a lavish movie theater (that opened in 1929), the Fox Theater is world-renowned as a concert and event venue.  Performances include musicals and plays (including Broadway shows), concerts, and comedy shows. View upcoming events at the Fox Theater here.

13. Have some Fun at Six Flags over Georgia or Six Flags White Water

If you’re into rides and amusement parks, or if you have kids, then Six Flags over Georgia is worth the visit. Gear up for a fast-paced fun-filled day with the numerous rides the park has to offer. There are Thrill rides, Kids rides, and Family rides, so there will be something for everyone! Six Flags over Georgia is located in Austell, Georgia (just west of Atlanta), which you can easily reach via I-20. The park opens each year in March.

Here during the summer and looking for a way to cool down on a hot Atlanta Summer day? Check out the tropical-themed Water Park (located inside Six Flags over Georgia) that opens each year in May. Don’t forget about Six Flags White Water, located in Marietta, Georgia (don’t worry, it’s still Metro Atlanta).

14. Hang out at Ponce City Market, Krog Street and/or Atlantic Station

Ponce City Market, Krog Street, and Atlantic Station, are all mixed-use development centers that function as commercial and residency community hubs. In other words, they’re really cool places to hang out. You can pretty much spend a whole day at Atlantic Station or Ponce City Market (Krog Street is a little smaller so perhaps not the entire day), hanging out with friends, strolling around, indulging in retail therapy, and grabbing a bite to eat a one of the many restaurants.

Ponce City Market is built around its food hall in the old Sears warehouse so it’s indoors. However, you can access the beltline right behind Ponce City Market an enjoy a lovely stroll outside. Kids will love the Skyline Park, an amusement park located on Ponce City Market’s rooftop. Ponce City Market is located on Ponce de Leon Rd.

Krog Street Market is also indoors and built around it’s own Food Hall. It consists of a west-coast style market, restaurants, and apartments. Krog Street Market is also located along the Beltline trail (by Edgewood Avenue in Inman Park), so feel free to stroll along the beltline after hanging out at Krog Street.

Atlantic Station is more of an open-air mall with restaurants, fashion stores, a movie theater, and museums (the  Millennium Gate Museum and the Robert C. Williams Paper Museum). Atlantic Station is located in Midtown *via I-85 and the 17th street exit).

15. Go See a Game

If you’re here for the Superbowl, then congratulations, you’ve already crossed this off your list!

If not, no fear, there are many games throughout the year. It just depends on which sport you like. American football fans who didn’t make it to the superbowl, can can catch an  Atlanta Falcons game at the Mercedes Benz stadium. If you’re a baseball fan, then check out the Atlanta Braves at the SunTrust Park stadium (alas, Turner Field is no longer home to the Braves).

Last but not least, football (aka soccer) fans should definitely go see Atlanta United FC at one of their home games.  Atlanta United won the Major League Soccer cup last year.  That was just after only their second year in the league.  You can check out their schedule here. I predict big things from Atlanta United. Soccer fans know the festive atmosphere of a football match – you must experience at least once.

So whether you are already here visiting (welcome to Atlanta!) or planning your visit to the A, this list should help you figure out what to do in Atlanta.  Take some time to explore our lovely city and I hope you enjoy your stay!

Additional tips:

Get the Atlanta CityPass

Why should you get the Atlanta CityPass? Glad you asked! The CityPass will give you a great discount on the admission prices and also allows you to skip the lines. There are quite a few attractions on this list that are included in the Atlanta CityPass For $76 each ($152 total for both of us), my dad and I visited (1) the Georgia Aquarium; (2) World of Coca-Cola; (3) CNN Studio Tours; (4) the National Center for Civil and Human Rights and (5) Fernbank Museum of Natural History.  Without the CityPass, we would have paid a total of $223.90 (before taxes) for these five attractions. FYI – Children under 2 are free for these sights.

Side note: The Atlanta CityPass includes admission to items 1 through 3 as listed above. For item 4, you have a choice between the National Center for Civil and Human Rights and the Zoo {I wish they didn’t make you choose between these two. However, if you have enough time to see both you definitely should. Just pay the regular price for the National Center for Civil and Human Rights (it’s cheaper than the Zoo) and use the CityPass for the Zoo. On the other hand, if you’re pressed for time, it probably makes more sense to use the CityPass for the National Center for Civil and Human Rights because it’s beside most of the other venues.  For item 5, you have to choose between the Fernbank Museum of Natural History and the College Football Hall of Fame (I’m all for Fernbank Museum, but to each his own. The College Football Hall of Fame is closer to the other venues).

Where to Stay

Because Atlanta is so spread out and the traffic can be crazy, you’ll want to make sure you are inside the Perimeter (what locals call anywhere inside the circumference of highway 285).

Where you stay depends on you and what you like. There are many lovely neighborhoods in Atlanta that offer Airbnb or VRBO services. My favorite neighborhoods are Buckhead and Virginia Highlands. Not only are Buckhead and Virginia awesome areas, but they have some of the best restaurants in Atlanta, which makes them perfect locations if the main purpose for your trip to is to take in the local cuisine.

However, if you are here to see the major attractions, I suggest you stay either in the downtown or midtown Atlanta area. Many of the attractions in this list are located downtown (Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, National Center for Human Rights, Children’s Museum of Atlanta, CNN Center, Mercedes Benz stadium). So if you are going to most of these attractions, it’s probably more convenient to stay downtown in a hotel within walking distance, like the Embassy Suites Centennial Olympic Park; Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Atlanta; and the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Atlanta.  Hotels in midtown include: the W Atlanta; Loews Atlanta; and the Artmore Hotel.

How to get around:

Unless you’re staying solely in the downtown area for a short period of time, you should rent a car to get around Atlanta. The caveat to driving is that the traffic in Atlanta is terrible. However, while our metro system (MARTA) is convenient to get to certain sites and attractions, it can be limited (it’s nothing like the New York subway system). Plus, things are more spread out in Atlanta, so if you’re here for a longer period of time and trying to see everything on this list, you’ll most definitely need to rent a car. Uber and Lyft are also options, but may be pricey when considering distance and traffic.

If you’re visiting or planning to visit Atlanta, let me know if you found this post helpful!