Time is precious, and living in the present is as important as it’s ever been. We’ve all got things we want to see and do, but with all the pressures from work and life’s never-ending daily tasks, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos of it all. There’s always time to try out something new, but sometimes we just need a little nudge in the right direction, and luckily for you, we’re here to do just that. We’ve put together a list of unforgettable experiences to add to your Atlanta bucket list so that you can tick off every little adventure you experience as you go along.
With so much going on in the city, there’s so much to do that’s worth putting on your bucket list. These are the best ways to experience Atlanta and the must-do activities around the city, regardless if you’re a local ATL expert, or a visiting tourist, just looking for a good time.
1. Check off the ATL landmarks
With an iconic skyline, gorgeous local parks, and ground-breaking history, there are so many landmarks worth visiting in the ATL. Head to the Olympic Centennial Park to take those stunning snaps of the Atlantan skyline. You can even jump on SkyView Atlanta for unbeatable views of Atlanta’s renowned architecture.
As an epicenter for the civil-rights movement, there are so many places to learn about Atlanta’s influential history. Visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, for exhibitions based on the city’s influencers within the civil-rights movement. Atlanta was home to Martin Luther King, and remains a pivotal city for Black voices, history, and culture. Visit The King Center, or Martin Luther King’s former home for more insight on Dr. King, and his impact on the city and the world.
2. High Museum of Art
Of course, the High Museum of Art has become an institutional part of the city. With more than eighteen thousand works of art in its permanent collection, the High has an extensive anthology just waiting to be explored. The museum also has some of the coolest art exhibitions in the city, and local creatives really love this place.
3. One of Georgia’s gorgeous hikes
Atlanta is known for being a city within a forest, so imagine what’s available to us if we travel a little further out of the city. Unforgettable adventures certainly await, with so many beautiful hiking trails in and around Atlanta that you’ve got to try out. If you’ve always needed a little extra motivation, check out this Bartram Trail Hike that includes wine tasting and an organic picnic. Explore rolling elevation through a forest rich with wildflowers, mosses and ferns followed by wine tasting at local Wineries.
4. Go on safari at Illumunarium
Going on safari is the ultimate bucket list activity. Now you don’t have to leave Atlanta to roam the African savannah. Illuminarium is Atlanta’s newest attraction on the BeltLine using ground-breaking technology to transport us to our wildest dreams. Interact with lions, elephants, and zebras, in this multi-sensory attraction causing quite the buzz.
5. Experience an enchanting Candlelight concert
Candlelight host several concerts performed by live musicians in some of the most iconic venues in Atlanta. The venues are both indoor and outdoor, but every concert will be bathed in magical candlelight. With themed nights dedicated to different genres, there’s something for everybody’s music taste. From tributes to contemporary icons like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift to classical music legends including Vivaldi and Mozart, you’re sure to find a concert for you.
Get your tickets to these magical candlelit concerts here.
6. Check out the spectacular ATL rooftops
With such an iconic skyline, rooftop bars are a great way to experience incredible views of Atlanta. Great for catching up with friends, or drinking the night away. We recommend checking out SkyLounge, located at the top of the historic boutique Glenn Hotel. Enjoy your craft cocktails with insane views of the ATL skyline. In the winter months, head to New Realm Brewing or Ponce City Market for a truly festive time.
7. The World of Coca-Cola
It’s icons only in the ATL! Atlanta is home to Coca-Cola, and you can delve into the iconic soda pop at their killer attraction, The World of Coca-Cola. The history, the marketing, everything you’d want to know about the legendary drink is available to you at this unmissable attraction. Discover fun facts about the iconic soda and gulp down all the coke you can handle while exploring this fabulous attraction.
Make sure you book your tickets for your visit to The World of Coca-Cola!
8. Visit Georgia Aquarium
9. Chow down at ATL’s impressive selection of food halls
10. Catch a show at Fox Theatre
This former movie palace is now the best place to catch a show in Atlanta. The performing arts venue is located in Midtown, and is the centerpiece of the Fox Theatre Historic District. Multiple Broadway shows visit this iconic theatre, with a stunning interior that’s a scene-stealer in its own right.