Look, we all get it: sometimes you want to go out and have fun, but you don’t want to spend your whole paycheck to do it! To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of 10 things to do in Atlanta that are all under $20! Like, actually under $20! Keep scrolling to learn all about the best budget-friendly things to do in the ATL!
1. Go for a swim at Piedmont Park Aquatic Center
You can beat the heat this summer at Piedmont Park’s beautiful pool! For just $7, you can enjoy the cool water and sunshine!
Piedmont Park’s Aquatic Center has four lap lanes, beach entry with a current channel for floating, concessions, pool-level locker rooms and showers, a landscaped deck, and ADA accessibility! You can buy your day pass online here, or with cash!
2. Check out a movie at the Starlight Drive-In
For a truly magical experience like no other, you’ve gotta check out the Starlight Drive-In, an original 1950s art deco-style theatre, complete with all the magic of the old Hollywood aesthetic, but with modern sound systems and digital projection!
Adult tickets for the drive-in are $10 each and for kids age 5-9, they’re just $1!
And if you’re on the hunt for even more deals, check out their coupons page to get a free treat!
3. Grab a nice lunch out on the town!
Yes, it’s local. No, it’s not fast food. Yes, it’s all under $20! Victory Sandwich Bar in Decatur has a whole menu of artisan, craft sandwiches, for just $6 each! Get lunch out without breaking the bank at Victory!
Where: 340 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030
Oh, and then you’re right there in Decatur Square, where you can enjoy tons of cute local shops, the green town square for some outdoor time, and so much more! Oh, and if you’re worried about parking, you can park at Decatur Court (315 W. Ponce de Leon Ave.) for an hour for just $2. And $2 for each hour after that! (All day parking is only $8)
Check out their menu here!4. Swim in natural swimming holes in Georgia
If you’re looking to do something a little bit more involved, a trip to one of Georgia’s beautiful natural swimming holes and waterfalls is the perfect solution! And the best part? You can swim for free!
Check out the full list of great swimming spots here!5. Ride Atlanta’s iconic Skyview Ferris Wheel
If you’ve ever been downtown (or even seen a picture of Atlana’s beautiful skyline), then you’ve probably seen Skyview, the massive ferris wheel that spins over the city!
Get the best view of the city from inside the private, climate controlled gondolas!
With adult tickets at $17.50, senior tickets (65+) at $15.50 and children’s tickets (age 3-12) at $12.50, it’s the perfect little activity! Learn all about it here!
6. Tour the beautiful and historic Oakland Cemetery
Of course, entry to the cemetery itself is free, but if you’re looking for a guided tour to learn a little extra history and hear some stories, you’ve gotta check out Sights, Symbols, and Stories of Oakland!
Adults: $12
Children (aged 6-17) and Students (with ID): $6
Seniors (65 and older): $6
7. Enjoy some local art
Atlanta has a thriving art scene, with several galleries and exhibitions being completely FREE to the public! Some have low ticket prices, but the art is well-worth the admission. Check out some of these great options happening in Atlanta right now!
8. Read with friends at Atlanta’s amazing silent book club
Atlanta has a new Silent Book Club, and you don’t want to miss out on all the fun. Meeting three times a month, the silent book club explores a new spot in the ATL, gives avid readers a chance to read quietly, and invites participants to mingle and chat after they’re done with their read! Whether it’s at a bar, a coffee shop, or anywhere else in Atlanta, you’ll definitely enjoy this free event (just buy yourself a little treat wherever you go!).
Learn all about it here!9. Take on a trivia night with your friends
For the price of one beer (or a delicious non-alcoholic bevvy or meal), you can play trivia with your friends at some of Atlanta’s coolest breweries and restaurants! Gather up your (smartest) friends, and get ready to answer some great questions at trivia!
See the full list of weekly trivia spots here!10. Stroll or skate the BeltLine
The Atlanta BeltLine is one of the most iconic and unique features of the city. Littered with tons of adorable shops and beautiful street art, the BeltLine is a nice place to talk a long walk, chat with friends, skate or bike, and so much more. Grab a cheap ice cream or coffee at one of the restaurants along the BeltLine if you’re looking for a little treat, and enjoy the walk!