Atlanta is home to so many incredible things to do! There are some things you immediately think of when you think of the ATL (the Aquarium, anyone?), and everyone in Atlanta, from ATLien to tourist, has got to try ’em out!
From world-famous attractions to the best in art and culture, check out these incredibly iconic things to do across the city. There’s truly something for everyone, including family-fun, unforgettable nightlife, and nature hotspots.
High Museum of Art
If you’re in Atlanta, you definitely can’t miss the High Museum of Art.
With their ever-rotating traveling exhibits, there’s always something new and incredible to see. You’ll see some of the coolest art in the Southeast, right in the heart of one of Atlanta’s most famous neighborhoods: Midtown!
Atlanta is known as the city in the forest for a reason! We’ve got trees, parks, and green everywhere! It’s so cool to have all the amazing parts of a city along with some beautiful nature to enjoy, right here at home! One of Atlanta’s most famous parks, Piedmont Park, is an absolute can’t miss experience. Piedmont Park has a great view of the skyline and is perfect for laying out with a good book, picnicking with friends, or a ton of other activities that take place on the green. You’ll find open markets, events, casual sports, dogs galore, and so much more during your visit to Piedmont Park!
Address for your GPS: 1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
And if you want to see more beautiful parks in Atlanta, you’ve gotta check out our full roundup here!
While we’re on the topic of things to do outdoors–you’ve got to check out the Atlanta BeltLine! This 22-mile loop that runs around the entirety of the city is a converted railroad corridor-turned walking/biking trail. There are also tons of incredible restaurants and Atlanta staples are along the BeltLine! It’s also perfect for a nice walk with friends, your pup or for yourself!
Click here to view the full round-up of things to do on the BeltLine.
Atlanta is home to the largest aquarium in the United States, and the only one that boasts two adult male whale sharks.
There’s so much to see at the aquarium, from the thousands and a thousands of amazing animals: including a jellyfish room (great for photos!), sharks, rays, dolphins, and so, so much more. The aquarium also hosts fun events including getting to see the aquarium after dark… and with a drink in hand!
And if you’re interested in swimming with the whale sharks, we’ve got some great news for you! Check out how you can swim with the whale sharks here!
Our thriving craft brewery scene doesn’t seem to stop expanding, with exciting new additions continuously popping up across Atlanta. With so many incredible breweries, the amount of craft brews and beers to try can be overwhelming, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Don’t miss our round-up of the city’s favorite local breweries, located in and around the A!
We even have the 2nd best brewery in the entire country right here in Atlanta!
From a huge food court with tons of Atlanta favorites available to endless shopping, every ATLien has been to the Ponce City Market. There’s no better place to grab your favorite ice cream, and then shop the spectacular booths and stores than PCM. Ponce also hosts a ton of amazing local events, so you can enjoy even more fun in the ATL! If you’re visiting Atlanta or if you’re a local looking for something iconic to do in Atlanta, you’ve gotta check out Ponce City Market!
Head to their website here!
Coca-Cola was founded in Atlanta, which means the museum/immersive experience in Downtown Atlanta holds a lot of sentiment and love to many ATLiens. Discover everything there is to know about the world-famous drink at ATL’s ‘World of Coca-Cola’. You’ll be able to sample foreign favorites from across the globe, and even take a look back at the company’s history, delving into everything from design to marketing.
Want to learn more? Check out World of Coca-Cola’s website here!
This modern museum explores the world of college football, with an awesome selection of exhibitions on famous college football players. The interactive space is jam-packed with unique experiences, legendary history, as well as seasonal events. There’s even a 45-yard indoor football field and over over 750 college football helmets, immortalizing the greatest players of the beautiful sport.
Learn all about it on their website here!Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta is one of the many things to do in Atlanta’s gorgeous Grant Park neighborhood. Offering hands-on experiences for all ages, come face-to-face with some of the most fascinating creatures from the natural world. The zoo even hosts exciting exhibitions during the summer months, and is becoming renowned for their light festival during the holidays.
There’s always something fun and interesting happening at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, which is nestled inside Piedmont Park. From mind-bending art exhibitions in the midst of the grounds’ botanical displays, to adult-only cocktail parties and beyond. Keep an eye on Secret Atlanta to stay up-to-date with all the exciting offerings from the Atlanta Botanical Gardens, and other ATL attractions! Right now, enjoy Alice Returns, which is a fantastical Alice in Wonderland Themed exhibition of botanicals and more!
Like we said, ATL is known as ‘the city in a forest’, so it’s no surprise that there are so many fantastic places to go hiking in the city, its surrounding areas, and the state of Georgia. From stunning mountain peaks to cascading waterfalls, we’re have so many options when it comes to a nice hike. Check out our round-up of hiking trails in and around Atlanta that are worth the trek.
