Atlanta, Georgia, pulses with energy, offering a unique combination of Southern charm and urban excitement that draws visitors from around the world. This isn’t just a city—it’s a vibrant crossroads where history, culture, world-class cuisine, and outdoor adventures come together to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re embarking on your first visit or you’ve called Atlanta home for years, this city never stops surprising you with its depth and diversity.

To make the most of your time, here’s your go-to guide for top things to do in this one-of-a-kind city. Bring your curiosity, your appetite, and maybe some comfy walking shoes—you’re in for a treat!

1. Take a Stroll Through Piedmont Park

Immerse yourself in Atlanta’s energy at Piedmont Park. You’ll find winding trails, picnic spots under shady trees, and incredible skyline views that set the scene. Watch locals walking dogs, throwing frisbees, and running the scenic paths as you wander through this vibrant green oasis.

Don’t miss Atlanta Botanical Garden, which sits right next door. Explore its seasonal displays, like the famous “Imaginary Worlds” living sculptures, for a whimsical touch.

2. Walk Through History at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Step into the powerful legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. at this inspiring historical park. Tour his childhood home, stand in the same church where he preached, and visit The King Center, where MLK and Coretta Scott King rest. Each step here immerses you in Atlanta’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement.

Reserve a spot for a guided tour of his home early—it’s free, but the tours fill up fast.

3. Explore the Atlanta BeltLine

Hop onto the Atlanta BeltLine and experience the city from a fresh perspective. Walk, bike, or scooter the Eastside Trail, passing murals, parks, and trendy eateries along the way.

Pause at Ponce City Market. Indulge in tacos from Minero, grab a cocktail on The Roof, and snap photos of the breathtaking city views. The vibe? Unbeatable.

4. Dive Into the Stories at the Atlanta History Center

The Atlanta History Center invites you to uncover the city’s past in dynamic, interactive ways. Walk through the Swan House, a 1920s mansion that starred in The Hunger Games. Stroll the peaceful gardens, visit the Cyclorama (a massive panoramic painting of the Battle of Atlanta), and explore exhibits tied to the Civil War and Atlanta pop culture.

Your ticket includes entry to the Margaret Mitchell House, where the author wrote Gone with the Wind. Make it a two-for-one history day.

5. Catch a Game or Live Concert

Cheer on the Braves at Truist Park while soaking up the electric energy of a true Atlanta baseball game. Explore The Battery, the vibrant entertainment district around the stadium, for restaurants, bars, and even a pre-game concert or two.

Football lovers can join the roaring crowd at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a Falcons game or lose their voice cheering for Atlanta United’s soccer team.

Music fans, hit up The Tabernacle, a historic venue that delivers unforgettable acoustics and performances.

6. Shop and Dine in Little Five Points

Dive into Atlanta’s quirky side in Little Five Points. You’ll find indie shops, bold street art, and alternative culture bursting at the seams. Hunt for rare finds at Junkman’s Daughter or retire your Spotify playlist with a new stack of vinyl from Criminal Records.

Hungry? Crush a burger at The Vortex. Their Coronary Bypass burgers are unapologetically decadent and worth every calorie.

7. Marvel at the Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium amazes visitors of all ages. Walk beside massive tanks teeming with whale sharks, playful otters, and jellyfish that glow like alien creatures. Attend a live dolphin or sea lion show for extra wow moments.

Add-on experiences like swimming with sharks or meeting penguins take your visit to the next level. Arrive early to snag the best views and avoid peak crowds.

8. Savor Atlanta’s Food Scene

Dive fork-first into Atlanta’s diverse food culture. Start with the classics—soul food at Mary Mac’s Tea Room or Busy Bee Cafe hits all the nostalgic notes. For BBQ, both Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q and Heirloom Market BBQ stand out with smoky flavor that lingers long after the meal's done.

Craving something global? Head straight to Buford Highway for international eats—from Korean BBQ to authentic Mexican tacos.

9. Admire Art at the High Museum of Art

Explore stunning collections at the High Museum of Art in Midtown. Wander through exhibits showcasing everything from European masterpieces to thought-provoking modern pieces. Special displays rotate frequently, so there’s always something new to intrigue you—recent hits included works by Basquiat and Frida Kahlo.

Visit on “Second Sundays” to score free admission and enjoy family-friendly programming.

10. Feel the Thrill at Six Flags Over Georgia

Chase adrenaline at Six Flags Over Georgia. Scream your way down Goliath, the park’s towering coaster, before cooling off on water rides or swimming laps at Hurricane Harbor water park. Meet iconic characters or snag a caricature for the perfect keepsake.

Bring your energy—you’ll need it to survive all the twists, turns, and thrills throughout the day!

11. Hike or Relax at Stone Mountain Park

Take a break from city life at Stone Mountain Park. Hike to the summit and drink in dramatic views of Atlanta’s skyline, or ride the Summit Skyride for a quicker, less-sweaty ascent. Explore the historic square, play a round of mini-golf, or grab a blanket and chill out during the summer laser light shows.

Early morning hikes offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making the climb much more enjoyable.

12. Indulge in Midtown’s Nightlife

Cap off your day with Midtown’s electric nightlife. Sip craft cocktails at speakeasies like Red Phone Booth (you’ll need to solve the mystery entry first!) or soak in cityscapes at rooftop bars like 12 Cocktail Bar. If dancing’s your scene, hit up a local hotspot and move to the rhythm of Atlanta’s diverse sounds.

Atlanta moves to its own beat—a mix of cutting-edge culture, deep Southern roots, and vibrant diversity that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re hiking at sunrise, devouring award-winning BBQ, or standing in awe of major historical landmarks, every moment here brims with energy. Get out there and experience what makes Atlanta unforgettable!