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Is Atlanta Fun? Here's What You Need to Know

By: Swena Kalra

Edited By: Scott Sidders

Updated on November 6, 2023

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When people think of Atlanta, they often think of a busy, bustling city with a lot to see and do. And while it's true that Atlanta is a vibrant metropolis, it also has a lot to offer in terms of leisure and entertainment.

From world-class museums and art galleries to top-notch restaurants and lively nightlife, there's something for everyone in Atlanta. In addition, the city is home to several parks and green spaces, making it the perfect place to relax and recharge after a busy day of sightseeing. So whether you're looking for excitement or relaxation, Atlanta will surely have something for you.


Top 10 Attractions & Things to Do in Atlanta


This vibrant city has something for everyone. Here are our top 10 recommendations for things to see and do in Atlanta:


1. Visit the Georgia Aquarium

Shark and fishes swimming around at Georgia Aquarium

Atlanta is a city full of fun activities for the whole family. One of the most popular attractions is the Georgia Aquarium. This aquarium is home to more than 100,000 aquatic creatures, including the largest sharks in the ocean. You can watch trainers interact and train with California sea lions here.

This is a truly unique experience that you won't find anywhere else. You can sign up for the dive program and swim with the sharks if you want something more adventurous. This is an exciting way to get up close and personal with these fantastic creatures. Or, if you'd prefer to stay dry, you can walk through the acrylic tunnel and view the fish swimming all around you.


2. Explore Martin Luther King National Historical Park

The Boyhood Home of Martin Luther King

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, Georgia, was recently designated a National Historic Site in 2018. This includes the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. at 501 Auburn Avenue and the Ebenezer Baptist Church at 407-413 Auburn Avenue, where he and his father were ministers.

The site also includes the Freedom Hall Complex, home to King's grave, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. Visitors to the site can take a tour of King's birth home, led by National Park Service guides. The tour includes several other related places, such as Fire Station No. 6, which played a role in the life of the neighborhood and where volunteers tell life stories when King was growing up.

3. Stroll through Piedmont Park

Atlanta midtown skyline from Piedmont Park

The largest park in the Atlanta metro region, Piedmont Park, is located just a short distance northeast of downtown Atlanta. The grounds were once the site of the Battle at Peachtree Creek during the Civil War.

Now, the park features miles of walking and running trails through its gently rolling meadows and shady groves, including a four-mile loop that passes by the park's scenic highlights, natural areas, gardens, and historic sites. You can also find local farmers and artisans gathered at the Green Market on Saturdays, where you can find everything from fresh produce and handmade soaps to smoked meats and biscuits.

4. Browse the High Museum of Art

High Museum of Art during the spring in Atlanta, Georgia

The High Museum of Art in Atlanta, Georgia, is an impressive structure with an extensive collection of art dating from the Renaissance era to the present day. The museum is especially well-known for its 19th-century French masters and American art, but it also has a significant collection of European paintings and decorative art.

Recently, the museum has added modern and contemporary art, photography, and African art to its collections. The High Museum of Art also forms part of the Robert W. Woodruff Arts Center, which hosts an annual film series featuring independent, foreign, and classic cinema. In short, the High Museum of Art is a must-see for art lovers and anyone interested in learning more about art history.

5. Visit the Center for Civil and Human Rights

Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta

This museum is dedicated to the American Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. It contains a wealth of information on the subject. The portraits and stories of those who lost their lives in the struggle are particularly moving.

The museum also does an excellent job of placing the Civil Rights Movement in the broader context of the worldwide struggle for human rights. Apartheid in South Africa, women's rights, children's rights, and others are all discussed. This is an inspiring and thought-provoking museum that is well worth a visit.


6. Check Out the World of Coca-Cola

World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta, Georgia

The World of Coca-Cola is a fascinating place that explores the history and success of the famous soft drink. A new exhibit, Scent Discovery, allows visitors to explore the sense of smell and its origins. This exhibition is interesting for people of all ages. Scent Discovery is a new exhibit at The World of Coca-Cola that explores the sense of smell and the origins of various fragrances.

This exhibit allows visitors to test their sense of smell and learn about the sources of different aromas. This exhibition is both educational and entertaining, making it an excellent choice for people of all ages. Whether you're a fan of Coca-Cola or not, this exhibit will give you a new appreciation for the history and success of this world-famous drink.

7. Take a Walk Through the Atlanta Botanical Garden

Atlanta botanical garden entrance sign and fountain

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and anyone who wants to spend a few hours away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This beautiful garden offers something for everyone, with various gardens, including formal flowerbeds and majestic trees, a children's garden, and an elevated boardwalk that offers views of the surrounding forest.

One of the botanical garden's main attractions is its Rose Garden, one of the southeast's most extensive rose gardens. In addition, the garden has an impressive collection of hydrangeas, which are especially beautiful in the springtime. The botanical garden is also home to several other specialty gardens, including a Japanese Garden and a Conservation Garden.


8. See a Performance at Fox Theatre

Fox Theater downtown Atlanta, Georgia

The Fox Theatre is a historic landmark in Atlanta that was initially built as the Yaarab Temple Shrine Mosque in the 1920s. The theatre has had a varied history, but it has always been a much-loved building due to its beautiful design.

The theatre's interior has been restored multiple times to maintain its original elegance, including the restoration of the furniture collection. The Fox Theatre hosts a variety of performances, including operas, ballets, rock concerts, and movies. In addition to the theatre, two ballrooms are available for special events.


9. Visit Atlanta History Center

Swan House, Atlanta

This Atlanta landmark is home to several must-see attractions. In addition to these fascinating museums, there are also six historic gardens on the grounds. The Atlanta History Museum is a great place to learn about the city's past, with interactive exhibits and a permanent collection. Visitors can tour the house to see the beautiful architecture and learn about the house's history and its occupants.


10. See the Animals at Zoo Atlanta

Orangutan family at Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta is an excellent place for a family day out. It is home to many animals, including gorillas, pandas, and bears. There are also several exciting exhibits to explore, such as an African rainforest and an Asian rainforest.

The zoo offers unique experiences, such as night visits, safari camps, and guided tours. You can also get close to some animals at the zoo in the behind-the-scenes animal encounter. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the animals and their habitats. Zoo Atlanta is an educational and fun experience for people of all ages.


Top 4 Day Trip Ideas from Atlanta


In addition to the many great attractions in Atlanta, several excellent day trip options exist. Here are four of the best:


1. North Georgia Wine Country Tour

Landscape of the vineyards of north Georgia wine country

The North Georgia Wine Country Tour from Atlanta is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the untapped beauty of Georgia's wine country. On this full-day tour, you'll have the opportunity to sample more than a dozen local wines from different vineyards while admiring the area's stunning rolling hills.

Plus, you'll get to spend some free time in Helen, a Bavarian-inspired town where you can enjoy some great food and do some shopping. Best of all, transportation is included, so you don't have to worry about driving after indulging in all the wine tastings!

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2. Atlanta's Black History and Civil Rights Tour

Atlanta Georgia downtown city skyline

The Atlanta Black History and Civil Rights Tour is a fascinating look into the history and culture of black people in Atlanta. The tour begins in downtown Atlanta and travels to various neighborhoods in the city that are important to African-American history.

You'll see Sweet Auburn, visit local Civil Rights landmarks, and experience the arts and culture of the black community. This tour offers a unique perspective on Atlanta that you won't find anywhere else. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the knowledgeable tour guide will answer any questions you have. If you're interested in learning about African-American history and culture, this tour is for you.

3. Bartram Trail Hike

Martin Creek Falls, beautiful waterfall in North Georgia Chattahoochee national forest

The Bartram Trail Hike is a great way to experience the beauty of nature while enjoying a wine tasting at one of the local vineyards. The hike takes you through rolling terrain and provides stunning views of Mount Yonah and the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This is a great way to relax and unwind after a long week. You can choose from several different wineries to visit, each offering its unique experience. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, the Bartram Trail Hike is a great way to spend a day.

4. Harrah's Cherokee Casino Roundtrip from Atlanta

The Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort Roundtrip from Atlanta provides a beautiful opportunity to enjoy some casino excitement, world-class golf, and delicious food. This day trip will depart from Civic Center MARTA Station in Downtown Atlanta and transport guests to Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort. There, they can enjoy six hours of fun at the casino and explore the many other amenities the resort has to offer. Later in the day, guests will board the bus again and return to Atlanta.

Top 3 Places To Stay in Atlanta

Aerial Shot of Downtown Atlanta, Georgia at Dawn

With so many things to see and do in Atlanta, it can be hard to decide where to stay. Here are three great options for places to stay in Atlanta:


1. Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta


This luxury hotel is a short walk from Piedmont Park, the High Museum of Art, and the Atlanta Botanical Garden. The rooms feature marble bathrooms with soaking tubs, cable TV, DVD players, and WiFi access. You can upgrade to a room with a private terrace, separate living room, panoramic views, and/or a whirlpool tub. The hotel also has an upscale restaurant and lounge, an indoor saltwater pool, a gym with a sauna, a spa, and a 24-hour business center.

2. Doubletree Suites by Hilton


With a convenient location near Interstate 285 and the Cobb Galleria business district, the Doubletree Suites by Hilton is a great choice for travelers who want to be close to all the action. The hotel offers rooms with custom-designed pillow-top mattresses, flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, minifridges, WiFi (fee), suites with wet bars, separate living areas, and balconies overlooking the atrium. Guests can enjoy meals at the hotel's two on-site restaurants, which serve buffet and a la carte options throughout the day, or relax with a drink at the bar in the indoor courtyard. You can also take advantage of the fitness center, outdoor pool, or the hotel's business center and 5,000 sq ft meeting space. The Doubletree Suites by Hilton offers a free area shuttle for added convenience.

3. Atlanta Marriott Marquis


The Atlanta Marriott Marquis is a high-rise hotel located in the heart of downtown Atlanta. The hotel is within walking distance of the Georgia Aquarium and just a mile from the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Atlanta Falcons football team's home. Rooms at the Marriott Marquis are spacious and feature floor-to-ceiling windows with great city views. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, WiFi access, and coffee makers. You can also upgrade to a room or suite with access to the lounge, which offers complimentary soft drinks. The hotel has several dining options, including a sports bar, cocktail lounge, Starbucks coffee shop, and market. There is an indoor pool, outdoor pool, whirlpool, and a fully equipped gym for recreation.

Final Thoughts

Midtown Atlanta illuminated at twilight

Atlanta is a great city with plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors busy. Whether you're looking for a luxurious hotel with all the amenities, a suite close to the action, or something more affordable, Atlanta has you covered. Regardless of what activities you get up to, we would like to wish you all the best on your trip! Remember to take lots of pictures, have fun and take care!

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