Location: Atlanta
Top Things to do in Atlanta
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10 Things to Do in Atlanta That You Shouldn't Miss
Atlanta has been dubbed everything from the "capital of the new South" and "the next international city" to "the best place to do business." It's also a great place to visit. Fueled by the prosperity of local mega companies like Coca Cola and Holiday Inn, the prestige of hosting the 1996 Summer Olympic Games and the energy of young upwardly mobile types who have migrated to the city in droves - Atlanta is on fire. And this time it's a good thing. From world-class restaurants and a myriad of cultural attractions to a hip nightlife and sporting events galore, the city is cosmopolitan in every sense of the word. But Atlanta has also managed to maintain its historic character. Stop by the Atlanta History Center or visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Historical Site, a moving tribute to an American icon. Browse through the former home of famous author Margaret Mitchell or pop into the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum for details on the life and times of the former president and his family. Whether you choose modern urban endeavors or old southern pleasures, Atlanta will not disappoint.
Restaurants in Atlanta
1. Georgia Aquarium
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 19 reviews
Georgia Aquarium is the world's most magical aquarium. Situated near Centennial Olympic Park and World of Coca-Cola in downtown Atlanta,Georgia, Georgia Aquarium offers its guests an experience like no other. Across six separate galleries, with more than 70 amazing habitats, 10 million gallons of water and thousands of species of marine animals, guests will marvel at, learn about and come to better understand such majestic aquatic animals as whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, beluga whales, sea otters, African penguins and thousands of species of exotic fish and other animals. The spectacular AT&T Dolphin Tales show combines incredible natural animal behaviors with dynamic theatrics, a Broadway-inspired musical score and a compelling story, which together underscore the connection between humans and the animal world. The animated "Deepo's Undersea 3D Wondershow," for all ages, tells an entertaining but important story about conserving and protecting animals and their natural environment. Cafe Aquaria offers delicious sandwiches, salads, pizza, pasta and delectable desserts. Two gift shops give visitors the chance to take home a treasured collectible. Special animal encounter programs offer the chance to go behind the scenes and come face-to-face with dolphins, sea otters and penguins. Guests can even swim or dive with whale sharks and manta rays in the world's largest aquarium habitat (at 6.3 Million gallons), Ocean Voyager built by the Home Depot. And an onsite parking deck immediately adjacent to the aquarium means quick, easy-to-find and affordable parking.
Reviewed By Fran1336 - Pascagoula, Mississippi
We went during spring break week, so it might not always be like this. But the place was so crowded we didn't really get to enjoy any of the exhibits for being jostled along. I had always heard it was a fabulous aquarium, but I will never visit it again, nor do I recommend anyone try during a typically "busy" week. I bought tickets in advance, because I had heard the number of attendees was regulated. That number should be lowered. I had driven 5 hours with my grandchildren for this attraction and we left after an hour because it was PURE chaos.
2. World of Coca-Cola
Overall Ratings
4 based on 11 reviews
Immerse yourself in World of Coca-Cola, the one and only place you can explore the story of the world's most popular beverage brand. It's a place where anyone can experience moments of happiness and wonder. At World of Coca-Cola, inspiration is around every corner - from the vault where we secure our secret formula, to world-class art and memorabilia to more than 100 beverages to taste from around the world. With opportunities to meet the Coca-Cola Polar Bear, take a VIP Guided Tour - and more - it's no wonder that the World of Coke is a must-see among the top things to do in Atlanta, Georgia.
Reviewed By Montrese W
My daughter and her friend loved it! I was surprised at all the information I was able to take away from the visit. We will probably go again on an off season day to really slow down and enjoy the day.
3. Center for Civil and Human Rights
Overall Ratings
5 based on 1 reviews
The Center for Civil and Human Rights in downtown Atlanta is an engaging cultural attraction that connects The American Civil Rights Movement to today's Global Human Rights Movements. The Center features four immersive and thought-provoking exhibit spaces, including a continually rotating gallery of items from The Morehouse College Martin Luther King, Jr. Collection, where visitors can view the personal papers and items of Dr. King. The Center also provides designated event spaces and educational programs inspiring visitors to join the ongoing dialogue about contemporary movements for human rights around the world. The Center for Civil and Human Rights is open 7 days a week. Regular Hours: Closed Monday, Tuesday - Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM (Last admittance at 4:00 PM) Sunday, 12 PM to 5 PM(Last admittance at 4:00 p.M.) Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Reviewed By claude_monnier - Raleigh, NC
This museum has a huge collection of recordings, videos and artifacts to recount the story around civil rights in the USA and how it relates nowadays to civil rights around the worlds as well as the fight for greater equality.
4. Fox Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Recently restored to its original gilded look of the 1920s, the Fox Theatre features "Mighty Mo," a classic Moller organ with over 3,600 pipes. The lavish theatre currently hosts Broadway musicals, comedy shows and dance companies throughout the year.
Reviewed By BUCKETLISTTRAVELERS - Atlanta, GA
Fox Theater is a real show place. The Moorish architecture is a real show piece. Seating on the main floor can be visually challenging. Probably a better sight line for a show would be the first balcony. Acoustics could be better as well. The large open venue makes it difficult to heard some of the dialogue in a musical. Plan on being there well before showtime since security lines can be long. This venue should not be missed since it is a classic building.
5. Atlanta Botanical Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Step into a world of magic and serenity at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, where features like the Fuqua Orchid Center treat visitors to a rare collection of high-elevation orchids never before grown in the southeast. General Admission: $21.95 Children Admission: $15.95 (free for children 3 or younger)
Reviewed By arockefellerview - Atlanta, Georgia
Caught the last few days of the Orchids in Bloom Spring exhibit with friends & family from out of town to share one of our cultural gems, and point out the extensive collection of species being curated and cultivated under the garden canopy, easily dismissed or unnoticed. An education and visual experience for anyone who enjoys nature, woodlands or landscaping. Flowers abound each season. Trees shine with their Spring display. There are formal gardens and an indoor Conservatory. Extensive artworks are displayed outdoors seasonally and within the public spaces.
Beautiful gift shop and elegantly casual Longleaf Restaurant on site, offer excellent selections.
Located adjacent to historic Piedmont Park.
On site, Garage parking.
Handicap accessible
Family friendly
6. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Start at the visitor center and then work your way around the three main sites in this historic park: the home in which the leader of the Civil Rights movement in America was born, the church where he preached and the memorial site where he is buried. A major Atlanta attraction, the park draws some 500,000 visitors each year.
Reviewed By june252000 - Bermuda
We visited the MLK Center on the day after the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s assassination. As such there was a fresh wreath at the grave site and there existed various other memorabilia specific to that fateful day in 1968. Our 6 year old wasn’t as interested as we (her parents) were though the outdoor playground was a huge hit! I’ve heard people complain about the Center’s upkeep but I was suitably impressed by it. What I did not see and perhaps I just missed it, was an actual statue of Dr. King. I did however see a statue of Ghandi but I didn’t go there to see or learn about him, great as he was. In my humble view, the Center should focus on Dr. King alone. His story will never grow old. I almost forgot to mention that Rev Dr. Berniece King was there and she was available for a few pictures. The MLK Center is a must see while in the city.
7. Oakland Cemetery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Step back in time in Atlanta's most tangible link to the past, Oakland Cemetery. This historical park is the final resting place for many Civil War soldiers, golfing legend Bobby Jones, and "Gone With the Wind" author Margaret Mitchell.
Reviewed By courtney w - Minneapolis, Minnesota
Through my travels I've learned to love local history in all of its forms, but I'm particularly drawn to the stories and beauty of cemeteries; Oakland is another favorite chapter in my travel-story and I'm so glad I stopped by during a weekend in Atlanta.
The grounds are fairly large and easily accessible; I walked from the MLK birth home, about 20 minutes, and grabbed lunch at a coffee shop / bakery across the street (a newly gentrified neighborhood--it seemed--with some fun little spots for lunch / dinner). I took the 90 minute overview tour, and my only regret is that I wasn't there for the specialty tours, too (check out the schedule online, there are some fun themes!). Hans kept a good pace on the tour, which ended around 2 hours rather than 90 minutes, and he did a nice job of mixing Atlanta history with symbolisms, stories, and personal details.
We covered a lot of ground in two hours, but of course there was so much more to see while I wandered around myself after the tour ended. Wear good walking shoes and sunscreen, and bring your camera.
Highly recommend.
8. Swan House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 548 reviews
Reviewed By MidWestActiveAdult - Chicago, Illinois
The house is gorgeous & authentically decorated. But what made it meaningful was the tour guide, playing the role of the architect, Phillip Shutze. (I believe his name was Jon G.). I have been on many historical house tours, but this gentleman brought it alive and made it seem as if you were a special guest receiving the inside tour. He took us from top to bottom of the house & it made for an incredibly enjoyable afternoon. We had lunch prior at the Swan Coach House, which was perfect in every way. I recommend visiting the Swan House very highly.
9. Atlanta History Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Welcome explorers of the world! If you're looking for history, knowledge and adventure, you've come to the right place. The Atlanta History Center is located in one of Atlanta's most vibrant communities where the stories and mysteries of our region thrive. Our 33-acre experience features award-winning exhibitions, historic houses, enchanting gardens, interactive activities and a variety of year-round adult and family programs. With ticket admission, our guests enjoy complimentary parking and all-inclusive access to Atlanta History Center destinations. The Atlanta History Museum is located at the Atlanta History Center. The Atlanta History Center also features the Swan House mansion, Smith Family Farm, the Margaret Mitchell House, the Centennial Olympic Games Museum, and five permanent exhibitions. Last historic home tours begin at 4pm
Reviewed By BobandJudyTokyo - Ann Arbor
This is an excellent historical museum with many interesting displays. It's large enough to be able to tell the story of Atlanta, but not so large as to be overwhelming. One of the best I've been to anywhere.
10. Piedmont Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
This 185-acre park, home to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and to summer festivals, is also popular with joggers.
Reviewed By Paul T - Washington DC, District of Columbia
I was at the park for a wedding. Nice park with a variety of facilities including tennis courts, pavilions, open areas, etc. No admission. But, parking was confused. I tried to enter the parking garage from Monroe Ave, but it said that the garage was full. So I went to the Piedmont Ave entrance, and the sign said the garage was full. I told the attendant that I was there for a wedding, and he let me pass. Once in the garage, I found that upwards of 20 percent of the spaces were unoccupied.
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