15 Best Things to Do in Atlanta

Atlanta skyline with highway interchange

15 Best Things to Do in Atlanta

Whether you're planning a family vacation or a quick getaway, Red Roof has got you covered. We've curated a list of the best things to do in Atlanta — and there's plenty more where that came from! If you enjoy exploring landmarks, visiting local attractions, and immersing yourself in the city's culture, you'll find endless opportunities for adventure near our budget-friendly hotels.

So whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, be sure to check out our list of the best things to do in Atlanta!

Since its opening in 1990, the World of Coca-Cola has been a must-visit for Atlanta locals and visitors alike. Located in downtown Atlanta, the museum tells the story of one of the world's most popular brands. Visitors can learn about the history of Coca-Cola, see how the drink is made, and even sample more than 100 different flavors from around the world.

Coke is now available in over 200 countries and is one of the most recognizable brands in the world; the Coca-Cola company is headquartered in Atlanta, making it the birthplace of one of the most successful beverages of all time. The World of Coca-Cola is open daily, with extended hours during the summer months.

Whether you're a fan of Coke or not, the World of Coca-Cola is a fun and unique attraction that's worth checking out while you're in town.

People watching sharks in Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium, nestled in the heart of Atlanta, is a must-see destination. As one of the largest aquariums globally, it provides a breathtaking journey through aquatic life, featuring hundreds of species in massive exhibits. Whether marveling at the beluga whales, interacting with sea creatures at the touch pools, or exploring the mesmerizing Ocean Voyager tunnel, visitors experience an unparalleled immersive encounter. Special behind-the-scenes tours, 4D theaters, and educational programs further enrich this adventure. Its mesmerizing, family-friendly environment makes the Georgia Aquarium an essential stop on any Atlanta visit. The Aquarium also runs a number of educational programs and is actively involved in conservation efforts, which makes it a great choice for families looking for fun and educational things to do in Atlanta.

The free self-guided tour app is a great way to make the most of your visit, and there are also a number of behind-the-scenes tours available for an additional fee.

The Atlanta Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country and is home to a wide variety of animals, from lions and tigers to gorillas and chimpanzees.

The zoo also has a number of educational programs and events, making it a great place to visit for families with children.

In addition to the animals, the zoo also has a number of gardens, including a Japanese garden and an African rainforest where you can see a variety of plant life.

Krog Street Market, situated in Atlanta's vibrant Inman Park, is a bustling food and retail haven. This repurposed 1920s warehouse offers a charismatic blend of urban market and food hall. You'll find a diverse selection of local eateries serving delicacies from gourmet burgers to sushi, and unique artisanal shops selling a variety of goods.

Its industrial charm and lively atmosphere make it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. With community events and a year-round calendar of activities, Krog Street Market offers a distinctive, enjoyable Atlanta experience that simply cannot be missed.

Earth goddess botanical garden sculpture

Located just outside downtown Atlanta, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is one of the best places to enjoy the outdoors in the city. Stuffed with 30 acres of gardens, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is home to a variety of flowers, plants, and trees.

The Garden is open year-round, with different exhibits and events happening throughout the year. If you find yourself in Atlanta during the warmer months, don't miss the renowned "Orchid Daze" display at the Garden, showcasing a stunning array of orchids. The Garden also presents an assortment of enjoyable family activities with a range of classes and programs catering to all ages.

Whether you're an aficionado of flora or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, a visit to the Atlanta Botanical Garden undoubtedly deserves a spot on your itinerary.

The CNN Center, headquartered in downtown Atlanta, serves as a notable attraction with its engaging CNN Studio Tour. This tour provides a unique opportunity for visitors to glimpse the backstage operations of a leading global news corporation.

CNN, an acronym for Cable News Network, was established in 1980 by Ted Turner and currently operates under Time Warner. The tour takes you into the heart of CNN, including visits to the bustling newsroom, control room, and the sets of CNN's highly-rated shows. Post-tour, explore the CNN Store for show-themed memorabilia and the food court for a diverse array of culinary delights. For anyone fascinated by news production or a CNN enthusiast, this tour is an essential Atlanta experience.

As you might expect from the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. and the American Civil Rights Movement, Atlanta is home to a number of excellent museums and memorials dedicated to that history. The Center for Civil and Human Rights is one of the best.

The museum tells the story of the civil rights struggle in America through a series of interactive exhibits, which cover everything from Jim Crow laws to the lunch counter sit-ins of the 1960s.

There are also several powerful film documentaries on show, including footage of some of the most famous speeches in American history. After exploring the museum, visitors can take a walk through Freedom Park, which contains a number of monuments commemorating key figures in the civil rights movement.

Piedmont Park is a large urban park located in the heart of Atlanta. The park is home to a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, sports games, and more.

There are a number of festivals over the course of the year, with something for everyone. The Atlanta Dogwood Festival is a three-day event that features art exhibits, live music, food trucks, and more. The park is also home to the Atlanta Jazz Festival, which takes place every Memorial Day weekend and features some of the best jazz musicians from around the world.

In addition to festivals, Piedmont Park is also a great place to take a walk, go for a run, or just relax in the sun. With over 190 acres of space, the park has plenty of room to explore. There are also a number of lakes located within the park, which are perfect for fishing or renting a paddle boat.

The Fox Theatre is a historic movie palace located in Atlanta. Built in the 1920s, the theater is now used for a variety of events, including concerts, ballets, and Broadway shows.

These days, the theater is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Atlanta. Visitors can take a guided tour of the facility, which includes a look at the historic auditorium and backstage areas.

The Fox still puts in regular film screenings, so visitors can catch a classic movie while they're in town, but it also plays host to a number of big-name musical acts. In recent years, the theater has hosted concerts by the likes of Bruno Mars, Bob Dylan, and Taylor Swift.

The childhood home of Martin Luther King Jr. has been repurposed into a museum, offering insight into his life and legacy. This intimate setting allows visitors to observe King's birthplace and personal items, including his Nobel Peace Prize medal. The museum further enriches visitors' understanding by housing various exhibits that delve into the American civil rights movement, thus providing an invaluable opportunity to delve deeper into this significant chapter in American history.

Former US President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn founded The Carter Center in 1982, with the aim of promoting peace and democracy around the world. Today, the center is home to a number of different initiatives, including a conflict resolution program and a mental health program.

Visitors can take a tour of the center to learn more about its work, as well as attend one of the many events that are held there throughout the year.

The center itself plays an active role in the local community and is well worth a visit.

Located in the Druid Hills neighborhood, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History is a great place to spend an afternoon if you're interested in learning about the natural history of Georgia.

The museum has a number of permanent exhibits as well as rotating temporary exhibits, so there's always something new to see.

In addition to the exhibits, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History also has a planetarium and an IMAX theater, making it a great place to spend an educational day with your family. The "A Walk Through Time in Georgia" exhibit is one of the most popular at the museum and takes you on a journey through the state's natural history, from the time of the dinosaurs to the present day.

If you're looking for fun things to do in Atlanta with kids, this is definitely a place you'll want to add to your list.

The High Museum of Art is another great option for those looking for things to do in Atlanta. With a collection of over 14,000 works of art, the High Museum has something for everyone. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, events, and films throughout the year. Whether you're a visitor or a local, there's always something new to learn and experience at the High Museum of Art.

If you're interested in learning more about the history and culture of Atlanta, be sure to visit the Atlanta History Center. The Atlanta History Center is made up of four historic sites, each with its own unique story to tell. In addition to the historic sites, the Atlanta History Center also has an extensive research library and museum that are open to the public.

For an enjoyable outing with loved ones, consider visiting Stone Mountain Park, located on the outskirts of Atlanta. This park boasts a multitude of activities from hiking trails to a challenging ropes course and an exciting train ride. As the day culminates, the park comes alive with a captivating nightly laser show and fireworks spectacle, providing a delightful conclusion to the day's adventures.

A former railway corridor that has been transformed into a 22-mile loop of walking and biking trails, the Atlanta BeltLine is one of the best ways to see some of the city's most interesting neighborhoods. The trail passes through areas like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, Midtown, and Ponce City Market, all of which have their own unique character.

Along the way, visitors can stop at any number of parks, restaurants, and shops where you can enjoy a break from the walking and take in some of Atlanta's best sights. There are also a number of art installations along the BeltLine, making it a great place to enjoy some public art while getting some exercise.

For those looking for a more leisurely activity, the BeltLine also offers a number of boat tours that allow you to see the city from a different perspective. No matter what you're looking for, the Atlanta BeltLine is sure to have something that will appeal to everyone in your group.

Traveling to Atlanta? Visit our website to book a room at one of our affordable hotels.

15 Best Things to Do in Atlanta