Atlanta, the state capital of Georgia, boasts many nicknames: the Hollywood of the South, The City in a Forest, and Hotlanta. These affectionate terms are very well-earned, a mark of the things to do in Atlanta and what the city is most famous for.
Atlanta has a rich, deep history, and many historic Atlanta attractions offer a glimpse into the city's past. Atlanta is also relatively well-known for its thriving sports scene, great alternative culture, fantastic street art and modern art installations, and many green spaces.
So it's no wonder many of the best places in Atlanta are related to these subjects. But which ones are most worth a trip? Here are the top tourist attractions in Atlanta, Georgia.
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Georgia Aquarium is one of the world's largest aquariums, boasting over 500 species of animals, with over 100,000 individual creatures spread out across a whopping seven galleries.
These galleries are uniquely themed, such as the vast six million-gallon whale shark tank in Ocean Voyager and the freshwater exhibit of Southern Company River Scout.
The former is particularly loved and is always popular with guests!
If you're seeking fun activities in Atlanta, you'll find plenty at Georgia Aquarium!
You can watch a free dolphin show, dive and swim with whale sharks, check out the 4D theater, and view reservation-required sea lion presentations.
Those with an eye for rare animals will especially love watching the rare albino alligators on display.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Atlanta
Address: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
The Fox Theater is an iconic site in the city, making it one of the best places in Atlanta to see an outstanding live performance.
Opened in the 1920s, this historic site is elegant and regularly restored and repaired.
Operas, rock concerts, ballet shows, movies, and other types of entertainment are regularly added to the theater's schedule.
Even if you're not planning to watch a show, a trip to the Fox Theater is still worth it.
You can view the gorgeous ornate interior of the building, inspired by Spain's Alhambra and Egypt's Karnak Temple Complex.
Each tour will explain the various architectural features of the theater across 10 unique spots in the building - and you'll get to see gorgeous Mighty Mo, one of the biggest theater organs in the world.
Address: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Dedicated to the eponymous man, one of the most influential people in the world's history, Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park is a great spot for history buffs.
Approximately two blocks in size, the park contains a few interesting sites that are each popular Atlanta attractions.
The first site worth visiting is the birthplace of the great man himself. Half-hour guided tours give you more insight into the early years of King's life.
The second site is the church where King once served as a pastor, the Ebenezer Baptist Church.
Then, there is the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Change, which has a few engaging displays and houses the tombs of King and his wife.
Don't forget to visit Fire Station No. 6, which teaches you all about the city fire department's journey to desegregation.
Finally, head to the Visitor Center to view informational and exciting exhibits on the civil rights movement and the additional exhibits in the D.R.E.A.M. Gallery.
Address: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is situated right beside the beautiful Piedmont Park, a 30-acre expanse of gorgeous verdancy.
Its newest feature, the Canopy Walk, spans 600 feet and is suspended in the trees.
This is an absolute must-see n Atlanta and is visited by over half a million individuals annually.
There's plenty to do and see at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, with tons of individual-themed gardens and spaces to explore.
One popular highlight is the 16,000-square-foot Orchid Center, the biggest orchid collection in the country with over 2,000 flowers.
There are also the Japanese gardens, Edible Garden, Lou Glenn Children's Garden, Conservation Garden, Winter Garden, and Desert House.
If you get hungry, you can stop at Longleaf, an upscale restaurant that is one of only a few such establishments in the world that is inside a botanical garden.
Address: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
The World of Coca-Cola is one of the more unique Atlanta attractions, an entire museum dedicated entirely to the world-renowned soda brand.
The facility spans two floors and offers tours that provide insight into the brand's history, beginning with its creation.
You'll learn about Coca-Cola's impact on pop culture, the global impact of the brand, and how the bottling process works.
As with all food-and-beverage-related attractions, the World of Coca-Cola has a fun feature called Taste It!, where you'll get to sample numerous different types of Coke.
There is also the Scent Discovery exhibit, which challenges your sense of smell and teaches you about where different types of fragrances are sourced from.
The Coca-Cola Secret Formula Vault is a particularly unique part of the museum, located near the tasting area.
The original handwritten Coca-Cola recipe is housed inside the prominently displayed vault, where it is completely safe from the curious eyes of guests.
The irony of something so secret displayed in such an open but protected way is fascinating.
Recommended: Purchase World of Coca-Cola Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry.
Address: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Located in the heart of Atlanta, the Museum of Illusion offers a unique sensory experience that will challenge your perception of reality.
As you step into this fascinating world, get ready to be puzzled by mind-bending optical illusions and interactive exhibits that showcase the power of our brains to deceive us.
From rooms that defy gravity to art installations that seem to come alive, every corner of the museum is a playground for your senses. The museum also features holograms, 3D paintings, and mirror mazes that challenge visitors to rethink their understanding of space and form.
Whether you're a science enthusiast or simply curious about how our minds can be tricked, a visit to the Museum of Illusion Atlanta swears a thought-provoking experience unlike any other.
Address: 264 19th St NW Suite 2200, Atlanta, GA 30363
Centennial Olympic Park is a 22-acre recreational spot in downtown Atlanta.
As its name suggests, it was originally built for the Olympic Games of 1996.
Today, it boasts verdant grassy areas, beautiful water features, a large plaza, and plenty of notable works of art.
It's also a common site for various special events.
Centennial Olympic Park is also home to one of the most iconic Atlanta attractions, the Fountain of Rings.
This gorgeous water feature boasts a whopping 251 jets of water, and there are four daily choreographed water shows here every day.
Once you're done enjoying a show or relaxing in the serene environment, you can head off to one of the many nearby attractions just a stone's throw from the park.
Address: 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
As its name suggests, many attractions in Atlanta are connected to the city's deep history, and the Atlanta History Center is no exception.
Founded in 1926 and eventually created in this form in the 1990s, the center highlights Atlanta's cultural and political history.
It comprises the Goizueta Gardens, which spans 33 acres, a large museum, a working farm with various live animals, historical archives, and a whopping three historic homes.
The Atlanta History Center has a ton of fascinating exhibits, such as commentary on Native American history, artifacts from the civil war, and Folk Art displays.
In addition, you'll learn about antebellum South life, explore the restored 1928 estate of the bird-themed Swan House in the 10-acre Swan Woods, and visit the Centennial Olympic Games Museum.
One of the most loved exhibits at the Atlanta History Center is the Battle of Atlanta Cyclorama, a full-color mural-like painting designed with a three-dimensional illusion that tells the visual story of the Battle of Atlanta of 1864.
This is considered the world's largest oil painting, boasting a 15,030-square-foot surface area, a 358-foot circumference, a 49-foot height, and a 10,000-pound weight.
Address: 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Zoo Atlanta is one of the country's oldest continuously operating zoos - and one of only three with giant pandas.
It was founded in 1889 and is home to over a thousand animals across more than 200 species.
The zoo sits on a whopping 40 acres of land in Grand Park.
It is home to alpacas, elephants, rare bears, zebras, lions, flamingos, reptiles, tortoises, and one of North America's biggest ape populations.
So it's no surprise that this is one of the best Atlanta attractions for animal lovers.
Zoo Atlanta also has a few activities you can partake in, such as a ropes course, carousel, and train ride.
Wildlife presentations are also regularly scheduled.
If you're only interested in animals, you'll be pleased by the carefully divided habitats and sections that make the zoo easy to navigate for humans and great to live in for the animals.
Pro tip: Book your Zoo Atlanta Tickets in advance to skip the insane line.
Address: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
The High Museum of Art is one of the best places to go in Atlanta - and the Southeast - for art lovers.
Boasting an impressive collection of more than 17,000 works, it sits in the arts district in Midtown.
Its structure is stunning with fantastic architecture, coated in white porcelain both on the outside and inside, with a unique light system and numerous winding paths.
The permanent collection of the High Museum of Art contains a large range of different mediums and sources.
There are works from America, Africa, and Europe, from contemporary artists as far back as the 1300s, and with the likes of decorative arts and photography too.
Expect to see big names like Camille Pissarro, Henry Ossawa Tanner, Henri Matisse, Claude Monet, Frederick Kensett, Eugene Boudin, Harriet Hosmer, Mary Cassatt, John Singer Sargent, Edmonia Lewis, and many more.
Address: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is one of the newer places to visit in Atlanta, opening its doors only in 2014.
Situated in Atlanta's downtown area, it celebrates the global movement for human rights and the American Civil Rights Movement.
The building itself is stunning, with a modern structure, curved walls, and a transparent front facade made of glass.
Within the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, you'll see inspiring, emotional, and educational displays and exhibits through three floors of halls and galleries spanning 43,000 square feet.
The permanent collection houses many attractions that will tug at your emotions.
For example, the Human Rights World Map shows nations that are not yet free, and the Wall of Martyrs displays the names of those who died during the Civil Rights Movement.
In addition, a special gallery showcases the original writings of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Address: 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Stone Mountain Park spans a total of 3,200 acres and is one of the most-visited things to do around Atlanta.
It has numerous interesting sites, such as a songbird preserve, two golf courses at 18 holes in full size, a seasonal park filled with life-size replicas of dinosaurs, and a lovely play area indoors that is also dinosaur themed.
Those seeking some physical activity will enjoy the numerous hiking trails and the many historic 19th-century homes to explore.
In addition, the five-mile paved looping trail is perfect for walking, biking, rollerblading, and jogging. Segway tours are also available.
One notable feature of Stone Mountain Park is its infamous Confederate Memorial Carving, which has become the subject of scrutiny and controversy over the years.
The 3-acre carving is the world's biggest relief sculpture and depicts Confederacy president Jefferson Davis and Confederate Generals Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson and Robert E. Lee.
Address: 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
One of the more interesting and specific places to visit in Atlanta, CNN Studio Tours, is a fantastic way to get an inside look at the headquarters of the Cable News Network.
Each typical tour takes under an hour and brings you a behind-the-scenes experience to view broadcast production spaces.
More in-depth tours provide souvenir press passes, live newsroom viewing, and TV anchor meet-and-greets!
CNN Studio Tours are led by knowledgeable guides and are very interesting and engaging.
Each one begins with an incredible ride on the longest free-standing elevator in the world! After your tour, you can explore the publicly open areas of the CNN Center, such as its restaurants and retail stores.
Address: 190 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Oakland Cemetery is the oldest Atlanta cemetery and a public park.
Spanning 48 acres, over 70,000 people have been laid to rest here.
The cemetery was opened in 1850 with only six acres of space.
Today, it encompasses miles of scenic and sobering walking trails that wind around mausoleums, headstones, and sculptures.
For fans of the eerie and unique, this attraction tops the list of where to go in Atlanta.
Oakland Cemetery's most famous graves include golfer Bobby Jones, the first African-American mayor of Atlanta, Maynard Jackson, author Margaret Mitchell, and Pulitzer Prize winner Julia Collier.
There's also the Richards Mausoleum, an 1888 structure with Gothic architecture reminiscent of a church, including gargoyles.
The public park is dog-friendly, so you can bring a furry friend along as you explore.
Address: 248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
The Atlanta BeltLine is one of the most beloved things to do in Atlanta as far as outdoor attractions go.
Before the Civil War, Atlanta was known as Terminus, thanks to its many converging railroads.
One of these is a historic 22-mile loop of railway tracks in the downtown area.
The BeltLine essentially repurposes this loop into a multipurpose paved path flanked by art installations and verdant native plants.
The Atlanta BeltLine is not finished, but it already has four complete and open trails, while the other incomplete ones are still available for hiking.
It will connect 45 neighborhoods through 2,000 acres of parkland and 33 miles of trails in an ambitious redevelopment program when it is finished.
SkyView Atlanta is a haven for photographers, families, and any fun-loving tourists looking for things to do in Atlanta that'll give them a bird's eye view of the beautiful city.
Located east of the famed Centennial Olympic Park, this is a 20-story, 42-gondola Ferris wheel that offers gorgeous panoramas of the downtown area.
All gondolas at SkyView Atlanta are air-conditioned, so you'll feel comfortable two hundred feet above the ground on Luckie Street.
The views are delightful at night, with a glittering skyline that is magical to behold.
If you want the true VIP experience, you can pay extra for their special, luxurious gondola, which boasts a glass bottom and leather seats.
Recommended: Purchase SkyView Ferris Wheel Ticket online.
Address: 168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Ponce City Market is one of the many Atlanta attractions that sits within an old, historic building.
Specifically, it sits in a Roebuck and Co., Sears, and City Hall East building from 1926, now repurposed into a 2.1 million-square-foot structure, the largest brick building in the Southeast.
Ponce City Market is home to over 20 unique restaurants, food stalls, big retailers and local stores, gyms, and even galleries and theaters.
There's always something interesting going on here, from wine tastings to workshops, cooking classes, and live performances.
Address: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is a fantastic way to explore both prehistoric and modern history through interactive, engaging, and immersive exhibits.
Whether you're a history buff or a nature lover, this is one of the best Atlanta tourist attractions to learn cool facts on different topics!
At the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, you can learn about Georgia's native wildlife, see dinosaur fossils, and view beautiful cultural garments.
With subjects like prehistory, nature, science, gems and human history covered, there's little you can't find.
Notable permanent exhibits include in-depth looks into the changing geography of Georgia, the Giants of the Mesozoic exhibit for dinosaur fans, and the hands-on experiences of Sensing Nature.
The museum also has a fantastic Giant Screen Theater that screens various movies with 3D IMAX technology.
Address: 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307
The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum is a large 70,000-square-foot structure home to a huge amount of material, from pages to recordings, featuring the 39th president of the United States, Jimmy Carter.
Numerous real documents, videos, and audio files are available to listen to, making this one of the most fascinating Atlanta attractions.
Within the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, you'll be able to view a reproduction of the Camp David cabin, a full-sized replica of the Oval Office, and two lakes that flank the 30-acre land upon which the facility stands.
You'll find this must-visit location in the Poncey-Highland neighborhood situated near Freedom Park, and its informational education is matched only by the land's beauty.
Address: 441 John Lewis Freedom Pkwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Little Five Points is a quirky neighborhood that is famous in Atlanta for its indie, hip charm, various off-color shops and eateries, and numerous alternative stores to peruse.
Here, you'll find the state's first retail shop for cannabis, loads of secondhand clothing shops, a cool skateboard emporium, and tons of tattoo and piercing joints.
This melting pot of cultures and groups welcomes all, whether you're a clean-cut white-collar worker or a punk smoker covered in tattoos.
One of the most popular parts of Little Five Points is Junkman's Daughter, a vibrant emporium filled with potential gifts, art, and clothes for people with all sorts of alternative tastes.
There's a reason it's called Atlanta's Alternative Super Store, and since its opening in 1982, it has showcased an unusual collection of wares that draws in guests from all over.
Address: 464 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
The Margaret Mitchell House once housed iconic Pulitzer Prize-winning Margeret Mitchell, author of Gone with the Wind.
While there, she and her husband only lived in a first-floor apartment, and she didn't even like the place, referring to it simply as "the dump".
When you visit Atlanta, you can explore the house during tours with the Atlanta History Center, which brings you to the Midtown establishment.
You'll learn about the author's life and times and hear criticism of her controversial, inaccurate, and historically problematic depictions of slavery in her one novel.
Finally, you'll stroll through a recreated space of Mitchell's private rooms, viewing period furniture, decor, and other memorabilia and objects.
The Margaret Mitchell House is Tudor Revival in construction, built at the turn of the century, and it is now a part of the National Register of Historic Places.
Fans of Mitchell, literature and a general history will find this an insightful and mindful museum to tour.
Address: 979 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
The Center for Puppetry Arts is one of the most unique places in the US, and its ingenuity and theatrical niche have gained worldwide acclaim and renown.
This facility celebrates and preserves puppets and the art of puppet performance, especially in its central museum.
Here, you'll view an impressive collection of historical information, memorabilia, and puppets from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas, teaching you all about the history of puppetry in different cultures.
So naturally, the Center for Puppetry Arts also contains an extensive collection wholly dedicated to the work of Jim Henson, including Fraggle Rock characters and Sesame Street residents like Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog.
The Center for Puppetry Arts also regularly hosts rotating exhibits, live shows, and puppetry workshops that you can attend.
Despite being a relatively small establishment, this 80,000-square-foot site is one you absolutely do not want to miss.
Address: 1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
If you're a sports fan seeking things to do in Atlanta, head over to Truist Park.
Opened in 2017, this is the home field of the Atlanta Braves, a Major League Baseball Team beloved by locals.
It's a well-designed space with a clean, modern feel.
The stadium can seat an impressive 41,000 people, providing all seats with a wide view of the whole field.
Tours of Truist Park are also worth taking, even if you're not interested in watching a game.
Tours teach you about the history of the team, which is long and storied, and bring you to stadium locations like the press box, dugout, and Braves Clubhouse Store.
You'll also be able to view the historic displays at Monument Garden with greater insight into their details and significance.
Address: 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
The College Football Hall of Fame is opposite Centennial Olympic Park and is close to Georgia Aquarium.
It's a 95,000-square-foot expanse boasting a total of 50 exhibits that interactively teach guests about the many aspects of college football.
Sports fans should add this to their list of must-visit Atlanta attractions.
The Helmet Wall and Game Day Theater are notable features of the College Football Hall of Fame.
The former is a wall that spans three stories and displays a huge number of helmets from former players, so you can try and spot the helmet of your favorite team.
There's also the chance to kick a field goal on the impressive indoor football field that measures 45 years, and you can also view the trophies for the National and Heisman Championships.
Address: 250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Sports fans seeking what to do in Atlanta beyond Truist Park can take a trip to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League and Atlanta United of Major League Soccer.
Fans of these teams often get raucous and rowdy during games, which creates an exciting atmosphere.
Like Truist Park, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium opened in 2017 and boasts modern amenities and a clean, contemporary style.
For example, it has a retractable roof that is designed to look similar to a falcon wing, and its many windows within the stadium offer dramatic views of the surrounding city while you walk to and from the seats to catch a game.
Address: 54 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
The CDC Museum opened in 1996 and is one of the more unique things to do in Atlanta as a part of numerous Centers for Disease Control and Prevention celebrations of the 50th anniversary.
This was also a year after the movie Outbreak was released, which caused an increase in public interest related to diseases and the spread of viruses.
While it's not the central feature of the museum, you can walk around in an iconic hazmat suit that looks just like those used in various pandemic-related movies.
The museum highlights many complex factors in managing the public safety and health of an entire country's population of more than 300 million people.
Exhibits are in-depth, covering a wide range of subjects, such as technology and science, safe water, the history of malaria elimination in the United States, emergency preparedness, food labeling, environmental chemicals, HIV testing, and the obesity epidemic.
Address: 1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30329
The Delta Flight Museum is another one of the many niche Atlanta attractions, filled with interactive and interesting exhibits focused on the world and technology of aviation.
It's also popular because it's home to the country's only publicly-open full-motion flight simulator.
It is expensive to gain access to but is considered well worth it for the exclusive experience if you can afford the fee.
The Delta Flight Museum also displays numerous real aircraft, including a restored Curtiss-Wright 6B sedan from 1931, a hot air balloon, and a Northwest Airways Waco 25 biplane from 1928.
You can enjoy a more up-close experience with some of these crafts, such as the 747-400, which allows you to walk on its wing.
Other exhibits in the hangar where the museum is housed center on the history of the Delta brand and company and other aviation topics like the propeller age and the jet age.
Address: 1060 Delta Blvd, Hapeville, GA 30354
Fans of the genre of trap music shouldn't miss out on one of the best places to go in Atlanta related to this interest: the Trap Music Museum.
This one-of-a-kind location gives you the chance to learn all about the origins of this unique genre in its gallery.
It was founded by T.I., an actor and rapper native to Atlanta, who was one of the genre's forefathers, and some of his personal items, like weapons, clothing, and Grammy, are on display here.
The Trap Music Museum doesn't seek to glorify the cultures surrounding the origins of trap music, such as drugs, violence, and grittiness.
Instead, it invites guests to look closely at an honest exploration and presentation of the realities from which this genre emerged.
You'll step into a recreated trap house with a crack cooking kitchen, a jail cell, a walk-in closet armed to the teeth, and a "bando," or a drug dealer's living room.
It's a provocative and daring glimpse into this difficult source of some truly inventive music that has transcended its origins.
Address: 630 Travis St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area comprises a total of 15 individual units of land, all linked via the titular Chattahoochee River.
This is one of the best Atlanta tourist attractions for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous offered activities that you can enjoy.
Water sports are abundant at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, and you can rent a raft or tube and enjoy a leisurely downriver float.
You can bring or rent a paddleboard, kayak, or canoe for something more involved.
Anglers with a license can try for some catfish, trout, and bass, too.
Those less interested in the river can bike the 7 miles of bicycle-appropriate trails or walk in the even more miles of hiking trails available.
Address: 1978 Island Ford Pkwy, Sandy Springs, GA 30350
There's an art project famous in Atlanta called Tiny Doors ATL, and it's well worth exploring the city just to try and find the 20 vignettes involved.
The project was started by Karen Anderson, a local artist who hoped to inspire the spirits of exploration, imagination, and curiosity in those who found them.
A total of 20 of these painted doors are situated all around Atlanta, typically near landmarks.
These doors are just around seven inches in height, and each boasts different appearances that leave you wondering about the story and lore behind each door.
The very first of these doors was set up in 2014 at the unique Krog Street Tunnel.
Soon, small miniature items and gifts began appearing at this door - tiny pumpkins for Halloween, a miniature newspaper, and a tiny takeout box.
Address: 1380 Atlantic Dr NW Suite 14100, Atlanta, GA 30363
It goes without saying that LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta is one of the best family-friendly places to go in Atlanta, an ideal attraction for anyone visiting the city with kids in tow.
Situated in the affluent neighborhood of Phipps Plaza, this is part theme park, part shopping mall.
Since it opened in 2012, it's drawn in numerous tourists, providing a ritzy and fun experience for people of all ages.
One of its biggest highlights is a huge LEGO model of the city to scale made from a whopping 1.5 million or so bricks.
Of course, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta also offers a bunch of themed rides, a 4D cinema, and several workshops for kids.
It's the epitome of a fun day out with family, and it's no surprise that this is one of the world's most popular branches of LEGOLAND parks.
Address: 3500 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
Krog Street Market is another one of the many things to do in Atlanta that involves entering an old building that once served a different purpose.
This impressive food hall is situated in what was once a stove factory and became a collection of studios for Tyler Perry before becoming a staple of Atlanta's culinary scene.
Situated along the BeltLine in Inman Park, Krog Street Market is industrially designed and an excellent stop for those seeking fresh produce, delicious hot meals, and locally made souvenirs.
Food stalls of all sorts over various types of food, like pizza, Chinese dumplings, soul food, small-batch chocolate, craft beer, ice cream, and much more.
Address: 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
The SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film looks almost like a warehouse from the outside.
But for art aficionados and fashion enthusiasts looking for what to do in Atlanta, overlooking this institution based on little more than appearances would be a huge miss.
While it's a bit of a niche site, those interested in the fields it covers will love what it offers.
The SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film boasts about 10,000 square feet of exhibition space, showcasing various unique curations in elegant exhibitions that are tightly built and designed to change seasonally.
At any moment, there may be designs and clothing by any well-known or up-and-coming designer, and photographic exhibitions are also common.
There is also a "film salon" where you can watch visual media and films.
Address: 1600 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
The 54 Columns are among the lesser-known Atlanta tourist attractions.
Sol LeWitt created this public art piece in Old Fourth Ward and was erected in 1999.
From the moment it was installed, the piece has caused a significant amount of controversy, as many people either find the columns unsightly or may question whether they should count as "art".
Regardless, the 54 Columns have remained, and admirers of the artwork can interact with it directly and explore the columns.
These columns measure anywhere from 10 to 20 feet in height and are made from concrete, an industrial material designed to pay homage to the urban surroundings.
When viewed from far away, the columns resemble a lovely cityscape.
Address: 54 Columns, Glen Iris Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
The Lake Claire Community Land Trust can be found nestled in a busy Atlanta street, providing a fantastic recreational space spanning 1.5 acres for the community.
This beautiful location is known for embracing tranquility, so if you're wondering where to go in Atlanta to relax, this is one of the most peaceful spots in the city.
The oasis of the Lake Claire Community Land Trust includes a lovely play area, a beautiful green pond called Peace Pond, a much-loved emu named Big Lou who lives along a forested trail, and plenty of amenities like a fire pit and play area.
On top of that, there's a lively amphitheater where drum circles are hosted twice a month!
Address: 270 Arizona Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
The Michael C. Carlos Museum is situated on the campus of Emory University and is one of the many attractions in Atlanta that is perfect for art aficionados.
Its large permanent collection includes works of art from Greece, Egypt, Rome, Bunia, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, dating back to ancient times, the Renaissance, and then up to today.
The Nubian, Egyptian, and Middle Eastern collections of the Michael C. Carlos Museum boast 7,500 artifacts, including funeral masks, coffins, and America's oldest Egyptian mummy.
Meanwhile, the Roman and Greek arc collection boasts a whopping 6,500 individual pieces.
Overall, the museum boasts at least 17,000 objects.
Notable items are a section from the authentic Egyptian Book of the Dead and genuine armor from a soldier of ancient Greece.
Address: 571 South Kilgo Cir NE, Atlanta, GA 30322
If you want things to do in Atlanta that will allow you to see a lot of the city at once, you can't go wrong with ATL-Cruzers Electric Car and Segway Tours.
Whether you'd rather explore the city's downtown on four wheels or two, you can either ride with or follow behind a tour guide as you see the sights.
Electric car tours last one and a half hours and take you across fifteen miles, while Segway tours cover four miles in the same amount of time.
The latter includes numerous stops along the way so guides can tell you about the city.
Address: 160 Ted Turner Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Did you know that the average American uses a whopping 600 pounds of paper annually, despite the continual rise of electronic forms of media? The Robert C.
Williams Paper Museum continues to celebrate humankind's long-held history with paper, and it's one of the most interesting things to do in Atlanta.
The Robert C. Williams Paper Museum provides historical information and insight into paper's role in the world, beginning with the Egyptians and Sumerians of ancient times and bringing you all the way up to the modern day.
You'll get to see more than 100,000 artifacts and 2,000 books related to papermaking and the world of paper.
In addition, you'll see the first mold and deckle brought to the New World, learn about how modern practices are learning to manage forests for sustainable papermaking, and see various old papermaking technologies.
Address: 500 10th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30332
The Wren's Nest is a fascinating museum that is one of the unique attractions in Atlanta.
It focuses on exhibiting, commemorating, and honoring the lifelong work of Georgia-born journalist and author Joel Chandler Harris.
Harris authored the well-known tales of Brer Rabbit and Uncle Remus, and fans of his work and literature, in general, will enjoy the glimpse into his life that the museum allows.
The Wren's Nest is not the most stereotypical museum, as it is actually housed in Harris' former home.
The 1870 Queen Anne structure is the state's oldest museum in a historic house.
Despite its age, it is essentially the same as when Harris lived there, boasting period-accurate furnishings and many of Harris' own items.
You'll get to see his roll-top desk, which he used as a journalist, and an author-signed copy of Life on the Mississippi by Mark Twain, made out to Harris directly.
Address: 1050 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30310
Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium is one of the Atlanta attractions within its convention district.
At first, the site blends in somewhat among the hotels and corporate buildings because it's not visible among them - it's underground! The building was built in 1928, but the club was only set up in 2015, so it's relatively new.
Recessed approximately 10 feet into the ground, the Switchyards Ping Pong Stadium in the downtown area is indicated by a large mural with an arrow pointing down at its entrance.
This is the city's only underground stadium for ping pong, and from the street, you can see the competition table in plain view.
Interestingly, the interior is designed to resemble the final rounds of Wimbledon, which is particularly thematic during regular club tournaments.
Address: 151 Ted Turner Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve is one of Atlanta's oldest forests, providing recreational opportunities as one of the calmest Atlanta attractions.
Numerous springs feed into it and join the Utoy Creek, and wildlife such as guinea, turtles, deer, songbirds, creek fish, and predatory birds can be spotted throughout.
An outdoor auditorium and extensive trails add to your exploration options.
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve is also a historical location, as this is where Atlanta's Battle of Utoy Creek was fought.
Many of the trenches dug for this battle remain there to this day, and some signposts mark different crucial spots and tell the tale of the battle.
The park is also part of Sandtown Road, an old Native American trail connecting Stone Mountain to Western Alabama's borders.
Address: 2852 Cascade Rd, Atlanta, GA 30311
The Georgia Capitol Museum is an impressive building.
The capitol itself is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a National Historic Landmark, so of course, it's among the popular attractions in Atlanta.
With that being said, something more interesting and unique draws guests to the Georgia Capitol Museum.
On display beside a plaque detailing an introduction to the museum is a pair of stuffed, taxidermied twin calves.
These calves are one-of-a-kind as they are conjoined, born with two heads on a single body in 1987.
Beside them are numerous other taxidermied animals, a natural resources display showcasing moon rocks from Apollo missions, and other members of the same delightful curiosity cabinet.
Address: 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA 30334
Also Read: The Most Beautiful State Capitol Buildings in the USA
If you're neither a football nor baseball fan, perhaps basketball will be more up your alley.
State Farm Arena is yet another one of the sports-related Atlanta attractions, a go-to hotspot in the downtown area that is home to the Atlanta Hawks.
The name may be amusing, but the sponsored sports stadium is outfitted with modern pieces of technology that indicate no expense was spared!
State Farm Arena boasts an impressive 20,000 seating capacity and a lovely 15 square acres of field to play in.
Essentially, this is a mega-venue, and visibility is not a problem, thanks to the use of HD cameras and scrolling screens for stats, replays, and interviews.
In addition, the arena's size and modernity mean it is also a common host for various live concerts.
Address: 1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303
Also Read: The Best Arenas and Stadiums in America
The Breman Museum is one of the best places in Atlanta to learn about Jewish history and heritage.
Its full name is the William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum, and it is the Southeast's largest Jewish history repository.
It was designed by Holocaust survivor, local author, and brilliant architect Ben Hirsch, who built the museum's structure to showcase the gradual oppression that Jewish people faced in the years before the Holocaust.
Unfortunately, the further you go into the museum, the harsher the floor becomes, going from warm light wood to cold exposed cobblestone, then from rough cement to hardened brick.
There are more than 50,000 pictures, 2,000 collections of manuscripts, 1,000 objects, and 1,300 oral accounts stored and exhibited at the Breman Museum.
You'll learn not just of the atrocities and injustices but also of the survival, triumphs, successes, and bravery of survivors and those who live in modern-day Atlanta.
Address: 1440 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
Chastain Park is a 268-acre city park and one of the green attractions in Atlanta.
It is located in Buckhead and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering facilities of all kinds.
You can play golf, softball, and other sports here or ride horseback on the many available trails.
Chastain Park also has its stunning amphitheater, which has been the host for many internationally renowned artists.
Some notable names are Lauryn Hill, Brandi Carlile, Johnny Cash, and even Lenny Kravitz.
Address: 4469 Stella Dr. Atlanta, GA 30342
The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta isn't usually considered one of the things to do around Atlanta, but it is home to the fascinating site of the Atlanta Monetary Museum.
It's a delightful look into the history of currency, bartering, and monetary and financial understanding.
The Atlanta Monetary Museum offers a glimpse into the world before modern money, digital bank transfers, and access to debit and credit cards.
You'll learn about unique payment systems used in the old days, such as throwing knives in the Congo, salt baskets in Sierra Leone, and cowrie shells in numerous other parts of the world.
You'll also get to view the gradual progression of the development of American money in chronologically-arranged glass cases.
Address: 1000 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Sweetwater Creek State Park is around half an hour out of downtown and is another one of the attractions in Atlanta perfect for escapism from the bustling, busy sprawl of the main city.
With 2,500 acres to its name, this lush park boasts amenities like campsites and yurts and provides long stretches of shady, tree-flanked hiking paths - 15 miles of them in total.
You can also stop at picnic sites or go fishing in designated areas.
Sweetwater Creek State Park also has a fair bit of history to it.
If you wander around enough, you'll find the ruins and remnants of what was once a textile mill.
Unfortunately, it burned down in the Civil War, and its remains are still present in the park.
Address: 1750 Mt Vernon Rd, Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Also Read: 25 Best State Parks in the United States
The 39-acre expanse of the Cator Woolford Gardens is located only a couple of miles away from Atlanta's downtown, and it's one of the city's few remaining authentic historic estates.
As a result, it's among the best places to visit in Atlanta for history buffs, flower lovers, and interested tourists.
The Cator Woolford Gardens were originally made for an eponymous individual who sought to use the outdoor space of the gardens as a safe community space for disabled children.
The gardens in the name of the estate are nothing short of gorgeous, boasting plants like rhododendrons, roses, laurels, dogwoods, azaleas, narcissi, daffodils, and many other seasonal florae.
Better yet, admission is free!
Address: 1815 S Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Historic Fourth Ward Park is right behind Ponce City Market, another entry on our list of Atlanta attractions.
This park is peaceful, verdant, beautiful, and well-known for its lovely retention pond.
Named Clear Creek Basin, the pond serves a practical purpose, too, by reducing flooding in the neighborhood.
If you visit Historic Fourth Ward Park with kids, you can bring them to the playground, which has its own splash pad and a fun grassy riser perfect for picnics.
This is one of the lesser-known parks in the city, but it's an excellent spot nonetheless, and you can watch the waterfowl fly and float by without being inundated with crowds.
Address: 680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Atlanta Contemporary is one of the more alternative Atlanta attractions, a reasonably famous but lesser-known intuition focusing on various forms of modern art.
Whether it's mixed media art, paintings, or digital installations, curated works of art are displayed in themed, temporary exhibits that focus on different artists each time.
Best of all, Atlanta Contemporary is a nonprofit organization that does not keep permanent collections.
As such, it constantly rotates the art it displays and takes zero admission fee.
There are also artists' studios on the second floor.
Address: 535 Means St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Piedmont Park is a gorgeous recreational site beside the beautiful Atlanta Botanical Garden.
With 200 acres to its name, you'll never run out of things that can keep you occupied.
Whether you want to lounge or exercise, a visit here is among the best things to do in Atlanta.
Jogging and walking paths provide opportunities for physical activity, while swimming pools and tennis courts kick it up a notch at Piedmont Park.
In addition, there are picnic facilities, dog parks for your furry friends, playgrounds for your kids, and a great farmers market on Sundays.
Throughout the year, various events are also held at the park, so there might just be something interesting going on during your trip.
Address: Piedmont Park, Atlanta, GA 30309
There are countless things to do in Atlanta, each offering a unique and memorable experience. History buffs can learn about the city's storied past, while art lovers can feast their eyes on a mix of modern, street, and ancient art through museums and galleries. Atlanta attractions will cater to those interests no matter what you'd like to do, so enjoy your time in the beautiful City in a Forest.