When it comes to southern hospitality mixed with big-city energy, nothing beats the diverse range of things to do in Atlanta. Whether you are a local looking for new weekend plans or a tourist visiting the "City in a Forest" for the first time, the sheer volume of things to do in Atlanta can be overwhelming. From the world-class Georgia Aquarium to the historic Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, this city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern entertainment.
In this massive, comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into the top things to do in Atlanta, covering everything from the iconic World of Coca-Cola to the hidden street art of the Krog Street Tunnel. We have structured this guide to help you navigate the best things to do in Atlanta by category, neighborhood, and interest. If you want to know the absolute best things to do in Atlanta in 2026, you’ve come to the right place.
If you only have a few days, these are the legendary things to do in Atlanta that define the city's skyline and reputation.
One of the most popular things to do in Atlanta is visiting the Georgia Aquarium. As one of the largest aquariums in the world, it houses thousands of species. The "Ocean Voyager" gallery is a highlight, where you can walk through a tunnel while whale sharks and manta rays swim directly above you. For anyone searching for family-friendly things to do in Atlanta, the aquarium is a non-negotiable stop.
Just a short walk from the aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola stands as a testament to the world's most famous beverage. This is one of the most interactive things to do in Atlanta, allowing you to sample over 100 different soda flavors from across the globe. Watching the bottling process and seeing the "Vault of the Secret Formula" are essential things to do in Atlanta for history buffs and pop-culture fans alike.
Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, this park is the literal heart of the city. Walking through the Fountain of Rings is one of the best free things to do in Atlanta. It’s a great place to take a breather between visiting the surrounding museums.
Atlanta is the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement. Engaging with its history is among the most profound things to do in Atlanta.
Visiting the birthplace and final resting place of Dr. King is one of the most moving things to do in Atlanta. You can tour his childhood home, listen to his sermons at the Ebenezer Baptist Church, and walk through the "I Have a Dream" international World Peace Rose Garden. This is one of the top educational things to do in Atlanta.
To understand the global impact of the American Civil Rights Movement, this museum is a must. It’s one of the most powerful and modern things to do in Atlanta, featuring high-tech exhibits that connect historical struggles to current human rights issues worldwide.
Located in the beautiful Buckhead neighborhood, the Atlanta History Center offers 33 acres of gardens and historic houses. If you are interested in the Civil War or the 1996 Olympics, adding this to your list of things to do in Atlanta is a smart move. Don't miss the Swan House, which gained fame as a filming location for The Hunger Games.
Despite its urban sprawl, Atlanta is incredibly green. Here are the best outdoor things to do in Atlanta.
The Atlanta BeltLine is a massive urban redevelopment project that transformed old railway corridors into a loop of multi-use trails and parks. Walking or biking the Eastside Trail is currently one of the trendiest things to do in Atlanta. You’ll find incredible murals, sculptures, and plenty of places to grab a drink.
Often called the "Central Park of the South," Piedmont Park offers over 200 acres of green space. Picnicking here while looking at the Midtown skyline is one of the most relaxing things to do in Atlanta.
Adjacent to Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a 30-acre paradise. From the "Canopy Walk" (a 600-foot-long skywalk) to the stunning glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly, this is one of the most beautiful things to do in Atlanta for photographers.
Atlanta is a foodie's dream. Exploring the culinary landscape is one of the most satisfying things to do in Atlanta.
Housed in a refurbished Sears building, Ponce City Market features a massive food hall. Eating your way through the stalls—from H&F Burger to Botiwalla—is one of the top social things to do in Atlanta. Make sure to visit Skyline Park on the roof for vintage boardwalk games and stunning views.
For a more intimate food hall experience, head to Inman Park. Exploring the artisan stalls here is one of the tastiest things to do in Atlanta. It’s located right next to the BeltLine, making it a perfect pitstop.
If you want authentic global cuisine, driving down Buford Highway is one of the best "local secret" things to do in Atlanta. You’ll find the best phở, tacos, and dim sum in the entire Southeast.
When the sun goes down, the list of things to do in Atlanta only gets longer.
Seeing a Broadway show or a concert at the Fox Theatre is like stepping back in time. The Moorish architecture is breathtaking. Catching a show here is one of the most sophisticated things to do in Atlanta.
With its striking white architecture, the High Museum of Art is a hub for visual culture. Browsing the classic and contemporary galleries is one of the most inspiring things to do in Atlanta.
If you like "weird" and "alternative," visiting Little Five Points is one of the most unique things to do in Atlanta. From vintage clothing stores to the famous Vortex Bar & Grill (look for the giant skull door), it’s the place to be for counter-culture.
Traveling with children? Atlanta has you covered with these high-energy things to do in Atlanta.
Zoo Atlanta: Home to giant pandas and a world-renowned gorilla habitat.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History: Features giant dinosaur skeletons and an outdoor "WildWoods" area.
Children’s Museum of Atlanta: Perfect for toddlers and young children to learn through play.
Legoland Discovery Center: A great indoor option for those looking for rainy-day things to do in Atlanta.
If you want to escape the crowds, try these lesser-known things to do in Atlanta.
Oakland Cemetery: A beautiful historic cemetery where "Gone with the Wind" author Margaret Mitchell is buried.
Doll’s Head Trail: A quirky, slightly spooky art trail at Constitution Lakes Park.
Westside Provisions District: High-end shopping and dining in a chic industrial setting.
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 coming to the city, the number of things to do in Atlanta is skyrocketing. New fan zones, pop-up events, and renovated parks are making 2026 the best year ever to explore the city.
One of the most anticipated things to do in Atlanta in 2026 will be the official Fan Fest held at Centennial Olympic Park. Expect massive screens, live music, and an electric atmosphere.
Category
Top Recommendation
Best For
Sightseeing
Georgia Aquarium
Families & First-timers
History
MLK Jr. Historical Park
Education & Inspiration
Outdoor
The BeltLine
Exercise & Art
Food
Ponce City Market
Foodies & Socializing
Nightlife
The Fox Theatre
Entertainment & Architecture
Quirky
Little Five Points
Shopping & Subculture
There is truly no shortage of things to do in Atlanta. Whether you are spending a day or a week, the key is to mix the major landmarks with the local neighborhood vibes. Start your morning on the BeltLine, spend your afternoon at the High Museum, and finish with dinner at Ponce City Market. By following this guide, you’ll experience the very best things to do in Atlanta.