These fun Atlanta tours will show you the best the city has to offer. These best Atlanta tours will take you to less-visited places you might never discover.
Plus, many of these tours are led by expert guides who can share insiders’ secrets and tips. Read on to discover your next Atlanta adventure!
Note: To make sure you have all the right information, be sure to check each tour’s website.
In this post, you’ll find:
- Best Atlanta tours
- Tour ideas for history lovers in Atlanta
- Atlanta activities for foodies
- Ideas for exploring Atlanta’s civil rights history
- Atlanta brewery tours
- Animal encounters in Atlanta
- Spooky and haunted Atlanta spots
- …and much more!
Read on to discover:
- Immersive Atlanta Walking Tours
- Alluring Tours for History Buffs
- Atlanta Civil Rights Tours
- The Foodie’s Perfect Tour
- Tours for Drink Enthusiasts
- Atlanta Wildlife Wonders
- Sightseeing Tours for Paranormal Fans
- Unforgettable Tours for Adventure Lovers
- Nature-Based Sightseeing Tours
- Frequently Asked Questions
Immersive Atlanta Walking Tours: An Unforgettable Sightseeing Experience
Grant Park Past & Future Food Walk
Atlanta is a city built on food. During this fun food tour, you’ll learn about the founding of Atlanta. The experience includes a stroll through Historic Oakland Cemetery. Plus, you’ll taste 9 southern dishes at 3 food stops, including the incredible shrimp and grits at Six Feet Under.
Historic Market Food Tour + Biscuit Class
This is the ultimate Atlanta food experience and you won’t want to miss it. In just two hours, you will try 11 delicious tastings from 5 food vendors in Atlanta’s oldest market and become Southern cooks with a hands-on Atlanta cooking class. You’ll learn fascinating Atlanta history and get a close look at Southern cooking and Georgia’s most famous foods, including peaches, collards, and pecans. And, you will love learning how to make the perfect Southern biscuit on this tour!
King Historic District Tour
This memorable 1.7-mile walking tour tells the story of Martin Luther King, Jr. Discover the people and locations that inspired him. This is a must do activity when visiting Atlanta. In addition, it was named by Conde Nast as one of the 16 best things to do in Atlanta. It includes stops at Ebenezer Baptist Church, the Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site, and the King Center.
Alluring Tours for History Buffs
Cooking & Live History Demonstrations at the Smith Plantation
The Smith Plantation building and grounds are open to the public as a museum. The museum bears witness to the lives of the 30 enslaved people who built and worked on this property.
The museum’s interactive experiences include a free, regularly-occurring cooking and living history demo.
Tour The Wren’s Nest, Home of Joel Chandler Harris
The Wren’s Nest, located in Atlanta’s West End neighborhood, was the home of Joel Chandler Harris and his family. Harris is known for writing the Uncle Remus and Brer Rabbit stories, based on African American folk tales.
The Wren’s Nest became a museum in 1913, at which time it became the first and oldest house museum in Georgia. While The Wren’s Nest is currently closed, you can experience a virtual tour.
Social Justice in Focus: Atlanta Civil Rights Tours
Atlanta’s Journey for Civil Rights Bike Tour with Bicycle Tours of Atlanta
On this unique bicycle tour, you’ll learn more about Atlanta’s civil rights history. Explore our city’s past, from the Antebellum South to the present day. This tour provides a safe space for people from all walks of life to come together and gain insight.
Your tour includes the use of a bicycle, helmet, bottled water, and snacks. You will also get to ride down the famous Atlanta beltline.
Virtual Holocaust Exhibit Tour with The Breman
The Breman Museum in Atlanta works to connect people to Jewish history. In this hour-long tour, you’ll learn about the events leading up to the Holocaust and the post-war lives of those who survived.
This exhibition was designed by Atlanta Holocaust survivor Benjamin Hirsch. It features historic photographs, memorabilia, and family documents of survivors who moved to Atlanta after the war.
Atlanta Eats: The Foodie’s Perfect Tour
Atlanta Food Walks
Great food, awesome storytelling, and fun walks through beautiful neighborhoods? Sign us up! These popular small-group tours max out at 12 people. A walking food tour is a great way to eat and chat with other locals and tourists.
You don’t have to be a foodie to enjoy this tour – you just need to enjoy eating, chatting, and seeing the city!
Virtual Chocolate Tour with Xocolatl Small Batch Chocolate
Learn about everything chocolate from the comfort of your home. Xocolatl is one of Atlanta’s most beloved chocolate-making companies! Xocolatl’s Craft Chocolate Primer and Tasting is a live, hour-long exploration. You’ll learn how chocolate is made. Best of all, experience a guided tasting of three single-origin dark chocolate bars. The experience includes a printed tasting guide, a tasting mat for recording your flavor notes, plus a few surprises.
Atlanta Craft Beer and Spirits: Tours for Drink Enthusiasts
Brewery Tour & Tasting at Sweetwater
Located in the heart of Atlanta, Sweetwater Brewing is one of the largest breweries in the country. Visiting this brewery is a classic Atlanta experience. Sweetwater prides themselves on their mellow, outdoors-inspired vibe. You’ll enjoy a spacious tasting room as well as an on-site restaurant.
Purchase a brewery tour during operating hours. For example, you’ll learn all about the beer-making process. Plus, you’ll enjoy 15 oz of samples along the way. Pups are welcome to join on the brewery’s patio.
Tour & Tasting at UrbanTree Cidery
If beer isn’t your thing, try UrbanTree Cidery in West Midtown Atlanta. Enjoy hard ciders made using traditional European methods. The cidery largely utilizes local apples. Taking a tour of UrbanTree is a great way to taste and support local. Best of all, you can drink and enjoy on their beautiful patio.
Cidery tours are currently offered on Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons. Urbantree is a dog-friendly establishment that also has a patio and games to play.
Mountain Escape with North Georgia Wine Tours
A short drive north of Atlanta, enjoy rolling hills and truly beautiful wineries. North Georgia Wine Tours offers private wine tour escapes from Atlanta in cars or buses! As a result, you can kick back and relax on this full day experience.
Atlanta Brewery Tour with Southern Beer Tours
If you want to make the most of your time in Atlanta, visit multiple breweries. Southern Beer Tours is a beer-lovers bus tour. It stops at Sweetwater, Atlanta Brewing, and Monday Night Brewing. Tours include transportation, admission, and a pint of beer at each stop.
For an even better time, upgrade your experience and get a meat and cheese plate.
Atlanta Wildlife Wonders
Georgia Aquarium Penguin Encounter
It’s been a rough year – and maybe you just need to chill out with some penguins. Go behind the scenes for a personal penguin encounter. You’ll learn all about penguin care and conservation initiatives. You’ll also meet an African penguin with guidance from a penguin trainer.
Plus, take home a professional photo with a penguin! Additional animal encounter options include shark, sea lion, dolphin, otter, and more. The Aquarium is at Centennial Olympic Park.
Zoo Atlanta Wild Encounters
Zoo Atlanta will get you behind the scenes. Know (and feed!) some of the zoo’s beautiful and interesting animals. You can choose a wild encounter. For example, visit with a giant panda, elephant, or rhino. A Zoo Educator will walk you through the animal’s care and habits. These events allow you to create memories that will last.
Supernatural Atlanta: Essential Sightseeing Tours for Paranormal Fans
Historic Oakland Cemetery Special Topic Tours
Even if you’re not particularly fascinated by the darker, more mysterious side of life, you’ll find plenty to admire during a day’s exploration at Oakland Cemetery! The cemetery is much more than a resting place for the departed; it’s a vibrant, multifaceted historical site that offers a host of specialized tours, each available for purchase, that delve into various aspects of the area’s rich past.
The Oakland Cemetery serves as a perfect backdrop for group outings. Whether you’re seeking an enriching family activity or an uncommon way to engage with friends, this unique location is sure to deliver memorable experiences.
Venture into the heart of Oakland Cemetery with over 20 special topic guided tours, including, the significant contributions of Atlanta’s African American community and the elaborate symbolism found within the Victorian era. An Oakland Cemetery Tour is not just a tour; it’s a step back in time that promises a delightful blend of education, fascination, and sheer enjoyment.
Full Moon Ziplining at Historic Banning Mills: The World’s Largest Zipline
Go soaring through the moonlit night sky on an epic ziplining adventure. Each month, Historic Banning Mills offers full moon ziplining sessions.
This spot is home to the world’s largest ziplining canopy. You’ll soar above a deep hardwood forest on sections ranging from easy to hair-raising.
Thrill-Seeking in Atlanta: Unforgettable Tours for Adventure Lovers
White Water Rafting on the Ocoee, Chattooga, and Chattahoochee
Atlantans can drive to many fantastic whitewater locations. The Ocoee, Chattooga, and Chattahoochee Rivers are all a short drive from Atlanta. At each spot, you’ll find fun and fast-paced whitewater adventures.
Ride a Segway with ATL Cruzers
Segways are a super fun and fast way to zoom around the city. ATL Cruzers offers several great tour options for folks interested in trying out the Segway experience. The Eastside Atlanta Segway Tour includes Inman Park and Grant Park, plus views of the city.
Or, choose the Midtown tour, with a stop at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. You can even zoom by the World of Coca Cola, the CNN Center, and the Mercedes Benz Stadium.
Get Behind the Wheel at the Porsche Experience Center
Located near Atlanta’s airport, the Porsche Experience Center was built with the thrill of the drive in mind. As a result, the Porsche Driving Experience is perfect for a treat. You’ll get one-on-one instruction from a driving coach. In addition, you’ll have plenty of time on the 1.6-mile circuit track.
Nature’s Treasures: Captivating Atlanta Sightseeing Tours
Sunset Beltline Arboretum Tour with Trees Atlanta
Trees Atlanta is a local tree-planting nonprofit group. This summer, they’re offering free recurring sunset tours of the Eastside Beltline trail and arboretum.
An expert docent will guide the experience. It ends near the popular Ponce City Market. You’ll meet fellow nature lovers while exploring local history and seeing funky local art.
Farm Tour at Serenbe
Serenbe is a tranquil spot to hike, shop, dine, and enjoy a taste of rural farm life. Each Saturday, you can register for a tour of Serenbe’s active certified organic farm. You’ll learn about sustainable growing and harvesting practices. In addition, you’ll find more than 300 varieties of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Experience a taste of local produce by visiting one of the nearby restaurants after your tour.
Whew! That’s a lot of amazing Atlanta tours. We hope you’ll try one of these experiences the next time you’re seeking something unique and fun to do in our city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why take an Atlanta tour?
Tours are an unparalleled way to help you discover a city, whether as a tourist or a local. For example, in the King district, many buildings look like rubble. In fact, they are important historic locations.
The tours described here will get you a closer look at the city. Go beyond popular tourist spots to really explore Atlanta with an insider tour guide who can show you all of the city’s hidden gems!
Are there any guided tours in Atlanta that are recommended for families with children?
Atlanta offers plenty of tours and activities for families with children! Check out a guided experience at local spots like the Center for Puppetry Arts (bonus: free parking!) as well as the Atlanta Botanical Garden nearby in Midtown. Or, opt for a kid-friendly tour of the High Museum or Atlanta History Center. Tour the World of Coca-Cola for a taste of history and your favorite soft drink.
You can also plan day trips to scenic spots outside of Atlanta for self-guided tours. For instance, check out the old sawmill ruins at Sweetwater Creek State Park just 40 minutes west of the city. Or, venture to the Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth, GA.
Browse our blog to discover the best tours for families and other kid-friendly activities.
How much do the most popular tours in Atlanta typically cost?
The quick answer? It depends! Atlanta tours can range in price from free programs supported by local government and corporate sponsors, to exclusive, luxury VIP experiences costing thousands of dollars.
That said, you might expect to spend around $50-100 per ticket for a well-researched, engaging food and history tour. On the other hand, a walking history tour ticket might be closer to $25-35. Museum and cultural attraction tours can vary. For instance, at the time of writing, a single-day ticket for Georgia Aquarium costs $47.99, with tours available as an add-on for $15.99 plus tax. On the other hand, Historic Oakland Cemetery charges no admission and offers tours with $12 admission for the general public.
Be sure to check with venues for their price, availability, cancellation policy, and more. Also remember, while tipping is generally not expected, a gratuity is appreciated if you enjoyed the experience provided by your tour guide!
Are there tours that accommodate special needs or accessibility requirements?
Fortunately, there are! Everyone deserves to enjoy the fun, learning, and camaraderie that come from a tour. In turn, that means that all tour organizers should make an intentional effort to consider accessibility. From sensory-friendly programs to inclusive meal options, wheelchair-accessible spaces, gender-neutral single-stall restrooms and more, many venues are offering more inclusive options than ever before.
Explore wheelchair accessible activities around Atlanta with our blog post devoted to the topic. Additionally, you can browse resources from Explore Georgia – including where to find all-terrain outdoor track wheelchairs at select Georgia State Parks as well as wheelchair-friendly beaches in Georgia.
