If you’re visiting Atlanta in January – or thinking about a trip – this guide is for you!
There’s so much to do, see, eat, and discover in Atlanta, GA. In January, visitors enjoy off-peak pricing, chilly (but still moderate) temperatures, and a wide variety of activities to explore.
From ice skating to museum exhibits, food experiences, and more – there’s lots of fun to be had during this month! Read on for FAQs, Atlanta weather in January, activities and events, and more.
The Best Atlanta Things to Do in January
Read on for more details on these activities and more!
- Take a unique food tour of Atlanta
- Learn about Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy for MLK Day
- Explore the High Museum of Art
- Check out Atlanta’s intown neighborhoods, parks, and trails
- See dinosaurs at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History
In this post, you’ll find:
- Events in Atlanta: January 1-31, 2023
- Ideas to enjoy Atlanta during the winter months
- January events and activities for families, individuals, friends, and couples
- Fun things to do during a business trip to Atlanta in January
- Atlanta date ideas in January
FAQs: Visiting Atlanta in January
Is January a good time of year to visit Atlanta?
Absolutely! Visiting Atlanta in January is a great idea for those who prefer fewer crowds, lower temperatures, and a more budget-friendly stay.
According to U.S. News & World Report Atlanta Travel Guide, “planning a trip in winter when hotel prices dive” is a smart move. Additionally, they share that “foodies will especially love late winter’s events.”
Read on to discover all the January fun to be had in Atlanta!
What is the Atlanta weather in January?
The average January temperature in Atlanta ranges from a low of 36 F to a high of 54 F. , according to the National Weather Service. Additionally, it rains an average of 4.6 inches during January in Atlanta. January is the coldest month of the year in Atlanta.
That said, the weather in Atlanta in January can vary, from freezing temperatures and a rare dusting of light snow, to warm and comfortable. It depends on the day and the year!
What should I pack to visit Atlanta in January?
While this list is not exhaustive, here are a few helpful items to bring on a January trip to Atlanta:
- An umbrella, in case of rain while you’re out and about.
- Layers: sweaters, jackets, scarves, gloves, and hats can help on chilly mornings!
- A MARTA Breeze Card if you plan to take Atlanta’s public transit. Cards can also be purchased at MARTA stations.
- Sunglasses, because Atlanta gets 217 sunny or partly cloudy days each year!
- A water bottle, to stay hydrated while sightseeing.
- Cash for tipping and small purchases.
Things to Do in Atlanta During January
Experience Atlanta’s Culinary Scene
The #1 ranked Atlanta activity on TripAdvisor? Unexpected Atlanta food and history walking tours!
Join us for a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. On our Grant Park Past & Future Food Walk, you’ll taste 8 modern and Southern foods from 3 locally owned food stops.
Along the way, hear fascinating stories about Atlanta’s history and see the unique architecture of the Grant Park neighborhood. The 2.5 hour long experience includes a walk through Historic Oakland Cemetery, where many noteworthy Atlantans have been laid to rest.
Experience Winter Magic at an Ice Skating Rink
Experience a skating winter wonderland all month long! Watch the 2-minute video above to hear about our favorite seasonal ice skating rinks.
The open-air rink at Pratt Pullman District will delight guests through February 15, 2023. Includes skate rental. Because this is a synthetic, eco-friendly skating rink, you can skate outdoors at any temperature at this spot!
Another great ice skating option is Skate the Station in Atlantic Station to experience the magic of this outdoor ice skating rink! This experience is open through January 16, 2023 (weather permitting), and skate rental is included.
Atlanta is also home to several year-round indoor rinks, such as Atlanta Ice House and Center Ice Arena These spots typically host local hockey games, and often open their doors for public skating hours.
Be Inspired at the High Museum of Art
Seeking a more indoors experience, away from the cold? Visit the High Museum of Art in Midtown Atlanta.
As the leading art museum in the southeast, the High (as it’s called by locals) is worth a trip. With a renowned art collection, exciting special exhibits, and community events for all ages, this is a spot to be inspired.
Through January 15, 2023, see the special exhibition, “Rodin in the United States: Confronting the Modern.” With more than 70 sculptures and drawings on display, you can see Rodin’s well-known works, such as “The Thinker” – as well as his less-familiar pieces.
Celebrate & Learn about Dr. King for MLK Day in January
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is honored on the third Monday of January each year. Celebrate Dr. King’s life and legacy during January on Unexpected Atlanta’s King Historic District Tour.
This walking tour is a deep-dive into MLK’s upbringing, his activism, and his enduring legacy. You’ll see important historic Atlanta landmarks associated with King’s life and the Civil Rights movement. For instance, visit the home where Dr. King was born and lived until the age of twelve, pictured above.
This tour is a can’t-miss Atlanta experience that everyone should do at least once! Find more ideas in the MLK Day in Atlanta video above.
Explore Atlanta’s Intown Neighborhoods
Just a few miles from Downtown Atlanta, eclectic and fun neighborhoods dot Atlanta’s landscape. From Inman Park’s stylish shops and restaurants to Little 5 Points’ grunge and alternative vibes, there’s plenty to explore.
Our favorite ideas to explore intown Atlanta:
- Take a walk, run, or bike ride on the paved Beltline Eastside Trail, pictured above.
- Check out the Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park.
- See street art murals in the Cabbagetown neighborhood.
- Have a picnic at Piedmont Park in Midtown.
Use Holiday Gift Cards at Ponce City Market
Located near the intown neighborhoods mentioned above, Ponce City Market is a bustling eat-live-play shopping center. It’s housed in the historic Sears building. This popular spot can get busy during the holiday shopping season and warmer months. But in January, it’s less crowded – and easier to enjoy!
This is the perfect spot to use your holiday gift cards. Retail shops include Williams Sonoma, Anthropologie, Levi’s, Glossier, lululemon, Sephora, West Elm, J.Crew, and more.
Refuel at one of the many food stalls and restaurants. Choose from Indian street food, Cuban sandwiches, fried chicken, ramen and yakitori, Iranian dishes, baked goods, gelato, and so much more.
Pro tip: check out the The Roof at Ponce City Market for a retro style amusement park, carnival-style games and rides, a bar, and skyline views!
Attend Concerts in Atlanta: January 2023
Our city is a great spot to see live music year-round! In January 2023, Atlanta will play host to a wide variety of musical artists, from hip-hop to pop-soul, retro rock, and more.
Atlanta concerts in January 2023:
- The B-52s Farewell Tour: Jan. 6-8, 2023 at The Fox Theatre
- Donna the Buffalo: Jan. 6, 2023 at City Winery
- Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons: Jan. 13, 2023 at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
- Yacht Rock Revue: Jan. 13, 2023 at The Eastern-GA
- Future And Friends – One Big Party Tour: Jan. 14, 2023 at State Farm Arena
- Lake Street Dive: Jan. 21, 2023 at The Eastern-GA
- Stayin’ Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees: Jan. 28, 2023 at Buckhead Theatre
See Dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History
In the Druid Hills neighborhood, Fernbank Museum of Natural History is a must-see spot for kids and families, teens and adults, and anyone who appreciates nature, history, and science.
With both indoor and outdoor activities, this is a great spot to visit, no matter the weather in Atlanta. For younger kiddos, NatureQuest is an immersive experience that “turns kids into explorers, scientists and adventurers as they discover the many wonders of the natural world through hundreds of activities, live animal displays and encouraging encounters.”
For ages 21+, check out Fernbank After Dark. Offered on the second Friday of each month, this after-hours experience includes live music, full bar drinks and tapas for purchase, science demonstrations, and more.
Fernbank is also home to a giant screen theatre where you can watch fascinating documentaries. Outdoors, explore Wildwoods and Fernbank Forest for more than 75 acres of nature adventures!
Celebrate Lunar New Year
The Year of the Rabbit begins on January 22, 2023. Honor this occasion by supporting some of Atlanta’s many Chinese-owned businesses and restaurants. Buford Highway is a great place to start.
For detailed ideas and restaurant suggestions, read Discover Atlanta’s guide, “How to Celebrate Chinese New Year in Atlanta” by Silei Li.
Fun fact: people born in Years of the Rabbit include those who were born in 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, and 2023!
For more Atlanta fun, check out our unique walking tours – including food and history experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Unexpected Atlanta is officially the #1 Atlanta activity on TripAdvisor, with nearly 1,500 five-star reviews!
