Winter in Atlanta is full of festive, cozy experiences and exciting events. In this post, you’ll find the best Atlanta winter activities, spanning from December to February.
Whether you’re searching for dazzling holiday light displays, the best food in the city, musical performances, new adventures, family-friendly experiences, art-inspired events, or sports games – Atlanta in winter offers endless opportunities for fun!
From December’s holiday cheer to January’s fresh new year energy and February’s cultural celebrations, winter in Atlanta is an experience like no other. Plus, our city’s mild temperatures mean outdoor activities are possible nearly year-round! Read on to discover the best activities for each month, frequently asked questions about visiting Atlanta in winter, and must-know tips for planning your winter getaway. Let’s delve in!
The Best Atlanta Winter Events & Activities
December: Create Festive Atlanta Memories
December brings the official start of winter, along with holiday merriment and fun! For those who don’t love the holidays, there’s still plenty to do off the beaten path. Read on to discover the best things to do this December in Atlanta.
The Best Atlanta Holiday Events & Must-Do Activities
Enter an Atlanta winter wonderland of fun in this Holiday Market Food Tour and Snowman Biscuit Class! You’ll savor delicious seasonal bites in Atlanta’s oldest market. Then, get hands-on in a fun cooking class where you’ll create your own adorable snowman biscuits. Perfect for families or friends looking to celebrate the holidays with a unique foodie adventure!
Interested in a group holiday experience? Reach out to our team to plan your corporate holiday party, family experience, or other group event.
For more ideas to get in a festive mood, browse our roundup of favorite Christmas events in Atlanta. Then, put the “happy” in “happy holidays” with the best Atlanta holiday party ideas! You’ll discover tips and tricks to plan the perfect soirée. And, if you’re entertaining family or planning a romantic holiday date, be sure to check out our guide to the Best Cocktail Bars in Atlanta & Beyond.
Keep Your Cool Over School Break
Kids out of school and need something to do? Discover the best Atlanta activities for teenagers & pre-teens! Explore the skate park, see the best of Atlanta’s graffiti on a memorable street art tour, hang in the eclectic Little 5 Points neighborhood, and more.
Plus, be the coolest parent, grandparent, auntie, or uncle in town this holiday season with our roundup of the best things to do with kids in Atlanta! Organized by age group, this post includes activities from music classes to story times, opportunities to wiggle and move, fun museums, and more.
More December Fun
Make the most of this month with our blog post on the best things to Do in Atlanta in December. See incredible holiday light displays, try holiday-themed sips and food, bundle up and go ice skating, and so much more. Plus, watch the short video above for even more ideas!
Another fun idea: attend the Winter Lantern Festival: Atlanta! This mesmerizing display of over 1,000 Chinese lanterns – all handmade by artisans with decades of experience – is sure to delight. Includes fun for the whole family, with live entertainment by the Zigong Acrobatic Group, food, drinks, and gifts for sale!
January: A New Year of Exploring
From the fresh energy that comes with the start of the new year, to honoring one of our hometown heroes on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, to fun activities that combat the post-holiday blues – there’s no shortage of Atlanta fun in January! Below are a few ideas to get you started.
Celebrate the New Year
Ring in the new year with these celebratory Atlanta New Year’s Eve events! From themed parties to heart-pumping sports games, concerts, daytime kids’ events, and more – there’s something for everyone. Kick off the start of a new trip around the sun, right here in the capital of the South.
Honor the Life & Legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Honor MLK, Jr. Day in January by delving into Dr. King’s life and legacy. Offered throughout the year – but especially perfect in January – the Martin Luther King, Jr. Atlanta Tour is a deeply moving journey through the heart of Atlanta’s Civil Rights history. Learn more by watching the short video above!
During the Martin Luther King, Jr. Atlanta Tour, you’ll walk in the footsteps of Dr. King as you visit iconic landmarks, including his office, Ebenezer Baptist Church (when open), and Dr. and Mrs. King’s final resting place. Led by an expert guide, this tour provides fascinating stories and insights that bring history to life. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, tourist, or new to Atlanta, this experience is one you won’t want to miss! Named one of the best things to do in Atlanta by Conde Nast.
You can also browse more Atlanta spots that honor Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy. For teachers, school administrators, and parents: plan a field trip to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic District.
More January Fun
Discover all kinds of fun happening this month with our ultimate guide to visiting Atlanta in January. From helpful weather and packing tips to fun January activities around the city, the new year brings a fresh slate of fun. Plus: celebrate the Lunar New Year, go to a concert, try new foods, use your holiday gift cards at Atlanta’s best shops, and more!
February: Celebrate ATL Love
February might be short, but it’s packed with action! Celebrate Black History Month and Valentine’s Day, cheer on your team during the big game, and enjoy the last full month of winter in Atlanta. Here’s what’s in store during February!
Honor Black History Month through Atlanta’s Art & History
During the Atlanta Cabbagetown & Beltline Street Art Tour, you’ll discover how Atlanta’s street art carries out the mission of the city’s historic changemakers. Every mural tells a story. On this tour, you’ll see famous murals created for the Forward Warrior Festival, including Civil Rights-themed works that evoke the spirit of this movement.
This guided history and street art tour explores Atlanta’s Cabbagetown neighborhood, the popular Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail, and the iconic Krog Street Tunnel (learn more about it in the video above!). Your knowledgeable and entertaining tour guide will share fascinating stories of prominent Atlanta street artists, helping you understand how street art can change the world.
To conclude the tour, you’ll channel your own inner artist as you design your very own street art. No experience required, and beginners are welcome! You’ll leave with exclusive access to a resource page with information about Atlanta artists and street art history and culture.
Find more ideas to celebrate Black History Month with our blog post on Atlanta Black History Month activities. Plus: this Black History Month, put your wallet where your heart is and dine at the best Black-owned restaurants in Atlanta! It’s a win-win: you’ll support local Black-owned establishments, while enjoying some of Atlanta’s most delectable cuisine!
Have Your Sweetest Valentine’s Day Yet
Did you know 38% of people report feeling the most loved when sharing new experiences with their partner? This Valentine’s Day, boost your romance by trying something new together! Join a top-rated food walk to sample hearty lunch bites and stroll through Atlanta’s picturesque Grant Park neighborhood. Along the way, your tour guide will share fascinating stories about Atlanta’s history – the perfect conversation-starters for after the tour, or your next date.
Browse more Atlanta Valentine’s Day activities with our blog post on this topic. For instance: let your romance bloom at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Or, enjoy a dressed-up Waffle House date in the city where this iconic restaurant began!
Make the Most of the Shortest Month: More February Fun
Get the scoop on everything happening this month with our ultimate guide to visiting Atlanta in February. From watching the big game to attending concerts, festivals, and more – it’s all here!
Another favorite February activity: spend a day indoors at one of Atlanta’s many museums. Some local gems include the Atlanta History Center, The Wren’s Nest, High Museum of Art, Atlanta Contemporary Art Center, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Georgia Aquarium, Children’s Museum of Atlanta, National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Center for Puppetry Arts, and more!
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Atlanta in Winter
What should I expect from Atlanta winter weather?
Weather in Atlanta in winter tends to be chilly and crisp, with frost and occasional ice. The city’s typical lack of winter snowfall makes outdoor activities possible year-round. That being said, it does get cold here – and snow is always possible! Atlanta winter temps can dip well into freezing, so check the forecast and prepare to bundle up with layers. Learn more with our month-by-month guide to Atlanta weather.
Plan ahead by signing up for winter weather advisory Atlanta alerts through your favorite weather app or by visiting The Weather Channel.
I only have a few days to visit the city. What are the can’t-miss spots in Atlanta?
We’ve created the ultimate 3-Day Atlanta itinerary just for travelers like you!
Atlanta is full of fun things to eat, see, and explore – and we don’t want you to miss a second of the fun. Browse our guide to the can’t-miss spots you’ve got to try – whether you’re traveling for business, fun, or with family!
Is it easy to get around Atlanta during the winter?
Atlanta’s public transportation system, MARTA, (Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) operates year-round. Additionally, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are typically in ample supply, though you may encounter longer waits and/or surge pricing on holidays and during other major events.
While winter weather rarely affects driving, icy conditions and snow can occur, so it’s always a good idea to check road conditions before driving. Additionally, you can bookmark these Winter Driving Tips from AAA. For those who are seeking snow and prepared for the weather conditions that accompany it: check conditions in the North Georgia mountains, around 1.5-2 hours away from Atlanta!
What should I know about navigating the Atlanta airport?
As the busiest airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a bustling spot that’s filled with activity.
Plan ahead for your visit with our Atlanta airport ultimate guide for travelers. You’ll find information about how to get around the airport, ground transportation, local hotels, accessibility and nursing pod info, food and drink options, shopping, and more.
Unexpected Atlanta wishes you a fun, safe winter exploring all that our city has to offer! We look forward to welcoming you soon for one of our top-rated walking tours of Atlanta. Join us to see why we’re the #1-rated Atlanta Tour & Activity on Tripadvisor!
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