Looking for the best things to do in Downtown Atlanta?
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, staycation, or just exploring our city, discover the top Downtown Atlanta attractions, hidden gems, family activities, foodie favorites, and must-see landmarks.
From the Georgia Aquarium to incredible food and walking tours, we’ll help you make the most of your visit to the heart of Atlanta. Whether you’re from here or just visiting, this post is your guide to the best things to do in Downtown Atlanta!
Here, you’ll enjoy history, tasty eats, exciting shows, thriving businesses, beautiful architecture, and fascinating people! You’ll never run out of things to do, explore and activities to enjoy.
Be sure to view each venue’s website for the most up-to-date information, pricing, and more.
A few of our favorite THINGS TO DO IN Downtown Atlanta:
Read on for more details on these ideas – and plenty of other ideas!
- Explore delicious Southern foods at the Sweet Auburn Curb Market or Daddy D’z BBQ
- Take a walking tour with Unexpected Atlanta, rated #1 of more than 250 Atlanta Tours & Activities on TripAdvisor
- Learn about Downtown Atlanta’s important role in the Civil Rights Movement
- See incredible artwork at the ZuCot Gallery and Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
- Catch a live music or comedy show at The Tabernacle
- Eat in the clouds at the iconic Sundial Restaurant
- See popular Downtown Atlanta tourist spots like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola
In this post, you’ll find:
- Best Downtown Atlanta attractions: Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and more
- Top family-friendly activities in Downtown Atlanta: Children’s Museum of Atlanta, Zoo Atlanta
- Downtown Atlanta food experiences: food tours, the Prohibition Progressive Dinner, and more
- Under-the-radar things to do in Downtown Atlanta
- Downtown Atlanta happy hour ideas for work
- Downtown Atlanta date ideas like dining at the Polaris Restaurant or booking an all-inclusive food & cocktail experience
- Where to eat in the heart of the city
- Can’t-miss things to do in Downtown Atlanta
- Top sightseeing ideas and tourist attractions
Things To Do in Downtown Atlanta: Ultimate 2026 Guide
Best Attractions in Downtown Atlanta
Tour King Historic District – One of Our Favorite Downtown Atlanta Activities
Did you know Martin Luther King, Jr. grew up in Downtown Atlanta? Learn all about his life and legacy on the top-rated Martin Luther King, Jr. Atlanta History Tour. Locals often recommend this guided experience to get an up-close look at the Atlanta sites that inspired this Civil Rights leader.
Explore Dr. King’s office at the Prince Hall Grand Lodge, see Dr. and Mrs. King’s final resting places, and more. Best of all, a live local expert guide will share fun stories and answer your questions along the way. You’ll leave with a much deeper understanding of Dr. King’s work and Atlanta’s role in the Civil Rights movement. See a preview of the tour in the short video below!
This walking tour of the Civil Rights Movement is one you won’t forget, and it’s a can’t-miss activity for Atlanta locals and tourists! Appropriate for friends, families, couples, and colleagues to enjoy together.
We highly recommend this experience for a new understanding and appreciation of Atlanta’s history. Sign up to see why Conde Nast included this tour in their list of the best things to do in Atlanta!
For families with children, book the MLK Tour for Kids, designed for young learners ages 6-12 and their grown-ups.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights inspires visitors “to tap into their own power to change the world.” A visit here is the perfect activity for preteen and teenage children as well as adults.
Study important papers and artifacts that delve into the lives of Martin Luther King, Jr. and other heroes. Explore the fight for civil rights and human rights across the globe. Plus, enjoy performances, book talks, lectures, and other educational programs.
Want to get a peek before you visit? Check out the interactive virtual tour of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
Centennial Olympic Park
This scenic park was the central point for the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games. With 22 acres of green space to enjoy, Centennial Olympic Park is the perfect part of Downtown to unplug, relax, and take a break. Stop here between museums, tours, and other sightseeing activities.
During warm weather, the “Fountain of Rings” allows little ones to cool off and splash around to their hearts’ content. Playgrounds, an amphitheatre, gardens, and more will also keep everyone entertained at Centennial Olympic Park.
Grab some lunch in between your other plans, throw down a blanket, and enjoy a picnic here to rest and refuel!
SkyView Atlanta
Soar to the top of this ferris wheel in the heart of Downtown Atlanta! Catching a ride on the SkyView Ferris Wheel is a perfect way to end your date night or a thrilling adventure for the kiddos.
The ferris wheel has 42 climate-controlled private gondolas. You can experience amazing views of the Atlanta skyline in style and comfort! Reserve their VIP option for an extra-special experience with glass floors, leather-style seating, and a longer ride time.
For over a decade, SkyView Atlanta has delighted locals and visitors with mesmerizing views of the city. They even sell group tickets for outings of 200+ people! For an inclusive experience, two of the gondolas are ADA-accessible.
Georgia Aquarium
A visit to the Georgia Aquarium will make you feel like a kid again. This is the largest aquarium in North America! Can you believe there are more than 11 million gallons of aquatic adventures to explore?
Despite its enormous size, the Georgia Aquarium occupies a central location in Downtown Atlanta. That means your trip here also offers convenient access to other nearby attractions.
At the Georgia Aquarium, you’ll come face-to-face with countless creatures. From penguins to sea lions, dolphins, sharks, and more – you’re sure to find your favorite underwater creature here! For added fun, ask about their animal encounters, swim and dive sessions, and other incredible experiences. Host a birthday party, find kid-friendly eats at Café Aquaria, and enjoy dolphin and sea lion presentations!
The World of Coca-Cola
Atlanta is the home of The Coca-Cola Company, and Atlantans are loyal to Coke as their soft drink of choice! Visiting the World of Coca-Cola is now an absolute can’t-miss Atlanta activity.
Learn all about the history and culture behind this iconic company and the world’s most famous soft drink. Our favorite part of this experience is tasting the flavors of Coke from around the world!
You can explore interactive museum exhibits, see hundreds of artifacts, and take home a special piece of the excitement. Plus, get closer than ever before to the vault that houses the top-secret Coca-Cola formula.
Pro Tip: See the iconic Coca-Cola vault up-close during our Prohibition Progressive Dinner experience!
Learn About Civil Rights & Honor the Memory of John Lewis
Take advantage of your Atlanta visit to learn more Congressman John Lewis. He was a key player in the Civil Rights Movement who also spent more than 30 years representing Georgia’s 5th Congressional District.
Watch the short video below to learn more about the legacy of Congressman Lewis in Atlanta.
To start, see the John Lewis “HERO” mural in Downtown Atlanta and honor the memory and impact of this important leader. Local arts group “The Loss Prevention” created this mural as part of their “Heroes” mural series honoring Atlantans who have made a global impact.
Then, check out the John Lewis statue in the new Rodney Cook Sr. Park in Vine City, near downtown. The park has 16 acres of green space and infrastructure, perfect for both sightseeing and leisure.
What Do Our Tour Guides Recommend?
“One of my favorite things to do in Downtown Atlanta is to walk around and explore the incredible artwork that you can find almost everywhere in the city.
The Sweet Auburn neighborhood is particularly fantastic for its beautiful artwork but, also check out the ATL playground in Woodruff Park, which is just a short walk away from the beautiful Fairlie Poplar neighborhood.”
– Akila, local history expert & owner of Unexpected Atlanta Tours
Family-Friendly Things To Do in Downtown Atlanta
Eat Well & Learn How to Make Biscuits at Sweet Auburn Curb Market
The historic Municipal Market (now called Sweet Auburn Curb Market) is Atlanta’s oldest market. Atlanta has preserved the history of the building from top to bottom. Delicious aromas and laughter fill the indoor food stalls, warming the whole space.
During the Historic Market Food Tour + Biscuit Class pictured above, you’ll try a variety of dishes and learn how to make delicious, Southern-style buttermilk biscuits. Plus, you’ll learn all about this historic food market, which was rated one of the Top 10 Food Markets in the U.S. by USA Today.
The market is also close to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Atlanta Walking tour. Combine these activities to make for a unique Downtown Atlanta excursion!
Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Your kids will want to spend the whole day at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. The best part is, parents will have just as much fun as the little ones! Burn off some energy at this interactive museum geared toward young children.
This kid-friendly spot includes 3 rotating exhibitions per year. Additionally, you can see six beloved permanent exhibits, including Let Your Creativity Flow, Step Up to Science, Fundamentally Food, and more. Here, the focus is on interactive learning through play.
The museum also hosts special events and programs throughout the year. These include art studio activities, an “innovation station,” science bar, cultural programs and celebrations, and more. Check the museum’s website schedule ahead of time to see which programs happen during your visit.
Zoo Atlanta
See amazing exhibits of animals from around the world at Zoo Atlanta! Located in the Grant Park neighborhood not far from Downtown, Zoo Atlanta is a popular spot for many Atlanta families and tourists.
Check out the Zoo’s calendar for family-friendly events as well as special after-hours events for adults. For instance, “Brew at the Zoo” and “Sippin’ Safari” allow the 21+ crowd to mix and mingle. Events like “Boo at the Zoo” and “Cookies with Santa” will delight little ones.
Popular animals to see at Zoo Atlanta include elephants, lions, a giant tortoise, flamingoes, and more. Enjoy a splash fountain and carousel, take a ride on the Zoo Train, and walk along the Treetop Tykes Trail. You can also visit the petting zoo to get up-close with goats and sheep.
Be sure to stop by the gift shop on your way out for a new plush, cuddly friend to remind you of your adventures.
Be Dazzled at the Atlanta Magic Theater
Located inside the Embassy Suites at Centennial Olympic Park, the Atlanta Magic Theater will leave you in awe. Magician Peter Morrison will entertain you with 75 minutes of magic and clean, upbeat comedy.
Promoted as “Atlanta’s longest-running show,” this activity is perfect for a family outing or a unique date idea! Don’t be shy – this show promises “tons of audience involvement” along with cherished memories and good times.
Fun Fact: Magician Peter Morrison has performed more than 8,000 shows across the U.S. over the past 20 years. And, that includes 80 shows at the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood!
Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame
Did you know that only 0.2% of college football players and coaches are inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame? Pay tribute to these legends at this unique Atlanta site!
Sports fanatic or not, the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame is an experience that will score you some points! This is an interactive experience for all things related to the sport.
You can honor the history of the game and learn about college football legends through exhibits and interactive areas. Plus, try kicking a field goal on an 45-yard indoor football field! Here, the whole family can enjoy “94,000 square feet of the most immersive sports museum there is!”
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites in Downtown Atlanta
Experience the Awe-Inspiring ZuCot Gallery
As the largest Black-owned fine art gallery in the Southeast, ZuCot Gallery fills its chic space with beautiful work by living artists. The owners thoughtfully celebrate Black artists and culture, creating an environment that feels both vibrant and inviting. Stop in during regular hours or plan your visit around an Artist Talk or exhibition.
Fun Fact: This gallery isn’t just a place to experience. You can also purchase artwork for your home, as a gift, or as a memorable souvenir of your time in the city.
Taste the Brilliance of the O4W Distillery – a Local Favorite!
Named after Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward neighborhood near Downtown, O4W Distillery became Atlanta’s first legal independent distillery in 1906. They sell a variety of award-winning spirits including gin, vodka, bourbon, and more. A crowd favorite is their “Lawn Dart” ginger lemon liqueur, with flavors of freshly-peeled lemon, organic cold-pressed ginger, and a hint of sugar cane simple syrup.
While O4W Distillery does not offer tours of their facility, you can still get a taste of Atlanta by partaking in their products. Check out their unique lineup of local Atlanta spirits and purchase a bottle to take home as a keepsake. Browse O4W’s website for retail and restaurant locations that stock their products.
Fun Fact: When the pandemic first hit, O4W Distillery made and distributed hand sanitizer for our local community.
Expand your Mind at Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
The Atlanta Contemporary Art Center is a lesser-known favorite art spot. It’s home to truly one-of-a-kind contemporary artwork, and there’s always something new to experience. Beyond the galleries, their dynamic event lineup invites visitors to engage more deeply, from artist talks to their signature Art Party fundraiser.
Founded in 1973 as Nexus, a grassroots cooperative for artists, the center has grown into one of the Southeast’s leading contemporary art spaces, showcasing work from more than 200 artists each year.
Even better, admission is always free. Thanks to the support of generous donors, ACAC remains an open and welcoming space for anyone who wants to step inside.
Where To Eat in Downtown Atlanta
Get Saucy at Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt
You can’t visit the South without eating some delicious BBQ! And, one of the best spots around is Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt. Even folks who don’t eat meat will appreciate Daddy D’z mouthwatering sides and desserts. Try the fried green tomatoes, collard greens, and a mini sweet potato pie along with classic barbecue options like ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.
This Downtown spot might look unassuming, but Daddy D’z cooks up some of the best Atlanta BBQ around. They cook their meat by hand on hickory and oak pits, sharing that “there are no shortcuts to our recipe.”
Additionally, this is the only Atlanta BBQ spot featured on the Food Network! Stop by on Saturday nights for live music, or any time they’re open for a bite.
Fun fact: Daddy D’z also provides catering for corporate meetings, weddings, birthday and holiday parties, and more!
Eat in the Clouds
A meal at Polaris Restaurant & Lounge at the top of the Hyatt Regency will have you feel like you’re floating in the clouds. You’ll enjoy sumptuous cuisine while the entire restaurant physically rotates for a 360-degree skyline view! Start with a glass elevator ride that makes you feel like a child in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
The 73-story glass tower is a staple of the Atlanta skyline! Then, step out of the elevator and into the clouds to sample delicious dishes in a unique atmosphere. (Plus, you might recognize this spot from the Hunger Games movies.)
Make the night extra special with the Prohibition Progressive Dinner, where you’ll enjoy cocktails and food from four gourmet restaurants and bars in Downtown Atlanta’s trendiest area. Polaris caps off a night of delicious revelry.
Fun Fact: Even if you don’t eat at Polaris, you can ride the elevator and admire the 360-degree views for a small fee.
Eat through the Summerhill Neighborhood
Located just south of downtown, Summerhill is one of Atlanta’s trendiest neighborhoods right now. Like much of Atlanta, Summerhill has been around for a long time. But, it looks a little different these days.
The city developed this neighborhood to prepare for Atlanta’s 1996 Olympic stadium and surrounding areas. Now, it’s an 80-acre Instagram-worthy spot with a lot to see, eat, and do.
You can easily walk or bike the Summerhill neighborhood to view restored historic buildings, colorful murals, and many fun restaurants. For example, try authentic Thai food at Talat Market. Then, get some soft-serve ice cream and baked goods at Big Softie (vegan options included!) or Little Tart Pastries. Last but not least, enjoy local sips at Halfway Crooks Brewery.
Additionally, Summerhill sits between other popular intown Atlanta neighborhoods – including Grant Park, Cabbagetown, and Midtown. Stroll your way through each neighborhood to take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the city. For a guided experience, check out the popular Grant Park Food and Cemetery Tour.
If you’re heading to Midtown, make sure that you take some time to explore some of their hot spots. We recommend seeing the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Piedmont Park, the Fox Theatre, and the Center for Puppetry Arts.
Events and Nightlife in Downtown Atlanta
Catch a Live Music or Comedy Show at the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle is a beloved Downtown Atlanta concert and comedy venue, located near Centennial Olympic Park. Originally built as a church in 1911, The Tabernacle’s building is more than 100 years old. The city transformed it into a concert venue to prepare for the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.
Locals and visitors alike flock to The Tabernacle to see iconic artists in concert and laugh-out-loud comedy shows in the heart of Atlanta. In fact, this spot hosts more than 200 performances every year!
Fun Fact: In addition to previously being a church, this building has also served as a medical center and nursing school.
Stay in the Loop with the Special Events in Downtown Atlanta
Don’t have anything specific planned for your visit to Downtown Atlanta? The area is a bustling hotspot for a variety of special, temporary, and pop-up events. In the capital of the South, there’s always something going on!
To help you stay in the know, browse this list of upcoming Downtown Atlanta events. Depending on the day, you can enjoy musical street performances, knitting meetups, community wellness programs, green markets, yoga classes, and more!
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Head to Mercedes-Benz Stadium to catch an Atlanta United soccer game, Atlanta Falcons game, or a concert. While you’re there, check out the amazing views, state-of-the-art amenities, and affordable concessions.
If your visit doesn’t line up with an event you like, book a stadium tour! This includes a peek at the locker rooms, the field, Window to the City, Skybridges, and Club areas. Or, book a tour to familiarize yourself with the venue before coming back for an event later!
Plan the Perfect Family Fun Day in Downtown Atlanta
A Family-Friendly Morning in Downtown Atlanta
- Start by fueling up with a delicious breakfast. Head to Atlanta Breakfast Club for Southern favorites like chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, peach cobbler French toast, and more.
- For families with little ones, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers an interactive morning of play and learning.
- Delve into Atlanta’s Civil Rights history on Unexpected Atlanta’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Atlanta History Tour. For families with children ages 6-12, book the special MLK Tour for Kids!
- Or, enjoy Atlanta’s food and history (and 8 delicious dishes) on our Grant Park Food and Cemetery Tour, perfect for ages 9 and up.
Lunch & Afternoon
- Break for a picnic lunch in Centennial Olympic Park. Grab takeout slices from Rosa’s Pizza or BBQ from Daddy D’z and enjoy 22 acres of green space in the heart of Downtown Atlanta. Bring a frisbee or football to toss around if the kids have extra energy to burn off!
- If it’s raining, head to the Sweet Auburn Curb Market instead to explore a wide variety of delicious indoor food spots.
- In the afternoon, explore some of our favorite tourist spots. For instance, visit the National Museum for Civil and Human Rights, The World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, or the College Football Hall of Fame.
A Perfect Family Evening in the Heart of Atlanta
- For a casual dinner, try The Varsity for iconic Atlanta fast food eats or Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria.
- Finally, end the night with a ride on the SkyView ferris wheel for enchanting views of Atlanta’s Downtown skyline.
What a long day of exploring the best Atlanta has to offer! Settle in at one of Downtown Atlanta’s many fabulous hotels for a good night’s sleep!
Plan the Perfect Downtown Atlanta Date
Planning a Downtown Atlanta date night? Romance your date with these fun, special, and unique date ideas.
Set the tone with flowers from Gresham’s Florist of Atlanta, the oldest florist in the city. This family-owned business has served the city since 1913!
Then, impress your date with the Prohibition Progressive Dinner. During this special food and cocktail experience, you’ll step into Atlanta’s Roaring ’20s for a night of indulgence, intrigue, and unforgettable flavor. This all-inclusive dinner weaves together elevated bites, craft cocktails, hidden speakeasies, skyline views, a look at the iconic Coca-Cola vault, and lively storytelling for an evening with serious swagger.
For other dinner options, head to one of these Downtown Atlanta restaurants:
- SunDial Restaurant for a perfect backdrop with panoramic views of the city. Note: reservations are required!
- Paschal’s Restaurant for classic Soul food and live jazz every 1st & 3rd Friday of the month. Paschal’s has served as a meeting place for notable public figures including Aretha Franklin, Dizzy Gillespie, Andrew Young, Maynard Jackson, Al Gore, and Dr. Martin Luther King.
- White Oak Kitchen & Cocktails for upscale bites and a warm, polished Southern vibe.
Cap off the evening with a romantic ride on the SkyView ferris wheel, where you’ll take in stunning views of Atlanta’s skyline in a private, climate-controlled gondola. They even have a VIP upgrade option to skip the line, enjoy leather-style seats, and take in captivating views with a glass floor.
If you’re planning a daytime date, swap the dinner for a food tour of the city! Unexpected Atlanta’s Grant Park Food & Cemetery Tour is a unique date idea. This walking food tour shares the best of Atlanta’s food and history – and you’ll taste 8 delicious dishes along the way!
Frequently Asked Questions About Downtown Atlanta
Is Downtown Atlanta walkable for tourists?
Downtown Atlanta is a very walkable area, with major attractions, restaurants, and hotels all within close proximity.
What is the best way to get around Downtown Atlanta?
Walking, MARTA (Atlanta’s public transit system), or using the Atlanta Streetcar are all great ways to explore Downtown without a car. For longer distances, you can make use of rideshare options like Uber and Lyft.
What events happen in Downtown Atlanta throughout the year?
Downtown Atlanta hosts a variety of concerts, festivals, food markets, public yoga classes, and seasonal events like “Holiday in the Park” and “Atlanta Streets Alive” throughout the year. For more details, browse this list of upcoming Downtown Atlanta events.
Is Downtown Atlanta safe for visitors?
Downtown Atlanta is generally safe for tourists, especially around major attractions like Centennial Olympic Park and the Georgia Aquarium. As with any urban area, stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone late at night, and use rideshare or MARTA when needed.
What’s the best time of year to visit Downtown Atlanta?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most pleasant weather and a full calendar of festivals and outdoor events in Downtown Atlanta.
Can I visit Downtown Atlanta without a car?
Yes! Many Downtown visitors rely on MARTA, rideshare apps, and the Atlanta Streetcar as well as walking to nearby attractions.
One of the most efficient ways to explore downtown is riding the Atlanta Streetcar, which covers most of the main tourist attractions. Many Downtown Atlanta attractions are walkable from hotels in the area or just a short ride away.
What is parking like in Downtown Atlanta?
Paid parking is available at most Downtown Atlanta attractions and hotels, in addition to public parking garages throughout the area. Rates typically range from $5 to $20 and upward. You can also use apps like ParkMobile to find nearby spots.
Is Downtown Atlanta accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, most major attractions, MARTA stations, and sidewalks are ADA-compliant. Wheelchair-accessible hotels and attractions like the Georgia Aquarium offer additional resources. Additionally, the SkyView Ferris Wheel offers two ADA-accessible private gondolas.
Are there guided tours of Downtown Atlanta?
Yes! Unexpected Atlanta offers top-rated walking tours that explore Downtown’s history, food, and culture. These experiences are a fantastic way to learn about the city from a local expert.
Choose from popular tours like:
- Atlanta Market Food Tour & Biscuit-Making Class
- Grant Park Atlanta Food Tour
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Tour
- Atlanta Southern Essentials Cooking Class
- And more!
Have fun exploring all that Downtown Atlanta has to offer! For a unique experience with a expert guide, sign up for an Unexpected Atlanta walking tour and see why TripAdvisor ranks us #1 in “Atlanta Tours and Activities!”
