Discover Georgia's capital with the 15 best museums in Atlanta

Ever wondered where you can trace the roots of the Civil Rights Movement and learn about the history of puppetry? Atlanta's got the answer. From contemporary art that'll make you tilt your head (and snap a pic), to historic homes telling tales from bygone eras—there's a museum for everyone in the Georgia capital.

Whether you're looking to uncover the city’s rich history, connections to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., famous movie locations, intriguing design, fashion inspiration, or more, you'll find it all in the 15 best museums in Atlanta.

Best history museums in Atlanta

1. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park is one of the best museums in Atlanta to learn about the Civil Rights Movement. There are several significant buildings on the site, including the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was baptized and his childhood home.

Highlights:

Consider a dedicated guided tour that explores historic sites associated with the Civil Rights Movement.

Address and opening hours:

450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta. Open Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM.

2. National Center for Civil and Human Rights

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights also offer a deep dive into the history of Atlanta as the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the modern Civil Rights Movement. Regular exhibitions connect civil rights history with the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

Highlights:

The museum features three permanent exhibits showcasing papers and artifacts of Martin Luther King Jr. and stories of human rights struggles around the world

Address and opening hours:

100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-5:00 PM.

3. Atlanta History Center

Explore one of the best history museums in Atlanta with a visit to one of the award-winning exhibitions at the Atlanta History Center. The museums's archive is home to thousands of articles covering Atlanta's rich past, and 33-acres of historic houses and beautiful gardens.

Highlights:

Tour the Margaret Mitchell House, former home of the Gone With the Wind icon. Movie buffs might also recognize Swan House from its starring role in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.

Address and opening hours:

130 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM.

4. APEX Museum

Situated in the historic Sweet Auburn district, the APEX Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of African American citizens in the United States and around the world. It is listed on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, and aims to help visitors better understand and appreciate Black History through regular exhibits, workshops, and events.

Highlights:

Visit the APEX Museum as part of a self-guided tour through some of Atlanta's most important sites.

Address and opening hours:

135 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00 AM-3:00 PM.

Best art museums in Atlanta

5. High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art is one of the best art museums in Atlanta, and a must-visit. The museum features art from around the world, with gallery highlights including French art from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Highlights:

The museum also has lots of creative events for families with children, and offers free admission every second Sunday between 12 noon to 5 p.m.

Address and opening hours:

1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

6. Center For Puppetry Arts

The Center For Puppetry Arts is a famous museum in Atlanta dedicated to puppets and puppeteers, particularly the iconic Jim Henson. See puppets from across history and around the world, and explore the collections from The Dark Crystal and The Muppets films.

Highlights:

The museum often has live performances. You can get creative with their Create-A-Puppet Workshop.

Address and opening hours:

1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM.

7. Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia

The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA) is a Smithsonian Institution Affiliate dedicated to collecting and exhibiting works by local Georgia artists. The permanent collection started with 250 works by artists from the state, making it one of the best art museums in Atlanta.

Highlights:

Since the museum has an ever-rotating of collection of art, you will find modern work that uses various media, such as prints, sculptures, photography, film, and painting.

Address and opening hours:

75 Bennett St NW, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Best design museums in Atlanta

8. SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion

Celebrate the art of fashion by admiring unique exhibitions, forums, films, and events at the SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion. History lovers and fashion enthusiasts will love how the museum celebrates fashion history, whether ceremonial, celebratory or casual.

Highlights:

The SCAD Permanent Collection features pieces from fashion icons like Tom Ford, Diane von Furstenburg, and Karl Lagerfeld.

Address and opening hours:

1600 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

9. Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

Billed as the only museum in the Southeast devoted exclusively to the study and celebration of all things design, the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) showcases unique exhibits highlighting the understated but crucial role good design plays in our daily lives.

Highlights:

Exhibits past and present include the design history of everything from pasta to chairs.

Address and opening hours:

1315 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-7:00 PM.

Best science museums in Atlanta

10. Michael C. Carlos Museum

Located at Emory University, the Michael C. Carlos Museum specializes in Egyptian antiquities. The ancient displays of mummies and Egyptian art make it a must-visit for families and history lovers.

Highlights:

The display includes the incredibly preserved coffins of chantress Tanakhtnettahat and priestess Nebetit.

Address and opening hours:

571 South Kilgo Cir NE, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM.

11. Delta Flight Museum

The Delta Flight Museum showcases aircraft and artifacts from Delta and other airlines. The museum explores aviation history and technology, including restored aircraft and the historic Boeing 767, the Spirit of Delta.

Highlights:

The museum is housed in two 1940s-era hangars providing a memorable experience as you learn about the aircraft restoration process.

Address and opening hours:

1060 Delta Blvd, Hapeville, GA. Open Thursday-Tuesday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM.

12. Fernbank Museum of Natural History

The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is an emporium of the natural world, making it one of the best family-friendly museums in Atlanta. Here you can enjoy 75 acres of outdoor exhibits, walking trails, a breathtaking canopy walk, native, wildlife and nature playgrounds.

Highlights:

At the museum entrance you'll see authentic dinosaur skeletons. Check what's on at the Giant Screen Theater to catch 3D movies and documentaries

Address and opening hours:

767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Alternative museums in Atlanta

13. World of Coca-Cola

Sample flavors, win prizes, and watch movies showcasing the history of one of the world’s most famous beverages at Atlanta's World of Coca–Cola. Enjoy interactive videos and insights into the development of the Coca-Cola brand and its contributions to pop culture.

Highlights:

Be surround by 1,200 pieces of memorabilia and archival elements from Coca-Cola's history.

Address and opening hours:

121 Baker St NW, Atlanta. Open daily, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM.

14. Oakland Cemetery

The historic Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta has a sculpture and botanical garden, and a public park. Unravel the mysteries of the great men and women buried in the oldest cemetery in the city, including Gone with the Wind author Margaret Mitchell, and golfer Bobby Jones.

Highlights:

The Oakland Cemetery hosts events and festivals from time to time, so keep an eye on their calendar.

Address and opening hours:

248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta. Open daily, 24 hours.

15. The home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Get a chance to visit where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was born and raised. Learn about the history of this iconic activist and experience the international Civil Rights Walk of Fame, showcasing activists' footprints in bronze and granite.

Highlights:

On a tour you’ll get insights into the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Your guide will tell you stories stories about MLK, his speeches, and you will visit the Ebenezer Baptist church and his final resting place.

Address and opening hours:

501 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta. Open Monday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM.

FAQs

What is the most famous thing about Atlanta?

Atlanta is the birthplace of iconic activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and one of the epicenters of the Civil Rights Movement. As a result, the city has a deep connection to its Black History, which can be seen and experienced through a number of attractions around the city. The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park is one of the most famous museums in Atlanta and the best place to learn about this history. It’s where you will also find the house MLK was raised in. For a broader education on African American history and culture, check out the exhibitions at the APEX Museum.

Are there any free museums in Atlanta?

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site has and Oakland Cemetery both have free admission. Some of the best museums in Atlanta like the High Museum of Art has free admission every second Sunday between 12 noon and 5 p.m.

How many museums are there in Atlanta?

Atlanta has a whopping 51+ unique museums located in the city covering art, history, science, design, and more, making them one of the many fun things you can do in Atlanta. The largest museum in Atlanta is the High Museum of Art (colloquially the High). It is 312,000 square feet (28,985 m2) and is a division of the Woodruff Arts Center.

Are there any museums in Atlanta that are suitable for families?

Some of the state's best museums for children and families are in Atlanta, and well worth a visit on your visit. Visit Center For Puppetry Arts to see classic Jim Henson characters in real life. Kids will also love learning about dinosaurs at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History and touring the World of Coca-Cola.