20 fun and unique things to do in Atlanta

The range of fun things to do in Atlanta goes all the way from sprawling nature preserves to a thriving art scene, and historical sites that shaped American history. The Georgian capital isn't just a busy economic city; it offers A-list entertainment options, and world-class museums and exhibitions. The city also offers never-ending charm, from amazing architecture to inspiring street art.

Tour the World of Coca-Cola, learn about the history of Martin Luther King Jr., or sample a few local blends of beer in wine-tasting tours. Outdoor activities are plentiful, from taking a rail car at Stone Mountain Park to kayaking or canoeing at Chattahoochee River. Maximize your adventure with these unique Atlanta activities.

Fun things to do in Atlanta as a couple

1. Try indoor skydiving at iFly Atlanta

Are you a thrill seeker? Feel the intense adrenaline of skydiving without jumping from a plane at 14,000 feet. Indoor skydiving is a great way to experience skydiving in a safe environment unaffected by weather.

Highlights:

Get an iFLY Atlanta First-time Flyer Experience ticket and defy gravity in the modern wind tunnel simulated in a skydive. You can flip, turn, and free fall in a safe environment and experience the thrill of skydiving.

Address and opening hours:

2778 Cobb Pkwy SE, Atlanta. Open daily, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM.

2. Enjoy cocktails in a magical world at the Atlanta Illuminarium

Discover multi-sensory storytelling at the Atlanta Illumination and enjoy an immersive experience that takes you to exotic destinations. Engage your senses with interactive projections, 360-degree audio, and floor vibrations.

Highlights:

Get an entry ticket to Illuminarium Atlanta: After Dark Immersive Nightlife and spend your date night sipping cocktails in different environments. You can dance the night away under the stars.

Address and opening hours:

550 Somerset Terrace NE, Atlanta. Open daily, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM for daytime experiences and 6:30 PM-11:00 PM for evening events.

3. Go kayaking at Chattahoochee River

Enjoy an outdoor adventure at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, jam-packed with hiking trails and wildlife. Hiking or biking on the recreation center along the Appalachian Trail in North Georgia is one of the unique things to do in Atlanta.

Highlights:

Book the Chattahoochee Sunrise/Sunset Guided Paddling Tour that takes two hours and explore the river. The tour is along a calmer route, and you can marvel at the surrounding nature as the sun rises or sets.

Address and opening hours:

3444 Cobb Pkwy, Atlanta. Open daily, 5:00 AM-7:00 PM.

4. Stroll around Centennial Olympic Park

Spend your date night strolling through the Centennial Olympic Park, nestled at the heart of the city. The 22-acre park offers plenty of green spaces for relaxing and amazing views.

Highlights:

Enjoy stunning city views from the Centennial Olympic Park and explore the sculptures and memorial on site for the 1990s bombing. Watch out for concerts and events at the park.

Address and opening hours:

103 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. Open daily, 7:00 AM-7:00 PM.

5. Go on an Atlanta City night tour

Spend your date night experiencing the unforgettable spectacle of Atlanta’s impressive buildings lit against the sky. A city night sightseeing tour captures the beauty of popular landmarks, including Ponce City Market and the King Center.

Highlights:

With a City Lights Night Sightseeing Tour with Photo Stops, you ride around the Georgian capital as the city lights up against the sky. Visit famous movie filming sites and listen to stories and interesting facts from your guide.

Opening hours:

Meet at 265 Peachtree Center Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30305, USA, Start times vary.

Fun things to do in Atlanta with kids

6. Sample 100 variations at World of Coca-Cola

Learn about the Coca-Cola brand and drink first served in 1886 in Atlanta. Visit the museum on-site and learn about the contributions of Coca-Cola to pop culture.

Highlights:

Discover the memorabilia of the Coca-Cola brand and let your kids taste plenty of beverage varieties. With a World of Coca-Cola: Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry, you can spend the day interacting with 100 different beverages and exploring exhibits.

Address and opening hours:

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

7. Visit the oceanic world at the Georgia Aquarium

The massive Georgia Aquarium is a favorite for kids. Discover thousands of sea creatures in fascinating exhibits that depict their natural habitats. Your kids will be excited to meet the bottlenose dolphins.

Highlights:

Watch out for special events at the Georgia Aquarium, like night activities for kids, or enjoy a fully immersive show at the 4D theatre.

Address and opening hours:

225 Baker St NW, Atlanta. Open daily, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM.

8. Spend the afternoon at Fun Spot America Atlanta

Experience smiles, joy, and good times at the Fun Spot America Atlanta, just a few minutes from Downtown. The theme park has fun activities to keep you entertained throughout the day.

Highlights:

Get a Fun Spot America Single Day Unlimited Pass and enjoy high-octane roller coaster rides, go-karts, giant arcades, and kid-friendly carousels. Don't forget to check out the mini golf courses on site.

Address and opening hours:

1675 Hwy 85 North, Fayetteville. Open daily, 10:00 AM-10:00 PM.

9. Meet Pandas at Zoo Atlanta

Visit the highly esteemed Zoo Atlanta and explore over 1,500 wild animals from different habitats. You can interact with the animals and snap a selfie as you listen to the informative narrations about the animals.

Highlights:

Ensure you meet pandas and rare bears at the zoo or stop by the Scaly Slimy Spectacular with the highly acclaimed reptile exhibits of over 70 species. Ensure you have a Zoo Atlanta General Admission Ticket to participate in all activities.

Address and opening hours:

800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta. Open daily, 9:00 AM-3:30 PM.

10. Go for a walk at Piedmont Park

If your kids are nature lovers, ensure you plan a visit to Piedmont Park. It spans over 185 acres with multiple playgrounds and jogging routes for a morning walk.

Highlights:

Attend the annual events and festivals at Piedmont Park to appreciate the culture and history of the city. Look out for Dogwood Festival and Atlanta Pride.

Address and opening hours:

1968 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta. Open daily, 6:00 AM-11:00 PM.

Fun things to do in Atlanta on your own

11. Experience a Martin Luther King Jr. Walking Tour

If you are a history enthusiast, the story of the civil war will pique your interest. Join a walking tour and follow the footsteps of MLK through the Fourth Ward Neighbourhood.

Highlights:

The Martin Luther King Historic District Walking Tour follows significant historical landmarks important to the civil rights movements. Explore the sites and learn interesting facts about the Civil War and MLK.

Address and opening hours:

The Meeting point and time for the walking tour depend on your booking details.

12. See skeletons at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Marvel at the sight of dinosaur skeletons at Fernbank Museum of Natural History. The 75-acre complex spanning three floors features both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Highlights:

Catch a 3D movie showcasing interesting exhibitions and explaining interesting facts about skeletons housed in the museum. Fernbank Museum of Natural History also has countless hands-on exhibits and an on-site cafe for a sip as you take a break.

Address and opening hours:

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

13. Catch a baseball game at Truist Park

Football or soccer doesn't sound enticing? Then a live baseball game will do the trick. If you visit Atlanta between March and October, you may be lucky to catch an Atlanta Braves game.

Highlights:

Visit before the game for an Atlanta Braves Truist Park Guided Tour. Explore the history and success stories of MLB’s Atlanta Braves before the game begins.

Address and opening hours:

2065 Circle 75 Pkwy, Atlanta. Open daily, 7:00 AM-7:00 PM.

14. Go on a SkyView Ferris Wheel Ride

See the best landmarks of Atlanta on the SkyView Ferris Wheel, which soars 20 stories high. Get on a gondola and enjoy panoramic views of the city's skyscrapers, never-ending suburbs, and parklands.

Highlights:

Get a SkyView Ferris Wheel Ticket in the Centennial Olympic Park area for added adventure. If you want better views of the city, consider the VIP gondolas.

Address and opening hours:

168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta. Open daily, 12:00 AM-11:00 PM.

15. Join a trolley tour

Want to explore most of the city on your day out? Visit top attractions, including the Centennial Olympic Park, the historical homes of Martin Luther King, and the Georgia Aquarium on a historic trolley.

Highlights:

Go on a 1.5-Hour Highlight Trolley Tour and explore the old Fourth Ward and other historic sites. Listen to facts and stories of the civil war as your guide explains the historical sites and significance of the buildings to the civil rights movement.

Address and opening hours:

The meeting point and the time vary depending on your tour.

Fun things to do in Atlanta if you like food and drink

16. Tantalize your tastebuds on a food tour

Atlanta serves delicious cuisines to tantalize your taste buds, from flavored ice pops to renowned fried chicken. If you want to sample the best cuisines, go on a food tour and try all the popular dishes in the city.

Highlights:

The Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour gives you a taste of delicious street food in Atlanta's largest food hall. Try out various dishes from different restaurants at Ponce City Market.

Address and opening hours:

675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta. Open daily, 10:00 AM-9:00 PM.

17. Visit the Hard Rock Cafe Atlanta

Experience the Southern charm and try mouth-watering treats and local staples at Hard Rock Cafe. Located Downtown, the cafe is within walking distance of State Farm Arena and the Mercedes Benz Stadium. The cafe takes you through a musical memory lane with the atmosphere paying homage to musical legends.

Highlights:

Burger connoisseurs will enjoy every minute at Hard Rock Cafe with Legendary Burger options that features savory flavors. Don’t forget to check out the fresh and house-made desserts and signature cocktails in the evenings.

Address and opening hours:

215 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta. Open daily, 11:00 AM-11:00 PM.

18. Go on a pub crawl

Dance and party to the early morning hours as you hop from one club to another. Join a pub crawl and find your partners in crime for a night of drinking, dancing, and debauchery.

Highlights:

The Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl and Cabaret Show provide world-class entertainment. Sing along to the music and dance the night away.

Address and opening hours:

The pub crawl location and time depend on the tour you book.

19. Sample the best beers in Atlanta

Experience the best craft beers in the Georgian capital from top brewing companies. The brewery tour takes you through the production process, and you can sample craft beers at the end of the trip.

Highlights:

Go on a VIP Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting to enjoy the brewery scene. The five-hour VIP bus tour takes you to three top breweries. Taste the best craft beers from Georgia’s oldest brewery.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 573 Magnolia Ln NE, Atlanta, GA 30324, USA. Times vary.

20. Try unique cuisine on the Beltline Tour

As you stroll along Atlanta's Beltline, explore the food scene in the city by enjoying delicious cuisines. Experience both traditional and modern food delicacies on the road.

Highlights:

Join a Food Tour of Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline and experience the delicious Southern cuisine in all its forms. The tour takes you to a locally-owned restaurant where you can taste delicious cuisines.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, USA. Times vary.

FAQs

What are some fun things to do in Atlanta at night?

Go on a City Light Night tour and explore the beauty of Atlanta against the skyline. The city night tour is a great way to explore landmarks and take photos of the top attractions. You should also consider visiting the Georgia Aquarium and dancing the night away or falling asleep watching the marine creatures float by through the glass window.

Are there any fun day trips from Atlanta that I should consider?

If you love wine, go on a wine-tasting trip outside the city. The day trip takes you to top vineyards in Georgia, and you can sample the best wine in the state. Blue Ridge is also a great destination for a day trip from Atlanta. The town is 90 minutes away and provides diverse entertainment options, from sampling regional honey to seeing local artists.

What are some popular festivals or events in Atlanta?

Festivals in Atlanta range from musical events and high-energy dance parties. The Shaky Knees Music Festival is a popular festival held annually in the Old Fourth Ward. Atlanta Jazz Festival, held annually at Piedmont Park, is also great for jazz fans. If you are an art fan, attend the Atlanta Dogwood Festival in Atlanta's Piedmont Park. The fine arts festival is a three-day event that showcases various art forms.

What are some family-friendly fun activities to do in Atlanta?

Visit Zoo Atlanta to see the giant pandas and the rare wildlife. Alternatively, visit the Center For Puppetry Arts to explore the history of the puppets and puppeteers. You will get a chance to create a puppet in the workshop.

What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Atlanta?

The top fun outdoor activity is visiting Stone Mountain Park. Hike to the top of the mountain and explore the carvings. Alternatively, visit the Chattahoochee Nature Center and enjoy tubing down the river or kayaking and canoeing.