Atlanta is a vibrant, sprawling metropolis known for its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, its lush canopy of trees, and a booming culinary scene. The best time to visit is during the spring months of April and May when the city's famous dogwoods and azaleas are in full bloom.
Top Things to Do in Atlanta
Tap an attraction to look it up on TripAdvisor.
Getting Around Atlanta
From the Airport
Train. The MARTA Gold and Red lines run directly from the airport terminal to downtown and midtown stations, taking about 20-30 minutes and costing $2.50. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft operate from the designated rideshare pickup zones located in the economy parking lots, accessible via a short walk from the baggage claim.
Once You're There
Metro. MARTA is the city's heavy rail and bus system, which is efficient for reaching major tourist hubs like Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are the standard for getting around areas not directly served by rail, as the city is quite spread out. Walking. While specific neighborhoods like the BeltLine, Midtown, and Downtown are walkable, Atlanta is a car-centric city and you will likely need transit for longer distances.
Where to Stay in Atlanta
Hotel picks for Atlanta are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Atlanta
South City Kitchen Midtown★★★★★1144 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United StatesSouth City Kitchen Midtown is a sophisticated restaurant serving refined Southern cuisine and classic comfort food.
Slutty Vegan★ 4.6 (2,617)476 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312, USAThis viral sensation has redefined plant-based fast food with indulgent, flavor-packed burgers that draw massive lines daily.
Bacchanalia★ 4.6 (1,344)1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW Ste 1, Atlanta, GA 30318, USAConsistently ranked as one of the city's finest dining experiences, it offers a refined, multi-course tasting menu focused on pure, seasonal ingredients.
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q★ 4.5 (10,190)1238 DeKalb Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, USAA local favorite for Texas-style barbecue, their beef short ribs and smoked brisket are widely considered the best in the city.
Miller Union★ 4.5 (1,407)999 Brady Ave NW Ste 106, Atlanta, GA 30318, USAThis farm-to-table destination showcases the best of Southern produce with a sophisticated, seasonal menu that changes daily.
Gunshow★ 4.5 (1,327)924 Garrett St, Atlanta, GA 30316, USAChef Kevin Gillespie’s innovative concept features dim-sum style service where chefs bring creative, rotating dishes directly to your table.
Krog Bar★ 4.5 (61)349 Peachtree Hills Ave NE Ste D-2, Atlanta, GA 30305, USAA cozy, Mediterranean-inspired spot perfect for winding down with a glass of wine and artisanal small plates after a walk on the BeltLine.
Mary Mac's Tea Room★ 4.4 (15,058)224 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, USAThis historic institution is the gold standard for authentic Southern comfort food, famous for its fried chicken and bottomless sides.
Empire State South★ 4.4 (837)999 Peachtree St NE Ste 140, Atlanta, GA 30309, USALocated in Midtown, this restaurant offers a modern take on Southern cuisine, famous for its incredible pimento cheese and garden-focused dishes.
The Varsity★ 4.1 (23,534)61 North Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30308, USAKnown as the world's largest drive-in, this landmark is essential for experiencing a classic chili dog and a frosted orange drink.
Busy Bee Cafe★ 4.0 (3,582)810 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314, USAA legendary soul food spot that has served iconic figures, renowned for its perfectly seasoned oxtails and candied yams.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Atlanta
Downtown Icons & History
Morning. Start your Atlanta journey at Centennial Olympic Park, the site of the 1996 Summer Olympics, where you can walk the lush grounds and admire the Fountain of Rings. From there, it is just a short walk to the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, so arrive right when it opens to beat the crowds at the massive Ocean Voyager exhibit. Spend about three hours here marveling at the whale sharks and manta rays. Afterward, head over to the World of Coca-Cola located right next door to learn about the history of the world's most famous soda brand. Be sure to visit the tasting room at the end of the tour to sample flavors from around the globe.
Afternoon. Walk over to the nearby National Center for Civil and Human Rights to engage with the powerful exhibits detailing the American Civil Rights Movement and modern global human rights struggles. The architecture of the building itself is stunning and provides a contemplative atmosphere. After soaking in the history, walk a few blocks to the historic Tabernacle, a former church turned iconic concert venue that defines the Downtown skyline. Grab a quick snack nearby before heading toward the Georgia State Capitol building to see its gold-leaf dome. This area is the beating heart of the city's political and social history, offering a deep dive into the past.
Evening. As the sun sets, walk toward the historic Fairlie-Poplar district to admire the turn-of-the-century architecture. For dinner, make your way to the nearby area for a classic meal at a local staple. After eating, head to the SkyView Atlanta ferris wheel to get a panoramic nighttime view of the glowing city skyline. It is the perfect way to wrap up a day of heavy sightseeing with a relaxing, bird's-eye perspective. Finish your night with a walk back through the illuminated Centennial Olympic Park to see the fountains lit up in the dark.
Culture, Parks & The BeltLine
Morning. Begin your day in the lush surroundings of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, located adjacent to the sprawling Piedmont Park. Spend your morning wandering through the Fuqua Orchid Center and the Canopy Walk, a suspension bridge that takes you through the treetops. It is best to arrive early in the morning when the air is cool and the birds are active. After exploring the gardens, exit directly into Piedmont Park for a leisurely stroll around Lake Clara Meer. This is the city's favorite backyard, and you will see locals jogging, walking dogs, and enjoying the expansive green space.
Afternoon. Head toward the Eastside BeltLine Trail, a repurposed railway corridor that has become the city's most popular pedestrian artery. Rent a bike or simply walk the path, stopping to admire the rotating street art murals that line the walls. Make your way toward Ponce City Market, a massive mixed-use development housed in a historic Sears, Roebuck & Co. building. Spend your afternoon browsing the local boutiques and artisanal shops inside the Central Food Hall. It is a vibrant, bustling space that perfectly captures the modern, creative energy of Atlanta's urban renewal.
Evening. For the evening, continue your exploration of the BeltLine by heading toward Krog Street Market, a smaller, more intimate food hall located in an old stove factory. Enjoy the industrial-chic atmosphere while grabbing dinner from one of the many high-end stalls. Afterward, walk a few blocks to the Krog Street Tunnel, famous for its ever-changing layers of graffiti and street art. It is a quintessential Atlanta photography spot that feels gritty and authentic. Cap off your night by grabbing a craft cocktail at a nearby bar on the BeltLine, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the energetic crowd.
Civil Rights Heritage & Midtown Charms
Morning. Start your day at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, which encompasses the childhood home of Dr. King and the Ebenezer Baptist Church. Take a guided tour of the home to understand the roots of the man who changed the world. Afterward, visit The King Center to pay your respects at the memorial tomb where Dr. King and Coretta Scott King are interred. The site is deeply moving and requires at least three hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and the historic architecture of the Sweet Auburn district. It is a foundational experience for any visitor to the city.
Afternoon. Head to Midtown to visit the High Museum of Art, known for its striking white, light-filled architecture designed by Richard Meier. Spend your afternoon exploring the extensive collection, which features everything from contemporary works to traditional African art. After the museum, walk over to the nearby Margaret Mitchell House to learn about the history behind 'Gone with the Wind'. The area is surrounded by beautiful historic homes and tree-lined streets that offer a glimpse into Atlanta's past. It is a sophisticated and quiet contrast to the bustling energy of the morning's historical tour.
Evening. Conclude your trip with a visit to the historic Fox Theatre, a stunning venue with an interior designed to look like an Arabian courtyard under a starry night sky. If you can catch a show or a movie here, it is an unforgettable experience. For your final dinner, head to a nearby Midtown restaurant to enjoy top-tier Southern fusion. Afterward, take a final walk through the Midtown neighborhood to admire the city lights and the vibrant nightlife. It is the perfect sophisticated end to your three-day exploration of this multifaceted city.