Things to do in Atlanta: attractions and fun for all ages
It is the capital of the state of Georgia, in the United States, and it is much more than a stopover on the trip to the north of the country. What to do in Atlanta, the city where Luther King was born.
The capital of the state of Georgia, in the United States, is a very thriving city, which has become the engine of the North American Southeast. It not only has the most visited airport in the world, but also many attractions and places of interest where you can enjoy a stopover or a few days of vacation. Tours, shopping, history, nature, sports, technology and more. What to do in Atlanta, the birthplace of Marthin Luther King.
Atlanta is a destination that is characterized by the extreme kindness of its people and by the harmonious coexistence between extensive green spaces and incredible skyscrapers. It is a place where sport is expressed in its best version, both in football and basketball, and where families and young people can find the most varied proposals.
In every city, there are almost mandatory visits. In the case of Atlanta, the must-sees would be the Coca Cola headquarters, the CNN studios and the Olympic zone. But those three recommendations are just the starting point. We tell you about the things you can do in Atlanta, which awaits you with plans for all ages.
Things to do in Atlanta
Best known for being a rail hub that helped bring the South into commerce and the early colonies, Atlanta has become an increasingly popular tourist destination. Due to the level of its hotels, its attractions, restaurants, activities and world-class cultural sites, it has become a must-see city in travel plans and will be one of the venues for the 2026 Soccer World Cup.
Atlanta is a fabulous city, where you can unleash your adventurous side with outdoor fun (you'll be surprised by the amount of green spaces in the city), immerse yourself in the history of civil rights in the United States, enjoy NBA games or go shopping in first class shopping malls and outlets. Some suggestions.
Atlanta, the state's capital and largest city, played an important role in both the Civil War and the civil rights movement in the United States.
Centennial Olympic Park
Parks and gardens are some of Atlanta's great attractions. They are the gems of the emerald city that are beginning to gain worldwide fame. Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden and Olmsted Linear Park are recommended.
Centennial Olympic Park, located in the heart of Downtown Atlanta's convention and entertainment district, serves as Atlanta's legacy from the 1996 Olympic Games.
We recommend you visit the urban parks and cool off in the Fountain of the Rings if it's hot. Don't deprive yourself of a picnic in this lush green paradise (there's even a restaurant in the center of the park!).
Martin Luther King Jr.
Atlanta is the hometown of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., whose nonviolent fight to end racial inequalities in America led to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlawed discrimination, and the Law of Right al Voto, of 1965, which guaranteed that black people have the right to vote.
Martin Luther King, the main promoter of the civil rights movement, was born in 1929 in Sweet Auburn, a picturesque neighborhood full of wooden buildings. You can visit his house and even hire a guided tour.
King's grave is located at the Martin Luther King National Historic Center in Atlanta. There are guided tours of the Martin Luther King house that allow you to learn in depth about the history that surrounds it.
Stone Mountain Park
The fantastic Stone Mountain Park is Georgia's busiest attraction for many reasons. But, above all, because it offers activities for all audiences. It ranges from hiking and long walks to 18-hole golf courses winding through ancient trees, in truly enchanting scenery.
The park offers quality time with Mother Nature, laser shows that streak the night, 14 miles of trails, and even a train ride.
With an unparalleled number of trails for hiking, biking, and running, staying active on Stone Mountain is a no-brainer. For the adventurous there is also the possibility of walking on rope bridges over geysers, walking among the treetops or going up in a cable car 250 meters high.
Urban art and the pearls of the High Museum of Art
Downtown, neighborhoods like Little Five Points, Pittsburgh, Cabbagetown, Edgewood Ave, and Castleberry Hill are full of street art worth looking at. You can do it on your own or through walking or cycling tours.
The High Museum of Art in Atlanta has a celebrated collection of art ranging from classic to contemporary, as well as architecture by Richard Meier and Renzo Piano. With a dynamic schedule of special exhibits, an extensive permanent collection, innovative educational and family programs, meeting and event facilities, and multiple dining options, there's something for every art lover at High in Atlanta.
The World of Coca Cola
The World of Coca-Cola is a permanent exhibit that presents the history of the Coca-Cola company, including its well-known advertisements, as well as a host of amusement areas and attractions. It is located on Pemberton Place.
During a guided tour, guests can learn about the history of the company in general, the origin of the flagship soft drink, the impact it currently has around the world, consumption statistics, etc. They can also learn about its preparation, bottling and sale.
Iconic series setting
Atlanta was the scene of some of the most iconic series in recent years. For example, The Hunger Games, The Real Housewives and The Walking Dead have been filmed in the city. In fact, there is a walking tour of its settings, which includes zombie makeup.
Culinary journey
The diverse gastronomy of Atlanta eludes fast food. In such a cosmopolitan and diverse city, Southern cooking means so much more than fried chicken, iced tea, grits, and fried green tomatoes.
Atlanta restaurants invite you to enjoy modern southern food adapted to the 21st century, as well as traditional cuisine. You will be surprised by the level of its restaurants, where you can try all kinds of cuisines, such as Mexican, Indian, Ethiopian, and also hearty dishes of local food, such as fried chicken or beef ribs.
Atlanta with kids
Families can find exciting and affordable options for enjoying Atlanta with children of all ages.
Children's Museum of Atlanta
After you've exhausted all your kids' energy at Stone Mountain Park, head over to the Children's Museum of Atlanta to give them some more subdued stimulation. This charming museum offers games and activities that engage all the senses and that children under 8 years of age will especially enjoy.
Here, the little ones will never hear the dreaded words "Do not touch!". On the contrary, they can taste, smell and get their hands dirty at ease. The six permanent interactive exhibits — bearing names like “Fundamentally Food” and “Step Up to Science” — aim to please all personalities.
Atlanta aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium, located in Atlanta, Georgia, United States, was considered the largest aquarium in the world until 2012, with more than 30,000 m³; salt and fresh water.
The aquarium contains a population of more than 120,000 animals, of 500 different species.
The atlanta zoo
One word will suffice: Pandas! Yes, that's right: Zoo Atlanta is one of only four zoos in the United States that is home to these black and white beauties. Create expectation in the children by tuning the PandaCam 24 hours before the trip.
If cold-blooded creatures are more your style, you'll want to visit "World of Reptiles," one of the largest reptile shows in the country. Whether feathery, furry, or just plain fierce, the zoo has it all, including gorillas, lions, alley cats, giraffes, rhinos, and more.
Getaway to Lake Lanier
In case anything was missing, Lake Lanier, with nearly 750 miles of shoreline, is an hour's drive away. It is possible to rent a boat and navigate to the islands located in the very center.
