Things to Do in Atlanta

Whether your perfect Atlanta getaway involves endless shopping, taking in classic artwork or communing with the great outdoors, the ATL will make you feel welcomed with Southern hospitality.

1. Atlanta BeltLine

The BeltLine runs through the heart of downtown Atlanta, drawing locals and visitors alike even as phases of the multi-use trail are still being built.

A massive rails-to-trails project encircling the city, the Atlanta BeltLine, is scheduled for completion in 2030. That doesn't mean you can't enjoy it now. Many sections are open and waiting to be explored. Let your adventure begin with a hike, bike ride or jog through this linear green space. The Eastside Trail runs between Piedmont and Inman Park, a historic neighborhood in town. Expect the multi-use trail to be crowded when the weather's nice, but you can seek refuge in a nearby playground or public art installation along the way. Check out the Northside Trail for a less crowded adventure, with breathtaking scenery surrounding its path.

2. Centennial Park

Walk through an important piece of Atlanta's modern history known as Centennial Park, home of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games.

Plan an entire day to visit Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta. Originally created for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, this park is now home to many of Atlanta’s major tourist attractions. Here you'll find the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola and the Center for Civil and Human Rights, with the CNN Center across the street. During winter months, enjoy an ice skating rink. In warm weather, bring your swimsuits—the Fountain of Rings is a public splash zone. If you don't want to get wet, sit back and let your kids cool off in the dancing waters. Pro tip: Remember to bring along a couple of towels from your Atlanta hotel to dry off!

3. Stone Mountain

More than 5 miles in circumference at its base, Stone Mountain is a remarkable sight to behold.

Georgia's most famous natural attraction looms over the landscape, east of downtown. Stone Mountain is a vast park the whole family can enjoy. Come hike and bike on an extensive trail system, and camp in tents and RVs. You can drink in the sights on a boat ride across the lake, and end the day watching a laser show. The most popular activity in the park is hiking up the mile-long trail or riding the aerial tramway to the summit for an impressive view.

4. Buford Highway

Foodies will want to put Buford Highway at the top of their "places to visit" list with countless local restaurants to choose from.

For a multicultural shopping and dining experience unlike any other in the South, head down Buford Highway. Here’s proof of what an international city like Atlanta has become. Buford Highway is one of the city's culinary hotspots. It’s a place where adventurous foodies frequent to be surprised with what ends up on their plate. If the kids are skeptical about seaweed and tofu, head to one of the sure-to-please authentic taco stands. No time to explore? The Buford Highway Farmers Market makes a great one-stop option.

5. Six Flags

Families simply can't go wrong when they decide to spend a day at Six Flags Over Georgia.

Atlanta's largest amusement park is Six Flags Over Georgia. It's impossible to drive past the park on Interstate 20 with kids in the car and not see their jaws drop at the sight of giant rollercoasters careening over sky-high, steel rails. It's everything you'd expect from a large theme park. Oh, and there's a water park, too! Hurricane Harbor, is included in your admission to Six Flags, so be sure to wear your bathing suit underneath your clothes.

6. The Fox Theatre

Cultural experiences await at Atlanta's historic (and very beautiful) Fox Theatre.

Step into an opulent, bygone era at the Fox Theatre on Peachtree Street. Go explore it, even if there's not a show. Tours are offered daily to take you behind the scenes of this historic show palace. This unique venue is best experienced at a film screening, stage play or concert. Then the realization hits that you've be hoodwinked by the optical effects in the ceiling that make you feel as if you're outside in another time and place.

7. Fernbank Times Three

The green lung of Atlanta is a great place to break away from the fast pace of the city and slow down for a bit of rest and rejuvenation.

Discover why Atlanta's nickname was once, "The City in a Forest," at Fernbank Forest, adjacent to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History and the Fernbank Science Center. The 65-acre tract is the last large, undisturbed remnant of old-growth hardwood forest left in Atlanta. The museum and the science center sit on opposite sides of the forest. Watch the kids grow wide-eyed with excitement by all the interactive exhibits at both facilities, all designed to entertain, not just educate. Planetarium shows, self-guided tours and nighttime stargazing events at the science center are a big draw.