"Welcome to Atlanta where the players play." - Jermaine Dupris
I am proud to say I was born and raised in Atlanta. I love it when I hear people speak well of my hometown. In this post, I will tell you (from a local's perspective) the wonderful, fun things to do and see in this peach of a city, as well as where to stay, where to eat and more.
If you have never been to Atlanta, the wide variety of things to see and do can be overwhelming. Atlanta is very spread out with many different neighborhoods (each with their own character and special qualities). I could write an entire blog post on the neighborhoods alone (perhaps I will). I am breaking this down into sections: Cultural activities, Historical Landmarks, Outdoor Adventures, Music Scene, Nightlife, Entertainment, Sports, Dining, Shopping, Street Art, How to get around, Where to stay, and Day Trips.
Cultural Activities
If you want to enjoy some of the many cultural attractions in the ATL, I suggest you get a City Pass CityPASS® - See 5 Top Things to Do in Atlanta and Save 46%. This will allow you to experience 5 of the major Atlanta sights for less. The three included with the pass are: The Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta and World of Coca Cola, then you choose two of these: Fernbank Museum of Natural History
College Football Hall of Fame
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
The Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium (located downtown) covers approximately 550,000 square feet (51,000 square meters) and is home to tens of thousands of animals representing hundreds of species. It's divided into several themed galleries, each showcasing different marine habitats and ecosystems. One of the main attractions is the Ocean Voyager exhibit, which features a 6.3-million-gallon (24-million-liter) tank with a 100-foot (30-meter) underwater tunnel. Here, you can observe an array of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and a variety of fish species. Other notable exhibits include the Tropical Diver gallery, which showcases vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish, and the Cold Water Quest, where you can see beluga whales, sea otters, and penguins.
Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta, located in Grant Park, is one of the oldest and most beloved zoos in the United States. Established in 1889, Zoo Atlanta has a rich history and has been a staple attraction in Atlanta for generations. Over the years, it has evolved into a modern zoological park with a focus on conservation, education, and animal welfare. Some of the highlights include giant pandas, African elephants, gorillas, lions, tigers, and giraffes. The zoo is known for its efforts in breeding and conserving species like the Sumatran orangutan and the eastern black rhinoceros.
World of Coca Cola
The World of Coca-Cola is a popular museum and attraction located downtown, dedicated to the history and culture of Coca-Cola, one of the world's most iconic brands. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of Coca-Cola, from its humble beginnings in 1886 as a medicinal drink invented by Dr. John S. Pemberton to its status as a global beverage giant. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the brand's advertising campaigns, bottling process, and cultural impact over the years. One of the highlights of the World of Coca-Cola is its interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to engage with the brand in fun and innovative ways. These exhibits include the "Bottle Works," where you can see how Coca-Cola is bottled and packaged, and the "Taste It!" beverage lounge, where you can sample over 100 different Coca-Cola products from around the world.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Fernbank Museum of Natural History is a renowned museum dedicated to exploring the natural world and human culture. The museum features a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits that cover topics such as dinosaurs, fossils, minerals, and the natural history of Georgia and the Southeastern United States. Highlights include the "Giants of the Mesozoic" exhibit, which showcases life-size dinosaur skeletons, and the "NatureQuest" exhibit, an interactive indoor environment that allows visitors to explore various ecosystems and habitats.
College Football Hall of Fame
The College Football Hall of Fame is an interactive museum dedicated to celebrating the history and traditions of college football in the United States.The museum honors the greatest players, coaches, and contributors to college football throughout its rich history. Inductees are selected based on their outstanding achievements and contributions to the sport.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum and cultural institution located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia, dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of the civil rights movement in the United States and advocating for human rights around the world.
The museum features a variety of exhibits and galleries that explore the history of the civil rights movement, the struggle for racial equality in America, and the broader fight for human rights globally. Exhibits may include multimedia displays, artifacts, documents, and interactive experiences that engage visitors in the stories and struggles of civil rights leaders and activists.
Other Cultural Attractions
Atlanta Botanical Gardens
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a stunning oasis nestled in the heart of Midtown. It features a diverse array of themed gardens and collections, showcasing plants from around the world. Highlights include the Fuqua Orchid Center, the Japanese Garden, the Desert House, the Edible Garden, and the Canopy Walk, which offers a unique perspective on the garden's diverse flora from elevated walkways.
Atlanta History Center
The Atlanta History Center is a comprehensive museum and research facility located in Buckhead, dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and culture of the city and the American South. The Atlanta History Center features a variety of exhibits and galleries that explore the history of Atlanta and the broader Southern region. These exhibits cover topics such as the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, Southern folk art, and the city's growth and development over time. Highlights include the "Turning Point: The American Civil War" exhibit, which examines the impact of the war on Atlanta and the South, and the "Shaping Traditions: Folk Arts in a Changing South" exhibit, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Centennial Olympic Park
Centennial Olympic Park is a 21-acre public park located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia, commemorating the 1996 Summer Olympics. Centennial Olympic Park was created as a centerpiece for the 1996 Olympic Games, which were held in Atlanta. The park serves as a lasting legacy of the Olympics and a symbol of the city's commitment to revitalization and urban development.
High Museum of Art
The High Museum of Art, located in Midtown, is one of the leading art museums in the Southeastern United States. The High Museum boasts an extensive and diverse collection of art spanning from classical to contemporary periods. Its permanent collection includes works of American art, European art, African art, decorative arts and design, and photography. The museum is particularly renowned for its collection of 19th and 20th-century American paintings and decorative arts, as well as its holdings of European paintings and decorative arts.
MLK Jr. National Historical Park
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is a tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., one of the most influential figures in the American civil rights movement. The park encompasses several important sites associated with Dr. King's life and work, including his birth home, the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he and his father served as pastors, and the King Center, which includes his tomb and a museum dedicated to his legacy. Visitors can tour these sites to learn more about Dr. King's upbringing, his role in the civil rights movement, and his contributions to the fight for equality and justice.
Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park is a sprawling recreational area located in Stone Mountain, Georgia, just outside of Atlanta. The centerpiece of Stone Mountain Park is the massive granite dome known as Stone Mountain, which rises 825 feet (251 meters) above the surrounding landscape. The mountain is a unique geological formation and offers stunning views of the Atlanta skyline and the surrounding countryside.
It offers:
Outdoor Activities
Historic Attractions
Family-Friendly Fun
The Laser Light Show
Historical Landmarks
Below are just a few of the many historical landmarks that contribute to Atlanta's rich tapestry of history and culture. Each site offers unique insights into the city's past and its enduring legacy.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
This site encompasses several landmarks associated with the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., including his birth home, the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached, and the King Center, where he and Coretta Scott King are buried.
The Fox Theatre
An iconic theater in Midtown Atlanta known for its lavish Moorish architecture and rich history. The Fox Theatre has hosted countless performances, including concerts, Broadway shows, and film premieres, since it opened in 1929.
The Swan House
Located on the grounds of the Atlanta History Center, the Swan House is a historic mansion built in the 1920s that offers a glimpse into Atlanta's Gilded Age. It is known for its elegant architecture, lush gardens, and role in the film "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire."
Oakland Cemetery
One of the largest and oldest cemeteries in Atlanta, Oakland Cemetery is the final resting place of many notable figures from the city's history, including politicians, business leaders, and Civil War veterans. The cemetery also features beautiful Victorian-era architecture and sculpture.
The Margaret Mitchell House
The former home of author Margaret Mitchell, who wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "Gone with the Wind." Visitors can tour the house and learn about Mitchell's life and the history behind her famous novel.
The Georgia State Capitol
Completed in 1889, the Georgia State Capitol is a historic landmark in downtown Atlanta that houses the offices of the governor and other state officials. It features a distinctive gold dome and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Outdoor Adventures
Atlanta offers a variety of outdoor adventures for nature enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and those looking to explore the great outdoors.
Hiking and Nature Trails: Atlanta is surrounded by beautiful parks and nature reserves that offer hiking trails for all skill levels. Some popular hiking destinations include Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, Stone Mountain Park, Arabia Mountain, and Sweetwater Creek State Park.
Paddling and Water Sports: With its numerous rivers, lakes, and streams, Atlanta offers plenty of opportunities for paddling, kayaking, and canoeing. Visitors can explore the Chattahoochee River, Lake Lanier, and the many other waterways that wind through the area.
Cycling and Mountain Biking: Atlanta has a growing network of bike paths and trails that are perfect for cyclists of all levels. The Atlanta BeltLine, Silver Comet Trail, and PATH400 Greenway are popular routes for biking and exploring the city's neighborhoods and green spaces. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the trails at Sope Creek and Cochran Shoals offer challenging terrain and scenic views.
Rock Climbing and Bouldering: For those seeking adventure and adrenaline, Atlanta has several indoor and outdoor rock climbing gyms, as well as natural rock formations for bouldering and climbing. Some popular spots include Boat Rock Preserve, Stone Summit Climbing and Fitness Center, and Escalade Climbing Gym.
Zip Lining and Aerial Adventures: For a unique outdoor experience, visitors can try zip lining and aerial adventure courses at parks such as Treetop Quest and Banning Mills. These courses offer thrilling zip lines, rope bridges, and other obstacles set high in the treetops.
Wildlife Watching and Birding: Atlanta is home to a diverse array of wildlife and bird species, making it a great destination for wildlife watching and birding. Visitors can explore parks and nature reserves such as Piedmont Park, Fernbank Forest, and Cochran Shoals to spot birds, deer, and other native wildlife.
Outdoor Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Atlanta hosts a variety of outdoor events and festivals that celebrate the city's culture, music, and food. From outdoor concerts and food truck festivals to art markets and cultural celebrations, there's always something happening outdoors in Atlanta.
Music Scene
Atlanta has a vibrant and diverse music scene that encompasses a wide range of genres and styles, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage and dynamic creative community.
Atlanta is home to a vast array of live music venues, ranging from intimate clubs and bars to larger concert halls and amphitheaters. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to discover emerging artists or a big stage to see your favorite bands perform, Atlanta has a venue for every taste and preference.
Atlanta also hosts several music festivals throughout the year, showcasing a wide range of musical genres and styles. Events like Music Midtown, Shaky Knees, and A3C Festival bring together local and national artists for multi-day celebrations of music, art, and culture, attracting thousands of music fans from around the country.
Large Concert Venues include:
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
State Farm Arena
Truist Park
Cellairis Amphitheatre at Lakewood
Infinite Energy Arena
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
I, personally prefer smaller music venues. Here are some excellent places to see shows on a smaller scale:
The Earl: East Atlanta Village
The EARL – East Atlanta Restaurant and Lounge – Live music, bar and restaurant in the East Atlanta Village (badearl.com)
Smith's Olde Bar: Midtown
Terminal West: West Midtown
The Masquerade: Old Fourth Ward
Variety Playhouse: Little Five Points
Eddie's Attic: Decatur Square
529:East Atlanta Village
Tabernacle: Downtown
Coca Cola Roxy: Smyrna
Unique Music Museum: The Trap Museum
The Trap Music Museum was founded by hip-hop artists T.I. (Clifford Harris Jr.) and his business partner, entrepreneur Greg Street. The museum aims to honor the origins and influence of trap music, a subgenre of hip-hop that originated in Atlanta in the 1990s and has since become a global phenomenon.
Nightlife
Atlanta boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a wide range of bars, clubs, lounges, and entertainment venues catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Here are some hot spots to check out for a memorable night out in Atlanta:
Buckhead: Known for its upscale bars, clubs, and lounges, Buckhead is a popular nightlife destination in Atlanta. The area is home to iconic establishments like The Ivy, a chic rooftop lounge with skyline views, and The Hole in the Wall, a beloved dive bar with live music and a laid-back atmosphere.
Edgewood Avenue: Located in the historic Old Fourth Ward neighborhood, Edgewood Avenue is a lively entertainment district known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and music venues. Highlights include Sister Louisa's Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium, a quirky bar with ping pong tables and religious-themed decor, and Joystick Gamebar, a retro arcade bar with craft cocktails and vintage video games.
East Atlanta Village (EAV): East Atlanta Village is a hip and eclectic neighborhood known for its bohemian vibe and vibrant nightlife scene. The area is home to a variety of bars, pubs, and music venues, including The Earl, a popular live music venue with an intimate atmosphere, and The Graveyard Tavern, a dive bar with a rooftop patio and live DJs.
Midtown: Midtown Atlanta offers a diverse array of nightlife options, ranging from upscale cocktail bars to lively dance clubs. Some popular spots include Opera Nightclub, a high-energy nightclub with multiple dance floors and VIP areas, and Henry's Midtown Tavern, a laid-back neighborhood bar with outdoor seating and craft beers on tap.
Downtown Atlanta: Downtown Atlanta is home to several iconic nightlife destinations, including the rooftop bar at the Glenn Hotel, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline, and STATS Brewpub, a sports bar with a wide selection of craft beers and pub grub.
Ponce City Market: Housed in a historic building on the BeltLine, Ponce City Market is a food hall and entertainment complex that offers a variety of dining, shopping, and nightlife options. Visitors can enjoy cocktails and small plates at rooftop bars like Nine Mile Station and RFD Social, or catch live music and entertainment at venues like City Winery and The Rooftop at Ponce City Market.
The Battery:
The Battery Atlanta is a bustling entertainment district located adjacent to Truist Park, the home stadium of the Atlanta Braves baseball team. The Battery is home to numerous bars and nightlife venues where you can grab a drink and unwind after a game or a day of exploring. From sports bars and brewpubs to cocktail lounges and wine bars, there's something for every taste and preference. Many bars also offer live music, DJ sets, and other entertainment to keep the party going late into the night.
Virginia-Highland: Virginia-Highland is a charming neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and lively nightlife scene. The area is home to popular bars like Dark Horse Tavern, a casual hangout with live music and outdoor seating, and Neighbor's Pub, a neighborhood bar with a relaxed vibe and a diverse crowd.
Entertainment
Atlanta offers a diverse array of entertainment venues beyond concerts, providing options for enjoying live performances, comedy shows, theatrical productions, and more. Here are some notable entertainment venues in Atlanta:
The Fox Theatre: While primarily known for its Broadway shows and concerts, The Fox Theatre also hosts a variety of other entertainment events, including comedy shows, dance performances, and theatrical productions. Its opulent interior and historic architecture make it a memorable setting for any type of performance.
Dad's Garage Theatre Company: Dad's Garage is a beloved improv comedy theater located in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. Known for its irreverent humor and interactive performances, Dad's Garage offers a full calendar of comedy shows, improv workshops, and special events throughout the year.
The Laughing Skull Lounge: Located in the Midtown neighborhood, The Laughing Skull Lounge is a popular comedy club that hosts stand-up comedy shows featuring both local talent and nationally recognized comedians. The intimate venue provides an up-close and personal experience for comedy fans.
Center Stage Theater: Center Stage is a versatile entertainment complex located in Midtown Atlanta, featuring three distinct performance spaces: The Loft, Vinyl, and Center Stage Theater. The venue hosts a wide range of events, including theatrical productions, comedy shows, live music performances, and private events.
The Alliance Theatre: The Alliance Theatre is Atlanta's premier regional theater company, known for its innovative productions and commitment to artistic excellence. Located at the Woodruff Arts Center in Midtown Atlanta, the Alliance Theatre presents a diverse season of plays, musicals, and theatrical events.
Dinner Theaters: Atlanta is home to several dinner theaters where you can enjoy a meal while watching a live theatrical production. Venues like Agatha's Mystery Dinner Theatre and The Murder Mystery Company offer interactive murder mystery shows paired with delicious meals for a unique dining and entertainment experience.
CineBistro: CineBistro is a luxury movie theater concept that combines upscale dining with first-run movie screenings. Located in the Brookhaven neighborhood, CineBistro offers an elevated moviegoing experience with comfortable seating, gourmet cuisine, and craft cocktails served directly to your seat.
The Punchline Comedy Club: Another popular comedy club in Atlanta, The Punchline Comedy Club has been entertaining audiences for over 30 years with its lineup of stand-up comedians and comedy shows. Located in the Buckhead neighborhood, The Punchline offers a casual and intimate setting for comedy lovers to enjoy.
The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse is a unique theater venue located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. The Tavern specializes in performances of the works of William Shakespeare. The theater company, Atlanta Shakespeare Company (ASC), presents a diverse repertoire of Shakespearean plays, including comedies, tragedies, and histories, as well as adaptations of other classic works in a tavern setting with food and drink.
Sports
I am not much of a sports enthusiast myself, but Atlanta is a mecca for sports lovers.
Some of the most popular teams are:
Atlanta Braves (MLB):
Venue: Truist Park (formerly SunTrust Park)
Location: Cumberland/Galleria area
Truist Park is the home stadium of the Atlanta Braves Major League Baseball (MLB) team. The stadium opened in 2017 and features modern amenities, including restaurants, bars, and entertainment options in The Battery Atlanta complex adjacent to the ballpark.
Atlanta Falcons (NFL):
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Location: Downtown Atlanta
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is the home stadium of the Atlanta Falcons National Football League (NFL) team and the Atlanta United FC Major League Soccer (MLS) team. The stadium features a distinctive retractable roof, a 360-degree halo video board, and various dining and entertainment options.
Atlanta Hawks (NBA):
Venue: State Farm Arena
Location: Downtown Atlanta
State Farm Arena is the home arena of the Atlanta Hawks National Basketball Association (NBA) team. The arena hosts basketball games, concerts, and other events throughout the year and underwent a major renovation in recent years to enhance the fan experience.
Atlanta United FC (MLS):
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Location: Downtown Atlanta
Atlanta United FC is the city's Major League Soccer (MLS) team, which plays its home games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium alongside the Atlanta Falcons. The team has quickly gained a passionate fan base and won the MLS Cup in 2018.
Atlanta Dream (WNBA):
Venue: Gateway Center Arena
Location: College Park, Georgia
The Atlanta Dream is the city's Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) team, which plays its home games at Gateway Center Arena. The arena is located in College Park, just south of downtown Atlanta.
College Football: Atlanta is a hub for college football, with several prominent universities fielding competitive teams. Notable venues for college football include Bobby Dodd Stadium at Georgia Tech, home of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which hosts the annual Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl and College Football Playoff National Championship games.
Dining
Atlanta offers a vibrant culinary scene with a diverse array of dining options to suit every taste and preference. From upscale fine dining establishments to casual eateries and food halls, here are some of the best dining options in Atlanta:
Staplehouse: Located in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood, Staplehouse is a critically acclaimed restaurant known for its innovative tasting menus and creative, seasonal dishes. The restaurant also operates as a non-profit organization, with a portion of its proceeds supporting The Giving Kitchen, a charity that assists restaurant workers in need.
Bacchanalia: Bacchanalia is a celebrated fine dining restaurant located in Westside Provisions District. Helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Anne Quatrano, Bacchanalia offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and meticulously crafted dishes.
Miller Union: Miller Union is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the Westside neighborhood, known for its modern Southern cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. Chef Steven Satterfield's menu highlights fresh, seasonal produce and locally sourced ingredients, with dishes that celebrate the flavors of the South.
Gunshow: Gunshow is a unique dining concept created by chef Kevin Gillespie, located in the Glenwood Park neighborhood. The restaurant features an open kitchen where chefs prepare dishes inspired by global flavors and culinary traditions, which are then presented to diners on rolling carts for a one-of-a-kind interactive dining experience.
The Optimist: Located in the West Midtown area, The Optimist is a seafood-focused restaurant known for its fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and coastal-inspired cuisine. The restaurant's stylish, nautical-themed interior and lively atmosphere make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Krog Street Market: Krog Street Market is a food hall located in the historic Old Fourth Ward neighborhood, offering a variety of dining options from some of Atlanta's top chefs and restaurateurs. Visitors can enjoy everything from Southern comfort food and barbecue to sushi, tacos, and artisanal ice cream, all in one vibrant and bustling setting.
Ponce City Market: Housed in a historic building on the BeltLine, Ponce City Market is another popular food hall and dining destination in Atlanta. The market features a diverse array of eateries, ranging from casual counter-service spots to upscale restaurants, offering a wide range of cuisines and flavors to explore.
Buford Highway: Buford Highway is a multicultural dining destination known for its diverse array of international restaurants, markets, and food trucks. Visitors can explore cuisines from around the world, including Vietnamese pho, Korean barbecue, Mexican tacos, and more, all along this vibrant and eclectic stretch of road.
Shopping
Atlanta offers a diverse array of shopping destinations, from luxury boutiques and high-end malls to eclectic markets and vintage shops. Here are some of the best locations to shop in Atlanta:
Lenox Square: Lenox Square is one of the premier shopping destinations in Atlanta, featuring over 250 stores and restaurants, including luxury brands like Burberry, Louis Vuitton, and Fendi. The mall also offers upscale dining options and a multi-screen movie theater for entertainment.
Phipps Plaza: Adjacent to Lenox Square, Phipps Plaza is another upscale shopping mall that caters to luxury shoppers. The mall features high-end retailers such as Gucci, Versace, and Tiffany & Co., as well as fine dining options and a luxury movie theater.
The Shops Buckhead Atlanta: Located in the upscale Buckhead neighborhood, The Shops Buckhead Atlanta is a luxury shopping and dining destination with a curated selection of designer boutiques, including Hermès, Dior, and Tom Ford. The outdoor shopping complex also features stylish restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Atlantic Station: Atlantic Station is a mixed-use development located in Midtown Atlanta, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The open-air shopping center offers a mix of national retailers, specialty boutiques, and unique dining experiences, as well as a movie theater and outdoor events space.
Westside Provisions District: Westside Provisions District is a trendy shopping and dining destination located in the West Midtown area. The district features a mix of upscale boutiques, home decor stores, and artisanal shops, as well as popular restaurants and cafes serving locally sourced cuisine.
Little Five Points: Little Five Points is a bohemian neighborhood known for its eclectic shops, vintage boutiques, and independent retailers. Visitors can explore unique stores selling clothing, accessories, vinyl records, and quirky gifts, as well as enjoy live music, street art, and vibrant street life.
Atlanta's Street Murals
Atlanta is home to a vibrant street art scene, with colorful murals adorning walls throughout the city. These murals contribute to Atlanta's cultural landscape, showcasing local artists' talent and creativity while adding vibrancy to neighborhoods and public spaces. Here are some notable Atlanta street murals and the neighborhoods where you can find them:
Krog Street Tunnel: Located in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood, the Krog Street Tunnel is a popular spot for street art and graffiti. The walls of the tunnel are covered in colorful murals and graffiti tags, with new artwork constantly appearing and evolving over time.
Cabbagetown: The Cabbagetown neighborhood is known for its vibrant street art scene, with numerous murals and graffiti pieces decorating walls throughout the area. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to discover the neighborhood's eclectic street art, including pieces by local and international artists.
East Atlanta Village: East Atlanta Village is another neighborhood known for its street art and colorful murals. The streets are lined with eye-catching artwork, from large-scale murals to smaller graffiti pieces, showcasing a range of styles and themes.
Little Five Points: Little Five Points is a bohemian neighborhood known for its eclectic shops, music venues, and street art. Visitors can explore the area's streets and alleys to discover a variety of murals and graffiti pieces, including iconic works by local artists.
Castleberry Hill: Castleberry Hill is an artsy neighborhood located just southwest of downtown Atlanta, known for its galleries, studios, and street art. The area features several murals and public art installations, adding to its creative atmosphere and cultural vibrancy.
Downtown Atlanta: Downtown Atlanta is home to several prominent murals and public art installations, including the iconic "We Love ATL" mural near Woodruff Park and the colorful "Living Walls" murals that adorn buildings throughout the area.
Westside BeltLine Trail: The Westside BeltLine Trail is a popular spot for outdoor recreation and street art. The trail features several murals and graffiti pieces along its route, providing a colorful backdrop for walkers, joggers, and cyclists to enjoy.
Unique mural collection: Tiny Doors Atlanta
Tiny Doors Atlanta was founded by artist Karen Anderson Singer in 2014 with the goal of creating tiny, whimsical doors that surprise and delight passersby. These miniature doors are installed in various locations throughout Atlanta, often in unexpected or overlooked spaces, such as on the side of a building, under a bridge, or in a tree.
How to get around Atlanta
The best way to get around Atlanta is by car but take into account this city is known for terrible traffic and parking can be annoying. Other transportation options include:
MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority): MARTA operates Atlanta's public transportation system, which includes buses and trains (both heavy rail and light rail). The MARTA rail system provides convenient access to key destinations throughout the city, including downtown Atlanta, Midtown, Buckhead, and the airport. MARTA buses complement the rail service and cover additional routes within the city and surrounding areas.
Ridesharing Services: Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Atlanta and offer convenient transportation options for getting around the city. With the tap of a button on your smartphone, you can request a ride and be picked up from your location within minutes. Ridesharing is particularly useful for reaching destinations not easily accessible by public transportation or for late-night travel.
Biking: Atlanta has a growing network of bike lanes and multi-use trails, making biking a popular and eco-friendly way to get around the city. The Atlanta BeltLine, in particular, offers a scenic and car-free route for cyclists to explore various neighborhoods and attractions. Additionally, bike-sharing programs like Relay Bike Share provide convenient access to bicycles for short trips around the city.
Walking: Many neighborhoods in Atlanta, especially those in the central areas like Midtown and Downtown, are pedestrian-friendly and conducive to walking. Exploring the city on foot allows you to soak in the sights and sounds of Atlanta's vibrant streets, parks, and historic districts. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, especially during the warmer months.
Scooters: Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in Atlanta and provide a convenient and fun way to travel short distances within the city. Companies like Bird, Lime, and Spin operate scooter-sharing services in Atlanta, allowing users to rent scooters through smartphone apps and drop them off at designated locations when finished.
Where to stay:
Hotel Clermont
4-Star Hotel
Despite being on top of the notorious Clermont Lounge, Hotel Clermont is a lovely historic boutique hotel located in the vibrant Poncey-Highland neighborhood of Atlanta. Originally built in 1924 as an apartment building, the Clermont Hotel has a rich history and has undergone several transformations over the years. In the mid-20th century, it became known for housing the Clermont Lounge, one of Atlanta's most iconic and longest-running strip clubs. In recent years, the hotel underwent a major renovation and restoration project, preserving its historic charm while updating its amenities and accommodations. The hotel features a stylish and eclectic design that blends vintage aesthetics with modern comforts. The hotel's interiors pay homage to its storied past, with retro-inspired furnishings, bold patterns, and playful touches throughout. Each of the guest rooms is uniquely decorated, offering a comfortable and inviting retreat for guests.
Glenn Hotel
4-Star Hotel
Glenn Hotel, Autograph Collection, inspired by its location in the heart of downtown Atlanta, is rooted in the richness of Southern hospitality. The hotel's whimsical story derives from the historic architectural allure as the Pride of Atlanta. Attractions near the hotel include CNN Center, State Farm Arena and Mercedes Benz Stadium. A short stroll through Centennial Olympic Park brings you to the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. Find yourself amidst locals and travelers from afar at SkyLounge, a rooftop bar with sweeping views of downtown Atlanta. The city skyline also provides scenic backdrops for the hotel's private event space offering Southern-inspired catering with local ingredients from Glenn's Kitchen. Hotel guests enjoy 24-hour fitness center access and high-speed internet, always complimentary. Discover historic elegance in downtown Atlanta at Glenn Hotel, Autograph Collection, where experiences unfold at a relaxed pace.
Nobu Hotel
5-Star Hotel
Located in the heart of the prestigious Buckhead neighborhood at Phipps Plaza - Nobu Hotel is designed by The Rockwell Group. The hotel offers 152 stylish guest rooms and suites, a Nobu restaurant with bar and lounge, a rooftop swimming pool with pool deck, event space, and fitness center offering state-of-the-art equipment.
The Whitley
5-Star Hotel
Blending cosmopolitan style with timeless elegance, The Whitley, a Marriott Luxury Collection Hotel, is ideally situated in the vibrant community of Buckhead, one of Atlanta's most prestigious and trendsetting neighborhoods. Steps from world-class shopping, dining and nightlife, The Whitley presents a destination experience intertwining heritage and new discoveries. The luxury hotels 507 rooms, including 56 spacious suites, feature sweeping views of the Atlanta skyline and thoughtful appointments, capturing the essence of Buckhead sophistication and characteristic charm.
Day Trips from Atlanta:
Atlanta's central location in the state of Georgia makes it an ideal starting point for exploring nearby attractions and destinations. Here are some of the best day trips from Atlanta:
Chattanooga, Tennessee: Approximately a two-hour drive northwest of Atlanta, Chattanooga is a charming city known for its outdoor recreation, historic sites, and scenic beauty. Highlights include Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls, the Tennessee Aquarium, and the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo hotel.
Athens, Georgia: Home to the University of Georgia, Athens is a vibrant college town located about an hour and a half east of Atlanta. Visitors can explore the city's historic downtown area, tour the UGA campus, and visit attractions like the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and the Georgia Museum of Art.
Savannah, Georgia: Although Savannah is about a four-hour drive southeast of Atlanta, it's worth the trip for its charming historic district, cobblestone streets, and antebellum architecture. Visitors can take guided walking tours, explore Forsyth Park, and dine at renowned restaurants serving Southern cuisine.
Blue Ridge Mountains: For outdoor enthusiasts, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer a picturesque escape from the city, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives. The mountain town of Helen, Georgia, known for its Bavarian-style architecture and Oktoberfest celebrations, is about two hours northeast of Atlanta.
Callaway Gardens: Located about an hour and a half southwest of Atlanta, Callaway Gardens is a resort and nature preserve known for its botanical gardens, outdoor recreational activities, and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, golfing, and zip-lining, as well as exploring the gardens and butterfly conservatory.
What's next on your bucket list?
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