Downtown Atlanta is loved by its residents and visitors because of its walkable streets and incredible vibe. It is a city center that pays tribute to its rich history while setting its sights on the dynamic future.
Explore the many wonders this incredible part of the city has to offer. Here is a list of the best things to do in and around Downtown Atlanta:
Get the best views of Downtown at SkyView Atlanta
168 Luckie Street Northwest, Atlanta
There is no better place to see Atlanta than in a climate-controlled gondola at the SkyView, a 20-story ferris wheel. Each ride lasts 15 minutes and gives you unparalleled views of the city below. It is also close to other downtown attractions making it easy to squeeze into your schedule.
At night, the SkyView wheel is truly a sight to see with millions of LED lights decorating the ride. For the best experience, try the VIP gondola which has Ferrari-style seating and glass floors for picture-perfect panoramic views. The VIP gondola also has a longer flight time.
Learn about marine life at the Georgia Aquarium
225 Baker Street Northwest, Atlanta
One of Georgia’s most popular attractions, the Georgia Aquarium has six galleries for guests to enjoy. Thousands of aquatic species swim in the tanks, with crowd favorites like Beluga whales, whale sharks, dolphins, piranhas, sea otters, manta rays, and penguins. The goal of the aquarium is to make people aware that the ocean and all that live in it should be preserved. Whether you choose to go on a Behind the Seas tour or download the self-guided tour app, you are sure to have an amazing experience.
Visit the Center for Civil and Human Rights
100 Ivan Allen Jr. Boulevard, Atlanta
The Center for Civil and Human Rights offers visitors a learning experience like no other. High-tech interactive galleries leave a powerful impression.
Learn about the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as you peruse handwritten manuscripts, documents, and personal effects.
Immerse yourself in cutting-edge multisensory galleries surrounding the exhibit on the American Civil Rights movement. A replicated sit-in allows visitors to experience the intensity and power of the protests.
Another gallery focuses on the harrowing state of human rights all over the world. The museum aims to connect the American Civil Rights Movement of the past to the human rights movements of today.
Explore the Centennial Olympic Park
265 Park Avenue West Northwest, Atlanta
A 21-acre park in the heart of Downtown Atlanta, the Centennial Olympic Park hosts community events year round. The most notable are the Saturday Family Fun Day, the Fourth of July celebrations, and the Holiday in the Park. The park’s most popular attraction is the Fountain of Rings that displays choreographed water shows.
Centennial Olympic Park was originally built to host the 1996 Summer Olympics, which also happened to be the centenary of the Olympic Games in Athens. Today, the park serves as both a reminder of Georgia’s role in Olympic history and a place where people can enjoy the downtown area to the fullest.
Dine at The Varsity
61 North Avenue Northwest, Atlanta
Opt for hand-cut onion rings when you order any of the Classic Combos at The Varsity
The Varsity is a cherished Atlanta institution that’s been a local favorite since 1928. It made a name for itself as The World’s Largest Drive-In Restaurant and today remains as iconic ever. As you step inside, you’ll hear the wait staff ask, “What’ll ya have?” It’s the signature greeting that welcomes guests to what the restaurant calls its “faster, fresher, and more fun-filled dining experience.” If you’re visiting for the first-time, order a Classic Combo, which includes a chili dog, fries or onion rings, and a medium drink—make sure the drink is the signature Frosted Orange.
Enjoy classic southern cuisine at Mary Mac’s Tea Room
224 Ponce De Leon Avenue NE, Atlanta
Mary Mac’s Tea Room has been serving authentic Southern food along with plenty of Southern hospitality since 1945. The restaurant, which has had a long, illustrious history, was named “Atlanta’s Dining Room” by Georgia’s House of Representatives in 2011. Classics on the menu include chicken and dumplings, roast pork with cornbread dressing, and Georgia peach cobbler.
Catch a show at the Fox
660 Peachtree Street Northeast, Atlanta
The Fox Theatre has hosted every top act including comedian Chelsea Handler and staged award-winning Broadway musicals like Hamilton. In 2009, Billboard Magazine named the theater as the decade’s “#1 non-residency venue worldwide.” The Fox is also one of the city’s most well-known landmarks and offers visitors a 60-minute guided tour of the theater.
Learn More About what Atlanta has to offer with Natalie Gregory
Find out what makes Atlanta an incredible place to live and your real estate options in the area today! Call me, Natalie Gregory, at 404.550.5113 or email Natalie(dotted)Gregory(at)Compass(dotted)com.