3-Day Atlanta Adventure: Hidden Gems and Vibrant Nightlife with Friends
Atlanta, Georgia
3 days
About Atlanta, Georgia
Welcome to Atlanta, Georgia, a city rich in history, culture, and southern charm. Explore the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr., and immerse yourself in the Civil Rights Movement at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Visit the world's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, or enjoy a fun-filled day at the Atlanta Zoo. Discover the world of Coca-Cola, headquartered in Atlanta, or take a tour of the CNN Center. Enjoy a stroll through the Atlanta Botanical Garden or the scenic Piedmont Park. Indulge in the city's vibrant food scene, offering everything from traditional southern cuisine to international delicacies. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, Atlanta has something for everyone.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
History, Gardens, and Nightlife
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Atlanta History Center. This museum offers a variety of exhibits on the history of Atlanta and the South, including the Swan House, a historic mansion that offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the city's elite in the 1920s.
Lunch
For lunch, head to the Westside Provisions District. This area offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving everything from gourmet sandwiches to farm-to-table cuisine.
Afternoon
After lunch, explore the Atlanta Botanical Garden. This beautiful garden offers a variety of plant collections, including a tropical rainforest, a Japanese garden, and a rose garden. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Dinner
For dinner, head to the Ponce City Market. This market offers a variety of food stalls serving everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. It's a great place to sample a variety of dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Virginia-Highland neighborhood. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from.
Day 3
Parks, Art, and Vibrant Neighborhoods
Morning
Start your third day with a visit to the Piedmont Park. This large urban park offers a variety of activities, including walking trails, sports fields, and a lake for fishing and boating.
Lunch
For lunch, head to the East Atlanta Village. This area offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving everything from gourmet sandwiches to farm-to-table cuisine.
Afternoon
After lunch, explore the High Museum of Art. This museum offers a variety of exhibits, including contemporary art, European paintings, and African art.
Dinner
For dinner, head to the Sweet Auburn Curb Market. This market offers a variety of food stalls serving everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. It's a great place to sample a variety of dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Little Five Points neighborhood. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from.
Attractions in Itinerary (15)
1Atlanta BeltLine
A former railway corridor around the core of Atlanta, Georgia, now a multi-use trail system.
2Historic Fourth Ward Park
Historic Fourth Ward Park is a beautiful park located in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. It offers a variety of recreational activities and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
3Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
A collection of sites in Atlanta associated with Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and the Civil Rights Movement.
4Krog Street Market
Krog Street Market is a bustling market in Atlanta that offers a variety of food and shopping options. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with a wide range of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods.
5Edgewood Avenue Entertainment District
Edgewood Avenue Entertainment District is a vibrant entertainment district in Atlanta known for its nightlife. It is home to a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
6Atlanta History Center
A history museum that includes one of the Southeast's largest history museums.
7Westside Provisions District
Westside Provisions District is a trendy district in Atlanta known for its high-end shopping and dining options. It is home to a variety of upscale boutiques and restaurants, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
8Atlanta Botanical Garden
A 30 acres botanical garden located adjacent to Piedmont Park in Midtown Atlanta.
9Ponce City Market
Ponce City Market is a mixed-use development located in a historic building in Atlanta. It features a variety of shops, restaurants, and offices, as well as a food hall and a rooftop amusement park.
10Virginia-Highland
Virginia-Highland is a charming neighborhood in Atlanta known for its historic homes and vibrant dining scene. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and parks to explore.
11Piedmont Park
A large urban park in Atlanta, Georgia, located about 1 mile northeast of Downtown.
12East Atlanta Village
East Atlanta Village is a vibrant neighborhood in Atlanta known for its nightlife and dining options. It is home to a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
13High Museum of Art
The leading art museum in the Southeastern United States located in Atlanta.
14Sweet Auburn Curb Market
Sweet Auburn Curb Market is a historic market in Atlanta that offers a variety of food and shopping options. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with a wide range of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods.
15Little Five Points
Little Five Points is a quirky neighborhood in Atlanta known for its alternative culture and unique shops. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with a variety of restaurants, bars, and boutiques to explore.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Peach Cobbler
A popular dessert in Atlanta, made with peaches, which are the state fruit of Georgia. It's a sweet, warm, and comforting dish.
Fried Chicken
A Southern classic, Atlanta's fried chicken is known for its crispy, golden exterior and juicy, flavorful interior.
Brunswick Stew
Originating from the nearby city of Brunswick, this hearty stew typically includes a mix of vegetables and meats, often pork or chicken.
Shrimp and Grits
A traditional dish in the South, featuring creamy, buttery grits paired with seasoned, sautéed shrimp.
Pimento Cheese
A Southern staple, this spread is made from sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It's often served with crackers or bread.
Chicken and Waffles
A soul food classic, this dish pairs sweet, fluffy waffles with savory fried chicken.
Sweet Tea
A quintessential Southern beverage, sweet tea in Atlanta is known for its perfect balance of sweetness and strong tea flavor.
Pecan Pie
A popular dessert in Atlanta, made with pecans, which are abundant in Georgia. It's a sweet, nutty, and rich treat.
Collard Greens
A traditional Southern side dish, collard greens are slow-cooked with ham hocks or bacon for a savory, hearty flavor.
Boiled Peanuts
A popular snack in Atlanta, these peanuts are boiled in their shells, resulting in a unique, soft texture and salty flavor.
Chitlins
A soul food classic, chitlins (or chitterlings) are pig intestines that are cleaned, boiled, and then fried.
Coca-Cola
The world-famous soft drink was invented in Atlanta, and it's a must-try for its sweet, fizzy, and refreshing taste.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Atlanta, Georgia is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the city is full of vibrant colors from blooming flowers in the spring or changing leaves in the fall. These seasons also offer a variety of festivals and events. However, if you're a fan of the arts, summer is a great time to visit as Atlanta hosts numerous music and film festivals. Do keep in mind that summer can be quite hot and humid. Winter is the least crowded time, but the weather can be chilly.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
MARTA
MARTA is Atlanta's public transportation system, offering both bus and rail services. The rail system has four lines: Red, Gold, Blue, and Green, which cover most of the city and its suburbs. The bus system complements the rail system, covering areas not reached by the rail lines.
Atlanta Streetcar
The Atlanta Streetcar is a modern electric streetcar system that provides a convenient link between Centennial Olympic Park and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site. It's a great way to explore the downtown area.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Atlanta. These services offer a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around the city, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Biking
Atlanta is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and trails. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike share programs like Relay Bike Share.
Driving
If you prefer to drive, car rental companies are available at the airport and throughout the city. However, be aware that Atlanta is known for its heavy traffic, especially during rush hour.
Walking
Many of Atlanta's neighborhoods are walkable, especially in areas like Midtown, Downtown, and the BeltLine. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, but be aware that Atlanta is hilly and can be hot in the summer.
Peachtree Trolley
The Peachtree Trolley is a sightseeing tour that offers a 90-minute narrated tour of Atlanta's key attractions. It's a great way to get a feel for the city if you're a first-time visitor.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Atlanta, Georgia as a first time visitor
1
Atlanta is known for its Southern hospitality, so expect friendly locals and warm greetings.
2
The city is a major hub for air travel. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world.
3
Public transportation is available through the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), but many locals and visitors prefer to drive.
4
Atlanta's weather is typically mild and humid, with hot summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 89°F (32°C), while winter temperatures can drop to around 34°F (1°C).
5
The city is home to many corporate headquarters, including Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, and CNN.
6
Atlanta is a city with rich history and played a significant role in both the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement.
7
The city is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions.
8
Atlanta's food scene is diverse and vibrant, with a strong influence of Southern cuisine.
9
The city is known for its music scene, particularly hip hop, R&B, and country.
10
Atlanta has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and art festivals.
11
The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Atlanta Braves (baseball), Atlanta Falcons (football), and Atlanta Hawks (basketball).
12
Atlanta is a green city with many parks and outdoor spaces, including the famous Atlanta Botanical Garden.
13
The city has a high pollen count in the spring, which can be problematic for those with allergies.
14
Atlanta is in the Eastern Time Zone and observes Daylight Saving Time.
15
The city is known for its heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. Plan your travel accordingly.
16
Tipping is customary in Atlanta. A standard tip for good service in restaurants is 15-20% of the total bill.
17
Sales tax in Atlanta is 8.9%, which is added to the price of goods and services at the point of purchase.
18
Atlanta is a diverse city with a large African American population and a growing international community.
19
The city has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
20
Atlanta is a major center for higher education, with several renowned universities and colleges, including Emory University and Georgia Tech.
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear (3 pairs)
Socks (3 pairs)
T-shirts (3)
Pants or shorts (2 pairs)
Sweater or jacket
Pajamas
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimsuit
Hat or cap
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Hand sanitizer
Travel-size first aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash
Hotel reservation confirmation
Car rental confirmation
Health insurance card
Emergency contact list
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Portable power bank
Camera
Charger for camera
Travel adapter (if needed)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Bottled water
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Books or magazines
Travel guide for Atlanta
Reusable shopping bag
Umbrella
Weather Conditions
When visiting Atlanta, Georgia, it's important to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. Atlanta experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means hot, humid summers and mild, but occasionally chilly winters. During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures can reach up to 90°F (32°C). It's also the city's rainiest season, so packing an umbrella or a raincoat is a good idea. Also, remember to stay hydrated and use sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense heat. In the fall, from September to November, the weather cools down significantly with average temperatures ranging from 45°F to 75°F (7°C to 24°C). This is a great time to visit as the city is adorned with beautiful fall foliage. Pack layers as mornings and evenings can be quite cool. Winter, from December to February, can be unpredictable. Temperatures can range from 33°F to 57°F (-1°C to 14°C). While snowfall is rare, it's not unheard of, so it's wise to check the forecast before your trip. Pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Spring, from March to May, is a beautiful time to visit Atlanta. Temperatures range from 45°F to 80°F (7°C to 27°C) and the city is in full bloom. However, it's also the city's tornado season, so stay aware of any severe weather warnings. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before packing. Atlanta's weather can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 13° / 1° | January is the coldest month in Atlanta, with occasional snowfall. Dress warmly and prepare for potential icy conditions. |
February | 15° / 2° | February is still chilly, but temperatures start to rise slightly. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions like the Georgia Aquarium. |
March | 20° / 6° | March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures warming up. The city starts to bloom, making it a great time for outdoor activities. |
April | 24° / 10° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a perfect time to visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden. |
May | 29° / 15° | May brings warm weather, making it a good time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions. |
June | 34° / 20° | June marks the start of summer, with hot temperatures and high humidity. Stay hydrated and enjoy indoor activities during peak heat hours. |
July | 36° / 22° | July is the hottest month in Atlanta. It's a great time to visit water parks or enjoy indoor activities. |
August | 34° / 22° | August is still hot, but temperatures start to decrease slightly. It's a good time to visit the World of Coca-Cola or the Atlanta History Center. |
September | 30° / 18° | September brings the start of fall, with temperatures cooling down. It's a great time to visit the Atlanta Zoo or the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. |
October | 24° / 12° | October offers mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a perfect time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions. |
November | 19° / 7° | November is a cooler month, with temperatures dropping. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions like the High Museum of Art. |
December | 14° / 2° | December is a chilly month, with occasional snowfall. It's a great time to enjoy holiday festivities in the city. |
Did you know?
Places near by Atlanta, Georgia
Stone Mountain Park
A natural wonderland filled with outdoor activities, historical sites, and a giant granite dome.
Six Flags Over Georgia
A large amusement park with dozens of thrilling rides and attractions.
Chattahoochee Nature Center
A nature preserve offering wildlife encounters, hiking trails, and river activities.
Callaway Gardens
A stunning 2,500-acre garden, resort, and preserve offering a variety of outdoor activities.
Amicalola Falls State Park
Home to the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast.
Rock City Gardens
A unique geological park with panoramic views, gardens, and a 100-foot waterfall.
Savannah Historic District
A National Historic Landmark featuring 18th and 19th-century architecture and green spaces.
Helen
A charming mountain town modeled after a Bavarian Alpine village.
Chattanooga
A city known for the Chattanooga Choo Choo, Tennessee Aquarium, and beautiful riverfront views.
Blue Ridge
A mountain town known for its charming downtown, outdoor activities, and scenic railway.
