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3-Day Extraordinary Atlanta: Nightlife & Hidden Sightseeing Adventures

Atlanta, Georgia

3 days

Ebenezer Baptist Church
Atlanta subway train
People watching fish in Atlanta aquarium
Martin Luther King Jr. Center
Olympic Centennial Park

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 1

Exploring Buckhead and Midtown

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Atlanta History Center in Buckhead. This museum complex includes the Swan House, a historic mansion, and the Margaret Mitchell House, where the author wrote 'Gone with the Wind'.

Lunch

Enjoy a local southern cuisine in a restaurant in the Buckhead area. The district is known for its upscale dining establishments serving a variety of cuisines.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the High Museum of Art in Midtown. This museum is renowned for its diverse art collection, including American, European, and African art.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant in Midtown. This area is known for its vibrant food scene, with a variety of restaurants offering different cuisines.

Evening

End your day with a performance at the Fox Theatre, a historic venue in Midtown that hosts a variety of shows, from Broadway productions to concerts.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site in Sweet Auburn. This site includes Dr. King's childhood home and the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local eatery in Sweet Auburn. This historic district is known for its soul food restaurants.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Atlanta BeltLine, a former railway corridor turned into a multi-use trail. The Eastside Trail section is filled with public art and green spaces.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant near the Atlanta BeltLine. The area is known for its eclectic dining scene, with a variety of restaurants offering different cuisines.

Evening

Experience Atlanta's nightlife at a club in the Edgewood Avenue Entertainment District. This area is known for its lively bars and clubs.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Atlanta Botanical Garden in Midtown. This 30-acre garden features a variety of plant collections, including a Japanese Garden and a Rose Garden.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant in Midtown. This area is known for its diverse dining scene, with a variety of restaurants offering different cuisines.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at the Georgia Aquarium in Downtown. This is one of the largest aquariums in the world, with exhibits featuring a variety of marine life.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant in Downtown. This area is known for its vibrant dining scene, with a variety of restaurants offering different cuisines.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the SkyView Atlanta, a giant Ferris wheel in Downtown that offers panoramic views of the city.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

Atlanta History Center

1
Atlanta History Center

A history museum that includes one of the Southeast's largest history museums.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Swan House

2
Swan House

The Swan House is a historic mansion in Atlanta, known for its beautiful architecture and gardens. It's a popular spot for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Margaret Mitchell House

3
Margaret Mitchell House

The Margaret Mitchell House is a historic site in Atlanta, Georgia, dedicated to the life and work of author Margaret Mitchell, who wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel 'Gone with the Wind'. The house features a museum, guided tours, and a gift shop.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
High Museum of Art

4
High Museum of Art

The leading art museum in the Southeastern United States located in Atlanta.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Fox Theatre

5
Fox Theatre

A historic theater venue located at 660 Peachtree Street NE in Midtown Atlanta, Georgia.

Entertainment
Landmarks
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

6
Martin 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.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Atlanta BeltLine

7
Atlanta BeltLine

A former railway corridor around the core of Atlanta, Georgia, now a multi-use trail system.

Attractions
Parks
Tours
Architecture
Atlanta Botanical Garden

8
Atlanta Botanical Garden

A 30 acres botanical garden located adjacent to Piedmont Park in Midtown Atlanta.

Attractions
Parks
Gardens
Georgia Aquarium

9
Georgia Aquarium

One of the world's largest aquariums, with thousands of animals in 10 million gallons of water.

Attractions
Tours
SkyView Atlanta

10
SkyView Atlanta

SkyView Atlanta is a 200-foot tall Ferris wheel in Centennial Olympic Park, providing breathtaking views of the Atlanta skyline. Each gondola is climate-controlled, allowing for a comfortable ride regardless of the weather.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Peach Cobbler

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

Fried Chicken

A Southern classic, Atlanta's fried chicken is known for its crispy, golden exterior and juicy, flavorful interior.

Brunswick Stew

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

Shrimp and Grits

A traditional dish in the South, featuring creamy, buttery grits paired with seasoned, sautéed shrimp.

Pimento Cheese

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

Chicken and Waffles

A soul food classic, this dish pairs sweet, fluffy waffles with savory fried chicken.

Sweet Tea

Sweet Tea

A quintessential Southern beverage, sweet tea in Atlanta is known for its perfect balance of sweetness and strong tea flavor.

Pecan Pie

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

Collard Greens

A traditional Southern side dish, collard greens are slow-cooked with ham hocks or bacon for a savory, hearty flavor.

Boiled Peanuts

Boiled Peanuts

A popular snack in Atlanta, these peanuts are boiled in their shells, resulting in a unique, soft texture and salty flavor.

Chitlins

Chitlins

A soul food classic, chitlins (or chitterlings) are pig intestines that are cleaned, boiled, and then fried.

Coca-Cola

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

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.

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Atlanta is the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. and houses the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site?

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