Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Atlanta

Top 10 Most Popular Attractions in Atlanta

The capital city of the state of Georgia, Atlanta, is home to more than 6 million people. Founded in 1837 at the end of the Atlantic and Western railroad line, Atlanta was and still is one of the biggest and most important transportation hubs in the US. Phoenix is the official symbol of the city that represents resurrection and resilience. After falling to pieces during the Civil War in 1861, the city was rebuilt from scratch. Atlanta is known as one of the most prolific cities historically and is home to various iconic and valuable landmarks. From historic sites to art centres to natural sights, there is something for every traveller in Atlanta.

Also known as the capital of the Southeast US, Atlanta is home to some of the most important historic sights, including Civil Rights Leader Martin the Jr.'s childhood home and resting place. Other popular city landmarks include the World of Coca-Cola, the National Centre for Civil and Human Rights, Stone Mountain Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and many more. Atlanta is a unique city with a diverse range of activities for different age groups and interests. Here is a list of the 10 most popular and attractive sights or landmarks in Atlanta that are bound to leave you mesmerised and thrilled:

What Makes Atlanta Worth Visiting?

If you are still wondering what makes Atlanta worth visiting, we still cannot emphasise more that it is home to some of the world's most fascinating sights and attractions. For starters, Atlanta is the birthplace of Martin Luther King, Jr., one of the world’s most influential civil rights leaders. You will be amazed at how his life is documented there from his childhood days to the final years. The city’s captivating and unique history invites travelers from all over the world to visit its iconic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and exhilarating skyline. If you are visiting the U.S, this city is a must-visit, and here are the 10 most exciting attractions you cannot miss:

Georgia Aquarium

Located in Downtown Atlanta, Georgia Aquarium is a great attraction for you and your family. The aquarium is home to thousands of diverse and unique underwater species that will spark your inner wonder. The largest exhibit in this aquarium is about 284 feet long x 126 feet wide x 30 feet deep and holds 6.3 million gallons of water with whale sharks, manta rays, and other swimmers. The aquarium also houses six beluga whales, dolphins, sea lions and an array of animal interaction and presentation shows for visitors. You can secure a day pass or a membership pass online or on location according to your convenience. The ticket covers access to all the Aquarium galleries, Dolphin presentation, and the Sea Lion presentation.

Book Now & Pay

Atlanta Botanical Garden

A spot worth visiting if you love nature and lush green garden settings. Located in the heart of Midtown Atlanta, this garden features 30 acres of outdoor gardens, a children’s garden, and shady woodlands showcasing roses, herbs, carnivorous plants, conifers, etc. Visitors can immediately get into relaxation mode by taking a walk through the lush gardens and breathtaking landscape. The facility also offers a luxurious restaurant in partnership with Linton Hopkins. It is a two-story contemporary glass structure next to the garden house, offering full-service dining, grab-and-go cafe service, and event spaces. The garden is open all week and ticket rates differ on weekdays and weekends so it is better to plan your visit accordingly. People in town for Christmas can catch the special holiday lighting decorations to make the most of the festive season.

Book Now & Pay

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

An astounding fact about Atlanta is that it is the birthplace of the great Civil Rights Leader, Martin Luther King, Jr. If you are a history buff and would like to delve deeper into the life of the great political figure, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is a must-visit site. The park includes the three most important sites related to his life: his birth home, the church he went to, and his grave. The historical site is located in Atlanta’s Sweet Auburn District and near MARTA’s King Memorial Train Station. Bus no. 3 and 99 and the Atlanta Streetcar also have stations nearby. It is one of the most visited landmarks in Atlanta because of its historical importance and heritage preservation. The only way to enter and explore the sites from the inside is by signing up for same-day tours available at the location. This landmark allows you to truly understand the life of the great leader and his exceptional contributions to the Civil Rights Movement across the world and in the US. 

Book Now & Pay

World of Coca-Cola

Atlanta is also known as the home of the popular beverage, Coca-Cola. It was invented in 1886 by a pharmacist, John Pemberton who was at the time trying to find a cure for headaches. The first Coca-Cola was a mixture of coca leaves and kola nuts and was sold at Jacob’s Pharmacy. The global brand’s headquarters in Atlanta serves as a tourist spot and takes you through its vibrant and innovative journey over the years. Visitor activities include the Beverage Lab, Vault of the Secret Formula, Pop Culture Gallery, and much more. It is recommended visitors buy tickets online in advance as there is no confirmation for tickets on location. The entry fee for adults is $21, $19 for seniors (65+), and $17 for children (3-12 age). Visitors can avail of ticket discounts if they purchase Atlanta CityPASS. 

Book Now & Pay

Zoo Atlanta

When in Atlanta and looking for a fun family day out, Zoo Atlanta provides an ideal combination of adventure and leisure. A proud accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) the zoo gives you a chance to witness over 1000 animals from worldwide. The Zoo offers tailored programs for students, families, and animal lovers of all ages such as Safari Camps, the Zoo After-Hours, Toddler Adventures, Fall Homeschool Academy, and School trips. Tickets are available online and vary according to the date and time you want to visit. If you are buying tickets in advance, they will cost less than a same-day entry ticket.

Book Now & Pay

Atlanta History Center

One of the largest historical sites in the Southeastern US, Atlanta History Center is a 33-acre site based in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta. The expansive campus features an array of activities from winning exhibitions, to historic houses, gardens, and more. The site also features one of the nation's largest history museums, the Cyclorama. The museum showcases a fully restored cyclorama painting - a 132-year old, 49-foot-tall hand-painted work of art known as ‘Battle of Atlanta’. The history center features various aspects of Atlanta’s history including fine art, folk art, archival collections, horticultural history, military remnants, and contributions of women throughout history.

Book Now & Pay

High Museum of Art

One of the leading art museums in the southeast US, High Museum of Art is located in Midtown Atlanta. The museum features a collection of more than 18,000 pieces by American, South American, European and African artists. Various collections of decorative arts, folk art, fine art, photography, and self-taught art are on display in the four-story art museum. It is one of the top visitor attractions in Atlanta because of the unique and diverse collection of art from various cultures around the world. The entrance ticket costs $18 and children under 6 years can enter for free.

Book Now & Pay

Stone Mountain Park

One of the most popular outdoor attractions in Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park is a 3200-acre park in Northeast Atlanta. It is particularly known for its 825-high Stone Mountain with a huge carving of Confederate ‘heroes’ Stonewall Jackson, Jefferson Davis, and Robert E Lee. It is also known as the world’s largest granite outcrop and the carving is the largest high relief sculpture in the world. The park also features many outdoor recreational activities for families and a wide variety of on-site lodging options. It is an ideal space for adventure-seekers offering camping and hiking trails, golfing, seasonal festivals and events.

Book Now & Pay

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

A unique and engaging museum dedicated to American civil rights and global human rights struggles. Opened in 2014, it contains a 42,000-square-foot campus located in the heart of downtown Atlanta. It pays homage to the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and other global civil rights activists. It is an engaging cultural platform that connects the American Civil Rights Movement to today’s global human rights movements. The center is home to various art galleries that host numerous exhibitions by local and international artists all year round. Entry tickets are available online and on location.

Book Now & Pay

Popular Guided Tours in Atlanta