Things to do in Atlanta

While Atlanta is having a moment, thanks in part to recent movie and TV projects being filmed here, locals know this beloved city of the South has the character and soul to lead on its own. There’s something for everyone here, be it on the local music scene, in the restaurants, or around neighborhoods such as Sweet Auburn, where you can find Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park.

Hit the theater

Catch shows at Tony Award–winning Alliance Theatre. Founded in 1968, this theater has brought in big-name actors since its beginnings, typically hosting 10 productions a year, with many making it all the way to Broadway. For live music, the Tabernacle continues to be the go-to venue to see performances.

Escape to North Georgia wineries

Vineyards, just two hours north of the city, can make a day of wine tastings feel like a vacation. Expect to find people sipping award-winning chardonnays, zinfandels, and cabernets— the Dahlonega Plateau was designated a viticultural area in 2018.

Hang out in Little Five Points

Street art and murals decorate Moreland Avenue NE, the main street in Little Five Points (aka Little Five). This neighborhood is known for its art and shopping, but it’s also home to a local radio station, dive bars, over-the-top burgers, coffee shops, and music venues.

Build community in the garden

There are roughly 50 urban farms, and hundreds of community gardens, in the metro area. The farmers and volunteers are growing much more than the Georgia peach: think cabbage, herbs, melons, corn, and more. Classes and workshops are a great way to learn about these efforts — and get involved on your own.

Atlanta is a culinary city rooted in tradition, but also one that invites innovation. You can head downtown for soul food that has been delighting people since the 1940s, and dine at a James Beard–nominated chef’s trendy restaurant all in the same day. Barbecue is always a good idea (whether it’s classic meat-and-threes, Korean, or vegan-style), but there’s a whole world to taste depending on the neighborhood.

Downtown Decatur

Just 6 miles out of Atlanta, the suburb of Decatur is serving up some of the best food in the area with Spanish tapas, giant burritos, French bistro fare, and plenty more. Locally owned shops give you something to do while you wait for your table.

Inman Park

Not far from Little Five Points, this neighborhood is known for its food and bar scene, as well as the Krog Street Market. Take a bike along the Atlanta Beltline to cover more ground, and visit nearby Candler Park.

Atlanta Food Truck and Market

On weekends, people stream into the city’s first-ever food truck park. Some 40 food trucks sling barbecue, sandwiches, burgers, and more as people enjoy some al fresco dining. Always check hours ahead of time, and never expect the same vendors each week.

Old Fourth Ward

Breakfast and brunch are big in this area, just northeast of downtown. It’s also a great place to find Naples-style pizza, fried chicken, and fine dining in places such as the Ponce City Market.

Buford Highway (BuHi)

Once called “​​the Global Bazaar of The South,” this stretch of highway about 40 minutes outside of the city proper is a sight to behold. It’s where you can find pho parlors and Asian bakeries, taquerias and Ethiopian cafes, barbecued ribs and hot dogs. It’s the world of food on full display. For those looking for more variety but don’t want to leave the city, head to Midtown.