Littered with noteworthy artwork and consumed by a lavish food scene, Atlanta has something to offer all walks of life. From shopping locally crafted goods to consuming delectable cups of coffee, you don’t have to travel far to find something fun to do. For me, the city stands out not just for its tourist attractions, but for its local treasures and vibrant communities. Whether you’re visiting for a vacation or looking for something fun to do at home, I’ve crafted a list of my top five favorite activities to do while in Atlanta.
1. Ponce City Market- Standing as Atlanta’s largest adaptive reuse project, Ponce City Market breathes life and culture into its surrounding community. It has a food hall offering of unequalled array of choices, beautifully renovated living spaces, and direct access to the Beltline (a multi-use trail). Ponce City Market has become one of my favorite spots to visit while in the city. While visiting I always ensure that I stop by Hops Chickenfor a classic (yet delicious) chicken sandwich accompanied by a coffee from Dancing Goats Coffee Bar. As for shopping, you can never go wrong with a little splurge at Anthropologie or Lululemon.
If you’re really looking to amp up your date night or girl’s night out, I urge you to check out Skyline Park located on the roof of Ponce City Market. The scene is host to various carnival games, a miniature golf course, and great food. With admission of only $10 and games ranging from $1-3, it’s hard to pass on a mini carnival adventure.
2. The Beltline-If you’re looking for a more outdoorsy evening at Ponce City Market, you can rent bikes from Mountain High Outfitters and bike the Beltline. I must add a disclaimer that you have to be at least 18 years old or have parent permission to rent the bikes. The Beltline can connect you from Ponce City Market to Piedmont Park and even Krog Street Market. It’s a great way to get outdoors while still people watching around Ponce.
The Beltline is open for all non-motor modes of transportation and connects the robust restaurants and living spaces around the area. I love seeing all the dogs and visiting all the restaurants lining the Beltline.
3. Atlanta United Games-Approaching the halfway mark of its second season, Atlanta United is the team to beat in MLS. As much as everyone loves to win, what draws me to the team and the games is the diversity of both. Even within the supporters section you can find individuals from all walks of life. Atlanta has fully embraced the experience.
Ticket prices range from around $28 to upwards of $100, but the experience is worth it from any part of the stadium. Chants will be sung and a good time will be had by all at any Atlanta United Game.
4. The High Museum of Art- From the winding staircase filled with Grecian busts and fashion that resembles architecture to Jackson Pollock paintings, the High Museum’s ever-changing halls have something for everyone. All summer the High will have Winnie-the-Pooh: Exploring a Classic on display with general admission tickets priced at $15.
It's even great if you’re looking to take pictures of your friends “enjoying the art". The High is full of beautiful yet mysterious culture and prestige. It is genuinely a gift to have access to art in the way we do, and I highly recommend everyone take a friend with you to enjoy the High Museum of Art.
5. The Georgia Aquarium- Even as one of the more touristy aspects of Atlanta, the Georgia Aquarium is a diamond in the hot summer rough. The aquarium even has a 20% discount for visits on weekdays between 11 am - 4 pm and 30% discount every day after 4 pm. With a new puffin exhibit and immaculate shows and sites, the Georgia Aquarium is sure to excite the giddy child in us all.
One of my favorite memories at the Georgia Aquarium was going behind the scenes to interact with one of their penguins. All the proceeds helps with reconstruction and preservation of the species and the trainers work patiently with the animals for their safety. The aquarium is such a fun place for Atlanta natives and visitors alike!
Beating the Atlanta heat isn’t easy, but with a little bit of digging you can find an activity to fill your day with fun. All of these places are surrounded by a beautiful community that makes visiting Atlanta such an amazing experience. I always love venturing out of the suburbs searching for something new in the city, and hope that you can get a kick out of it as well.