places to visit in atlanta for free

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Atlanta

Best free things to do in atlanta.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

2. Piedmont Park

3. Centennial Olympic Park

4. Ponce City Market

5. Oakland Cemetery

6. Ebenezer Baptist Church

7. Lenox Square

8. The King Center

9. Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail

10. Atlantic Station

11. Buckhead

12. Emory University

13. Little Five Points

14. Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta

15. Perimeter Mall

16. Georgia State Capitol

17. Phipps Plaza

18. David J. Sencer CDC Museum

19. Virginia-Highland

20. The Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

21. Inman Park

22. Jackson Street Bridge

23. The Hub at Peachtree Center

24. Grant Park

25. AmericasMart Atlanta

26. Cascade Springs Nature Preserve

27. ASW Distillery

28. Georgia Governor's Mansion

29. Krog Street Tunnel

30. Sweet Auburn

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The 16 best free things to do in Atlanta

Walk Centennial Olympic Park and eat everything at Ponce City Market when tackling the best free things to do in Atlanta

Interestingly enough, tackling the best free things to do in Atlanta happens to be the very best way to explore the city’s outdoor offerings.

Start at Centennial Olympic Park, built for the 1996 summer Olympics, and then move onto the Atlanta Beltline, a still-unfinished former railway loop turned paved path that boasts 2,000 acres of park and more. The best part? All these double as fun things to do with kids in tow as well.

But nature aficionados are not the only folks that will appreciate the city ’ s gratis offerings. If you ’ re in town to taste the Atlanta's wondrous food offerings, temporarily step away from the  best restaurants and brunch spots to peruse the local food market scene: Peachtree Road Farmer ’ s Market showcases Georgia ’ s agricultural diversity every Saturday while the Ponce City Market is a 2.1-million-square-foot space that's home to a variety of food stalls and eateries, including four James Beard award-winning chefs

Music fiends, on the other hand, will be delighted by one of the largest free music events in the country when the Atlanta Jazz Festival takes over the city during the warmer months. Like they say, the best things in life really do come for free.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Atlanta

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Best free things to do in Atlanta

1.  Atlanta Beltline

What is it: This 22-mile former railway loop encircling the city has found new life as a multi-use paved path that’s still under construction. When it’s finished (supposedly, in 2030), it will include 33 miles of trails, 2,000 acres of parks and will reconnect 45 in-town Atlanta neighborhoods, making it one of the U.S.’s largest urban redevelopment programs.

Why go: Depending on when you visit, the Beltline can range from peaceful to bustling, but it’s always interesting. Enjoy the native plants lining the pathway and stop to appreciate the outdoor art installations by local and nationally known artists.

2.  Centennial Olympic Park

What is it: Built for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta, this 22-acre urban park in the city center is a popular site for year-round fun. It features more than 400,000 bricks engraved with the names of private donors who helped fund the park’s creation.  

Why go: A robust schedule of free outdoor concerts, fun runs and festivals keeps it fun. Kids of all ages love the splash pad in the shape of the Olympic rings.

3.  Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area

What is it: Just 20 miles east of Atlanta, this nature preserve feels a world away. With more than 30 miles of paved and unpaved trails, it’s a favorite urban outdoor destination for running, hiking, biking and nature walks.

Why go: Explore the diverse landscapes spread over more than 2,000 acres where experiencing Arabia Mountain’s granite terrain, farmlands, lakes and plenty of natural beauty. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it.

4.  Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary

What is it: This 250-acre sanctuary in Locust Grove is a haven for more than 1,500 abused, neglected and unwanted animals. The team of staff and volunteers creates a park-like setting complete with picnic tables for visitors to walk the one-mile trail to visit the animal enclosures. There’s never a fee to visit, but donations to cover operating expenses are encouraged.

Why go: Lions, tigers and bears, oh my! You’ll see all of those and more at this fun attraction that doubles as a worthy cause.

5.  Atlanta Jazz Festival

What is it: This Piedmont Park event showcasing jazz legends and up-and-coming talent is one of the largest free music events in the country. Look for musical pop-up events around the city all month long leading up to the Memorial Day weekend finale. Note: there are some tickets sold for VIP lounge experiences where food and drinks are included. But the sweet music is always free, man.

Why go: Any music lover will relish the chance to see gratis concerts in some of Atlanta’s prettiest environments.

6.  Silver Comet Trail

What is it: This suburban Atlanta trail follows an old railroad line for 61 miles, with cool sites and offshoots that could take days to fully explore. The wheelchair-accessible paved trail is a favorite for walkers, cyclists, hikers and rollerbladers. Well-behaved horses and dogs are welcome, too.

Why go: This peaceful trail is one of the longest paved pathways in the country and winds through lush forests, rolling countryside and even a few historic small towns.

7.  Ponce City Market

What is it: Clocking in at 2.1 million square feet of mixed-use retail and restaurant space, this former Sears, Roebuck & Co. and City Hall East building (built in 1926) is one of Atlanta’s best examples of repurposed historic structures. It’s also a destination for shopaholics and foodies, thanks to a myriad of food stalls and eateries, including four by James Beard award-winning chefs.

Why go: In addition to ogling the cool architecture, the management team behind PCM offers a year-round roster of free events that includes a weekly community farmers’ market, Shed Sweat and Shed Stretch events (by PCM tenants The Forum Athletic Club and CorePower Yoga, respectively), Atlanta Humane Society puppy adoption pop-ups and Fourth of July fireworks.

8.  Georgia Governor’s Mansion

What is it: This 1967 Greek Revival-style mansion presides over the most prestigious residential street in Buckhead, West Paces Ferry Road. The 30-room, three-story home is the official residence of Georgia’s governor and includes artifacts and furnishings dating back to the 1700s.

Why go: History and architecture buffs will love the free tours, offered three days a week.

9.  Atlanta Monetary Museum

What is it: Atlanta is home to the Sixth Federal Reserve, where millions in cash are counted, sorted and shredded every day. Visit for a free self-guided tour of the attached museum (or gratis guided group tours, with advance notice) and you’ll get to peek at the high-tech vault system, a collection of rare coins and get the inside scoop on the Fed’s day-to-day operations and more.

Why go: It may not cost any Benjamins to get in, but you’ll see plenty at this cool, educational spot in downtown Atlanta.

10.  Inman Park Festival

What is it: Every spring, Atlanta’s first planned neighborhood hosts this dynamic street festival. Vendors selling everything from fine art and fashion to jewelry and home goods take over the streets lined with restored Victorian homes the last full weekend in April each year.

Why go: Enjoy the spring weather, have a locally brewed craft beer and don’t miss the eclectic parade marching through the streets on Saturday afternoon.

11.  MODA

What is it: The Museum of Design Atlanta is the Southeast’s only museum dedicated completely to the study and celebration of design, including exhibits on architecture, interiors, furniture, fashion, graphics, industrial design and urban planning. The exhibits are engaging, some are interactive and all invite your imagination to run wild.

Why go: While there’s normally an admission fee, visit on Design Club Days (the second Saturday of each month) to explore cutting-edge installations and age-appropriate STEAM activities for free.

12.  Virginia-Highland Summerfest

What is it: This vibrant street and live music festival takes over one of intown Atlanta’s charming neighborhoods (named after the intersection of Virginia and North Highland Avenues) for a weekend in late May or early June each year. A juried art showcase, makers' market of artisan goods, a 5k fun run, activities for kiddos and tons of food and craft drinks mean everyone’s going to be happy.

Why go: There’s plenty to tempt you to open your wallet (locally made gifts you won’t find anywhere else, for example) but, if you’re on a no-spend plan, live music on multiple outdoor stages will enthrall you.

13.  Peachtree Road Farmers’ Market

What is it: Georgia’s agricultural diversity is on display at weekly farmers’ markets around the city, but this Saturday morning market (March through December) is one of the best. As the largest producer-only market, it allows only goods that are grown, made or raised by the sellers, sustaining fair prices.

Why go: You’ll have to take out your wallet if you want to purchase locally roasted coffee, artisan cheese, meat or produce from more than 50 vendors, but there’s a ton to enjoy for free at this leashed dog-friendly market, including live music and chef demos (with samples!).

14.  Sweet Auburn SpringFest

What is it: This fun festival takes over a mile and a half of the historic Sweet Auburn District in downtown for a weekend each spring. Ten music stages, vendors selling everything from art to comfort food, and kid-friendly activities and rides make it enjoyable for the whole family.

Why go: The Southeast’s largest free outdoor festival doesn’t disappoint and proves that the district made famous by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is as vibrant as ever.

15.  David J. Sencer CDC Museum

What is it: Atlanta’s home to the Center for Disease Control’s HQ and weekday visitors can get a free up-close look at the organization’s contributions in combating global health epidemics. The multimedia Global Symphony installation highlights how CDC staffers work to make the world a healthier place.

Why go: Science-curious visitors of all ages will have fun trying on a BSL 4 lab suit to get a perspective on the lengths researchers brave to uncover medical breakthroughs.

16.  Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

What is it: Atlanta’s northwest suburbs are home to 17 miles of interpretive trails (a favorite hiking destination for locals), monuments and a museum dedicated to the Battle of Atlanta during the Civil War.

Why go: History buffs and outdoor enthusiasts will be equally happy to get some fresh air and spectacular views.

Need a pick-me-up?

The 11 best spas in Atlanta

Atlanta may be stationed in the South, but it’s every bit an international city and business hub with hustle and bustle to spare, so it’s no wonder that Atlantas (and visitors) take their need for tranquility seriously: enter the best spas in Atlanta. 

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• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

55 Free Things to Do in Atlanta, GA — Places to Go for Free!

Who says you need to break the bank to enjoy your stay in Atlanta, Georgia?

Sure, there are expensive things to do in The Big Peach, like going to amusement parks and shopping.

But there are also free things to do in Atlanta, GA, making it the ideal destination for travelers on a shoestring budget.

Are you one of those who want to have a good time in The Big A or nearby without spending a dime?

Pack your bags and kick off your epic adventure with these places that won’t cost you a thing:

1. Arabia Mountain

3350 Klondike Road Stonecrest, GA 30038 (404) 998-8384

Located along I-20, this heritage area spans over 40,000 acres.

It’s home to over 30 miles of multi-use trails, historic sites, and lakes.

Why We Recommend This Free Activity

Don’t know what to do this weekend?

Hike along the Arabia Mountain PATH and experience nature at its finest.

Discover flora such as loblolly pines, hickories, and tulip poplars.

Marvel at the great-horned owls, spotted salamanders, and lichen grasshoppers that have made this beautiful space their home, too.

If you run out of parking space in the two main lots, AWARE and Nature Center, park right by the mountain and just walk to the preserve.

You have two options for parking by the mountain: Vaughter’s Farm Lot or Polebridge Trailhead.

2. Atlanta BeltLine

100 Peachtree St #2300 Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 477-3003

This 22-mile open and planned loop is on a former railway corridor.

The loop is home to at least seven parks, art installations, and restaurants.

One of the free activities in Atlanta you can’t miss is biking the unused railroad tracks connecting the city’s neighborhoods.

Feast your eyes on open green spaces as you explore the long trail.

You can make a stop at Art on the BeltLine, too, the largest temporary outdoor art exhibition in the South.

Bike along the Atlanta BeltLine on a Wednesday.

This is so you can attend yoga classes in Grant Park at 6 p.m.

It’s free fun in Atlanta that you’ll appreciate.

3. Atlanta Monetary Museum

1000 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 498-8500

This museum showcases the uses of money from barter to modern times.

It’s in the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.

If you’re looking for free places to go in Atlanta today, this museum should be on your list.

You can learn more about the history of banking in the country through artifacts on display.

Check out the examples of rare coins and currencies here, too.

You can hold complimentary self-guided tours of the museum from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Thursday.

Bring a valid government ID.

It’s a requirement for the tour.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta

4. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Heritage Center

9770 Autrey Mill Road Johns Creek, GA 30022 (678) 366-3511

Spanning 46 acres, this nature preserve houses two miles of trails and a visitor center.

It’s also home to a Heritage Village and an educational area for children.

Visiting this center is one of the popular free things to do in Atlanta with kids.

Why wouldn’t it be?

The young ones can learn more about the world around them through games and crafts in the Living Lab.

You can also marvel at the replica of Native American dwellings in the Heritage Village.

Visit the center on a Sunday.

This way, you can hit two birds with one stone and attend the center’s weekly Sunday Socials.

You can make vintage craft on the porch of one of the center’s historic homes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Northpoint

5. The Carter Center

453 John Lewis Freedom Parkway Atlanta, GA 30307 (404) 420-5100

Former President Jimmy Carter founded this center aimed at promoting human rights.

The center houses the Carter Presidential Library, a Japanese garden, and a koi pond.

This is one of the free attractions in Atlanta worth exploring.

On the 35-acre center grounds, you’ll find the Circle of Flags from all 50 states.

Walk a bit more, and you’ll find a beautiful garden with over 40 varieties of roses.

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum offers free admission to children under 16, while adults have to pay a minimal fee to enter.

But, with the many things you can learn about Carter’s work in the museum, paying for the entrance is still one of the cheap things to do in Atlanta.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Reverb by Hard Rock Atlanta Downtown

Related: Things to Do in Atlanta, GA

6. Centennial Olympic Park

265 Park Avenue Atlanta, GA 30313 (404) 223-4412

The Georgia World Congress Center Authority operates this 22-acre park in downtown Atlanta.

The park was part of infrastructure improvements made for the 1996 Summer Olympics.

There’s a lot of free stuff to do with the family here.

Take the little ones to the Fountain of Rings, where they can view water dances and colorful lights amid beautiful music.

Hold a self-guided audio tour as you explore the park and learn more about the 1996 Olympic Games.

Check out the park’s website for a list of free events in Atlanta you can attend.

For example, you can go on a 10K run or visit a pop-up market filled with holiday trees the same day you visit the park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency Atlanta

7. Fernbank Science Center

156 Heaton Park Drive Atlanta, GA 30307 (678) 874-7102

The DeKalb County School System manages this educational hub founded in 1967.

The hub is home to a 9000-square-foot exhibit hall, a library, an observatory, and a planetarium.

Kids can learn more about scientific concepts in the center.

Take them to the space exhibit that includes the actual Apollo 6 capsule so they can learn more about galaxies and planets.

There’s an exhibit featuring live animals such as poison dart frogs and snakes for that interesting lesson on biology.

The center offers complimentary admission to the exhibit hall, observatory, and library.

However, you still need to present tickets upon your arrival.

You can reserve your tickets online on the center’s website.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Wylie Hotel

Also See: Free Things to Do in Savannah

8. Georgia Capitol Museum

206 Washington Street Atlanta, GA 30334 (404) 463-4536

Housed in the Capitol building, this museum is under the administration of the University of Georgia Libraries.

It features artwork, memorials, and a Hall of Valor.

Understand Georgia better as you scour the dioramas depicting its climate regions and the governor’s artifacts on display throughout the building.

You’ll find a collection of rocks and minerals on the top floor illustrating Georgia’s rich and diverse natural resources.

Complimentary guided tours are available for groups with a minimum of five people to a maximum of 30.

From January to May and September through December, they take place from Mondays to Fridays, at 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m., and 11:30 a.m.

From June to August, group guided tours are available on weekdays at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown, an IHG Hotel

9. Georgia Governor’s Mansion

391 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30305 (404) 656-1776

This 24000 square-foot mansion sits on an 18-acre estate.

Built in 1968, it serves as the official residence of Georgia governors, including Jimmy Carter and George Busbee Sr.

The mansion is an architectural gem, with its Greek Revival style punctuated by 30 Doric columns along the front porch.

You’ll also find one of the finest Federal collections of art and furnishings in the country.

A fine arts committee secured the furnishings when the mansion’s construction was ongoing from 1960 to 1967.

Make sure you arrive before 11 a.m.

This will give you enough time to complete the 30-minute tour before the mansion closes at 11:30 a.m.

The complimentary tour is one of the free things in Atlanta you should take advantage of, especially when on a budget.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead

Related: Things to Do with Kids in Atlanta

10. High Museum of Art

1280 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 733-4400

This museum stands at 312,000 square feet.

It’s one of the largest museums for visual arts in the Southeastern United States.

The museum is home to over 18,000 pieces of African works, folk and decorative art, and photographs.

Check out the interactive installations for the museum’s central Sifly Piazza, which include Los Trompos designed by Ignacio Cadena and Tiovivo by Jaime Hayon.

The museum offers complimentary admission every second Saturday of each month, from noon to 5 p.m.

Beyond those days, active and past military personnel with one guest each, museum members, and children under 6 can enter the museum at no cost.

Check in your big bag at the coat desk without spending a dime before you enter the museum.

The service is complimentary.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton

11. Kennesaw Mountain

900 Kennesaw Mountain Drive Kennesaw, GA 30152 (770) 427-4686

This mountain between Marietta and Kennesaw has a summit elevation of 1808 feet.

It’s the highest point in the main metro Atlanta area.

Hike the 17.3 miles of trails to get to the mountain, and you’ll get stunning views of historic earthworks and cannon emplacements.

The Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield is quite a sight, serving as a Civil War battleground of the Atlanta campaign from June 19 to July 2, 1864.

You must buy a day pass to access the mountain and everything else.

However, the National Park Service offers fee-free days every year.

Check out the list of these days on the NPS website so you can schedule your visit.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Atlanta/Marietta Hotel & Conference Center

12. Marietta Fire Museum

112 Haynes Street Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 794-5466

The museum showcases the history of Marietta’s fire department.

It features tools and gear dating back to 1854.

Get an overview of how the Marietta Fire Department came to be and the evolution of its firefighting techniques through informational exhibits that include old photographs.

Don’t forget to check out the old fire-fighting equipment on display, such as the 1879 Silsby steamer.

One of only five horse-drawn pumpers, the steamer nicknamed The Aurora served Georgia until 1921.

You can park your car at the Marietta City Hall parking deck.

Just make sure you bring your parking ticket to the museum for validation.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Kennesaw

13. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

450 Auburn Avenue Atlanta, GA 30312 (404) 331-5190

This national park opened in 1980.

It consists of 35 acres of land that include sites related to the life of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.

See Martin Luther King Jr.’s modest two-story home, preserved as before.

Head to the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where you can listen to the civil rights leader’s impassioned speeches.

The ranger-led complimentary birth home tours allow up to 15 people and are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Get your timed ticket from the Visitor or King Center.

It’s best to go early in the week or on a Sunday to ensure you get your spot.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ellis Hotel, Atlanta, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Related: Atlanta Attractions

14. Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary

712 L G Griffin Road Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 957-0888

Founded in 1978, this sanctuary features over 1500 rescued animals.

These animals include horses, deer, cougars, and monkeys.

Walk the trails and feast your eyes on beautiful animals in a setting that mimics their natural habitat.

You can cap off your day with a picnic in the open green space under gorgeous blue skies.

Download the park map from the sanctuary’s website to easily navigate the area.

After all, only self-guided tours are complimentary.

That means you’ll have to explore the park on your own and make the most out of your visit in the allowable time.

The park allows self-guided tours from Tuesday to Thursday, starting 12 noon to 3 p.m.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Locust Grove

15. Piedmont Park

1320 Monroe Drive Atlanta, GA 30306 (404) 875-7275

This urban park, created in 1895, spans 75 hectares.

It houses a playground, a splash pad, a pool, and a dog park.

Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city as you soak in the beautiful nature views the park offers.

Walk around the meadow and marvel at the majestic trees and blue skies.

Then, end your relaxing day with a picnic on the green grass.

Swing by the park between April and the first Monday of May.

During this time, the park hosts the Atlanta Jazz Festival believed to be one of the largest in the country.

You can enjoy the music of emerging talented artists here.

And it’s free stuff in Atlanta, GA.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Starling Atlanta Midtown, Curio Collection by Hilton

16. Silver Comet Trail

S. Cobb Drive to Stateline Gateway Park Atlanta, GA 30080-30126 (770) 528-8800

This pedestrian rail trail runs for 61.5 miles.

It begins in Smyrna and wanders through the Cobb, Paulding, and Polk counties.

Immerse in nature as you bike along the paved trails giving panoramic vistas.

You’ll see historic sites, too, such as the 1901 train trestle in Dallas, Georgia, restored in 1999.

The trestle is the gateway to remote areas along the trail.

If you plan to complete the entire trail, stay in Cedartown or Rockmart.

The entire trail takes an average of 19 hours and 52 minutes to complete, and that’s just one way.

Riding a bike for almost 20 hours on the road is too physically draining.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Hiram, GA

17. Tiny Doors ATL

Atlanta, GA 30301-31196 (404) 528-8017

This is a series of 7-inch doors scattered across Atlanta.

Artist Karen Anderson Singer created over 20 numbered miniature sculptures.

Why not go on a fun adventure and locate all the tiny doors in the city?

You’ll thrill your visual sense with every discovery, too.

After all, each door is a beautiful reflection of the spirit of its corresponding neighborhood.

“Open” these doors via augmented reality through the Instagram app.

Go to @tinydoorsatl and tap the star symbol in the middle of the screen.

Then select the filter with the door right in front of you and tap “try it.”

Point your camera at the door, and voila.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Canopy By Hilton Atlanta Midtown

18. Westside Park

1660 Johnson Road Atlanta, GA 30318 (404) 546-6813

This oasis features 2.5 miles of trails, a playground, and a reservoir.

It encompasses 280 acres of green space.

Tantalize your visual sense as you go through the park’s iconic dinosaur rib cage entrance.

Once inside, you can enjoy complimentary activities that can help you recharge.

Enjoy panoramic views of the reservoir from the grand overlook area.

Or just read your favorite book on a bench, with the majestic waters and blue skyline right ahead.

Don’t forget to visit Bellwood Quarry.

The quarry served as a filming location for famous TV series such as The Walking Dead, The Vampire Diaries, and Stranger Things.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Atlanta Marriott Suites Midtown

19. Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark

830 Willoughby Way Atlanta, GA 30312 (404) 590-7275

Located along the Eastside trail, this is Atlanta’s first public skatepark.

It features a playground and a multi-use athletic field.

You don’t have to be a skater to enjoy your stay here.

Have a picnic with the kids while you take in the gorgeous nature sights around you.

If you come alone, you can enjoy the live entertainment at the park, with talented skaters creating beautiful art with every toss and turn.

Walk right across the street to get to the Ponce City Market.

This converted historic Sears building houses restaurants, cafes, and unique shops.

Enjoy the bustling vibe tonight as diners and shoppers make their way to get the best deals.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Twelve Downtown, Autograph Collection

20. Little Shop of Stories

133 East Court Square Decatur, GA 30030 (404) 373-6300

Opened in 2005, this small bookshop features books of different genres, writing sessions, and popular festivals such as Decatur.

Check out the shop’s massive collection of publications ranging from romantic novels to thrillers and picture books.

Teach the children the value of reading in Storytime sessions at the Decatur Square gazebo on Tuesdays.

Children 3 and under can enjoy, not just fun stories but also some interactive play in Circle Time on Thursdays.

The bookstore occasionally invites book authors so they can speak about their recent work.

Check out the bookstore’s website for a schedule of these events.

Then schedule your visit to the bookstore accordingly.

Note that although the events are complimentary, you still need to pre-register.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Emory Conference Center Hotel

Related: Decatur Restaurants

21. Children’s Museum of Atlanta

275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive Atlanta, GA 30313 (404) 659-5437

This museum first opened its doors in 2003.

It features exhibits that allow hands-on and exploratory learning for young children across different disciplines.

Your children will enjoy the engaging scientific demonstrations on anything from the solar system to plant growth here.

They won’t get enough of the interactive kiosks, allowing them to experience life on a farm or cook healthy meals.

Only babies 11 months and below and museum members can enjoy complimentary admission on regular days.

However, on Free Days, everyone can enter the museum at no cost.

Check out the schedule of these Free Days on the museum’s website and plan your visit accordingly.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center

22. Woodruff Park

91 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 658-1877

This 6-acre park is in the Fairlie-Poplar Historic District.

It’s home to a playground, a fountain, and a performance pavilion.

Enjoy quality me-time in this place, with its nature setting that makes it the perfect place for meditation.

Take a stroll along the paved paths that cut through open green spaces.

Or just sit on the green grass and admire the serenity of your surroundings.

Attend a complimentary yoga class on the lawn in the park’s center.

The 60-minute classes take place every Saturday.

Make sure you bring your own mat to use.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel

23. Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve

2580 Pine Bluff Drive Decatur, GA 30033 (678) 466-0572

This nature preserve encompasses 28 acres of wetlands, uplands, and pine forests along the floodplain of South Peachtree Creek.

It’s home to over 300 species of native Georgia plants and animals.

Walk 1.1 miles of trails and enjoy sightings of insects and amphibians just roaming around the preserve.

Check out Raccoon Rock to see how these cute mammals live in their natural habitat.

Schedule your visit on the first or third Saturday of a month.

This is so you can participate in the sponsored nature hike through the preserve on those days.

Make sure you’re in the main pavilion at 9 a.m. sharp for the tour.

There’s complimentary parking on Pine Bluff if you bring your car.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta Decatur/Emory

24. Living Walls Atlanta Murals

Atlanta, GA 30301-31196

Atlanta is home to at least 50 street murals developed by Living Walls, a team of storytellers and artist liaisons.

Delight your visual sense with the colorful designs right in front of you.

You’ll appreciate the diversity of artistic styles and subjects, too.

Think humans, plants, and even food rendered in realist and expressionist pop art styles.

Create an itinerary before you head out to save time.

To do this, go to the Living Walls website and check its list of murals.

Click on a mural, and you’ll get its exact location on the map.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Loews Atlanta Hotel

25. Blue Heron Nature Preserve

4055 Roswell Road Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 946-6394

This nature preserve spans 30 acres.

It features four distinct habitats, each with its own flora and fauna.

Explore diverse ecosystems such as meadows, woodlands, wetlands, and riparian environments without leaving the city.

If you walk along the 3-mile Blueway Trail, you’ll catch a glimpse of beavers, birds, and turtles just hanging out.

If you’re using public transportation to the nature preserve, take Bus Route 5 and get off at Blue Heron.

You can bike to the preserve, too.

However, you can’t take your single-track vehicle inside.

You must leave your bike in front of the main building and walk.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Whitley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Atlanta Buckhead

26. David J. Sencer CDC Museum

1600 Clifton Road Atlanta, GA 30329 (404) 639-0830

This museum derives its name from the longest-serving director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

It organizes changing and permanent exhibits that teach the importance of public health.

Learn more about how scientists crack mystery diseases using sleuthing techniques and high-tech scientific equipment.

If you go on a guided tour, you can even try on a BSL 4 lab suit and be a scientist for a day.

Make sure everyone in your group above the age of 18 brings a valid government-issued ID.

For non-US citizens, passports will do.

You’ll need to show the documentation to be allowed complimentary admission.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Clermont Atlanta, An Original by Oliver Hotels

27. Lullwater Preserve

1463 Clifton Road Decatur, GA 30033 (404) 727-6123

Located on Emery University’s North Decatur campus, this preserve spans 154 acres.

It’s home to a lake, a bridge, and the remains of an old powerhouse.

Read a book on the banks of Candler Lake, just underneath a tall majestic tree.

After your reading session, explore the old octagonal powerhouse tower.

Climb two stories of stacked stone and look up to see the beautiful skies above.

Don’t take the main entrance to the preserve because you likely won’t find a parking spot.

Look for the Hahn Woods or the VA Center entrances instead.

You’ll find small parking spaces in those areas.

Then just walk to the preserve.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Atlanta – Northeast I-85 – Clairmont Road, an IHG Hotel

28. Atlantic Station

1380 Atlantic Drive Atlanta, GA 30363 (404) 733-1221

This neighborhood is a popular Midtown hotspot.

It features over 30 dining, shopping options, and cultural institutions, like the Millennium Gate Museum.

Experience the city vibe as you walk the bustling streets of this popular neighborhood.

Check out the stores with their vast array of wares.

Don’t forget to take in the beautiful sights with the standout modern structures around you.

Take advantage of the complimentary events held here.

Attend a yoga, pilates, or barre class on the green lawn.

Or check out local products in Friday Night Maker’s Market.

Check out the list of these events on the Atlantic Station site so you can plan accordingly.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: AC Hotel by Marriott Atlanta Midtown

29. The Goat Farm

1200 Foster Street Atlanta, GA 30318

This 19th-century industrial complex in West Midtown serves as the creative space of over 300 artists.

It also serves as an events venue.

The complex has stood the test of time since its construction between 1889 and 1912.

You’ll appreciate the signs of its old age, such as the faded painted letters on walls and stained brick cornices.

Head to the nearby Westside Provisions District after your self-guided tour.

Enjoy the modern feel of the commercial district, which is a popular destination for boutique shopping.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta

30. Jackson Street Bridge

433 Freedom Park Trail Atlanta, GA 30312 (404) 521-6600

Located in Old Fourth Ward, the bridge has made several appearances in famous shows such as The Walking Dead.

The bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Atlanta for the breathtaking views it gives of the city.

Visit the bridge at night for an Instagram-worthy of Atlanta filled with bright, colorful lights.

You can’t park on the bridge.

You can instead avail of complimentary parking on a sidestreet at Wesley Dobbs Avenue.

Then, walk less than two blocks to get to the famous tourist spot.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: AC Hotel Atlanta Downtown

31. Castleberry Hill

Atlanta, GA 30302 (404) 913-9246

This neighborhood is Atlanta’s eighth landmark district.

It’s home to retail shops, restaurants, and The Gulch.

The Gulch is a patch of undeveloped space that has appeared on popular TV shows such as The Walking Dead and Stranger Things.

The neighborhood has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1985.

And for a good reason.

It represents the entire warehouse district still existing in Atlanta.

Its railway is even as old as Atlanta itself, founded in 1847.

Swing by the Castleberry Market on Mondays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Explore the stalls offering a wide array of local and organic products amid live music.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Atlanta Downtown

32. Krog Street Tunnel

1 Krog Street Atlanta, GA 30307 (404) 492-0847

This tunnel links Reynoldstown, Inman Park, and Cabbagetown.

It’s a famous tourist destination for its colorful street art.

The tunnel is a visual delight, with its beautiful wall drawings ranging from Donald Duck to purple flowers and snakes.

You can even find details of shows and local events listed on the walls here.

Krog Street Market is just a 10-minute stroll from the tunnel.

Check out the local delicacies served in this market set up way back in the 1920s.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park

33. Chastain Park

4001 Powers Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30342 (678) 575-1094

The park encompasses 268 acres of land.

Considered Atlanta’s third largest park in Atlanta, this famous tourist spot is home to a pool, walking trails, and an amphitheater.

Bond with your canine friend as you play a game of frisbee on the green grass.

You can walk the paved trail afterward and enjoy the nature views as the sun sets.

If you park on the Red Lot as other park visitors do, make sure you stay there only until 4 p.m. on concert days.

Beyond 4 p.m., you’ll have to pay a fee for parking.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta, an IHG Hotel

34. Sweet Auburn Market

209 Edgewood Avenue Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 659-1665

Also called the Municipal Market, this bazaar first opened its doors to the public in 1924.

It gathers at least 20 merchants who offer wares ranging from meat to plants and souvenirs.

Get your adrenaline going as you move from one stall to the other for one-of-a-kind finds.

Or be the silent observer.

You’ll feel all the energy in the area rubbing off on you as you watch people walking with excitement.

Attend a complimentary event – whether a food demo or a live musical performance – hosted by the market.

You can check out the market’s website for a schedule of these events so you can make plans accordingly.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Centric Midtown Atlanta

35. Marietta Square Market

68 North Marietta Parkway Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 992-1464

This market is in a revitalized warehouse space.

It features over 18 eateries offering a wide array of delicacies.

Experience the incredible food scents from each stall here as you wade through the crowd in this busy market.

Your furry friend on the patio will delight in the experience, too.

There are multiple parking spaces for your vehicle near the market.

However, they only come at no cost for two hours with ticket validation.

So, just walk to the market to avoid purchasing anything for ticket validation.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Kennesaw

36. Big Trees Forest Preserve

7645 Roswell Road Sandy Springs, GA 30350 (770) 673-0111

This nature preserve encompasses 30 acres of land in nearby Sandy Springs.

It’s home to three trails, Backcountry, Spring Hollow, and Jackson Overlook.

Bask in the wonders of nature as you hike the long oval trail around the back 20 acres of the preserve.

You’ll find a cliff hanging above the cascading Power Branch gorge.

Then a little farther are the large colonies of colorful azaleas and wildflowers.

If you’re coming from the city center, you can easily take the bus to the park.

Take the #87 bus from Dunwoody station.

Get off at the North Fulton County Government Center.

You’ll find the trailhead in the parking lot south of the government center.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter

37. Dunwoody Nature Center

5343 Roberts Drive Dunwoody, GA 30338 (770) 394-3322

This center encompasses 22 acres of green spaces.

It features woodland trails, a playground, and Wildcat Creek.

Take a stroll along two miles of trails for your daily routine workout.

With the tall trees in the Piedmont forest and wetlands, you get the added benefit of beautiful nature views.

If you’re taking public transportation to the nature center, know that transit lines 150, 401, 85, or 87 pass near the park.

If you’re using the subway, take the red line.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina

38. Newman Wetlands Center

2755 Freeman Road Hampton, GA 30228 (770) 603-5606

The center first opened its doors in 1995.

The park is home to wetlands, wildflowers, and approximately one mile of trails.

Marvel at the wetland ecology and wildlife as you hike the Boardwalk Loop trail.

Then take a self-guided birdwatching tour for the perfect cap-off to your nature experience.

To avail of the complimentary self-guided tours, you must reserve slots in advance.

There should also be at least ten people in your group.

Park staff give the tours from Tuesday to Friday and on Saturdays, if requested in advance.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Atlanta Stockbridge

39. Abernathy Greenway Park North

70 Abernathy Road Sandy Springs, GA 30328 (770) 730-5600

This linear park first opened in 2014. Spanning 6.6 acres, it’s home to playable art structures, a pavilion, and picnic tables.

Immerse your children in exploratory and interactive play here.

The Twist and Shout playable art structure helps improve the young ones’ motor skills with its looping steel tubing.

The Big Imagine, meanwhile, consists of reinvented functional swings that obscure the sky.

So your children can imagine what exists behind the swings instead.

The best place to visit with the children is in winter, spring or fall.

It can get sweltering in the park, with barely any shade during the summer.

And since the slides in the playground are of stone, the children won’t be able to use them either.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crowne Plaza Hotel Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia, an IHG Hotel

40. Babyland General Hospital

300 NOK Drive Cleveland, GA 30528 (706) 865-2171

Located in the North Georgia Mountains, this Southern-style home is the “birthplace” of Cabbage Patch Kids dolls, famous in the 1980s.

Witness the “birthing” of the famous dolls from Mother Tree amid the “cries” of babies in the nurseries.

Check out the Cabbage Patch, too, pollinated by “bees” and tended to by the establishment’s “licensed doctors and nurses.”

If you’re coming from Atlanta, it will take you 1.5 hours by car to get here.

But that’s assuming you get to avoid Atlanta traffic.

You can do that by leaving Atlanta around 10 a.m.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sylvan Valley Lodge and Cellars

41. Bear Hollow Zoo

293 Gran Ellen Drive Athens, GA 30606 (706) 613-3580

This zoo is in Memorial Park.

It houses non-releasable native wildlife such as red foxes, American alligators, and deer.

The children will love the diverse fauna allowed to roam in a nature-like environment.

Picture black bears, bald eagles, and red foxes relaxing in their own big spaces.

The self-guided tours on Mondays and Tuesdays are complimentary.

However, you still need to pre-register to ensure a good experience for all park visitors.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Graduate Athens

42. Elachee Nature Science Center (Also Known As Elachee Nature Center)

2125 Elachee Drive Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 535-1976

This environmental center is in the Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve.

It features a 12.24-mile trail system, an aviary, and a nature school.

If you don’t want to spend a dime here, just stick to hiking.

You’ll already get your hands full with the center’s eight trails to explore.

The trails cut across diverse ecosystems – from forests to creeks and streams – so your visual sense will be happy, too.

It’s best to walk or bike to get to the park.

You will have to pay a minimal fee if you bring a vehicle.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Gainesville

43. Folk Art Park

Courtland Street Atlanta, GA 30308 (404) 631-1990

This was the Georgia Department of Transportation’s first public art project.

The park houses art installations by notable regional folk artists such as Vollis Simpson and Archie Byron.

Stimulate your visual sense here.

Think star-like structures, a landscape filled with cows and human faces, all rendered in cardboard-like material, stone or clay.

Go to the Atlanta History Center after exploring the park since it’s just a 15-minute drive.

You’d have to drop by on a day when admission is complimentary for all visitors.

Check the center’s website first for a schedule of these complimentary admissions.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Midtown

44. Goats on the Roof

3026 US-441 Tiger, GA 30576 (706) 782-2784

This shop is home to 12 flavors of homemade fudge, fresh ice cream, and 14 goats walking on the rooftop.

The goats are the main attraction here, all grazing on the roof, as the shop’s name suggests.

You can even feed the goats in three designated spots if you decide to eat here.

Check out Tiger Mountain Vineyards after your stop here.

The establishment is only 1.2 miles away from Goats on the Roof.

You can get complimentary wine tasting here, so it’s well worth the short trip.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The White Birch Inn

45. Labyrinth in Rome

402 Civic Center Drive Rome, GA 30161 (706) 236-4416

On the space occupied by this tourist attraction stood an amphitheater built in the 1930s.

This labyrinth contains 5,490 bricks laid end-to-end.

You don’t see thousands of bricks laid out in a spiral shape on grass every day.

With the beautiful trees in the background, expect a visual delight.

The bricks aren’t just there for decorative purposes.

They serve a purpose.

Follow the bricks until you reach the center of the labyrinth.

You’ll feel more focused and refreshed.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn and Suites Rome, GA

46. National Infantry Museum

1775 Legacy Way Columbus, GA 31903 (706) 685-5800

This museum showcases the heroism of American soldiers through artifacts, interactive exhibits, and video presentations.

It opened to the public in 2009.

Marvel at the historical artifacts on display here, part of the 100,000 collected by the museum throughout the over 240 years of American military history.

You’ll also love the life-sized soldiers’ sculptures and the replicas of huge military equipment and historical medals.

The museum has no admission fee, but the management strongly encourages a donation.

Make sure you get the Visitor’s Guide from museum staff before you start your self-guided tour.

Allot at least three hours for your tour.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Columbus-Fort Benning, an IHG Hotel

47. Museum of Aviation

1942 Heritage Boulevard Robins AFB, GA 31098 (478) 926-6870

This museum stands on 51 acres of land next to the Robins Airforce Base.

It houses four exhibit buildings that showcase the role of the Robins Airforce Base in US aviation history.

Check out the 85 historic US aircraft housed in the museum’s exhibit buildings.

Then go to the second floor of the Century of Flight Hangar to see who made it to the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame.

Take note of the museum’s operating hours during holidays.

If a holiday falls on a Saturday, the museum also considers the preceding Friday one.

If a holiday falls on a Sunday, the Monday that comes after it is also one.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Warner Robins AFB

48. Reynolds Nature Preserve

5665 Reynolds Road Morrow, GA 30260 (770) 603-4188

This nature sanctuary encompasses 146 acres of protected forest lands.

It’s home to a pollinator garden, three miles of trails, and a barn.

Take a stroll under majestic oaks and pine trees.

Then, soak in the beautiful ponds and wetlands along the way for the perfect commune with nature.

Make sure you visit the preserve on the second Wednesday of any month.

This is so you can join the complimentary bird-watching hikes organized by the park through Georgia Audubon.

Georgia Audubon is an organization committed to preserving nature, including birds.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn & Suites Atlanta Morrow

49. Midtown

Midtown Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 546-6744

This busy Atlanta neighborhood is a tourist destination for its vibrant art scene, dining options, and festivals.

Enjoy the urban feel in this place, with the towering skyscrapers and office buildings around you.

The neighborhood comes to life at night, with the colorful lights you see everywhere.

Check out Midtown on St. Patrick’s Day.

This way, you can see the popular festival parade that starts at the intersection of Peachtree and 15th Streets.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta-Midtown, GA

50. Suwanee Town Center Park

330 Town Center Avenue Suwanee, GA 30024 (770) 945-8996

This park first opened in 2003.

The park features three interlinking walkways, a 1000-seat amphitheater, and an interactive fountain.

The park serves as Suwanee’s community gathering place, and you’ll see why.

Children and parents sit on open green spaces on blankets for their picnics.

Joggers and bikers also frequent the paved trails, creating a busy ambiance.

The park holds frequent complimentary events for the community.

Check out the Suwanee government’s website for a list of these events.

These can range from live musical performances to cookouts and popup markets.

Pick one event you’re interested in and plan your visit to the park accordingly.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard Atlanta Suwanee

51. Buford Highway Farmers Market

5600 Buford Highway Doraville, GA 30340 (770) 455-0770

This spacious market is home to a wide variety of local produce and international products.

The Atlanta Oriental Food Wholesale manages the market.

You’ll find a wide selection of food from all over the world here, whether Chinese, Russian, or Eastern European.

The market is also home to local delicacies, which means you have everything under one roof.

If you plan to explore the entire market, wear comfortable shoes.

After all, you’d have to cover over 100,000 square feet of retail space.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn & Suites Atlanta Perimeter Dunwoody, an IHG Hotel

52. Brook Run Park

4770 North Peachtree Road Dunwoody, GA 30338 (678) 382-6850

This park is the largest one in the region.

It features a two-mile loop multi-use trail, a dog park, a playground, and event pavilions.

This is the perfect place for the sporty type.

Enjoy a baseball game with friends on any of the two huge fields here.

Then switch to soccer afterward, with the park’s two multi-use fields you can choose from.

Make sure you use the park’s facilities on designated Free Days.

For instance, Free Play hours on the baseball fields are 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Sundays.

For the multi-use fields, they’re 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Sundays.

Otherwise, you’re going to have to pay a fee.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: AC Hotel By Marriott Atlanta Perimeter

53. Georgian Terrace Hotel

659 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30308 (866) 976-3478

This hotel is part of the Fox Theatre Historic District.

It first opened in 1911 and was one of the hotels built outside the city’s business area.

The hotel is an architectural gem, with its Beaux Arts style intended to evoke Parisian structures.

Go inside, and you get an even more breathtaking view.

Picture white marble columns, elliptical stairs, and Italian-tiled floors.

The Fox Theatre is just one minute away, so swing by the place.

A former movie palace, the 1929 building, is on the National Historic Register.

54. DeKalb Farmers Market

3000 East Ponce de Leon Avenue Decatur, GA 30030 (404) 377-6400

This grocery store first opened to the public in 1977.

It houses various products, ranging from gadgets to food and flowers.

The market has it all in its 140,000-square-foot of retail space.

Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, you’ll enjoy exploring the store with its incredible finds.

Use the blue line if you’re taking the subway.

Then get off at Avondale Station.

It’s a 17-minute walk from there.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – Atlanta/Emory University Area, an IHG Hotel

55. Amicalola Falls State Park

418 Amicalola Falls State Park Road Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-8888

This park encompasses 829 acres.

It’s home to the Amicalola Falls, considered the highest waterfall in Georgia.

This is one of the free things to do in Atlanta, GA, or nearby you shouldn’t miss.

Hike any of the 14 miles of trails that take you to the Amicalola Falls, and you’ll get stunning views of nature all around.

You get an even more incredible view when you get to your final destination.

The waterfalls look magical as they drop 729 feet from above.

There are other ways you can get a view of the falls.

Hike from the bottom of the park up 604 steps, then stop at the park’s viewing platform.

Or use the ADA access West Ridge trail, which is only 0.3 miles long.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Forrest Hills Mountain Resort

Map of Free Things to Do in Atlanta, GA

55 Things to Do in Atlanta for Free in 2024

• Arabia Mountain
• Atlanta BeltLine
• Atlanta Monetary Museum
• Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Heritage Center
• The Carter Center
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Fernbank Science Center
• Georgia Capitol Museum
• Georgia Governor’s Mansion
• High Museum of Art
• Kennesaw Mountain
• Marietta Fire Museum
• Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
• Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary
• Piedmont Park
• Silver Comet Trail
• Tiny Doors ATL
• Westside Park
• Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark
• Little Shop of Stories
• Children’s Museum of Atlanta
• Woodruff Park
• Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve
• Living Walls Atlanta Murals
• Blue Heron Nature Preserve
• David J. Sencer CDC Museum
• Lullwater Preserve
• Atlantic Station
• The Goat Farm
• Jackson Street Bridge
• Castleberry Hill
• Krog Street Tunnel
• Chastain Park
• Sweet Auburn Market
• Marietta Square Market
• Big Trees Forest Preserve
• Dunwoody Nature Center
• Newman Wetlands Center
• Abernathy Greenway Park North
• Babyland General Hospital
• Bear Hollow Zoo
• Elachee Nature Science Center (Also Known As Elachee Nature Center)
• Folk Art Park
• Goats on the Roof
• Labyrinth in Rome
• National Infantry Museum
• Museum of Aviation
• Reynolds Nature Preserve
• Suwanee Town Center Park
• Buford Highway Farmers Market
• Brook Run Park
• Georgian Terrace Hotel
• DeKalb Farmers Market
• Amicalola Falls State Park

How to see the best of Atlanta for free

Nov 5, 2021 • 8 min read

Atlanta is a city filled with free activities to enjoy with family and friends © Yellow Dog Productions / Getty Images

You don't need to be heir to the Coca-Cola fortune to enjoy everything Atlanta has to offer.

Georgia's state capital is full of things to see and do that don't cost a penny, from bucolic parks and cemeteries to the buzzy BeltLine, from street art to world-class museums, from funky neighborhoods to farmers markets, and historic sites spanning from the Civil War to the Civil Rights movement.

Here are the best free things to do in Atlanta .

Admire at The High Museum

Atlanta's modern High Museum was the first to exhibit art from Paris' Louvre and is a destination known for its architecture as its world-class exhibits. The striking whitewashed multilevel building houses a permanent collection of eye-catching late-19th-century furniture, early American modern canvases from George Morris and Albert Gallatin, and postwar work from Mark Rothko. On the second Sunday of each month, the High offers free admission for all visitors.

Tour the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

The historic site commemorates the life, work and legacy of the Civil Rights leader. The site takes up several blocks. Stop by the excellent visitor center to get oriented with a map and brochure of area sites, a 20-minute film,  New Time, New Voice , and exhibits that elucidate the context – the segregation, systemic oppression and racial violence that inspired and fueled King's work.

Go for a walk at Historic Fourth Ward Park

Behind  Ponce City Market , this below-ground-level 17-acre urban park was one of the BeltLine's first projects. The park features a storm-water retention pond that feeds the park's fountains and Splashpad, a playground and outdoor theater and a skate park partially funded by skateboarding legend Tony Hawk.

It also has an interesting history: the sight was once home to an amusement park, casino and ballpark and people believed Clear Creek, which runs under the park, had therapeutic qualities. But Sears, Roebuck and Co. buried it all when it built its massive brick headquarters in 1926 (now Ponce City Market).

Delve into Atlanta's past at Oakland Cemetery

In addition to holding the graves of author Margeret Mitchell, golf great Bobby Jones and Atlanta’s first Black mayor, Maynard Jackson, Atlanta's historic garden cemetery (dating to 1850) is one of the few graveyards in the world to boast a visitor center and museum shop. The Oakland Cemetery  offers themed tours, a music festival called Tunes from the Tombs and other events. But you can also stroll around and admire the pretty mausoleums. 

Best time to visit Atlanta

Explore Martin Luther King Jr. Birthplace

Free, first-come, first-served guided tours of King's childhood home take about 30 minutes to complete and require same-day registration, which can be made at the visitor center at the  National Historic Site  – arrive early, as spots fill fast. The tours can depart anytime between 10am and 4pm, but you are free to visit the rest of the park at your leisure before your designated tour time.

Get funky at Little Five Points

Little Five Points has long been one of Atlanta's hippest, funkiest ' hoods, lined with quirky vintage stores, head shops, tattoo parlors, popular bars, comedy clubs, and music venues .

You can spend as much or as little as you want to here, but even if you're on a budget, you can spend hours strolling the side streets admiring the pretty historic houses and street art, people watching on the plaza, crate-digging at Criminal Records  and getting caught up in neighborhood festivals like the Hallowe'en Parade.

Stop by First Ebenezer Baptist Church

Martin Luther King Jr., his father and grandfather were all pastors here, and King Jr's mother was the choir director. Sadly she was murdered here by a deranged gunman while she sat at the organ in 1974.

A multimillion-dollar restoration, completed in 2011, brought the church back to the 1960–68 period when King Jr served as co-pastor with his father. Today looped recordings of King's speeches play in the church building.

Top things to do in Atlanta  

Go for a bike ride at Piedmont Park

A glorious, rambling urban park and the setting of many cultural and music festivals, Piedmont Park has fantastic bike paths and a Saturday Green Market (from 9am to 1pm).

Admire Living Walls Atlanta

A project co-founded by Peruvian-American Monica Campana, Living Walls Atlanta aims to curate and produce public artworks that are free and accessible for locals and visitors alike.

Over the past 10 years, Living Walls has been behind over 150 public murals featured throughout the metropolitan area, some tied into community-building and public health efforts like the national #StartTalkingStopHIV campaign and collaborations with Adult Swim.  You can peruse their website to learn what murals are currently on around the Atlanta metro area and about the artists who created them.

Work up a sweat on The Atlanta BeltLine

If you're an avid TV watcher, you've probably seen a glimpse of Atlanta's BeltLine even if you've never been to the city –  Stranger Things,   Walking Dead  and the  Hunger Games  series have all filmed along this powerhouse greenway. 

The project, spawned from a 1999 master's thesis by then Georgia Tech student Ryan Gravel, opened its first trail in 2008 and currently counts 12 miles among its active trails – Eastside Trail, Westside Trail, Northside Trail and Southwest Connector Spur Trail. Of most interest to tourists is the 3-mile Eastside Trail.

The Eastside Trail connects the hip urban neighborhood of Inman Park with Piedmont Park in Midtown, linking  Atlanta Botanical Garden , Historic Fourth Ward Park, Freedom Park and the 19-mile Stone Mountain Trail along the way as well as neighborhoods such as Virginia-Highland, Midtown, Poncey-Highland, Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park, Cabbagetown and Reynoldstown.

There are 17 access points along the route, which passes a wealth of potential pit stops: Ponce City Market,  New Realm Brewing Co ,  Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall  and  King of Pops , among others.

The best ways to get around Atlanta 

Visit the David J. Sencer CDC Museum

This free museum tells the story of the Center for Disease Control and the many scientific discoveries made there. With 20,000 items in its archives and a rotating series of exhibits that cover everything from the history of the influenza virus to the impact of climate change on public health. 

Check out the Georgia State Capitol Building

The gold-domed capitol is Atlanta's political hub. Free self-guided tours give visitors a glance at state-level American politics.

Play in the fountain at Centennial Olympic Park

Atlanta's Centennial Olympic Park is the city's focal point for visitors. The park itself features a dancing Fountain of Rings water fountain, a Quilt of Remembrance in honor of the victims of the 1996 Olympic bombing and a water garden, among other small details. It also contains some of the city's seminal sights, including the  Center for Civil & Human Rights , the  World of Coca-Cola  and the  Georgia Aquarium .

The best parks in Atlanta 

Fill your belly at Dekalb Farmer's Market

Atlanta has become an international hub thanks to its busy airport, and one of the best ways to experience that diversity for yourself is to head to the Dekalb Farmer's Market – just look for the flags of 184 countries flying overhead. It's been part of Atlanta's fabric since 1977, and the staff represent 40 countries, speaking in 50 different languages and dialects.

What started out as relatively small operation has turned into a sprawling 140,000-sq-ft mall of food, with a bakery, fish market, juice bar, cheesemonger and an endless array of produce from every corner of the globe.

You may or may not be able to resist going home with, say, a whole jackfruit or a tempting pastry – but just taking it all in can be pleasure enough.

Best neighborhoods in Atlanta  

Get a history lesson at Kennesaw Mountain

General Sherman famously set fire to Atlanta's business district during the Civil War – a piece of history portrayed in technicolor in films like  Gone With the Wind . Before he reached the city, however, Sherman had to face off against Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston at Kennesaw Mountain 25 miles northeast of Atlanta proper.

You can learn more about this historic battle at the  Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park , where 17.3 miles of trails are punctuated by interpretive signage, cannons and other Civil War ephemera. Birdwatching is popular here, too, in addition to nature walking. There's a small $5 day pass fee per car entering the park, but on certain holidays you can enjoy Kennesaw Mountain for free .

Marvel at the street art on The Krog Street Tunnel

For some of the best public art in Atlanta, head to this funny little underpass between the historic neighborhoods of Cabbagetown and Inman Park. It's been a magnet for graffiti since the 1960s and continues to be a place for Atlanta's denizens to express themselves. It's different every time you go, and it's easy to swing by on foot or by bicycle, though there's also parking nearby. Just head for 86 Krog Street Northeast and follow the scent of spraypaint wafting in the breeze.

Check out the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum

Located on a hilltop overlooking Downtown,  this center features exhibits highlighting Jimmy Carter's presidency (1977–81), including a replica of the Oval Office and his Nobel Prize. Don't miss the tranquil Japanese garden and butterfly garden outback.

The 1.5-mile long, landscaped Freedom Park Trail leads from here to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site through Freedom Park. It costs $8 admission for adults, but teens and kids under 16 are free.

Look out for animals at Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve

Smack in the middle of the city (well, OK – out in Decatur, but you get the idea), you'll find this 28-acre nature preserve , home of beavers, foxes, box turtles, red-spotted newts, coyotes and veritable clouds of birds. It's a welcome slice of wilderness in the heart of an enormous urban area.

You may also like:  The best day trips from Atlanta 5 cities in the US southeast with strong coffee culture Everyday explorations in Atlanta: cultural capital of the South

This article was first published Mar 2, 2021 and updated Nov 5, 2021.

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15 Best Free Things To Do In Atlanta Georgia You Shouldn’t Miss

May 2, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you are looking for the best free things to do in Atlanta and don’t want to break your bank account, look no further! We’ve got you covered.

Visiting a large city doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money. In fact, due to Atlanta being a popular destination for filming, touristy stops (like the Georgia Aquarium), and other big “must-sees”, also means there are tons of free things to do in Atlanta too!

So when you are planning your Atlanta Itinerary or even looking for a date night , we promise you don’t have to spend all your hard-earned cash just to enjoy your time in good ol’ Georgia! Atlanta has tons of free things to offer that are both family-friendly and are overall great attractions.

15 Best Free Things to do in Atlanta Georgia You Shouldn’t Miss

1. centennial olympic park.

If you are an avid fan of the Olympics, then you may be familiar with Centennial Olympic Park, which was home to the 1996 games! But you may not know that this is one of the best free things to do in Atlanta! And it happens to be smack in the middle of all central access of Atlanta.

First, this park is home to plenty of photography ready stops. From an interactive mural to the Olympic Rings sculpture, these are things you want to see in person! There are also weekly music series at the park! This is truly one of the best things to do in Atlanta.

And for kids, there is a splash fountain known as the Fountain of Rings. You can cool off here, or even see the music program that features synchronized water dances! But lastly, the audio walking tour is free from the website and a great history lesson. So no matter what you do at the park, all things are free, close to more attractions, and just a great place for family fun and entertainment.

2. MLK National Historic Park

MLK National Historic Park is another one of those free things to do in Atlanta that you don’t want to miss! It is a top tourist destination that attracts many visitors each year. And this is because there are tons of mini-attractions within the big attraction!

There are lots to see about Martin Luther King Jr. in Atlanta. First, stop by the visitor center for information about the historic site, and make sure you know what facilities are open. (Make sure to ask about where the nearest restrooms are too!). There is also the “Children of Courage” exhibit here too, which is great for younger tourists!

After the visitor center, visit the BEHOLD Monument, the “I Have a Dream” World Peace Rose Garden, walk by MLK’s birth home, and even swing by the King Center to see Dr. & Mrs. King’s Tomb near Freedom Hall. Full of history, this is a place you don’t want to miss, free or not!

3. Piedmont Park

If you couldn’t tell already, Atlanta is a huge fan of parks! And who doesn’t love a little green in the city? Piedmont Park is another one of those free things to do in Atlanta that is beyond worth it! The Park is colorful and offers a series of activities each season.

From tours and guides (which some are free and others you pay for), to green markets, playgrounds, camps, dog parks, and pools and splash pads, this place has options for everyone!

Piedmont Park is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. nearly every day. These hours allow for you to enjoy all of the amenities: go fishing in the Lake Clara Meer, or go visit the Active Oval Sports Fields to play bocce and basketball. Tourists often bring picnics here, people watch, play some dogs, and just enjoy the greenery and open spaces! This is truly one of the best areas to stay in Atlanta!

4. Tiny Doors Tour

If you are like us and love unique things that are free, begin looking for the tiny doors! Tiny Doors ATL is one of those free things to do in Atlanta that may not always be here, so take advantage of it while it is available!

Tiny Doors ATL is an Atlanta-based art project. Around the city you can walk and tour and find 7-inch doors. Artist Karen Anderson Singer has made these doors to reflect the spirit and architecture that they are located in.

The doors are also numbered, so you can track the ones you can and cannot see. We suggest starting near 692 Ponce De Leon Ave NE. See the art, and know there are tons of places to explore after you see all the small doors including Ponce City Market, City Winery and more.

5. Ponce City Market

We debated putting the Ponce City Market on the free things to do in Atlanta list because while it is free to get in, you may find yourself spending some money once you are in there!

Located at the intersection of Virginia Highland and Old Fourth Ward, this market is an epi-center for shopping, dining, and gathering amongst locals and tourists alike. This is truly one of the best things to do in Atlanta at night!

There are always events happening here, from things like blood drives to local artists setting up, and the opening of hew shops and restaurants! You can walk around and absorb all this market has to offer and keep things one of the free things to do in Atlanta, or you can drop some cheap cash on a meal! Either way, this place is totally worth checking out, and is insta-friendly!

6. The Atlanta BeltLine

Just like many cities have riverwalks, Altanta has its BeltLine! The Atlanta BeltLine is one of those popular free things to do in Atlanta because of how it can take you to all of the amazing surrounding things to do!

The Atlanta BeltLine was redeveloped to provide a network to over 1,300 acres of public parks. The 33 miles of multi-use trails circle down a historic 22-mile railroad of downtown, connecting neighborhoods to one another!

There are currently 4 trails and 6 parks open right now. It is perfect for walking, biking, easy transportation, Segway tours, and more! It is also a great way to experience downtown in an outdoor way. Plus, it is one of the free attractions in Atlanta that can connect you to other free things to do in Atlanta! And you’ll see tons of Artwork by the Skate Parks and playgrounds!

7. Fernbank Science Center

Looking for free things to do in Atlanta with kids? We’ve got you! We know the tourist traps like the aquarium and zoo can be such fun, but we also know ticket prices can add up. Try something inexpensive like the Fernbank Science Center then! The admission is free, and if you want, you can add on the planetariums how for just a few dollars more.

This Science Center is tucked into a residential neighborhood so keep an eye out for it. It features things all history and science nerds will love, like an authentic Apollo spacecraft. There is also an observatory, which is one of those great free things to do in Atlanta at night!

Now, the Fernbank Science Center isn’t as flashy as the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, but it still shows dinosaurs, teaches everyone about science and history, and has interactive exhibits for all ages. It is free, which you cannot pass up, and it is typically a step away from all the crazy crowds!

8. Lullwater Creek

If you are looking for fun and free things to do in Atlanta that won’t keep you indoors and can help you avoid crowds, check out Lullwater Creek! Some of the best urban hikes are here (just don’t tell the locals that we told you about them!).

Lullwater Park is located near Emory University. It features 154 acres that is full of green space and an insane lake! It truly is a secret oasis, and is one of the best free things to do in Atlanta with kids or for a date night!

It is also fun to explore the mini waterfall and the 210 foot long suspension bridge here. Much of this park is undiscovered. Just make sure to plan for parking. Many people can’t find a great parking spot and leave before they get to explore this magical place!

9. Historic Oakland Cemetery

Historic Oakland Cemetery is Atlanta’s oldest cemetery. It is also one of the free things to do in Atlanta! Founded in 1850, it is close to downtown Atlanta. This cemetery features a gorgeous sculpture garden, a botanical garden, a wildlife habitat and a public park.

Most people question why you may want to visit a cemetery. But it is fun! Here you can learn Atlanta’s history. There is a map for you, and tours on an app! And this cemetery also hosts fun events. Consider running the Run Like Hell 5K. Or stop at the beer festival of Malts and Vaults.

Guests love to learn about the Civil War Tour Highlights here. They also look out for the headstones of the Atlanta elite. So whether you want to take a picnic to the gardens, marvel at sculpture, or learn some history this may be a place to see!

10. Living Walls Atlanta

Love art? Check out Living Walls Atlanta! We already mentioned the tiny doors. But what about murals? Some of the best free things to do in Atlanta is become familiar with local artists through their work.

Many locals and tourists have noticed the new murals popping up around Atlanta. They are part of a new art stroll program. With a goal of changing perspectives about the communities the murals are located in, this street art is to die for.

This art seeks to create conversations. They want viewers to be inclusive and intentional. Their art is thought-provoking. Inspiring. Do what you must to walk through downtown and see these wonderful works come to life! It is free and changing the world!

11. CDC Museum

Next, consider the CDC Museum! Although we want to ensure you know when this museum is free! Yes, that is right, the CDC is not always one of those free things to do in Atlanta. In fact, it is only free on WEEKDAYS! So, go then!

The David J. Spencer CDC Museum offers guided exhibition tours. Merge detective work with high-tech science to crack the mystery of diseases. Most exhibits change out, but all focus on public health topics and the history of the CDC.

Parking is included in your visit, and the museum is open until at least 5 every weekday! This means you have plenty of time to read, learn and think at the museum. We do suggest checking out what exhibits will be on display during your planned visit, however!

12. The Goat Farm

What if we told you the Goat Farm had no goats? Well that is right! The Goat Farm in Atlanta has no goats, but it does have some cinematic history! Familiar with The Hunger Games? The Goat Farm served as District 12 in Catching Fire.

But that is not all! The Goat Farm is home to several art studios, coffee houses, and more. Here you can see artists pit together local shows and tributes, get some great coffee, and explore what was once the set to a fantastic movie!

The history here is something you must learn as you go. The old factory site if full of rich stories, and the Warhorse Coffee is to die for. Sit and sip and look at antique books and objects. Just don’t forget to snap photos of the old set too! This is one of the coolest free things to do in Atlanta that not many tourists know about. And if you are a photographer, we highly recommend that you go!

13. Stone Mountain Laser Show

We love a good date night! So what better date night than a date night that features free things to do in Atlanta? (Although we admit this is a bit past Atlanta!) Head to the Laser Bunker (yes that is a real thing!). It is located at Sone Mountain Park!

Here, droids and computers are used to put on a laster show. It is the longest running laser show in the world! And it is projected on the largest granite outcrop on the world! This serves as a giant canvas.

Better yet? The show is set to music with fireworks too! It starts at 9:30 so it truly is one of the best free things to do in Atlanta at night. Just make sure to know that it usually only runs from May through October. And just a heads up, while the show is free, parking is not! So bring $15!

14. Marietta Fire Museum

The Marietta Fire Museum is another one of those cool, free things to do in Atlanta! Come discover the history of fire departments here. As mentioned, this museum is free, although donations are encouraged!

This museum has a huge collection of antique fire apparatus’, tools, and gear. Some of the antiques date back to 1854! Here you can learn how the fire department has changed over time. Self guided tours are simple and easy, but you can also call a head to schedule a guided tour if you would prefer!

Keep a close eye out for the 1879 Silsby Steamer, and the other fire helmets from around the world. The main entrance for the museum is on level 1! And free parking is available off of Lawrence Street. So this really is a true free thing to do!

Make sure to check out the best restaurants in Marietta if you are visiting!

15. Noah’s Ark

Considering the Atlanta Zoo? But is it too expensive? Consider Noah’s Ark instead! We will warn you, however, this is a bit of a drive outside of the downtown area of Atlanta. It is closer to the Metro Area, in fact.

But if this is something that interests you, visit this sanctuary! It is a non-profit for exotic animals and farm animals. They rehab 100s of animals yearly, but have about 1,500 animals there year round.

Visit the welcome center, have lunch in the picnic area , play on the playground, and see the animals! People love to see the tiger and bear that live together here! And when you leave, stop by the gift shop for a souvenir, or consider donating. Remember, even though this is one of the free things to do in Atlanta, it also costs over $33,000 dollars a month to feed and care for these animals!

And there you have it, folks! 15 free things to do in Atlanta! So whether you are tired of the tourist traps, on a tight budget, or just want something unique to do, check out this list.

You’ll find yourself out in nature, at museums, learning at historic sites and more! Just because these are free things to do in Atlanta does not mean they are not fun. Have a blast exploring!

Fun Free Things to Do in Atlanta: 17 Must-Do Activities

Do you hear that sizzle? Hotlanta is simply burning up with awesome attractions, iconic sights, and generous helpings of Mason Dixie charm. While the Big Peach may know no bounds when it comes to entertainment, a vacation to Atlanta isn’t always cheap.

Follow along to discover the 17 best free things to do in Atlanta GA.

Civil War History, contemporary art museums, and the sprawling Atlanta Beltline are just a few of the free things in Atlanta accessible to visitors.

Spend a day picnicking or playing around in Piedmont Park, or decide to brush up on the life and legacy of MLK at the Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site.

Treat your hunny to the greatest hits of the Walking Dead, or warm up those quads with some stunning mountain trails just a stone’s throw from the city’s limits.

Ready to conquer every last Atlanta complimentary tour, service, and attraction? Read on to uncover the top fun free things to do in Atlanta.

Atlanta Hotels

Whew, there are a lot of fun free things to do in Atlanta! Make sure you have budget-friendly accommodations to match your gratis activities when you book any of our Atlanta Hotels . Get a jump start on all of the free places to visit in Atlanta when you sleep just moments from the Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park, or the World of Coca-Cola.

Rest and rejuvenate in modern downtown Atlanta lodgings, or take advantage of complimentary breakfast and indoor pool facilities by the Ballpark. Wherever you decide to rest your head, sleep easy knowing you are always guaranteed our lowest rates online.

Things to do in Atlanta for Free

Got your sights set on A-town? Before you start endlessly googling free things to do in Atlanta this weekend and free things to do in Atlanta today, consult our epic guide. Regardless if you’re on the hunt for educational entertainment for kiddies or want to surprise your sweetheart with a tandem bike ride through the Silver Comet Trail, our compilation of the best things to do in Atlanta won’t cost you a cent.

Free Things to do in Atlanta with Kids

Fernbank science center.

Travel to infinity and beyond when you fire up that imagination with the Fernbank Science Center . Embrace the ingenuity of the natural world as you explore live animal exhibits, starry night skies, and more. Little astronauts in training will flip over scoping out a real Apollo 6 Command Module on loan from the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

Meanwhile, the critter curious can observe poison dart frogs, snakes, turtles, honey bees, spiders, and more. Wondering what all that buzz is about? Swing by the Center’s live honey bee exhibit and learn all about this colony of honey makers.

Centennial Olympic Park

Grab a picnic blanket, pack up some snacks, and head over to Centennial Olympic Park  for a slice of Georgia history. This resplendent green space has become a beacon for visitors and tourists alike since its debut during the 1996 Summer Olympic Games.

Topping out at 22 acres, you and your family can spend hours touring the park’s gardens, reflecting pools, and promenades. Rugrats will love frolicking in the Fountain of Rings or monkeying around on the playgrounds. This iconic 5 ringed fountain was crafted in honor of the Olympics and creates an interactive space where children can safely play in the water jets.

Marietta Fire Museum

Who doesn’t dream of snooping behind the scenes of a real fire department? Kids obsessed with these heroes of flame and soot will be mesmerized by the Marietta Fire Museum . Located just two blocks away from the historic Marietta Square, this museum showcases an impressive collection of antique fire apparatus tools, tools and gear dating back to 1854.

Spy a 1952 Chevrolet Panel Truck, antique helmets, nozzles, bells, hoses, and more. Enjoy a self-guided experience, or call ahead to schedule a professionally guided tour with the department.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Fields of flora, detailed horticultural displays, and an award-winning Children’s garden. The Atlanta Botanical Garden  is a go-to for those with a green thumb. Admission for children under three is free, and you’ll find lots to cover. Pass through the unique Canopy Walk, or take a peek into the serene Japanese Garden and Koi Pond.

Curious caterpillars will love singing and dancing along with Garden Grooves, or if you’re visiting on a Wednesday listen up for some Nature-inspired tales during Storybook Time.

Psst..into more live animal attractions? For a nominal fee, you and your kiddies can scope out awesome aquatic predators and giant gorillas at both the Georgia Aquarium and the Atlanta Zoo .

Free Things to Do in Atlanta for Adults*

Atlanta contemporary.

Art is awesome and free art is even better! Paint some culture into your A-town activities with the Atlanta Contemporary . For 50 years, Atlanta Contemporary has sought to broaden the scope of contemporary art within the local community. The museum presents over 100 local, national, and international artists and organizes over 125 programs annually.

Indeed, they are one of the few local art organizations to routinely commission new artwork. Meander through their current exhibitions and observe female interpretations of a new world, controversial ceramic installation, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and more.

Self-Guided Tours of Sweet Auburn

Walk in the footsteps of the great MLK and uncover the rich culture and legacy of one of Atlanta’s most storied neighborhoods when you tour Sweet Auburn . From the Apex Museum to the churches where Martin Luther King Jr. preached, there’s so much to discover. Begin your journey into what was once referred to as the commercial center of Black America, with a visit to the Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History.

Here you can find a robust collection of archives dedicated to the study and research of African American history and culture.

Next continue down Auburn avenue, stopping to snap a photo of a sign for the Royal Peacock. A well-loved hot spot back in the day, this black-owned nightclub hosted such famed entertainers as James Brown, Little Richard, Gladys Knight, B.B. King, and Aretha Franklin. Take a peek into the life of Dr. King with stops at the well-loved Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Visitors can stroll through the Civil Rights Walk of Fame, or glimpse the original farm wagon that held his casket during the funeral procession. Don’t forget to see Martin Luther King Jr’s Birth Home, or appreciate the old-fashioned fire engine and equipment at Historic Fire Station No. 6.

Get in Nature

Limber up because it’s time to pull out those hiking boots and commune with nature. Abscond from the city limits and inhale some fresh Georgia mountain air when you plan an outdoor outing for any of the following nature reserves, parks, or areas:

• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park  – marry some stunning scenery with civil war history when you traverse the many trails of this almost 3 thousand acre National Battlefield.
• Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center  – lovers of all sorts of cuddly creatures will be in heaven as they tour this nature preserve featuring 46 acres of forest, woodland trails, ravines, heritage gardens, and historic buildings. Meet rabbits, dwarf goats, turtles, and more.
• Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area  – lots of natural wonders, compelling history, and family-friendly activities come together at this mountain oasis formed over 400 million years ago. Spend the day biking, hiking, or fishing throughout their 40,000 acres.

*Please note that the Atlanta Anne Frank exhibit is no longer open.

Free Things to do in Atlanta for Couples

Ponce city market.

Calling all foodie couples! Sneak away for some extra special solo time, when you plan a date night at Ponce City Market . Epicureans of all ilks will have a ball seeking out the most luscious bites and sweeping views of this former Sears building.

Walk hand in hand, as you take in the medley of restaurants, food stops, and retail. Stock up on paper goods and bespoke spice mixes, or eat your fill of Indian street food or Piri Piri chicken. Be sure to capture some sweet memories featuring the breathtaking backdrop of the Atlanta skyline when you head to the roof for some frozen drinks and skeeball.

Piedmont Park Picnic

A natural refuge in the middle of the city, Piedmont Park  is a beacon of serenity. Both locals and visitors alike congregate here to appreciate over 200 acres of dedicated green space. Blooming Magnolia trees and stunning views of Lake Clara Meer make for impressive picnic window dressing.

Enjoy walks to the top of Oak Hill, or chillax at a picnic pavilion. Pack your own snacks and libations, or take advantage of the park’s many concessions and restaurants which range from Shake Shack to Willy’s Mexicana Grill.

Atlanta Beltline

Whether you travel by two wheels or two feet, athletic couples will appreciate the breadth of this sprawling 22-mile railroad corridor. The Atlanta Beltline  contains a network of public parks, multi-use trails, and transit, making it an ideal place to take part in a heart-pumping bike ride or arboretum tour. Please note that while the Beltline itself is free of cost to explore, professionally guided tours will require a small donation.

Silver Comet Trail

Training for that marathon? Or just looking to up that step count before you get back to guzzling sweet tea and BBQ? Thanks to a 2% grade the Silver Comet Trail  is an excellent place to jump back on those fitness gains. Carve out a few hours to tackle this 61.6-mile paved pedestrian rail trail located just 13 miles northwest of Atlanta.

Accessible to hikers, walkers, cyclists, rollerbladers, and even horses this trail begins at the Mavell Road Trailhead in Smyrna, Georgia, and ends at the Georgia/Alabama state line near Cedartown and the Esom Hill Trailhead.

Self-Guided Walking Dead Tour

Bet you didn’t know that A-town was the epicenter of a highly contagious zombie outbreak? Score some major brownie points with your favorite Walking Dead fan, when you surprise them with a self-guided tour of the hit show’s most iconic shooting locations. Don’t forget to capture an IG-worthy selfie in front of the famed Jackson Street Bridge.

No matter the season, there’s always an overflow of free stuff to do in Atlanta today. Whether your A-town escape is with the kiddies or a romantic rendezvous with your forever plus one, you’ll never be bored in the city of Southern hospitality and history.

Brush up on your knowledge of Black History with a stroll through Sweet Auburn, or let your little one exclaim over real space modules and animal exhibits at the Fernbank Science Center.

Window shop and browse your way through the Ponce City Market, or work up a sweat as you power through the Silver Comet Trail.

Inhale the sweet smell of Hydrangeas and roses at the botanical garden, or savor some greasy burgers and fries in Midtown’s favorite park.

With our guide to the best free things to do in Atlanta Georgia, you can savor every second of your time spent in the Big Peach without spending a dime!

Tell us, Did We Miss Any of Your Top Free Things to Do in Atlanta GA?

Leave us a comment below!

Written by Isis Maya Nissman

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...

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Tagged in this post, read more about.

• Free & Cheap Activities

Free & Cheap Things to Do in Atlanta, GA

• The list below includes 276 free or cheap things to do in or near Atlanta, Georgia, including 96 different types of inexpensive activities like Specialty Museums, Parks, Malls and Art Museum.
• From Oakland Cemetery to Piedmont Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Atlanta and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Decatur , Roswell , Alpharetta and Duluth .

Up to 40% Off Admission to Wine Fest ATL

Oakland cemetery, piedmont park, emory university, centennial olympic park, atlantic station, martin luther king jr. national historic site, atlanta botanical garden, turner field.

17 Free Things to Do in Atlanta

• Atlanta / Georgia / In the City / North America / USA

Visiting Atlanta on a budget? Here are fun and free things to do!

ATL has plenty of activities to offer, but for those of you looking to have fun on a budget, we’ve put together a list of fun free things to do in Atlanta GA.

Even though we’ve been moving from city to city, Atlanta is and will always be home to us. We love the community and miss Southern hospitality (if you’ve never experienced it, you must visit the South!)

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: August 11, 2023

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Free things to do in atlanta.

• Map to Help You Get Around

More Free Museums in Atlanta

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Planning Checklist

More resources, 1. walk along the atlanta beltline.

Go for a walk along one of the best urban spaces in America. There are events throughout the year, and it’s a great place to spend the afternoon soaking in the sun.

Of all the free attractions in Atlanta, we highly recommend this one to first-time visitors. If you’ve ever been to the High Line in NYC, this is Atlanta’s version.

2. See the Skyline from Jackson Street Bridge

33.760227, -84.374314,  map

This is one of the most iconic views of Atlanta that you can enjoy during the day or night. Photographers love coming here to take long exposure shots with the traffic.

See More: 25 Most Instagrammable Places in Atlanta

3. Go on a Self-Guided Walking Dead Tour →

The Walking Dead uses many of Atlanta’s iconic spots for filming locations. We put together  a guide  where you can visit them on your own. You can also check out Stranger Things filming locations via the link below.

See More: 11 Best Stranger Things Filming Locations

4. Shoot the Hooch (Summer) →

You’ll need to buy a float (we have  this one ), but once you have your own, you can hop in the Chattahoochee and float along the calm waters anytime. Renting floaties and kayaks will cost you way more.

Local Tip: Having two cars and parking one at the exit will make it way easier. Parking is free.

See More: How to Shoot the Hooch – Everything You Need to Know

5. Hike Stone Mountain

1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, 30083,  map

If you don’t buy special passes to ride the Skyride or see the laser show, you can simply  pay for parking  and hike up the mountain. At the top, it has pretty views of the city and all the greenery in Georgia (you’ll miss it if you ever move to the desert).

6. Piedmont Park

400 Park Dr. NE, 30306,  map

This vast park has endless possibilities. Run, walk, rollerblade, picnic, play in the playgrounds, take your dog for a walk, and more! It’s a spot that locals enjoy on a nice day. Also, quite a few movies have been shot here, so see if you recognize any of the scenes.

Jacob also proposed to me here.

7. Martin LUTHER King Jr. National Historic Site

450 Auburn Ave NE, 30312,  map

Atlanta has a rich civil rights history. Head to the Sweet Auburn neighborhood and tour Martin Luther King Jr’s birth home, the 35-acre district, and Ebenezer Baptist Church.

See More: Your Complete List of 400+ National Park Destinations in the US

8. Hike Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield State Park

900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr, Kennesaw, 30152,  map

This state park has 17 miles of trails, monuments, and a museum that tells you more about the Battle of Atlanta during the Civil War. Parking is free.

9. Georgian Terrace Hotel

659 Peachtree St NE, 30308,  map

This iconic hotel in Atlanta has been the background of many movies. The classic architecture makes it a popular photo spot (we’ve shot several weddings and portraits here).

See More: 15 Best Places to Stay in Atlanta

10. Take a Stroll in the Oakland Cemetery

248 Oakland Ave SE, 30312,  map

This historic cemetery is a beautiful place to visit and home to some of Atlanta’s most famous deceased people. It’s also a popular spot for photographers (our photography club at Georgia Tech went here on an excursion).

11. Cool Off at Centennial Olympic Park

265 Park Ave W NW, 30313,  map

The Fountain of Rings is a popular spot to cool off during the summer. There is also free live music and events throughout the year. If you’re visiting the Coke Museum or Georgia Aquarium, it’s a short walk from there.

12. Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark

830 Willoughby Way NE, 30312,  map

This is Atlanta’s first public skatepark. If you don’t sk8, you can watch and admire everyone else’s skills.

13. Check out the Carter Center

453 John Lewis Freedom Pkwy NE, 30307,  map

Visit the Circle of Flags, rose garden, Japanese garden, and koi pond.

14. Admire the Graffiti at Krog Tunnel

1 Krog St NE, 30307,  map

This is one of Atlanta’s favorite photography spots because of the graffiti that covers the area. It’s a fun art stroll even if you aren’t a photographer. Also, less than a 10-minute walk away is the Krog Street Market, a repurposed industrial space full of eclectic shops and vendors.

15. Ponce City Market →

675 Ponce de Leon Ave., NE,  map

Once a Sears, Roebuck & Co building, Ponce City Market has taken a historic site and created an amazing community of food, shops, flats, and offices.

See More: 15 Things to Do at Ponce City Market

16. Run, Walk, or Bike the Silver Comet Trail

The Silver Comet Trail is 61 miles of running, walking, or biking trails. You can extend it an additional 33 miles with Alabama’s Chief Ladiga Trail.

17. Dekalb Farmer’s Market

3000 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, 30030,  map

Take in all the new smells and foods that you definitely don’t see at Kroger, Publix, or your regular grocery store.

Bonus: Take a Day Trip to Amicalola Falls State Park

This is not in Greater Atlanta, but it’s one of the most popular day trips from Atlanta . It has beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and Amicalola Falls is the tallest cascading waterfall in the southeast. You can climb to the top via starts and pathways. Parking is $5 (or $50 for an Annual Park Pass).

See More: 15 Best Day Trips from Atlanta GA

Map of Atlanta’s Free Attractions

• Atlanta Monetary Museum
• Babyland General Hospital
• Center for Puppetry Arts (first Saturday every month) – great for the whole family
• Childrens Museum of Atlanta (second Tuesday)
• David J. Sencer CDC Museum
• The Federal Reserve Bank Money Museum
• Fernbank Science Center (not Fernbank Museum of Natural History)
• Georgia Aquarium (on your birthday)
• Georgia Capitol Museum
• Kennesaw Mountain Museum
• Heritage Park Veterans Museum in McDonough
• High Museum of Art (second Sunday each month)
• Historic Oakland Cemetery
• Marietta Fire Museum
• Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
• Michael C. Carlos Museum (free with Georgia Public Libraries Family Pass)
• Museum of History and Holocaust Education
• Roswell Fire Museum

Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Atlanta

TIPS FOR PARKING IN ATLANTA –  Unless specified otherwise, there’s a 50/50 chance you will have to pay for parking in the perimeter (ITP), but it’s generally free outside the perimeter (OTP).

If you’re looking for even more options, check out our  Ultimate Atlanta Bucket List.

Best Places to Stay in Atlanta

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Atlanta hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Georgia travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Save money on attractions with CityPass .
• Atlanta Street Map
• Lonely Planet’s Georgia and the Carolinas Guide
• 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles of Atlanta

How many of these have you done? Any other free things to do in Atlanta?

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Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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The Top 11 Free Things To Do In Atlanta

It can sometimes be hard to find free things to do in a big city, but the great thing about Atlanta is that there are plenty of things to see and do that don't cost a thing! You do not have to break the bank to spend the day exploring the city and you will even learn a bit more about the city’s history as you search out free things to do in Atlanta.

Grab some friends or the kids and spend the day checking out all the different free things in Atlanta, like perusing Ponce City Market or viewing interesting art installations all over town . Pack some snacks or plan to eat at a budget-friendly restaurant while you are out and about.

Traveler tip: Drop extra bags, backpacks or shopping purchases at a luggage locker for storage while you are busy exploring the city. Travel light and see as much as you can!

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Atlanta Beltline

Address: 100 Peachtree St NW Ste 2300, Atlanta, GA 30303

You can sign up for a free guided walking tour of the Beltline or you can spend a few hours exploring some of the 22 miles of interconnecting trails by yourself. The Atlanta Beltline was developed along old, abandoned railroad tracks. It is also home to the biggest outdoor temporary art exhibit in the South. It is truly a gem that you want to get to know better.

If you do sign up for the guided tour, you will want to give your guide a small tip at the conclusion of the tour. The Beltline also hosts free fitness classes if you are looking to try something new or get back into shape. There are also other events from festivals to concerts to movies in the park for you to check out, most are free and great fun.

Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area

Address: 3350 Klondike Rd, Stonecrest, GA 30038

While not in Atlanta, Arabia Mountain is only about 20 miles outside the city and is a fantastic place to spend a few hours or even an entire day. It is part of the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve that covers over 2,000 acres. The preserve includes Arabia Mountain, miles of farmland and hiking trails , and even beautiful lakes.

Drop by the visitors center to learn about any events being held and to check out some of the interactive exhibits that will teach you about the history of the mountain and preserve. The two granite outcroppings are great places to hike to and look out over the preserve. You can also bike along the Arabia Mountain PATH which is over 30 miles and winds through amazing landscapes.

Before heading home, stop by the Flat Rock Archives to learn about the history of a group of slaves that formed a thriving community after they were emancipated and see how segregation affected their daily lives. The Monastery of the Holy Spirit is home to Trappist monks and is a place of great peace.

Atlanta Monetary Museum

Address: 1000 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

Take a free self-guided tour of the money museum and learn about the history of the Federal Reserve and money in general. You will even get a glimpse into the usefulness of the barter system and the various forms of payment that have been used throughout the years. The museum is open Monday through Friday and is free to enter.

Explore the historical artifacts that are on display, they do change frequently so you can come again and again and still see something new. The history of banking in America is also covered here and learn more about some of the more famous, or infamous, bank robbers in American history. The Visitors Center is home to several multimedia and interactive exhibits that everyone will love.

Centennial Olympic Park

Address: 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

This park pays homage to the 1996 Summer Olympics that Atlanta hosted and offers a variety of events throughout the year. Admission to Centennial Park is free and many of the events hosted are also free to the public. You can spend a few hours relaxing in the well-maintained park, enjoy a picnic, read a book, or sit back and watch people stroll by.

The 21-acre park is the perfect place to bring your family and breathe in the fresh air while stretching your legs. Be sure to visit during Family Fun Days, the Holiday of Lights festival, and the Fourth of July Celebration, all free. There are several attractions near the park, but these attractions are not free.

The Carter Center

Address: 441 Freedom Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30307

Home to the Circle of Flags where flags from all 50 states are displayed, the Carter Center is home to a 35-acre park that has a Japanese garden, rose garden, and koi pond. You can take a stroll through the park and check out the gardens and Circle of Flags for free but the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum does charge a fee for those 16 years and older.

There are even live concerts hosted in the rose garden and Japanese garden during the warmer months. There concerts are free but do tend to fill quickly so get there early for a prime spot to listen to the concert. Check the Carter Center’s calendar for a list of free events.

Center for Puppetry Arts

Address: 1404 Spring St NW at 18th, Atlanta, GA 30309

If you are a Georgia resident with a valid library card you will receive free admission to the Center for Puppetry Arts for four people. The catch is that you have to check out the Passport to Puppetry at one of the participating libraries. The free general admission tickets do not include the Create-A-Puppet Workshop or the Family Series Performance.

The free general admission tickets do include the Worlds of Puppetry Museum and the Jim Henson exhibit which is always a fan-favorite, especially for the kids . The Jim Henson Collection is an interactive exhibit that takes visitors through this master puppeteer’s life and gives you a glimpse into his office and tv studio. You will also see several of his iconic puppets including Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog.

Stop by the Global Collection for a look into the history of puppetry around the world including puppets from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. You will learn the subtle differences in puppetry between these countries and how each one has created an artform that is truly unique.

Kennesaw Mountain

Address: 900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr, Kennesaw, GA 30152

One of the most amazing things about Kennesaw Mountain is the 17 miles of interpretive trails and monuments outlining the Battle of Atlanta that took place during the civil war. The Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield covers 2,965 acres and is a National Battlefield preserve where people can come walk where Sherman’s army clashed with Johnston’s army in 1864.

While it is free to visit the mountain and battlefield, and even to hike along the trails, it will cost a fee if you want to explore the museum located at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park . You can, however, visit the Visitor Center for more information about this historic battle and learn what to look for when you are out on the trails such as the cannon emplacements.

Georgia Capitol Museum

Address: 206 Washington St, Atlanta, GA 30334

The “Gold Dome” as the state capitol building is affectionately called was completed in 1889 and is open to the public for free tours. You can sign up for the Tour Program and have a knowledgeable guide take you through the capitol and even give you a brief history of the state flags and various artifacts on display.

It is best to visit when the Georgia General Assembly is session and the capitol is a beehive of activity. You can see lawmakers hard at work and even sit in on a few proceedings as you sit in the public gallery. Then head to the Georgia Capitol Museum which is run by the University of Georgia Libraries and is free to the general public.

High Museum of Art

Address: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta GA 30309

The premier art museum of Atlanta is home to over 17,000 works of art ranging from photography and decorative art to folk art and African art. The museum hosts free admission to the general public on the second Sunday of every month from 12:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. If you are active military or a veteran, you and one guest can get free admission every day when you present your military ID.

Home to one of the largest collections of art in the South, the High Museum of Art is a fabulous place to visit, especially when you can get in for free. Special exhibitions are not included in free admission Sundays and do cost extra. Spend a few hours soaking up some culture and learning about the various art from around the globe ranging from the 17th century to present day.

Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary

Address: 712 L G Griffin Rd, Locust Grove, GA 30248

This amazing wildlife rehabilitation center is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from noon until 3:00 p.m. Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary was founded by Jama Hedgecoth in 1978 and is a non-profit that is home to dozens of animals that came from less-than-stellar situations. Animals housed here include deer, bison, horses, parrots, monkeys, and even cougars.

Stroll along the nature trails, learn about the rehabilitation center, and visit some of the animal habitats to see the life-changing work that is being done here. The sanctuary sees over 100,000 visitors each year and while admission is free, donations are always accepted if you are able to give.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

Address: 450 Auburn Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30312

Head over to this magnificent historical park where you can see the humble beginnings of the great Martin Luther King , Jr. The modest two-story house where King was born and lived as a child has been completely preserved and you can take a tour when you visit the park. Pay your respects at King’s tomb and visit Ebenezer Baptist Church where he was baptized.

The King Center is a fantastic place to visit and learn more about the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Listen to his “I Have A Dream” speech and hear the passion in his voice. After exploring the historical park, spend time walking through the Sweet Auburn Historic District which is the center of the most important African American communities in Atlanta’s history.

You do not have to be an African American to feel the full impact of this great man's contribution toward equal rights and to see how segregation affected entire communities and created such a great rift throughout the United States. King's efforts have been immortalized at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park.

Self Guided Free Tours and More

Finding free things to do in metro Atlanta is not really that hard when you start looking outside the box. Whether it is going to free movies in the park or exploring Piedmont Park, spending time in Downtown Atlanta while not busting your wallet has never been easier. Check out the things listed here to get you started and explore the nooks and crannies of the city for free.

Take a free walking tour, either with a guide or download an app and go alone, to see as much of the city as you possibly can without ever cracking open your wallet. If you choose a free walking tour with a guide, you will want to tip them at the end of the tour and you will probably want to grab a snack at one of the street food vendors you will pass along the way.

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53 Awesome Free Things to do in Atlanta – Atlanta on the cheap!

By: Author MC Miller

Posted on Last updated: March 24, 2022

Categories Best Things to Do , City Guides , Georgia , North America , Travel Blog Post , Travel Guides , USA

Looking for free things to do in Atlanta?

If you are traveling on a budget, Atlanta is a great place to be due to the abundance of awesome free activities!   

Here are 53 of our favourite things to do in Atlanta Georgia for those wanting a budget-friendly trip to one of the best cities in the South.

Budget Tip: If you want to see all Atlanta has to offer on the cheap, we would highly recommend purchasing Atlanta CityPass that gives you access to some of the best attractions in Atlanta including the Coca Cola Museum, CNN Studios and the Georgia Aquarium.

53 Free Things to do in Atlanta This Weekend

Note: This post covers the best free + cheap activities but there are tonnes more attractions in Atlanta (after-all, it is a huge city!!), if something in this free list doesn’t tickle your pickle, you are sure to find something else here:

• 101 Top Attractions in Atlanta
• Atlanta Date Ideas 
• Romantic things to do in Atlanta

Downtown Atlanta

Centennial olympic park.

Completely free and conveniently located in downtown Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park is one of the very best free things to do in Atlanta.

The park first opened in 1996 for the Olympic games and now has become one of the best attractions in Atlanta with impressive water fountains and possibly the best view of Atlanta’s skyline from the ground.

If you go before a Atlanta United match at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium you will experience a buzzing atmosphere at the park like no other!

Throughout the year, there is also many free community-wide events held at the park including the annual Fourth of July celebration. One of the best free events in Atlanta!

While not free, there are a lot of cool festivals like the Sweetwater Festival, NCAA March Madness Music Festival, Shaky Beats Festival, the Bourbon & BBQ Festival, and the popular Atlanta Jazz Festival held at the park. Check out the events calendar for upcoming events here .

Getting to the park is easy from anywhere in town: catch the Blue/Green line Metro to Dome/GWCC/Philips/CNN station or use the Red/ Gold line from the Peachtree Center station. If you are traveling by car, we found easy metered parking in walking distance of the park.

Fountain of Rings: Get a Photo with the Olympic Rings

Completely free, AND, a fun thing to do in Atlanta is to have your picture taken with the iconic Olympic Games Rings installed for the 1996 games in Atlanta.

This is possibly the most popular place to have your photo taken in Atlanta.

While you may have to wait a few minutes in line for a photo, if you are looking for a great keepsake photo of your time in Atlanta, this would be a great choice.

Get an Instagram Snap of the Skyview Ferris Wheel Atlanta

Of course riding the ferris wheel is not free ($14 + tax for adults and $9.26 + tax for children up to 11 years old) but getting a great instagram snap outside the ferris wheel is 100% free.

If you don’t like heights staying firmly placed on the ground may be a better option for you in any event!!

Tip: It is quite pretty and romantic at night when the city lights fill the night sky!

Visit the Georgia State Capitol Building

If you love learning, we would recommend a visit to the Georgia State Capitol Building which reminded us a lot of the United States Capitol in Washington and also of the Capitol building in Havana Cuba.

It is completely free to enter and open to the public for self guided tours from 8:00 – 17:00 on weekdays. If you have a group of 10+ the staff will also give you a free guided tour.

Inside you can see the Georgian government in operation via the public gallery. You will also find a museum inside which includes Georgian history with everything from Native American artefacts to fossils.

Don’t miss one of the best free museums in Atlanta! You can see more information about tours and opening times here .

Underground Atlanta

Underground Atlanta would be a cool free place to see in Atlanta if the attraction were not overrun with drugs, prostitution and homeless people. Ekk!!

Underground Atlanta shows what the shops of Atlanta would have been like before the Union soldiers burned in to the ground.

Luckily, a company recently purchased it from the city of Atlanta and is set to develop it into a cool new space! 

Image Credit: Timothy J

Old Fourth Quarter Atlanta

Explore the sweet auburn district.

One of our favorite things to do in Atlanta which is completely free is to visit the neighborhood Civil Rights Leader, Martin Luther King Jnr grew up in called Sweet Auburn.

The neighborhood is a vibrant and happening neighborhood with a strong connection to the Civil Rights movement in America.

It is bizarre to think as recently as the 1940s and 1950s in America, this was a totally segregated, blacks only neighborhood in Atlanta.

Sweet Auburn was a middle to upper class area for African American (Martin Luther King Jr. grew up in a middle class family in the neighborhood).

Auburn Avenue filled with restaurants, bars and nightclubs was described by whites as the “richest Negro street in the world” at the time.

Visit The Shot Gun Houses

The iconic shot gun houses are a very unmissable free thing to check out while in Atlanta.

This style of house was popular from the end of the Civil war to the 1920s. You can find these houses on the same street as Martin Luther King Jr’s childhood home (Auburn Avenue).

The reason they are called “shot gun houses” is very interesting. The front door is in perfect alignment with the back door. If you sent a gunshot through the front door, it would go right through the back.

During Martin Luther King Jr’s childhood, these houses were home to Atlanta’s black residents, who, at the time, were segregated from the white population of Atlanta.

Martin Luther Kings Home

Across the road from the shot gun houses you will find the home Martin Luther King Jr. grew up in. If you want to program it into your GPS, it is located on 501 Auburn Avenue. 

It was in this home that he was born and lived out the first 12 years of his life.

You can see the house for free on the outside and if you arrive early for the day the National Park Service rangers will also give you a free tour of the inside of the house. The tour is limited to the first 15 people who arrive so show up early if you want to go inside!

Even if you are not so lucky to get a tour, there is very interesting information outside the house for you to read.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

While you are visiting Martin Luther King’s house, we would also recommend you visiting the nearby Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.

In the park you will find the tombs, a reflecting pool and eternal flame burning nearby in honor of Martin Luther King Jr and his wife Coretta Scott King.

Nearby, you can also visit the Visitor Center which gives interesting information about the civil rights movement and Martin Luther King’s involvement.

Atlanta’s Municipal Market

The Municipal Market in Sweet Auburn is another of our favorite free things to do in Atlanta.

Although the food itself isn’t free it is completely free to wander the market and window shop all the stores!

Inside, you will find a lot of fresh produce from vegetables to meats, fresh bakeries to even some small hip eateries.

The market first started operating in the 1920s and in the times of segregation in America, African Americans were not allowed to trade inside the Municipal Market.

These days, thanks to the work of Martin Luther King and other civil rights activists, some of the best businesses inside the Municipal Market are owned by Atlanta’s black community.

The Municipal Market is also known as the ‘Curb Market’ in reference to when Atlanta’s black community were not allowed inside and had to trade on the curbside.

Ebenezer Baptist Church

If you want to follow the footsteps of MLK, another great free place to visit is the Ebenezer Baptist Church.

It was here that Martin Luther King Jr and his father Martin Luther King Sr were pastors. Martin Luther King Jr was also baptized in this church.

Outside the church you will find some history as well as the good work the King family did to assist the homeless and needy in the Sweet Auburn area.

Inside you will find more history about the King family and their good work.

Ebenezer Baptist Church is one of the most interesting free things to do in Atlanta Georgia if you are interested in the history of Civil Rights Activist, Martin Luther King

Walk the Civil Rights Walk of Fame

Celebrating anyone from Martin Luther King to Gaundi, the Civil Rights Walk of Fame is one not to miss if you are in the Sweet Auburn area of Atlanta.

Being an outdoor exhibition, it is of course completely free and open to the public.

It was established in Atlanta in 2004 to commemorate those who have fought hard to protect human rights over the years.

Walk the Atlanta Beltline

Perhaps our favorite cost free activity in Atlanta is the Atlanta Beltline.

In 2008, it was established from a former railway corridor which was opened as a multi-use trail. This first-stage of the Atlanta BeltLine – known as the West End Trail – has has been followed by a Northside Trail, Eastside Trail, Southwest Connector Trail and West Side Trail.

In total the Atlanta BeltLine spans 9.9 miles and is still under development. Plans are to create a trail which connects 40 neighborhoods in a loop covering 22 miles.

Along the BeltLine you will find one of the quirkiest free things to do in the city – Atlanta’s Tiny Doors !

If you look closely enough you might spot mouse-size doors inconspicuously dotted along the trail as part of the Tiny Doors project. Let us know in the comments if you find a cool one to share!

The BeltLine is also a great place to people watch because along the way you’ll see locals walking their dogs, skating, playing flag football and more.

If you’re interested in the BeltLine project, on Friday and Saturday mornings you can catch a free, narrated bus tour of the parts of the trail still under development. You can find more information about the free tour here .

Take a Selfie at Jackson Street Bridge

This viewpoint really brings home the concept that the best things in life are completely free!

If you love the “Walking Dead” and want a great photo of the Atlanta skyline you really cannot go past the Jackson Street Bridge.

Jackson Street Bridge is a easy 6 minute drive from downtown Atlanta. It is free to visit and there is free parking nearby which is really convenient if you are driving around Atlanta!

In case you didn’t know, it was featured in one of Walking Dead’s most famous scenes a few years back!

Visit The Homage to King on Freedom Parkway

Around the corner from Jackson Street bridge you will see the iconic Homage to King monument on Freedom Parkway.

The sculpture of MLK raising his hand in the air was erected in 1996 by Xavier Medina from Barcelona.

We thought it was a cool piece of art that was worth checking out while you are in Atlanta.

It is designed to integrate the pedestrian and bike path which joins Atlanta downtown to Freedom Parkway.

Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park

On one section of the Beltline you will find the Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park. Completely free to visit of course!

If you have a skateboard or roller skates, feel free to give the skate park a go. They are very acceptable of beginners in the ring.

If not, it is really entertaining to watch the skaters use the ramps and bowls.

There is free parking directly outside the Skate Park but it can be difficult to get a park.

Krog Street Tunnel

This certainly has to rate in the top 1-2 free thing to do in Atlanta with kids!

Krog Street Tunnel is for hipsters and for anyone who just loves interesting street art.

The tunnel is a mixture of commissioned full-wall murals and impromptu graffiti from Atlanta’s residents.

Feel free to buy a can of spray paint and go for gold! The kids that we saw with their Dad absolutely loved watching him paint in the tunnel.

If you feel like a coffee at this point, across the road from the tunnel is a cool hipster cafe.

Krog St Market

It is entirely free to visit Krog Street Market.

I didn’t say you won’t be tempted to buy some of the delicious food options on offer ranging from Chinese to fried chicken to American style bars to freshly baked goods.

The Little Tart Bakeshop have particularly delicious strawberry tarts. #sorrynotsorry!

If you want the place to yourself, go on a weekday.

Midtown Atlanta

The autoeater.

The Autoeater is by far our favorite piece of art in Atlanta – even the name is cool! 

The Autoeater is carved from a 16 ton marble block from northern Italy. The artists Julia Venske and Gregor Spanle are well known for their marble sculptures around the world.

The stone or animal (whatever it is, maybe a fish?!) is eating the 1980s Fiat Panta.

In 2017, it made the 4856 mile trip from Italy to midtown Atlanta where it can be seen opposite the Margaret Mitchell house.

Reserve Bank of Atlanta

In midtown Atlanta on Peachtree Street you will see the stunning Reserve Bank of Atlanta.

You might not think there is a lot to do at the Reserve Bank of Atlanta but it consistently rates as one of the very best free stuff to do in Atlanta.

It is cool to get a peak inside the workings and operations of a bank! 

Inside you can see the Monetary Museum which has a lot of interesting information on the history of banking in the US including the part the Federal Reserve plays.

Atlanta Contemporary Art Musuem

If you love modern art, we would recommend a visit to the Atlanta Contemporary Art Museum.

Inside you will see amazing works of art from over 100 artists from the local, national and international art scene. On their website , you can find out about upcoming events for adults and kids.

The musuem is completely free to visit.

Center for Puppetry Arts

Are you from Georgia? Then lucky you – you can access the cool center for puppetry arts for a whole $0 dollars! 

Inside is cute performances, various workshops and even the unique ability to make your own puppet!

To get your ticket visit a participating Georgia Librar y with your library card and they will hook you up!

Even if you are not from Georgia, not to worry, as this attraction won’t break the bank. The tickets only cost $12 + (depending on what you want to do inside) which is a pretty cheap activity in Atlanta if you ask me!

You can check out more about whats on at the centre during your dates in Atlanta on their website.

Credit: Heather Kennedy

Visit The High Museum of Art

The High Musuem of Art in the Woodruff Arts Centre usually costs $14.50 but on the second Sunday of every month, entry is free for all!

There is free military veteran entry (+ a guest) everyday.

Inside you will find art from medieval times all the way to present day, contemporary art including some Monet pieces.

You can check out if there are any special exhibits on during your stay on their website .

Woodruff Park

Woodruff Park is one of the most popular free things to do in Atlanta.

It is nice to go for a stroll in the park and discover all the cool attractions including the beautiful International Peace Fountain, the amazing Gazebo erected for the Olympic games and various pieces of art in the park including the ‘Phoenix rising from the ashes’.

One of the unique aspects of the park is the pop up library in the middle where you can borrow a book and have a quiet read.

During the summer months, there is also other popular free activities in the park to look out for including free yoga.

You can check out what’s on in the park on their website .

Credit: Jennifer Morrow

Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is a stunning park in Atlanta which reminded me a lot of central park in New York!

It is the perfect place in the city to go for a picnic or for a leisurely stroll in a park, sniffing up the fresh air.

The great part about Piedmont Park is that it is located right in the very heart of Atlanta City.

Don’t miss Lake Clara Meer, located in the southern end of the park as it is one of the prettiest parts of the park.

Piedmont Park is completely free to enter and if you are lucky you can catch one of the many free events at the park .

Little Five Points and Poncey-Highland

Ponce city market.

While the food and beverage at Ponce City Market is not free, you can always go in any just window shop, right?!

The market is one the ground 2 floors of one of the largest buildings in the Southeast United States which in the 1920s was home to Sears.

The market is hustling with activity and has delicious food that will certainly tempt you including Asian, ice creameries, donut stores, burgers and specialty breweries.

Each store specializes in one cuisine only which makes all food and drink at the market extremely high quality.

Even if you do ‘splurge’ and have a bite to eat here rather than cook at home, it is a very inexpensive activity in Atlanta.

Feel like walking off all the food you ate at Ponce? You can access a lovely section of the Beltline directly from the market.

Tip: If you visit on a weekend the market is extremely busy. Whatever you do, do not park at Midtown Place across the road. It might look like the perfect place but we saw quite a few cars being clamped while we were there.

Little Five Points

I so loved the hippy vibe of Little Five Points!

The colorful houses along the street have some of the most interesting stores in Atlanta.

You will find anything from second hand clothing to record stores to hipster cafes! Some of the most interesting stores include the Criminal Records music shop and the Junkman’s Daughter with alternative fashion.

What you won’t find here are big chains like Starbucks as the business association as outlawed them in favor of upcoming vendors.

The vendors in the area are very appreciative of good art.  The mural at the 7 stages building has remained in perfect condition for 20 years!

Inman Park is Atlanta’s first planned suburb.

It is an interesting neighborhood to go for a wander through as it is built with beautiful Victorian architecture.

It borders a lot of other interesting parts of the city including Little Five Points, the BeltLine Eastside Trail and Krog St Market.

If your time in Atlanta falls in April, don’t miss the free Inman Park festival which includes food, activities and a parade.

The Jimmy Carter Library and Museum

The Jimmy Carter Musuem is free for all little ones aged 16 and under. For adults, it is still a cheap activity in Atlanta as it costs only $12 to visit.

If you don’t want to pay to go in, feel free to roam around the beautiful gardens for free!

The musuem honours Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States who served from 1977 – 81. He was particularly popular as he advocated against poverty and against racial segregation.

If you are interested in visiting and learning more about Jimmy Carter, check out their website .

Atlanta’s Prettiest Cathedrals 

I was a little shocked to find some seriously pretty cathedrals and churches around Atlanta. The Cathedral of St Philip is one of our favorite churches in Atlanta.

Other beautiful churches to check out around Atlanta include the Peachtree Christian Church and St Mark United Church.

Go for a drive around Buckhead

Not going to lie, Buckhead will make you wish you had more money!

Even still, I would recommend going for a drive in Buckhead as it is one of the prettiest neighborhoods in Atlanta with some of the most beautiful and grand houses (dating back to the roaring 20s) I have ever seen.

Buckhead is known as the “Beverly Hills of the East” and if you take a drive through the neighborhood and in particular West Paces Ferry Road NW you will understand why.

Don’t miss the beautiful Governor’s mansion along the road. There are free tours of this mansion every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10 – 11.30am.

Window Shopping at Lenox Sqaure

If you want to see where the real housewives do their shopping head to Lenox Square, a luxury high end shopping at the luxury mall in Buckhead.

You can find some of the usual favorites at Lenox including Zara, Forever 21 and Macys along with some high end designer brands inside like Louis Vuitton and Burberry.

There is free parking at Lenox Sqaure for regular people to do their shopping as well as valet parking for the Real Housewives and other D-listers.

Chastain Park

If you feel like a walk in the ‘woods’ with some fresh air, don’t miss a leisurely walk or jog is Chastain Park.

Chastain Park is one of the largest parks in Atlanta (268 acres) with baseball courts, tennis courts, a large golf course, horse riding facilities and playgrounds.

There are also some walking tracks (1.5 miles +) for serious fitness junkies.

Take a peak in the 7,000 seat amphitheater which stages some of the best concerts and shows in America from May to October each year.

Many big A-list stars have performed in this theater including Aretha Franklin, Johnny Cash and Diana Ross.

Art Stroll at Castleberry Hill

If you love art, then you will want to visit one of the most artsy areas of Atlanta – Castleberry Hill.

It has been voted one of the 10 best art districts in the US so you know its gotta be good!

A really fun free arts stroll through the warehouse district of Atlanta is offered every 2nd Friday.  You can see more information about the stroll on their website .

If your time in Atlanta falls on the 1st Friday of the month, there is a different art walk that you can participate in of the Marietta area, which is also popular.

South of Downtown Atlanta

Oakland cemetery.

I wasn’t too stoked initially to visit Oakland Cemetery (who wants to visit a cemetery?!) but after seeing it consistently get amazing reviews, I decided to give it a go.

Turns out it was one of my favorite free attractions in Atlanta.

Oakland Cemetery the final resting spot of 70,000 people including some of Atlanta’s most important dead including Margaret Mitchell, author of gone with the wind, Atlanta’s first black governor, Maynard Jackson, and soldiers both confederate and union soldiers buried in different sections of the cemetery.

I was amazed to see that some burials were as recent as a few years ago!

At the time the cemetery was established, African Americans were not allowed to be buried with the white population so the cemetery is set up in sections

There is a separate section for confederate soldiers too. Although the government would not pay for their burials after the civil war, private organisations paid for these burials.

If you visit in Spring the graveyard is also covered in beautiful daffodils in Spring. We were there as early as February and they were in bloom.

Tip: If you thought that Oakland Cemetery was pretty interesting, you might like to check out another free cemetery, Farmer Street Cemetery in Atlanta which is the largest slave cemetery in the South!

Grocery on Home

If you are in Atlanta on a Saturday, you definitely need to visit one of the best things to do in Atlanta for free, what is known as the Grocery on Home local artists performance.

While entry is completely free, you are required to RSVP on their facebook group to attend. While entry is free, artists expect a small tip.

What’s cool about this place is that you are allowed to bring your own alcohol to the event so come prepared! 

One of our favourite date ideas in Atlanta !

Greater Atlanta

Waffle house museum.

It only opens on Wednesdays at 11.30 and 1.30pm by appointment only but if you do make an appointment, it is completely free to enter.

You can get details on how to make an appointment on their website.

Inside, you will feel like you are stepping back in time to the 1950s. It includes interesting Waffle house memorabilia from the last 60 years.

Waffle House is another claim to fame for Atlanta as the first waffle house was established in Atlanta in 1955.

At the time, two brothers felt the neighborhood needed a 24 hour restaurant.

Photo credit: James Emory

David J. Sencer CDC Museum

If you are ever curious about disease control and prevention, we would recommend popping in to the David J Sencer CDC Museum in Atlanta.

Here you will learn how scientists manage to find cures to some of the world’s deadliest diseases.

It is completely free to enter but note, it is only open on a weekday.

Silver Comet Trail

The Silver Comet Trail is a fabulous free trail, 45 minutes outside downtown Atlanta.

This 61 mile trail that is entirely paved is popular with walkers, joggers and bikers in Atlanta looking to soak up some fresh air in beautiful forest and countryside.

The trail begins in Smyrna and proceeds through Polk County. 

Credit: Timothy J

Fernbank Science Centre

You can visit the Fernbank Science Centre and enjoy their exhibits completely free!

Keep in mind, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History (highly recommended) does costs extra. You might like to consider going there if you have kids as it includes fossils, dinosaur skeletons and an immersive 3D theatre.

One way to keep the costs down, is to buy the  Atlanta City Pass   to access the Museum, which if you also plan on going to some of the other major attractions in Atlanta like the Coca-Cola museum, makes the entry here really cheap!

Marietta Fire Museum

The Marietta Fire Museum is a great place to visit for both adults and kids.

It is free to visit and includes cool old firefighting equipment and trucks. One of the biggest drawcards of the museum is a 1879 Silsby Steamer.

Anne Frank Musuem 

Whoever thought the only Anne Frank musuem is in Amsterdam is very wrong! There is a fabulous Anne Frank Musuem in Atlanta that is entirely free to visit.

Inside you will find interesting photos and videos dedicated to the life and work of Anne Frank and information about the Holocaust.

The musuem is closed on Mondays. You can find more information about the exhibits on their website . There is also a note for parents about age appropriateness as the material in the musuem is somewhat graphic and deals with a very sensitive topic. 

National Archives of Atlanta

20 minutes outside downtown Atlanta you will find the National Archives of Atlanta.

The centre, which is entirely free to visit, provides visitors a unique opportunity to look up your heritage and ancestors which is pretty cool!

Probably only relevant if you have relatives or roots to the following states: Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

The centre is open weekdays 9am-4pm. If you are thinking to visit you can find more information on their website .

Free Things to Outside Atlanta (Day Trip)

Chattachoochee river.

If you don’t mind a short drive, we would recommend visiting the Chattachoochee River. Some of the most beautiful spots near Atlanta are found along this river.

Here are some of the best spots for hiking along the river:

• Sope Creek Trail (1.5 miles)
• Cochran Shoals Trail (3 miles)
• Vickery Creek Trail (4.7 miles) 
• Powers Island Trail (2.4 miles)

We would recommend either the Sope Creek trail and the Vickery Creek trail as you will find ruins of old textile mills that used to operate there.

If you are visiting in Summer, you might like to BYO your own tube and go tubing on the river.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

Located a 40 minute drive outside of Atlanta, the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a very interesting place to visit for those interested in the Civil War.

Here you will find a museum, interpretive trails and monuments with interesting information about the Battle of Atlanta.

It is free if you have a National Park Pass, otherwise entry is pretty cheap at $5.

Credit: Georgia National Guard

Noah’s Ark

If you don’t want to pay to visit the Atlanta zoo, I have a good alternative for you – Noah’s Ark – a completely free wildlife rehabilitation center which honestly has some pretty cool animals! 

Bears, exotic cats, lions and tigers call home to Noah’s Ark .

An interesting story. A lion, bear and tiger (odd roomies) are all housed in one shelter together. They were found together in a basement of an Atlanta home in 2001 after a drug raid.

The center is open between Tuesday – Saturday 12-3pm. They ask you to call in advance if you want to visit.

Despite the fact that it is free to enter, they really appreciate donations if you do decide to visit.

Credit: Clevergrrl

Atlanta Farmer’s Market

Who doesn’t love visiting a good farmers market?

Atlanta Farmers Market is particularly good as it is held over 150 acres making it one of the largest farmers markets in the world!

At the farmers market you will find fresh produce as well as a full garden and retail center.

Buying something interesting costs but window shopping at the market is entirely free!

Stone Mountain Park

Stone Mountain Park is officially Georgia’s most-visited attraction and it is only a 30 minute drive from Atlanta.

The park is popular as it is home to he world’s largest piece of exposed granite caused by an upwelling of magma 300-350 million years ago.

Hiking to the top is one mile (1.6 kilometers) in length. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy the views at the top!

One of the most popular free events at Stone Mountain is the incredible laser shower where lights and lasers are projected on the mountain. They do a particularly cool fourth of July show! Check out more information on their website .

It is free to enter but there is a $15 parking fee.

Arabia Mountain Heritage Area

If you love the great outdoors, you might like to make a trip to the Arabia Mountain Heritage park.

The area is only a 25 minute drive East of Atlanta is entirely free to visit!

In the heritage park you will find stunning mountain summits, spanning meadows and glassy lakes.

It really is a sight for sore eyes and so close to downtown Atlanta!

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center

Located around 40 minutes from downtown Atlanta, the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center is a family favourite in Atlanta as it offers over 46 acres of lush countryside and 3 miles of fun trails.

Don’t miss the Visitor Centre at the property as it is not a usual visitor center bur has over 30 different animals to see and learn about inside!

Best part is it is entirely free to visit!

Visit a German Town in Georgia

Around 1.5 hours from Atlanta is the Bavarian inspired town of Helen, GA .

You don’t need to spend a dime (except gas) to visit Germany – or at least a German style town. You certainly don’t need to pay for a Rhine River Cruise .

Some of the attractions in town are a plain rip-off ($12 for a pretzel?!) but wandering the streets and admiring the half-timber houses is free!

If you can spare a night here, we would recommend staying a night or 2 in Helen Georgia to soak up the culture. Click here for the best deals during your dates.

Money-Saving Atlanta Tip

If you do want to do something outside the free activities but are on a budget?!

Here is a money saving tip for you that will allow you to conserve money but see some of Atlanta’s best attractions (like the Coca Cola Museum, CNN Studios, Georgia Aquarium etc).

We would highly recommend the Atlanta CityPass as it will save you heaps of money.

What you get with the Atlanta CityPass :

• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• CNN Studio Tours
• Atlanta Zoo OR National Center for Civil and Human Rights
• Fernbank Museum of Natural History OR College Football Hall of Fame

How the Atlanta CityPASS works:

It is super easy to purchase the CityPASS online. Once you purchase the pass, you receive a QR code that you can use  either on your phone or printed on paper.

When you visit the attractions, simply scan your QR code at the ticket booth. Once you scan, the attraction will provide you with a ticket and and you are all set to go in!

How much money does the CityPASS save you?

What we like most about the CityPass is the money savings!

The total cost to enter all of these attractions separately would cost $129.43, but using the Atlanta City Pass the cost is only $76. That’s a 41% saving! 

The other thing we love about the CityPASS is the ability to skip the line. At most attractions, the CityPASS allows you to skip the normal ticketing line which is pretty handy.

Book your Atlanta City Pass and get ready to see some of Atlanta’s top sights!

Budget Friendly Places to Stay in Atlanta

Parking can be expensive in downtown Atlanta ($30+ for valet parking) so if you are traveling on a budget and have your car with you, here are some good budget/mid range accommodation options in Atlanta:

• Homestay (very cheap but shared bathroom)
• Wyndham Atlanta 
• Sonesta ES Suites Atlanta Perimeter Center East 

We stayed at Hilton Garden Inn , which doesn’t sound cheap but we were absolutely shocked by how cheap we could get a Hilton!

The rooms were lovely and the pillows were a-mazing so you might like to check it out to see if they have a good deal on your dates!

If you are on a romantic getaway in Georgia you might also like to check out our top picks for romantic hotels in Atlanta . To add further to the romance, we have also counted down the jacuzzi suites in Atlanta.

Hilton Garden Inn, where we stayed in Atlanta!

What is on the top of your list of things to do in Atlanta for free? If we missed anything cool, let us know in the comments below!

Looking for more Georgia Travel Inspo?

• Romantic places to stay in Atlanta
• Top Things for Couples in Atlanta
• Things to do in Helen
• Romantic Places to stay in Helen
• Romantic Cabins in Georgia

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MC Miller is a travel blogger and writer who has travelled America extensively and abroad to over 80 countries. He founded Couple Travel The World in 2017. Since then, he has spent over 6 years on the road as a full time travel couple. When he not traveling he likes to spend quality time with his partner Bett, planning our their next date or romantic getaway!

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Tuesday 19th of July 2022

I have always love to visit Atlanta. Now I have learned a few more things to do. Thanks for sharing this.

Monday 2nd of March 2020

Ahh cool - you guys went to Atlanta! As a local, I have been to some of these places quite a few times but I found some new places on this list too, which is cool. I will check them out this weekend!

Couple Travel the World

Glad you liked it Kel! If you have any other great free or cheap things to do in Atlanta that we missed from the list, we'd love to know!

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40+ Free Things To Do In Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia can be an expensive place when it comes to housing and other things. When it comes to having fun, you can actually do it for free. Yes, you don’t have to spend money to have a good time in Georgia’s largest city.

If you’re looking for free things to get into in Atlanta, this article is for you.

40+ FREE Things In Atlanta To Do

Atlanta quickly became a manufacturing mecca. Coca-Cola launched here in 1886. Streetcars came three years later. Atlanta’s proud tradition of elite black colleges began in 1865 and 1885. Throughout it all, Atlanta remained a city where there was plenty to do and see.

Atlanta is known as the city Too Busy To Hate, but it’s also a city full of rich cultural monuments that all can enjoy free of charge. Here are some free things to do in Atlanta.

Free Things To Do In Downtown Atlanta

• Visit Centennial Olympic Park
• Tour Downtown Atlanta Bike Tour
• Ride the Trolley
• Go on a self-guided free tour at the Federal Reserve Museum in Midtown (weekdays only).
• Visit and eat at the Very First Chick-Fil-A
• Take the Art Stroll at Castleberry Hill
• Take a walk in Hurt Park downtown
• Enjoy the Woodruff Park Reading Room
• Take a walk through  Underground Atlanta

Free Things To Do In Midtown Atlanta

• Enjoy the bucolic scene of strong oak trees and cherry blossoms at Buckhead’s  Chastain Park .
• Visit the Margaret Mitchell House and be “Gone With The Wind.”
• Walk the Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail
• Walk across the Banana Split bridge in Midtown
• See the life works of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. at the MLK Center for Nonviolent & Social Change .
• Bust a move at the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark .
• Check out the Goat Farm in West Midtown just off Huff Road.
• Take a walk around Little 5 Points
• Walk through the Krog Street Tunnel
• Go chill at Krog Street Market
• Hang out at Ponce City Market
• Lay in the grass at Piedmont Park
• Browse books at the  Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History

Free Things To Do On Atlanta’s Eastside

• Check out the DeKalb F armer’s Market to see international fare
• Visit the local businesses at Madison Yards
• Take a tour through Oakland Cemetery
• Watch a drag race in the old Krogers parking lot
• Tour the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

Free Things to Do On Atlanta’s South Side

• Check out the other Forest Park Farmer’s Market to support Georgia produce
• Take a cruise down Old National Highway one weekend evening
• Ride horses at the ranches off Butner Road
• Visit the shops and restaurants at Camp Creek
• Play frisbee at Perkerson Park

Free Things To Do On Atlanta’s North Side

• Check out Buford Highway’s  Little Saigon Farmer’s Market for eclectic fare
• Walk the Path 400 in Buckhead
• Take a walk through Lenox Square
• Enjoy the scenes at Chastain Park

Free Things To Do On Atlanta’s West Side

• Run or walk the Silver Comet Trail
• Take a walk or jog around the Bellwood Quarry
• Visit the National Archives at  Atlanta
• Play tennis at the Bitsy Grant Tennis Center

Free Things To Do Around Atlanta Outdoors

• Hike up Kennesaw Battlefield Mountain National Park
• Go to  Arabia Mountain in the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve, in DeKalb County
• Hike up the famous Stone Mountain
• Take a boat ride down the Chattahoocheee River

Looking for more to do? Here are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com  to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.

Atlanta weekends are fun, but they can be pricey. But there is also tons of free things to do in Atlanta on every single day of the week. You just need to know where to look.

If you go out this weekend, please be safe and observe public health guidelines. In other words, party responsibly.

Atlanta’s clubs will be on 10 this weekend. See the hottest ATL nightclubs this week and what’s going on.

Atlanta has so much to do that you need a curated guide to help you sort through it all. Make sure you subscribe to our #ATLHaps newsletter  that gives you a weekly tab of Atlanta events you don’t want to miss.

Here are more articles from  AtlantaFi.com:

• All The Fun Things To Do In North Georgia
• These Atlanta Places Are Great To Watch the Fall Leaves
• Feeling adventurous? Here Are Some Outdoorsy Things To Do In ATL

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75+ Free and Budget Things To Do in Atlanta, Georgia

Do you feel like Atlanta is an expensive city to visit? It doesn’t have to be! There are a ton of free and cheap things to do in Atlanta, Georgia, you just need to know where to look. If you’re looking to have fun on a budget, these are the best things to do in Atlanta.

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Visiting Atlanta on a Budget

You don’t have to break the bank to visit Atlanta, Georgia. Once you look past Atlanta’s iconic attractions that have a hefty price tag, the city actually has a lot of affordable activities for you to enjoy.

| Save on admission to Atlanta’s top attractions using the Atlanta CityPASS.

From free museums to free concerts to cheap shows, I’ve compiled more than 75 things to do on a budget in Atlanta .

Free Things You’ll Actually Want To Do in Atlanta

Check out these top free, no-cost things to do in and around the Atlanta metro-area. You’ll discover parts of the city that many tourists never see!

1. Arabia Mountain

Arabia Mountain is a monadnock, a geologic formation that has had the ground around it erode away, leaving the mountain you see today. It sits inside the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area in DeKalb County with plenty of trails that are free to hike, bike , and explore.

Hours: Daily from dawn to dusk

2. Arts Clayton Gallery

Arts Clayton Gallery is a public art gallery featuring works from local Georgia artists. The gallery has monthly exhibitions showcasing local artists, as well as traveling exhibits and collections with a variety of themes.

Hours: M-F: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. — 4 p.m.

3. Atlanta Beltline

The Atlanta Beltline is a former railway corridor around the city that is undergoing redevelopment. Plans include a streetcar loop, 2,000 acres of parks , and 33 miles of multi-use trails. Segments here and there have already been developed, but the whole loop hasn’t been completed yet. You can walk the Atlanta Beltline trails and enjoy skyline views, public art, and the different neighborhoods of Atlanta. Learn about walking the Northside Trail and the Eastside Trail .

Hours: Always open

4. Atlanta Contemporary

West Midtown

Atlanta Contemporary is one of the South’s leading contemporary art centers. The center presents 6-10 exhibitions each year featuring both local and international artists as well as new works by artists who have not had a significant exhibition in the Southeast.

Hours: Tu-W: 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.; Th: 12 p.m. — 8 p.m.; F-Sat: 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.; Sun: 12 p.m. — 4 p.m.

5. Atlanta Monetary Museum

The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta houses the Atlanta Monetary Museum . This museum presents the story of money and the history of banking in America. You can take a free self-guided tour of the bank’s cash-processing operations, automated vault, and historical artifacts including rare coins and currency.

Hours: M-F: 9 a.m. — 4 p.m.

6. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center

Johns Creek

The 46-acre Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center has 3 miles of trails, historic buildings, and an exhibit on animals native to Georgia.

Hours: Grounds and Trails open daily from 8 a.m. — 9 p.m.; Visitor Center and Farm Museum open Tu-Sat: 10 a.m. — 4 p.m.; Sun: 12 p.m. — 4 p.m.

7. Big Trees Forest Preserve

Sandy Springs

The 30-acre Big Trees Forest Preserve is a Fulton County Tree, Plant and Wildlife Sanctuary. The nature preserve, previously a threatened urban forest, now has a network of trails running along a stream and through the forest.

Hours: Daily from sunrise to sunset

8. Blue Heron Nature Preserve

The 30-acre Blue Heron Nature Preserve has the 3 mile Blueway Trail, a community garden, an art gallery focused on environmental art, and educational programming for children.

Hours: Daily from dawn until dusk

9. Castleberry Hill Art Stroll

Castleberry Hill

On the second Friday of every month, you can attend the Castleberry Hill Art Stroll . This self-guided tour of Atlanta’s historic and arts district of Castleberry Hill lets you browse diverse galleries and local businesses and restaurants in the area.

Hours: Second Friday of the month from 6 p.m. — 10 p.m.

10. Centennial Olympic Park

Centennial Olympic Park is a 22-acre park built as part of the city improvements for the 1996 Summer Olympics. The park is in the midst of all the action, surrounded by Atlanta landmarks like the CNN Center, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Georgia Aquarium, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and the World of Coca-Cola. You can play in the Fountain of Rings interactive fountain and picnic in the grass.

Hours: Daily 7 a.m. — 7 p.m.

11. Children’s Museum of Atlanta — Family Free Days on Select Dates

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a hands-on museum for children ages 0-8 to play and learn. The museum holds Family Free Days four times a year. Each Family Free Day offers three 2.5 hour sessions that you can pre-register for.

Hours: Th-T: 9:30 a.m. — 4:30 p.m. Click here for upcoming Family Free Days .

12. Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve

The 28-acre Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve has several walking trails through forest, wetland, and pond habitats that are home to frogs, beavers, birds, and other wildlife.

13. Coweta County African American Heritage Museum

At the Coweta County African American Heritage Museum houses a private collection of African-American artifacts and records. The museum also serves as a genealogy workroom for African-American research. Adjacent to the museum is the Farmer Street Cemetery, believed to be the largest slave cemetery in the South.

Hours: W: 10 a.m. — 4 p.m.

14. David J. Sencer CDC Museum

Druid Hills

The David J. Sencer CDC Museum explores the history of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and has exhibitions on public health topics, the spread of disease, and, of course, pandemics.

Hours: M-W: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m.; Th: 9 a.m. — 7 p.m.; F: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m.

15. Dunwoody Nature Center

The Dunwoody Nature Center is a 22-acre nature preserve with 2 miles of woodland hiking trails, Wildcat Creek, gardens, picnic areas, a playground, beehives, and a hammock garden.

16. Fernbank Science Center

The Fernbank Science Center is a science and technology museum that features a live animal exhibit, a live honeybee hive, space exhibits including the real Apollo 6 space capsule and a meteorite collection, and an extensive taxidermy collection.

Hours: M-W: 12 p.m. — 4 p.m.; Th-F: 12 p.m. — 9 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. — 4 p.m.

17. Marietta Square Art Walk

The Marietta Square Art Walk is held the first Friday of each month. This is a free self-guided walking tour of the galleries, museums, cultural venues, restaurants, and businesses on Marietta Square. The event also features live music, performances, and local art.

Hours: First Friday of the month from 5 p.m. — 9 p.m.

18. Georgia Aquarium — Free on Your Birthday for Georgia Residents

The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, housing hundreds of aquatic species in more than 10 million gallons of water. And if you’re a Georgia resident and it’s your birthday, you’re in luck! You can get in to the Georgia Aquarium for free with a valid Georgia ID.

Hours: Hours vary by season.

19. Georgia Capitol Museum

Visit to the Georgia State Capitol and take a free self-guided tour of the history of the building as well as the events that have shaped Georgia’s history. The museum exhibits significant artifacts, memorials, and artwork related to the state’s history.

Hours: M-F: 8 a.m. — 5 p.m.

20. Georgia Governor’s Mansion

The Georgia Governor’s Mansion is the official home of Georgia’s governor. The tour is self-guided with docents stationed in each room to give you more information. The mansion also hosts special holiday tours in the winter.

Hours: February 1 through October 27 on Tu-Th: 10 a.m. — 11:30 a.m.

21. Grant Park

Grant Park is Atlanta’s oldest city park. Its 130 acres has miles of walking and jogging paths, a farmers market on Sundays during April through December, and several famous festivals throughout the year.

Hours: Daily 6 a.m. — 11 p.m.

22. High Museum of Art — Free on the Second Sunday of Each Month

Atlanta’s High Museum of Art is free on the second Sunday of each month . The High is a leading art museum in the Southeast with more than 15,000 works in its permanent collection. Free Second Sundays at the High feature special family-friendly programs, tours, performances, and art-making activities.

Hours: Tu-Sat: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.; Sun: 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.

23. Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park

Old Fourth Ward

Located just off the Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail , the Historic Forth Ward Skate Park is Atlanta’s first public skate park. There are bowls, ramps, and rails for skateboarders as well as an athletic field and a playground.

24. Jackson Street Bridge

Jackson Street Bridge offers the perfect photo opp of the Atlanta skyline, especially at sunset . It was made famous by a scene in The Walking Dead , and now it’s a great place for selfies.

25. Krog Street Tunnel

Cabbage Town

Krog Street Tunnel is famous for its street art. It runs under a train yard and links up the Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail between Inman Park and Cabbage Town. This is another great spot for a photo opp or filming edgy videos.

26. Lullwater Preserve

Lullwater Preserve is an oasis of green space on Emory University’s North Decatur campus. You can walk the paved and unpaved trails , relax by the pond, and see the English Tudor mansion where the university president lives.

27. Marietta Fire Museum

The free Marietta Fire Museum explores the history of the Marietta Fire Department through a collection of antique fire apparatus, tools, and gear dating back to 1854.

Hours: Daily 8 a.m. — 5 p.m.

28. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park

Sweet Auburn Historic District

Explore where Dr. King lived, worked, and worshiped at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park . The site consists of historic buildings including MLK’s boyhood home and the original Ebenezer Baptist Church where he was baptized and was pastor.

Hours: Visitor Center, Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and Freedom Hall open M-Sat: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m.; Birth Home open M-Sat: 10 a.m. — 4 p.m.; Fire Station No. 6 open M-Sat: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m. when volunteers are available

29. National Archives at Atlanta

The National Archives at Atlanta is a research facility holding historically significant records of federal agencies in the South. You can explore records on science and technology, civil rights, medicine and public health, military activities and conflict, space exploration, maritime and naval history, the federal courts, and more.

Hours: M-F: 9 a.m. — 4 p.m. by appointment

30. Newman Wetlands Center

The Newman Wetlands Center has a boardwalk trail, unpaved trails, a picnic area, and a Learning Center with exhibits on the importance of wetlands, Clayton County’s sustainable water re-use system, local wildlife, and conservation.

Hours: M-Sat: 8 a.m. — 5 p.m.; the gate closes at 4:30 p.m.

31. Oakland Cemetery

Historic Oakland Cemetery is Atlanta’s oldest public park. This is also where many of the city’s most notable citizens have been laid to rest. You can explore the cemetery on your own, discovering the beautiful Victorian gardens, or have a picnic among the graves.

32. Oglethorpe University Museum of Art

Oglethorpe University Museum of Art is the only small liberal arts university museum in the Southeast to regularly show nationally and internationally recognized exhibitions. It presents three major exhibitions each year and several smaller exhibitions that feature international, representational, figurative, and spiritual works of art.

Hours: Tu 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.; W 2 p.m. — 10 p.m.; Th 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.; F 2 p.m. — 5 p.m.; Sat 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.; and Sun 2 p.m. — 5 p.m.

33. Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park has covered picnic areas, two playgrounds, paved walking and running paths, free yoga, fishing, and meadows for people and dogs to play in that can all be accessed for free.

34. Piedmont Park Aquatic Center and Pool – Free Swim Hours

Swimming in Piedmont Park has been a popular Atlanta activity since before the original bathhouse was built in 1911. They hold free swimming hours every Monday through Friday for 2 hours. The pool is seasonal, operating from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Hours: Free swim hours M-F: 3 p.m. — 5 p.m.

35. The Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking

Georgia Tech

The Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking at Georgia Tech explores the history of paper and paper technology. The museum’s exhibits include: the Dard Hunter Collection of artifacts and books on paper and hand papermaking; tools from the early industrialization of papermaking; environmental issues related to papermaking; and changing gallery spaces.

Hours: M-F: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m.

36. Roswell Fire Museum

The Roswell Fire Museum explores the history of fire history in Roswell and in Atlanta. The museum’s main draw is a 1947 Ford American LaFrance Pumper, an original piece of firefighting equipment that was used by the City of Roswell.

37. Sawnee Mountain Preserve

Sawnee Mountain Preserve covers 821 acres of scenic wilderness with 11 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and an interactive Visitor Center. It is popular for its Indian Seats rock formation that offers an amazing view of the North Georgia Mountains.

Hours: Trails are open November through February: daily 6 a.m. — 7 p.m.; March through October: daily 6 a.m. — 9:30 p.m.; the Visitor Center is open M-Sat: 8:30 a.m. — 5 p.m.

38. Self-Guided Walking Dead Tour

Fans of The Walking Dead can take a self-guided tour of the filming locations from the show. Check out this guide from Local Adventurer on the best Walking Dead locations .

Hours: Anytime

39. Self-Guided Atlanta Street Art Walking Tours

Atlanta has a ton of street art, and you can take your own free walking tour of different neighborhoods known for their street art. Check out Atlanta Street Art Map for the different artsy neighborhoods you can explore.

40. Silver Comet Trail

Cobb, Paulding, and Polk Counties

The Silver Comet Trail runs along an old railway line from Smyrna to the Georgia/Alabama border for 61.5 miles. It’s a paved trail and is perfect for walking, biking , and rollerblading.

41. Spelman College Museum of Fine Art

Atlanta University Center

The Spelman College Museum of Fine Arts is dedicated to art by and about women of the African diaspora. The museum features groundbreaking and scholarly exhibitions amplifying art by Black women artists.

Hours: Wed-Sat 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.

42. Sweet Auburn Historic District

In the 1940-50s, the Sweet Auburn District flourished with African-American-owned businesses. In addition to the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park, there’s a ton of African American history to discover here. Take a free self-guided walking tour of the neighborhood, keeping an eye out for the historic signs pointing out areas of interest like The Atlanta Daily World, the first black daily newspaper in the country, and The Royal Peacock, a popular black-owned nightclub.

43. Tiny Doors ATL

Tiny doors are all the rage! Tiny Doors ATL is a project that brings big wonder to tiny spaces through 7-inch door sculptures. Each door reflects the unique personality of its surroundings. Take a free self-guided tour to find all the doors yourself.

44. Underground Atlanta

Underground Atlanta is a shopping and entertainment district that’s essentially a city beneath the city. In the early 1900s, Atlanta raised its street level to be above the congested train depot, leaving these old streets to be covered up until they were rediscovered and revitalized. The area has had its ups and downs, but now new shops, restaurants, and venues are moving in and restoring the area to its former glory.

Hours: W-Sat: 11 a.m. — 10 p.m.; Sun: 12 p.m. — 6 p.m.

45. Woodruff Park

Woodruff Park is a 6-acre park in the middle of Downtown Atlanta. You can relax with free Wi-Fi at the café tables or by the water wall. You can check out games for free from the Game Cart, work out at the fitness station, or play on the ATL sculptural playground. The park even occasionally has free yoga and free history tours.

46. Yellow River Park

Stone Mountain

The 691-acre Yellow River Park has 12-mile of unpaved trails for mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian as well as 1 mile of paved trail. You can explore the scenic stretches of the river or have a picnic at the pavilion and playgrounds.

47-52. Georgia Public Library Free Passes

Are you a Georgia resident with a public library card? Then you may be able to “checkout” free passes to a number of Atlanta attractions at your local public library. Click here for details about the pass loan program . You can get free entry at these Atlanta attractions:

• Center for Puppetry Arts
• Chattahoochee Nature Center
• Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites
• Michael C. Carlos Museum on the Emory University campus
• The William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum
• Zoo Atlanta

Cheap Things To Do in Atlanta Under $20

Sometimes you need to drop a little cash to see something really cool. But these budget activities won’t break the bank! Check out these cheap Atlanta activities with low admission charges or parking fees only.

53. Stone Mountain Hike — $20 Parking Fee

Your Stone Mountain Park daily parking pass gives you access to all the natural areas of the park. This means you can access the numerous hiking and nature trails , public picnic areas, 363-acre lake, children’s playground, Grist Mill, Covered Bridge, and Quarry Exhibit all for just $20 per vehicle.

Hours: Park Gates are open daily from 5 a.m. — midnight

54. National Center for Civil and Human Rights — $19.99

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum dedicated to the achievements of the American Civil Rights Movement and the Global Human Rights Movements. Admission costs $19.99 for adults.

Hours: Tu-F and Sun: 12 p.m. — 5 p.m. with last entry at 4 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. with last entry at 4 p.m.

55. World of Coca-Cola — $19

World of Coca-Cola is a museum dedicated to Atlanta’s most famous beverage. Go through the history of Coca-Cola’s invention, the bottling process, try to crack the code of the secret formula, and more. Admission costs $19 for adults.

Hours: Hours vary by day, but typically is open M-Th: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. in fall/winter and until 6 p.m. or 7 p.m. in spring/summer; F-Sun: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m. in fall/winter and 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. in spring/summer

56. High Museum of Art — $16.50

Explore the highly-rated High Museum of Art ‘s impressive collection of works, from African arts to contemporary design to the Masterworks. Admission costs $16.50 for adults.

Hours: Tu-Sat: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.; Sun: 12 p.m. — 5 p.m., with last entry at 4 p.m.

57. Delta Flight Museum — $15

The Delta Flight Museum , located near the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, is a museum dedicated to Delta’s history and the development of commercial aviation. Admission costs $15 for adults.

Hours: Hanger open Th-Tu: 10 a.m. — 4 p.m.; B-747 open Th-Tu: 11 a.m. — 3 p.m.; when the hangers are closed, admission is half-price.

58. Computer Museum of America — $15

The Computer Museum of America in Roswell is one of the world’s largest collections of computers, technology, and artifacts from the Digital Revolution. See technology of our past, present, and the near future. Admission costs $15 for adults.

Hours: Th-F and Sun: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

59. Margaret Mitchell House — $13

Note: The Margaret Mitchell House is temporarily closed.

See the small apartment where Margaret Mitchell lived with her second husband at the Margaret Mitchell House . This is where she wrote Gone With the Wind . Admission costs $13 for adults.

Hours: M-Sat: 10 a.m. — 5:30 p.m.; Sun: 12 p.m. — 4:30 p.m.

60. The Breman Museum — $12

The William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum  is dedicated to Jewish history, culture, and arts with an emphasis on the Holocaust and the Southern Jewish experience. Their permanent exhibition, Absence of Humanity: The Holocaust Years, 1933-1945 , presents a detailed history of the events leading up to the Holocaust, the atrocities perpetrated by the Nazis, and the following events. Admission costs $12 for adults.

Hours: W-F and Sun: 11 a.m. — 4 p.m.

61. Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum — $12

Poncey-Highland

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum houses documents from the 39th president, historical memorabilia from Carter’s presidency, a replica of the Oval Office, and 35 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens. Admission is $12 for adults.

Hours: Tu-Sat: 10 a.m. — 4:45 p.m. with last admission at 3:30 p.m.

62. Millennium Gate Museum — $12

Atlantic Station

Set inside a triumphal arch, the Millennium Gate Museum explores Georgia history, art, culture, and philanthropic heritage. General admission costs $12.

Hours: Tu-Sat: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.

63. Oakland Cemetery Tours — $12

The Historic Oakland Foundation offers two types of tours of Historic Oakland Cemetery : an overview tour of the history, period gardens, and  art and architecture of the cemetery; and special topic tours. Tickets cost $12 for adults.

Hours: Overview Tour: Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays year-round, times vary. Special Topic Tour: Saturdays and Sundays, times vary

64. The Wren’s Nest — $12

The Wren’s Nest is the home of Joel Chandler Harris, who recorded the African American folklore of the Br’er Rabbit stories. The museum explores the history of the house, Harris’s legacy, African American folklore, and the art of storytelling. Admission costs $12 for adults.

Hours: Sat: 11 a.m. — 3 p.m. with Storytelling at 1 p.m.; Sun-F by appointment

65. 3 Parks Wine Shop Tastings — $10-$15

Each week, 3 Parks Wine Shop hosts free educational wine tastings. On Wednesday evenings, you can sample 3-4 bottles of wine and discuss the grapes, region, and wine producers for $10. On weekends, you can enjoy the Weekend Wine Flights where you’ll get 3 half glass tastings of wine for $15.

Hours: Tasting W: 5:30 p.m. — 7 p.m.; Wine Flights F: 4 p.m. — 7:30 p.m.; Sat: 1 p.m. — 6 p.m.; Sun: 1 p.m. — 5 p.m.

66. Starlight Drive In Theater — $10

The Starlight Drive-In Theatre has been entertaining guests since 1949. They play double-features seven days a week on high-quality digital projection. Tickets cost $10 for adults.

Hours: Daily at dark, showtimes will vary by season

67. Hammonds House Museum — $10

The Hammonds House Museum displays African American fine art in the former home of Dr. Otis Thrash Hammonds, a prominent Atlanta physician and patron of the arts. Admission costs $10 for adults.

Hours: F-Sat: 11 a.m. — 5 p.m.; Sun and Th: 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.

68. Planetarium Show at Fernbank Science Center — $10

While a visit to the Fernbank Science Center is free, the Planetarium Shows cost extra. Zoom across the night sky as you learn about the galaxy. Planetarium Shows cost $10 for adults.

Hours: Vary by day

69. The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View — $10

Head up to the top of the Westin Peachtree Plaza to The Sundial Restaurant, Bar & View. The View on level 72 gives you an exhilarating 85-second ride in a glass elevators to the observatory at 723 feet. From there you can see incredible 360-degree panorama views of the Atlanta skyline. Admission costs $10 for adults.

Hours: W-Sat: 11 a.m. — 3 p.m.

70. Michael C. Carlos Museum — $8

The Michael C. Carlos Museum on Emory University’s campus is an art museum with the largest ancient art collections in the Southeast. Admission costs $8 for adults.

Hours: Tu-F: 10 a.m. — 4 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m.; Sun: 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.;

71. Atlanta Preservation Center Walking Tours — $9.50+

The Atlanta Preservation Center offers walking tours of historic neighborhoods around the City of Atlanta. Their public tours are scheduled on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis, depending on the route and tour guide availability. Outdoor tours runs from March through mid-November, and indoor tours are available year-round. Admission ranges from $9.50 and up depending on the tour.

Hours: Vary by date

72. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Hiking — $5 Parking Fee Daily Pass

Greater Atlanta Area

Explore the shores of the Chattahoochee River with a hike at any of the parks in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area . Hike trails like Sope Creek , Vickery Creek , Cochran Shoals , and more. The daily parking pass costs $5 per vehicle.

73. Georgia State Parks Hiking — $5 Parking Fee Daily Pass

There are a few Georgia State Parks just on the outskirts of Atlanta, and even more that are just a few hours away. Near Atlanta, you can visit Sweetwater Creek State Park , Red Top Mountain State Park , Panola Mountain State Park, and more. Parking at Georgia State Parks costs $5 per vehicle.

Hours: Daily 7 a.m. — dark

74. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park and Museum — $5 Parking Fee Daily Pass

The expansive Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park covers 2,965 acres of Civil War battleground from the Atlanta Campaign. There are miles of trails to hike (the Mountain Loop and Camp Brumby Loop trails are popular). The museum features a 35 minute video, artifacts, and exhibits on the Atlanta Campaign. Parking at Kennesaw Mountain costs $5 per vehicle.

Hours: Park is open daily from dawn to dusk; Visitor Center is open daily 9 a.m. — 5 p.m.

75. Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia — $5

The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia displays significant contemporary works by Georgia artists. The museum is home to over 1,000 works of art in its permanent collection. Admission costs $5.

Hours: Tu-Sat: 12 p.m. — 5 p.m.

76. Piedmont Park Aquatic Center and Pool – $5

Swimming in Piedmont Park has been a popular Atlanta activity for ages. The pool season is from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Anyone can swim at the Piedmont Park Aquatic Center and Pool for the admission fee of $5 per person.

Hours: From May 27 through July 30, hours are M-F: 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. and Sat-Sun: 12 a.m. — 5 p.m.; and from July 31 to September 4, hours are M-F: 3 p.m. — 5 p.m. and Sat-Sun: 12 a.m. — 5 p.m.

77. Atlanta Streetcar – $1-$3

Note: The streetcar is currently closed and a shuttle bus is running along the route.

The Atlanta Streetcar is the city’s newest transportation method. It allows you a fun way to see the city. The Streetcar’s current loop connects the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and the Centennial Olympic Park area, with 10 stops in between. Streetcars run every 10-15 minutes. A one-way trip costs $1 per adult, and a day pass costs $3 per adult.

Hours: Daily 8:15 a.m. — 11 p.m.

Free Atlanta Events Any Time of Year

Depending on what time of year you’re visiting, you can attend a free Atlanta event! Spring is the best time to catch a free event since that’s Atlanta’s big festival season. But there are fun events any time of the year that you can enjoy for no charge.

• Black History Month Parade — February
• Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade — March
• Atlanta Dogwood Festival — April
• Inman Park Festival — April
• Festival on Ponce — April and October
• Turtle Creek Arts Festival — April and October
• Smyrna Jonquil Festival — April and October
• Sandy Springs Artsapalooza — April
• Duluth Arts Festival — April
• Atlanta Jazz Festival — May
• Chastain Park Arts & Crafts Festival — May and November
• Decatur Arts Festival — May
• Sweet Auburn Springfest — May
• Roswell Spring Arts and Crafts Festival — May
• Virginia Highland Summerfest — June
• Atlanta Ice Cream Festival — July
• Piedmont Park Arts Festival — August
• Grant Park Summer Shade Festival — August
• Buckhead Fine Arts Festival — September
• Fall Fest in Candler Park — October
• Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade — October
• Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival — October
• Dallas Festival of the Arts — October
• Elevate Atlanta — October
• Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade — October
• Children’s Christmas Parade — December

The Best Budget Places To Stay in Atlanta

A budget Atlanta guide isn’t complete without some cheap accommodations. Take a look at these top budget hotels in Atlanta:

• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Atlanta Downtown South at Turner Field
• Inn at the Peachtrees, Ascend Hotel Collection
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Downtown

And for more cheap places to stay, check out these websites:

• Compare Atlanta hotel prices at Hotels.com , Booking.com , and TripAdvisor .
• Find cheap Atlanta vacation rentals on VRBO .

Craving More Atlanta Activities?

If you still want to visit Atlanta’s top paid attractions on a budget, I recommend checking out the Atlanta CityPASS . This attraction pass will save you a lot of money on visiting Atlanta’s top sights. You can read more about using the Atlanta CityPASS here .

I’ve also put together a guide with even more tips on how to visit Atlanta on a budget here .

And if you need more things to do while visiting Atlanta, check out these top posts:

• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Atlanta, Georgia
• How the Atlanta CityPASS Can Save You Lots of Money
• 50+ Things to Do In Atlanta After 5 p.m.
• How Eco-Friendly Are Atlanta Attractions?
• When Is the Best Time to Visit Atlanta?

Ready to visit Atlanta, Georgia on a budget? Plan your trip with these tips.

• Book Your Flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner , my favorite flight search engine.
• Find Accommodation: You can find cheap hotels in Atlanta using Hotels.com.
• Save on Attractions: Save 40% on admission to Atlanta’s top attractions using the Atlanta CityPASS .

What are your favorite free and budget things to do in Atlanta, Georgia? Let me know in the comments!

Paige Watts is a travel expert and author of What's With Atlanta? , a guide to the quirks and charm of the ATL. A life-long traveler, Paige is dedicated to helping you discover the best things to do in the Southern USA and around the world. Her work has been featured in The Culture Trip, Matador, Newsbreak, MSN, NPR, and countless other interviews and podcasts.

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16 Comments

Wow, this is a pretty elaborate list of free and other cost effective things to do in Atlanta! It is amazing that with all the times I have been there to visit my mom, post Hurricane Katrina from New Orleans and yet I haven’t done many of these things. I love all the outdoors things to do. I always think of Atlanta as a major city and rarely remember how beautiful the area is around it all. Love that you included the civil war history site of Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park and the literature locations of Margaret Mitchell and Chandler’s Wren’s Nest as well.

Literary sights like that are my priority when visiting a new city, so I’m glad to include them as affordable options for Atlanta!

So many great ideas for Atlanta here! love the detail and thought that went into this list

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for reading!

I love this list! I’ve been to Atlanta a few times, but there are many items on this list I will check out the next time I’m there!

Oh I’m definitely still checking things off this list myself! It’s handy to have a list of free things for when you don’t feel like spending a lot.

I had no idea that there was so much open land around Atlanta. That would be high on my list to explore, I also love cemeteries, so city park sounds cool.

I know, Atlanta has a surprising amount of green space! That’s one of the things I love about living here.

I was hoping to visit Atlanta and Savannah next month, but with Covid have postoned. What a great list for Atlanta. Will be using this when I finally visit.

Love that you’re planning a visit! Both cities will be much more fun when it’s safe to travel again.

Atlanta is such a cool city. Who knew there were so many budget-friendly things to do? Thanks for sharing!

You’re very welcome!

This is an amazing and very complete guide! I didn’t know you could do so many thing in Atlanta. Thanks for sharing!

Happy to help! Thanks for reading!

Wow, so many things to do in Atlanta. Will help a lot while budgeting a trip to Atlanta. Thanks for sharing!

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Atlanta   Travel Guide

Courtesy of ferrantraite | Getty Images

31 Best Things To Do in Atlanta

Sure, Atlanta is a commercial hub, but it's also a sightseer's dream. Lovers of the arts can catch an award-winning performance at the ornate Fox Theatre or peruse one-of-a-kind sculptures at the High Museum of Art. Meanwhile, history buffs

• All Things To Do

Atlanta History Center Atlanta History Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Buckhead (like all of Atlanta) is known for its abysmal traffic. Avoid the roads from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for the best shot at avoiding the gridlock. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Spread across 33 acres in Atlanta's trendy Buckhead neighborhood, the Atlanta History Center seeks to explore Georgia's past through comprehensive exhibitions, historic homes and miles of gardens and trails. The center's primary facility is the Atlanta History Museum, which showcases exhibits that span the region's history, from the culture of the Muscogee and Cherokee Indians' ancestors to life in the antebellum South. 

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you are a lover of Marvel movies, the last scene of "Black Panther" was filmed just two blocks away (at the intersection of Auburn Avenue and Jackson Street). – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

Walk in the footsteps of one of history's most important figures with a visit to the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. You can head over to the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King was once a pastor. Fire Station No. 6 offers insights into the desegregation of Atlanta's Fire Department. And at the Visitor Center, you'll find engaging exhibits on the civil rights movement and the D.R.E.A.M. Gallery, featuring additional exhibits. Next door to Ebenezer Baptist Church stands the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. It has even more exhibits, as well as the tombs of King and his wife, Coretta Scott King. Note: Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birth home is also on-site, but it is closed through November 2025 for refurbishment. 

Piedmont Park Piedmont Park free

Adjacent to the Atlanta Botanical Garden  in Midtown, Piedmont Park is the perfect place to spend a lazy – or active – afternoon. Sprawling 200-plus acres, the park has no shortage of things to do, including walking and jogging paths, dog parks, picnic facilities, playgrounds, tennis courts, a public swimming pool and a Saturday farmers market (from late March to early December). Thanks to its size, Piedmont Park also hosts a variety of Atlanta's top events, including the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, the Atlanta Ice Cream Festival, the Atlanta Jazz Festival, Atlanta Pride and Music Midtown.

Previous travelers highly recommended visiting this park, calling it one of Atlanta's best parks. Some even said that it reminded them of New York City's   Central Park . Many loved picnicking, swimming and playing tennis at Piedmont Park, but some visitors warned that parking spots can be sparse, especially on weekends. Consider taking public transportation. Also, the park can get crowded, especially during special events. Finally, parkgoers say they felt less safe strolling through the park after dark.

Popular Tours

90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Trolley Tour in Atlanta

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Skip the Ticket Line: World of Coca-Cola Admission in Atlanta

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Atlanta's Fox Theatre Atlanta's Fox Theatre

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go to Poor Calvin's before or after your visit to the Fox Theatre. It has amazing cocktails and delicious Asian fusion dishes. – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

The Fox Theatre is more than a performance venue – it's one of the city's most iconic landmarks. And luckily, you don't need to have tickets to a show to take in its ornate interior. Originally conceived by Atlanta's Shriners organization, the theater's design was inspired by the  Karnak Temple Complex  in Luxor, Egypt , and the Alhambra in Granada, Spain . You'll get a tutorial on the building's iconic architectural details and more during a tour. Tours guide visitors through more than 10 locations within the building. Plus, you'll see Mighty Mo, one of the world's biggest theater organs.

Atlanta BeltLine Atlanta BeltLine free

The Atlanta BeltLine is an in-progress, citywide network of 22 miles of streetcar rails, 33 miles of trails (for walking, biking and more), 5,600 units of affordable housing and more than 1,000 acres of greenspace that is either new to the city or has been cleaned up (including removing contaminants from soil). The city is opening the BeltLine in phases and plans to finish the entire system by 2030. As of winter 2023, visitors are welcome to enjoy 10 parks and 8 trails (as well as some unfinished but accessible ones) along the BeltLine. Some of the parks include Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark, Atlanta's first public skate park, which offers obstacles for skateboarders of all abilities; the similarly named Historic Fourth Ward Park, which has 17 acres of greenspace and amenities like a splash pad for kids; Gordon White Park, which hosts music events, temporary art installations and offers free fitness classes; Perkerson Park, which boasts tennis courts, softball fields and a disc golf course; and 280-acre Westside Park, featuring a playground and a pavilion for events. The paved trails are perfect for bike riding, taking a stroll through nature or walking by places like Ponce City Market and Piedmont Park . You can also take walking or bike tours of the Atlanta BeltLine to learn more about the network and the communities surrounding it.

Travelers appreciate the BeltLine paths that are currently open, saying that it is an excellent place to get out and exercise. Visitors particularly enjoy the Eastside Trail for its easy access to bars, restaurants and abundant street art.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights National Center for Civil and Human Rights

For an in-depth look at the American civil rights movement and ongoing human rights struggles across the world, check out the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. This 42,000-square-foot complex offers both temporary and three permanent exhibits, including a collection of Martin Luther King Jr. artifacts. Featured in the "Voice to the Voiceless" exhibit, travelers will view papers from King's life as well as "Fragments," a metal art piece that showcases King's thoughts and writings.

Though the museum recommends allotting about two hours for its exhibits, most past travelers said you can easily spend several hours exploring the center's vivid and informative displays. Many were especially impressed with the lunch counter experience at the attraction's "Rolls Down Like Water" exhibit.

Best Atlanta Tours

Atlanta Tours

Photo Tour: The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta

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Georgia Aquarium Georgia Aquarium

Considered one of the world's largest aquariums , the Georgia Aquarium boasts thousands of animals from hundreds of species represented in eight different galleries. Housing everything from freshwater animals in its "Southern Company River Scout" gallery to a humongous whale shark tank (it holds more than 6 million gallons) in its "Ocean Voyager" gallery, it's safe to say the aquarium runs the gamut in terms of its marine life. Its newest gallery is the "Sharks! Predators of the Deep" exhibit, which involves multiple shark species (such as hammerheads and tiger sharks) in a 20-foot tank holding 1.2 million gallons of water.

This facility (especially "Ocean Voyager") is a popular tourist attraction, so expect crowds when you visit. Also be prepared to spend a considerable about of time taking it all in. Previous visitors raved about the property's free dolphin show and recommend paying to swim or dive with the aquarium's whale sharks, but some warned that these experiences quickly fill up. In addition to ordering general admission tickets online in advance, the aquarium recommends that visitors reserve seats for the dolphin and sea lion presentation and the 4D theater the morning of the date they'll be attending.

Zoo Atlanta Zoo Atlanta

What sets Atlanta's zoo apart from other wildlife exhibits is its panda population: Zoo Atlanta is one of only three zoos in the U.S. housing giant pandas. The rare bears are a favorite among recent visitors, but the zoo also boasts more than 1,300 animals from more than 220 species. While here, you'll spot lions, giraffes, zebras and plenty of reptiles. Apart from the animals, the zoo offers a train ride, a carousel and a ropes course, among other attractions. Keep in mind: The cost of these activities is not included with admission.

Travelers (especially those with kids) offer mostly favorable reviews for the zoo, saying it's easy to navigate and of a manageable size. But many agree that the property can get crowded on warmer days, so consider arriving early.

City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop

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Atlanta Botanical Garden Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Atlanta Botanical Garden should be every plant lover's first stop in the city. It covers a magnificent and beautiful 30 acres in the northwest corner of Midtown's  Piedmont Park . There's lots to see here, including the Lou Glenn Children's Garden, the Edible Garden, the Tropical High Elevation House and one of the few remaining mature hardwood forests in Atlanta. Plus, you can't miss a pass through the Fuqua Orchid Center, which features a variety of unique high-elevation orchids never grown before in the Southeast. The garden hosts the annual Garden Lights, Holiday Nights extravaganza in winter.

Visitors highly recommend a visit to this beautiful spot. However, some lament the cost of admission and the high fees for snacks and meals at the on-site eateries. A few travelers also suggest avoiding fall and winter visits, since some of the outdoor gardens are not in bloom during the colder months. But don't despair if you can only visit in the winter; reviewers say the Garden Lights, Holiday Nights display is worth the visit.

World of Coca-Cola World of Coca-Cola

As its name suggests, World of Coca-Cola is a museum dedicated entirely to the famous soda. Visits to the two-level facility begin with exhibits on the drink's history, its role in pop culture and the bottling process. A Portrait Wall documents the brand’s global impact. In addition to the regular Coca-Cola Theater, the museum boasts a 3-D Theater. The older generations in your group will likely enjoy the museum's attention to the company's past, but the kids will probably be most excited for the Taste It! area, where multiple varieties of Coke can be sampled. You can also purchase various Coke memorabilia at the on-site gift shop.

Soda enthusiasts find this place fascinating (though those with no affinity for the brand may be underwhelmed). Some visitors lament that the museum can get crowded and its lines long.

Oakland Cemetery Oakland Cemetery free

U.S. News Insider Tip: On sunny days, head to the cleverly named Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House and sit on the upper patio, which overlooks the cemetery. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Situated less than 2 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta and spanning 48 acres, Oakland Cemetery reflects the city's role in both the Civil War and the civil rights movement. Among its winding paths, trees and flower shrubs, you'll find elaborate mausoleums, intricate statues and an impressive collection of art and architecture. Amidst the 70,000 graves, you'll spot some well-known Atlantans, including legends like golfer Bobby Jones, author Margaret Mitchell and musician Kenny Rogers. About 7,000 Confederate soldiers have been laid to rest in the Confederate burial grounds while Potter's Field has about 7,500 interred in its grounds. People buried in Potter's Field are those who could not afford a burial and several are unknown; they come from various different races and religious.

Centennial Olympic Park Centennial Olympic Park free

Located across the street from the College Football Hall of Fame in downtown Atlanta is Centennial Olympic Park, a 22-acre patch of land that features lush sections of grass, artwork, pools and fountains. The park was originally built for the 1996 Olympic Games and was a centerpiece of the festivities; now, it's one of the most visited areas of the city. One of the park's most well-known elements is the Fountain of Rings, which is made up of 251 water jets. Every day, four water shows choreographed to various songs take place. The park also hosts several special events each year.

Recent visitors noted the fountains were a hit with families, especially young children, and advised bringing a change of clothes if you know your kids will want to splash around in the water. Past travelers also appreciated the park's proximity to must-see sights like the Georgia Aquarium , SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel, World of Coca-Cola and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights . Others caution that the park will close to prepare for or host events with limited notice; you may want to call the park in advance to make sure it will be open before you arrive. The administration office can be reached at 404-223-4000. The park is also a featured stop on several of the best Atlanta tours .

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Explore the prehistoric and present-day natural worlds at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Visitors can immerse themselves in exhibits featuring dinosaur fossils, wildlife native to Georgia, cultural garments and more. Travelers can also enjoy a movie at the museum's Giant Screen Theater or some light fare at the Fernbank Cafe. Plus, the museum boasts multiple outdoor experiences, which are accessible from the terrace. WildWoods features two scenic viewing platforms; it also hosts special exhibits throughout the year. Fernbank Forest features more than 2 miles of paved paths that allow visitors to explore a 65-acre forest. When walking along the paths, keep your eyes peeled for animals, as hundreds of species call the area home. Other outdoor elements are the Dinosaur Plaza and adjacent Rain Garden.

The outside areas get especially high praise from visitors, some even say they spent almost as much time outside as they did inside. Inside, museumgoers were wowed by the dinosaur exhibit, while others found the additional exhibits were designed mainly for kids. Some say the fare in the cafe is subpar.

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Children's Museum of Atlanta Children's Museum of Atlanta

If you're traveling in Atlanta with youngsters up to 8 years old, the Children's Museum of Atlanta is a must-visit. The venue was specifically designed to educate and entertain children through a variety of daily programs and fun exhibits. These include the Gateway to the World exhibit, where children can explore the Earth's layers and launch a rocket; the Fundamentally Food exhibit, which features a pretend farm, delivery truck, grocery store and cafe; and the Leaping into Learning exhibit, where children can climb into a treehouse and spot animals in a make-believe forest. Kids can also learn more about engineering and problem solving with the Innovation Station program or get inspired at the Art Studio program. Cultural programs that involve singing, dancing, puppetry and storytelling are also held year-round.

Most recent visitors had high praise for the museum, saying it was a great spot for kids to have fun and burn off energy. However, some noted it was small compared to other children's museums and thought classifying it as a museum was a bit misleading, as it felt more like an indoor play area.

Ponce City Market Ponce City Market free

Once home to a Sears, Roebuck & Co. retail store and warehouse distribution center for the South, the Ponce City Market is now a massive mixed-use facility featuring offices, education centers, coffee shops, restaurants, boutique shopping and more. The building's roof is also an attraction itself, home to unique draws such as Skyline Park, where visitors can play games like Skee-Ball and mini-golf or go for a ride down a three-story slide, and 9 Mile Station, a rooftop restaurant. Foodies will want to sign up for one of the best Atlanta tours , which visit the market.

Visitors generally enjoy Ponce City Market, saying they appreciated the varied and delicious food options. The roof and its attractions also earn high praise from travelers. Others were not impressed with the difficult-to-navigate complex and complained of overpriced food and expensive parking. 

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum

The nearly 70,000-square-foot Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum houses millions of pages of material and hundreds of hours of audio and video recordings related to the 39th U.S. president. The museum displays some of those documents and videos as well as gifts from world leaders and other objects. It also features a full-size replica of the Oval Office and a reproduction of the cabin used for Camp David meetings. The facility is situated between two lakes on 30 acres of land.

Visitors generally find this to be a quite interesting place. In addition to reporting finding the exhibits very informative about Carter's life and career, they praise the museum's parkland as attractive and tranquil.

Stone Mountain Park Stone Mountain Park

Spread across 3,200 acres, Stone Mountain Park boasts a variety of attractions. The Confederate Memorial Carving is the most famous (some might say infamous) part of the park. (As calls for the removal of Confederate monuments around the country have intensified in recent years, the carving has become an object of controversy.) The largest high relief sculpture in the world, this carving depicts Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederacy, and Confederate Generals Robert E. Lee and Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson. For a little perspective, the entire carved surface measures 3 acres, which is larger than a football field. If the carving doesn't prompt you to drive 18 miles northeast of the city, then consider the park's other attractions.

Additional facilities include a songbird preserve, a cable car ride, a scenic railroad, a miniature golf course and two full-size 18-hole courses, a seasonal outdoor park with life-size dinosaur replicas and a seasonal indoor dinosaur-themed play area. A group of homes built between 1793 and 1895 are open to tour. If the wilderness is more your style, you could easily spend all day exploring the grounds' hiking trails, picnic areas and recreational attractions. You should consider staying until the evening in the summer, when the Lasershow Spectacular blazes the mountain's carving and the night sky with images representing the South.

Krog Street Market Krog Street Market free

Krog Street Market is a food hall housed in a former stove factory (which later became studios for Tyler Perry's films and TV shows) in Atlanta's Inman Park neighborhood. Restaurants' fare ranges from Chinese-style dumplings to soul food to pizza. Specialty retailers purvey small-batch chocolate, ice cream, craft beer and more. The market also has various retailers selling items for home and garden as well as vintage clothing.

Visitors often succumb to the market's charm, and they frequently rave about the food options.

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High Museum of Art High Museum of Art

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you visit on the second Sunday of the month, admission is free from noon until 5 p.m. You can reserve your ticket in advance through the museum's website. – Christina Maggitas, Editor

The High Museum of Art's aesthetics begin with the physical structure itself. The Richard Meier-designed building is covered in white porcelain that is mirrored on its interior, which also features winding walking paths and an interesting light system at the top. The Renzo Piano-designed expansion features white aluminum panels that echo Meier's original façade as well as a roof that filters sunlight inside. One noteworthy part of the collection is the 19th- and 20th-century American art, including pieces by Mary Cassatt, John Singleton Copley, Frederick Kensett, Harriet Hosmer, Edmonia Lewis, John Singer Sargent and Henry Ossawa Tanner. The museum also houses an impressive collection of European works from the 1300s to the 1900s and masks, figurative sculptures, ceramics and more from Africa and the African diaspora.

Michael C. Carlos Museum Michael C. Carlos Museum

The Michael C. Carlos Museum on Emory University's campus has an extensive permanent collection of artworks from ancient Egypt, Greece, Nubia, Rome and the Middle East; Africa; the Americas and Asia as well as a works dating from the Renaissance to the current day. It also hosts special exhibits on a wide array of subjects, such as printing techniques, religious imagery and slavery in the ancient world. Its collection of ancient Egyptian, Nubian and Near Eastern artifacts features 7,500 objects, including coffins, funerary masks and the oldest Egyptian mummy in the Americas. Its assemblage of Greek and Roman art is also impressively sizeable with more than 6,500 pieces.

Visitors report that the museum isn't particularly large, but its collections are exceptionally fine. The Egyptian items, especially the mummies, are especially popular with visitors.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Atlanta has more sports arena offerings than just Truist Park , home to the famous Braves. At the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, soccer fans can watch Atlanta United while football fans can catch the Falcons. Featuring a massive circular video display, three separate concourses for food like burgers, salads, pizza, beer and tacos (plus a food truck that operates on most game days) and a distinctive roof that appears to rotate when it opens and shuts, it's no wonder this stadium was picked to host the 2019 Super Bowl. If you can't catch a game, don't pass on the stadium: Guided tours of the facility, which could include stops at the locker rooms, the Skybridges and the field, are available year-round, and the stadium sometimes hosts other events like concerts. Notably, the stadium boasts a sports-related art collection curated by the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Recent visitors rave about the stadium's guided tour, saying that it gives a truly in-depth look at the building, including a view of the stands from the field. Others say that the stadium is impeccably designed and a great place to catch a game. However, travelers warn future visitors that parking is sparse and expensive. 

Truist Park Truist Park

Since Truist Park's opening in 2017, thousands of fans have ventured to the stadium to cheer on their favorite Major League Baseball team, the Atlanta Braves. The baseball stadium (formerly known as SunTrust Park) can seat up to 41,000 people, and each spot provides a sweeping view of the field. But you don't need to watch a game to explore the park: Daily tours run year-round to share the Braves' long history. During the tour, you'll see Monument Garden's historic displays, the dugout and the press box, and visit the Braves Clubhouse Store, among other stops. After your tour, head over to the Atlanta Battery, adjacent to the park, for dining, shopping or a manicure.

Baseball fans were impressed with the park, saying it is clean, well-designed and an improvement on the Braves' former home, Turner Field. Visitors repeatedly applaud the park for its family-friendly atmosphere and describe the tour guides as friendly and knowledgeable. Despite these perks, travelers lament the stadium's large crowds, traffic and awful parking experiences.

Six Flags Over Georgia Six Flags Over Georgia

Known as the "Thrill Capital of the South," Six Flags Over Georgia offers plenty of roller coasters for adrenaline junkies. Notable rides include Twisted Cyclone, Georgia Scorcher, Pandemonium and Goliath, which sends guests flying at 70 miles per hour and features a 12-story drop. If those seem too daunting, there are also plenty of family-friendly rides, such as the Dahlonega Mine Train and Riverview Carousel. Plus, you can always enjoy live shows and entertainment like the Looney Tunes meet-and-greet. And if you're visiting during the notoriously hot summer months, you can cool off at Hurricane Harbor: the on-site water park that features a wave pool and lazy river, among other attractions.

Recent guests appreciated the variety of rides but complained that some of them, along with a number of the restaurants and shops, were closed when they visited. Several travelers recommended visiting in winter to experience the Holiday in the Park event where the park is lit up with millions of Christmas lights.

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Delta Flight Museum Delta Flight Museum

The Delta Flight Museum offers a variety of interactive, aviation-focused exhibits, including the country’s sole full-motion flight simulator open to the public. It displays several airplanes, including a 1928 Northwest Airways Waco 125 biplane and a restored 1931 Curtiss-Wright 6B sedan as well as more contemporary models. The museum also has a 747-400 that visitors can enter to examine close-up. Rounding out its collection of aircraft is a hot air balloon. The hangers that house its holdings also have exhibits centered on the propeller age and the subsequent (and ongoing) jet age as well as Delta's company history. Its gift shop sells Delta-branded items.

Aviation enthusiasts enjoy this museum. Would-be pilots recommend trying the challenging flight simulator (if you can afford the $425 fee). Some visitors note that seeing everything here entails a lot of walking. Given its proximity to Atlanta's airport, the museum might be just the right thing if want something to do during a layover between flights.

Margaret Mitchell House Margaret Mitchell House

Margaret Mitchell House is currently closed. It is expected to reopen in the fall of 2023.

The Atlanta History Center offers tours of the Margaret Mitchell House, where the namesake author penned her Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, "Gone with the Wind." Actually, Mitchell and her husband occupied not the whole house but merely a first floor apartment, which the writer dubbed “the dump.” Despite her derision, travelers find a short visit worthwhile. Note: This attraction is in Midtown, not on the grounds of the Atlanta History Center itself.

Center for Puppetry Arts Center for Puppetry Arts

Recognized worldwide for its theatrical and programming ingenuity, the Center for Puppetry Arts preserves and celebrates puppets. At the center, visitors can attend puppetry workshops and live shows. The center's main feature is its museum. The collection catalogues the history of puppetry across the world and boasts an entire collection dedicated to Jim Henson's work. Travelers can visit with Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, characters from "Fraggle Rock" and several residents of Sesame Street. In addition, the museum hosts rotating special exhibits. The center also features a museum store, where visitors can purchase puppets, books, postcards and other educational gifts.

Though the center is small, recent travelers enjoyed their visits, saying that it is an absolute must-do for Jim Henson and Muppets fans. While visitors were pleasantly surprised with the depth of information available on Henson, others said that the international collection was somewhat cursory. In addition to visiting the museum, travelers highly recommend seeing one of the puppet shows and describe this destination as fun for the whole family.

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a fun hike in the recreation area, try Vickery Creek Trail at Roswell Mill. The hike showcases remnants of the historic Roswell Mill, which was destroyed during the Civil War, and Vickery Creek Falls, one of Atlanta's best waterfalls. - Christina Maggitas, Editor, Travel

This massive national recreation area is actually 15 individual land units connected by 48 miles of the Chattahoochee River. In addition to being fun to say, the park offers an abundance of activities for all kinds of adventurers. Those who wish to relax outside can opt for a tube or raft to float down a stretch of the river; more active travelers can kayak, canoe or paddleboard down the Chattahoochee. If water sports aren't your thing, you can hike the miles of trails that wind through the park. Bikers have access to 7 miles of trails, while anglers can fish for bass, catfish and trout during all park operating hours.

Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame

Located just south of the Georgia Aquarium and across the street from Centennial Olympic Park , the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame offers more than 50 interactive exhibits dedicated to its namesake sport. Inside the 95,000-square-foot facility, visitors can look for their team's helmet on the three-story Helmet Wall, admire Heisman and National Championship trophies, experience the high-definition Game Day Theater, kick a field goal at the 45-yard indoor football field and more.

If you're a fan of college football, travelers say you'll love exploring this attraction. According to many visitors, the Hall of Fame does a great job of engaging kids of all ages, though some felt the property's interactive activities did not justify its high entrance fees. Others caution that this hall of fame is hard to enjoy when it's crowded. The staff are frequently described as friendly.

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Porsche Experience Center Atlanta Porsche Experience Center Atlanta

Car aficionados, this one's for you. The Porsche Experience Center is a shrine to all things Porsche and lets fans get in on the action. Visitors can choose from a fleet of the latest models to hop into and race down world-renowned tracks. And if you want to see just how much the vehicle can do, you can move to the passenger seat and let the professional drivers take the wheel. Off the track, the Heritage Gallery showcases historical Porsche vehicles and Restaurant 356 provides fine dining with a view. There are also virtual simulators that allows all ages to get in on the action. 

Past visitors raved about their experience, saying the cars and facility were striking. Unsurprisingly, the best part to many was taking one of the vehicles out for a spin. Visitors also report the staff were helpful and incredibly knowledgeable about the cars and building.

StarLight Drive-In Theatre and Flea Market StarLight Drive-In Theatre and Flea Market

For more than 70 years, StarLight Drive-In Theatre has provided a place for guests to enjoy their favorite movies under the stars. Four outdoor screens are available, which feature a digital projection system that ensures a clear picture, and the movie's audio is broadcast through your car's radio. Bathrooms and a snack bar offering drinks, candy and a selection of Mexican food can be found on-site. On the weekends, the lot hosts a flea market where visitors can peruse various vendors. Anyone interested in setting up a booth can rent a space for the day or for the month.

Past visitors enjoyed the vintage vibe of the drive-in and reasonable price for the experience. However, some wished there would have been staff walking through the lot telling people to turn their headlights off so there wouldn't be a glare on the screen. Those who visited the flea market appreciated the variety of sellers and interesting array of offerings.

Atlanta Food & Wine Festival Atlanta Food & Wine Festival

U.S. News Insider Tip : While you can't take any leftovers home, you can snag a few freebies (think: koozies, hand fans, matchboxes and stickers), so you might want to bring a small bag to carry things in. – Christina Maggitas, Editor

Spanning multiple days in September each year, the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival is one of the city's (and state's) most notable foodie events, featuring a smorgasbord of gourmet bites, high-quality wines and innovative cocktails from more than 150 unique vendors. Different tasting tents are set up so you can sample the delectable offerings while learning more about the flavors from esteemed chefs, sommeliers and mixologists. What's more, live cooking demonstrations and competitions add to the immersive culinary experience. More intimate, in-restaurant happenings are also hosted throughout the duration of the festival at various spots in the city.

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The Best Free Thing to Do in All 50 States (Including a Free Zoo)

Posted: February 26, 2024 | Last updated: February 26, 2024

Financially savvy travelers tend to be quite skilled at finding the free stuff at any given destination (even hot tourist spots). When traveling around the US, there’s no shortage of interesting free attractions to fill your days — no matter which region you happen to be in.

To help you step up your travel game , here are some of the most popular free things to do in each state.

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Alabama: Visit Birmingham Botanical Garden (Birmingham)

In the heart of Birmingham, the Botanical Garden stretches across 67 acres and features beautiful green spaces that showcase the many plants that live and thrive in the South. Admission is free, and the garden is open daily.

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Alaska: Hike the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (Anchorage)

Hikers will love the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in Anchorage, which winds 11 miles along the coast. The hike provides incredible views of downtown Anchorage, mountains, and Fire Island — and you just might catch a moose crossing the trail nearby.

Arizona: Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross (Sedona)

Taking a drive through Sedona alone is enough to keep you both entertained and mystified by natural beauty for a day. However, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is quite a stunning (and free) site to see. The massive cross stands out among two towers of red stone, and its chapel offers breathtaking views.

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Arkansas: Visit Hot Springs National Park (Hot Springs)

A national park that doesn’t require a fee, Hot Springs boasts stunning ancient thermal springs, beautiful mountain views, incredible hikes, and much more. Guests also tend to be in awe of the nine historic bathhouses, including the Fordyce Bathhouse Museum and Visitor Center.

California: Walk/bike the Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco)

California is a massive state so it’s difficult to pick just one free attraction, but walking or biking across the famed Golden Gate Bridge is a big draw for many who travel to the Bay Area. In fact, about 10 million people visit the stunning bridge every year.

Colorado: Explore the Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs)

The rock formations at Garden of the Gods are natural wonders you have to see to believe and can do so for free if you happen to be in the Colorado Springs area. The land’s owner took steps to ensure it would remain free and open to the public before he passed in 1907.

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Connecticut: Visit the Elizabeth Park Rose Garden (West Hartford)

The beautiful Helen S Kaman Rose Garden in the center of Elizabeth Park first opened back in 1904 and has been delighting visitors ever since. For a fun and free afternoon, check out more than 800 different varieties of roses.

Delaware: Stroll Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk (Rehoboth Beach)

Rehoboth Beach’s mile-long boardwalk brings visitors from far and wide (and, of course, nearby). With its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, the quaint beach boardwalk features plenty of things you can spend money on, but taking a free stroll makes for a lovely afternoon.

Florida: Visit Disney Springs (Orlando)

With nearly 100 shops, plenty of great places to eat, and dozens of other attractions, Disney Springs is a fun alternative to the many pricier activities one can get into in Orlando. Visitors can be entertained for hours just walking around the town square-style pathways.

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Georgia: Explore Piedmont Park (Atlanta)

There’s plenty to do at Piedmont Park, a more-than-200 acre Oasis in Atlanta, including many walking paths, dog parks, playgrounds, farmer’s markets, and even a public swimming pool. The park is free to visit, but you will have to shell out $5 for access to the pool in the summer.

Hawaii: Visit Waikiki Beach (Hawaii)

There are many beautiful free beaches along Hawaii’s breathtaking shores, but Waikiki Beach is a particularly popular spot. From the beautiful white sands to the stunning view of Diamond Head State Monument in the distance, it’s the perfect place to kick back and relax.

Idaho: Hike or bike Snake River Canyon (Twin Falls)

Snake River Canyon is located on the north side of Twin Falls, offering an eight-mile trail where hikers and bikers can enjoy much natural beauty, including incredible views of Shoshone Falls (often referred to as the Niagara of the West).

Illinois: Visit Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago)

Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the only free zoos in the country. Nature lovers can explore the zoo’s nearly 49-acres, which display an array of different plant species, and the zoo has nearly 200 species from around the world.

Indiana: Check out Indianapolis Art Center ARTSPARK (Indianapolis)

Indianapolis Art Center’s ARTSPARK, a 9.5-acre open-air museum full of beautiful sculptures, is free and open to the public from dawn until dusk. Visitors can explore the installations, hang out on the grounds, picnic, and more.

Iowa: Visit the Des Moines Art Center (Des Moines)

Visitors can find both modern and contemporary art located at the stunning Des Moines Art Center, as well as the 4.4-acre John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Admission to both is always free.

Kansas: Check out the Keeper of the Plains (Wichita)

The Keeper of the Plains, a stunning 44-foot steel structure that stands at the point where the Big and Little Arkansas rivers meet, was designed by Native American Artist Blackbear Bosin in the 1970s. Visitors can also check out the Mid-America All-Indian Museum nearby.

Kentucky: Stroll through the Big Four Bridge (Louisville)

There’s plenty to do at Big Four Bridge Waterfront Park beyond just taking in the awe-inspiring bridge that connects the park to Jefferson, Indiana. Visitors can enjoy stunning artwork and tranquil grounds — plus, the bridge is also a great place to take in the sunset.

Louisiana: Explore the French Quarter (New Orleans)

There are many places to spend your money in the French Quarter — from artisan cocktail bars to world-renowned eateries — but you can absolutely spend a day (or more) in the area and not spend a dollar as the architecture, ambiance, and bustling streets will keep you entertained.

Maine: Check out the Portland Freedom Trail (Portland)

Many are unaware that Portland, Maine, played a key role in helping formerly enslaved people travel through the U.S. into Canada. Visitors to the Portland area can get an interesting history lesson by doing the self-guided walking tour of the Portland Freedom Trail.

Maryland: Explore Baltimore Museum of Art (Baltimore)

The Baltimore Museum of Art has a massive collection of world-renowned artists, from 18th and 19th-century greats to contemporary gems — and admission is completely free. The museum also has a sculpture garden featuring 33 works across three acres.

Massachusetts: Walk the Freedom Trail (Boston)

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile journey that takes visitors to 16 historical sites, including museums, churches, meeting houses, and parks. There’s no charge to visit the trail, however some of the historic sites do charge entry fees.

Michigan: Visit Belle Isle Park (Detroit)

Belle Isle Park is a large island park located in the Detroit River. Among the natural beauty, visitors can also enjoy stunning views of Detroit on one end and Canada on the other. It’s free for pedestrians and cyclists to enter the park, but drivers will need a special pass.

Minnesota: Explore Minnehaha Regional Park (Minneapolis)

A great way to explore some of Minneapolis’s natural beauty, Minnehaha Regional Park features a beautiful waterfall, limestone bluffs, and stunning river overlooks — and is completely free to visit.

Mississippi: Check out Bay St. Louis Beaches (Bay St. Louis)

Bay St. Louis is a delightful seaside town where guests can enjoy mostly free beaches where crowds tend to be thin. Aside from enjoying the beaches, there are many other free things to do in town, like visiting the Bay St. Louis Mardi Gras Museum.

Missouri: Visit the Gateway Arch Park (St. Louis)

It’s free to gaze at the stunning Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the US, and to explore the Museum and Visitor Center. However, there is a fee if you plan to take a tram ride to the top of the Arch.

Montana: Hike Ousel Falls Trail (Big Sky)

A relatively simple hike that leads to the stunning Ousel Falls, this trail takes hikers from Big Sky Town Center to Ousel Falls Park. The trail, which is about 1.6 miles long, provides plenty of great photo ops on the way to the 100-foot waterfall.

Nebraska: Visit the Sunken Gardens (Lincoln)

Once a neighborhood dumpsite, this 1.5-acre space was transformed into a beautiful garden nearly a century ago. Visitors can enjoy stunning art installations, a delightful combination of greenery, tranquil lily ponds, and more. Admission is free, but visitors may donate if they wish.

Nevada: Explore the Las Vegas Strip (Las Vegas)

If you can resist heading into the casinos or array of fine-dining restaurants, there are many free things to do in Vegas, including exploring the world-famous Strip. While on the Strip, check out other free attractions like the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden.

New Hampshire: Drive along Kancamagus Highway (Lincoln)

The natural beauty is the draw on this stunning 34.5-mile drive from Lincoln to Conway. From east to west, drivers are taken on winding roads through the White Mountains. For those who want to get up close and personal with nature, there are hiking trails and campgrounds.

New Jersey: Visit the Wildwoods Boardwalk and beaches (Wildwood)

Many of the Jersey Shore beaches charge for day passes, but the five miles of beaches in the Wildwoods are completely free. After spending a day on the beach, it’s also free to stroll along the massive boardwalk, which features 38 blocks of restaurants, shops, and rides.

New Mexico: Stroll through Old Town (Albuquerque)

Old Town, a historic site founded in 1706 and housed between the Sandia mountains and three volcanoes, has plenty to keep visitors entertained — like restaurants, museums, and boutiques. Strolling around the town and taking in all the sites is completely free.

New York: Explore Central Park (New York City)

Each year, millions of visitors descend on New York City’s massive Central Park. The 843-acre greenspace, located right in the middle of Manhattan, is an excellent place to go on a walk or jog, relax, and enjoy an array of greenery — plus, it’s one of the city’s best spots for people watching.

North Carolina: Visit Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is partially in North Carolina and partially in Tennessee. For those in the area, the free park has plenty to offer — from its rich history dating back to prehistoric times to its stunning mountain views.

North Dakota: Check out the Roger Maris Museum (Fargo)

A museum honoring Yankees legend Roger Maris, who broke Babe Ruth’s home run record in 1961, opened in the West Acres shopping center back in 1984. At the famed athlete’s own request, the museum in his hometown of Fargo has remained free and open to the public.

Ohio: Stroll through the Cleveland Metroparks (Cleveland)

Cleveland Metroparks includes 25,000 acres across 18 reservations in Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township. With more than 300 miles of trails, nine golf courses, and eight lakefront parks, there’s truly something for everyone in the Metroparks.

Oklahoma: Check out the Blue Whale along Route 66 (Catoosa)

Oklahoma is home to the largest drivable stretch of the famed Route 66 and there are plenty of fascinating places to stop along the way — including the Blue Whale. This quirky roadside stop sits on 23.5 acres of land where those passing through can hang out, picnic, and more.

Oregon: Explore the International Rose Test Garden (Portland)

From May through October each year, visitors to Portland’s Washington Park can enjoy more than 10,000 rose bushes in beautiful bloom. The garden includes more than 600 different varieties of roses and it’s completely free to take a leisurely walk through the gardens.

Pennsylvania: Snap a photo with the Rocky Statue (Philadelphia)

The Rocky Statue and steps (the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps Rocky famously runs up in the films) are a big draw for visitors to Philly. The statue, which depicts the film’s protagonist Rocky Balboa with boxing gloves raised in the air, makes for a great photo op.

Rhode Island: Explore WaterFire (Providence)

WaterFire includes more than 80 bonfires installed across the three rivers in downtown Providence. Locals and visitors alike praise the installation and the beauty sparked when the flames sparkle across the waters at night. Lighting events are always free.

South Carolina: Visit White Point Garden (Charleston)

In the heart of Charleston’s historic downtown district, White Point Garden has plenty of beautiful green space to enjoy, as well as historical landmarks like Civil War cannons, monuments, and statues. Visiting the garden is an excellent (and free) way to while away a sunny afternoon.

South Dakota: Wander around Falls Park (Sioux Falls)

Anyone passing through Sioux Falls should consider making a stop at Falls Park to see why the city got its name. It’s completely free to visit the park, and guests tend to find themselves in awe of the 100-foot falls (and the 128 acres of stunning nature that surround them).

Tennessee: Stroll along the Beale Street (Memphis)

Beale Street has a rich history as a gathering place for Black businesses, artists, and more. While there’s plenty to spend money on, visitors can also simply wander the street, taking in the incredible music, dining, nightlife, and art scenes.

Texas: Explore the San Antonio River Walk (San Antonio)

There will be plenty going on at the San Antonio River Walk no matter when you visit. From parades and artisan markets to outdoor recreation and stunning views (and photo ops), the River Walk is a great place to enjoy a free afternoon (if you can resist the many delicious restaurants).

Utah: Check out Temple Square (Salt Lake City)

A site to see even for those who are not religious, Temple Square in downtown Salt Lake City is a historical landmark for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The square includes five city blocks with many historical sites, exhibits, gardens, and more.

Vermont: Visit Church Street Marketplace (Burlington)

Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace in four blocks full of shops, restaurants, local businesses, and more. It’s a great place to window shop, catch street entertainers and/or vendors, or simply hang out and relax (or do some people watching).

Virginia: Stroll the Virginia Beach Boardwalk (Virginia Beach)

While there’s plenty of activities to get into along Virginia Beach’s three-mile boardwalk, taking a nice stroll down the boards is a great way to spend a few free hours. Visitors can check out stunning artwork and views or pop into one of many restaurants or shops.

Washington: Explore Pike Place Market (Seattle)

Stretching across nine acres in downtown Seattle, the Pike Place Market has been a staple in the area for more than a century. Visitors will find plenty of places to shop, eat, and explore throughout the market, and may also just want to stroll through it free of charge.

West Virginia: Visit the New River Gorge (Glen Jean)

New River Gorge Bridge is a stunning work of architecture (and makes for great photos). New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is completely free of charge and guests can visit the Canyon Rim Visitor Center to walk the boardwalk paths for a great view of the bridge.

Wisconsin: Stroll the Milwaukee Riverwalk (Milwaukee)

Visitors can enjoy more than three miles of scenic views along the Milwaukee Riverwalk, which is free and open to the public 24 hours a day. The stunning walk takes visitors from the former North Avenue Dam to Lake Michigan, and they can enjoy the vibrant downtown and historic districts.

Wyoming: Check out Jackson Town Square (Jackson)

Jackson Town Square sits at the center of culture and business in the area. Guests can take a leisurely stroll, enjoying the stunning arches made from elk antlers, check out local restaurants and art galleries, and in the summer, the Jackson Hole Historical Society & Museum even offers free walking tours.

Bottom line

Vacation planning may seem daunting when you look at the price tags for many activities, but there are many more sites, events, works of art, and natural wonders that visitors can check out completely free of charge across the US.

For those things that you do have to pay for, though, be sure to use one of the top travel cards to make the most of each dollar spent.

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50 Fun Things To Do

Get a jump on our city favorites.

Whether you have a few hours or days, you need the must-see, must-do list of the coolest places and super fun things to do in Atlanta to get you started. Family-friendly things to do , historic sites and scenic outdoor green spaces are just the beginning. There’s trendsetting culture and mouth-watering dining to keep you wanting more. Plan your adventure with this guide to things to do in Atlanta (and pick out your favorite icons by 👨‍🎨 @jissor ). You can also explore like a local and visit some of Atlanta’s most popular neighborhoods- Buckhead , Midtown and Downtown .

Insider tip: Save 44% on admission tickets to five top Atlanta attractions and skip most ticket lines with Atlanta CityPASS. Learn how it works.

Encuentra aquí la lista en español de las 50 cosas divertidas que hacer en Atlanta.

Alliance Theatre

Catch A Broadway Play Before It Hits Broadway

A Regional Theatre Tony Award Winner and leading producing theater in the Southeast, this is where hearts and minds expand on and off stage. Deeply community-rooted, Alliance Theatre offers productions for all ages.

Atlanta Beltline

The BeltLine is Devine

This 22-mile trail loops the city, connecting neighborhoods and showcasing why Atlanta is “The City in the Forest.” With everchanging artwork, unique shops, lively bars and restaurants, the BeltLine is the best way to explore the city on foot, on wheels or with your furry friends.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

A Day Of Re-Leaf

Enjoy 30 acres of stunning gardens and spectacular exhibits at this year-round family attraction. Learn more about the 25-foot tall Earth Goddess sculpture with flowing locks and a waterfall cascading from her hand. Every season, the ever-growing garden offers events on the lawn for visitors to experience.

Atlanta History Center

Your Very Own Time Machine

You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy one of the Southeast’s largest history museums. This 33-acre attraction in Buckhead features the re-imagined Cyclorama exhibit, memorabilia from the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games and the historic Swan House, which served as a backdrop for the Hunger Games movies.

Atlanta Rainbow Crosswalk

Walk the Rainbow

At the intersection of 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue, the Rainbow Crosswalk symbolizes Atlanta’s acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. These rainbow stripes were added to the neighborhood during an Atlanta Pride Festival, which makes its home in Midtown, where y’all means all.

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Concerts and Crescendos

Pick your seat to hear the sounds of Atlanta’s Grammy Award-winning orchestra. Watch iconic movies while the Atlanta Symphony performs the score live. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra hits the right notes with the magic of the classics, concerts and engaging events.

Buckhead Village District

Savoring Luxury

An eclectic corner in one of Atlanta’s busiest communities, this district offers a charming and stylish haven to relax among cobblestone streets and outdoor communal spaces. Sip on coffee or champagne, eat an exquisite meal and shop for unique gifts along Buckhead’s Peachtree Corridor.

Center For Puppetry Arts

Who’s Pulling the Strings

The art form of puppetry takes a special place in Atlanta. Catch a performance or pay Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy a visit at the interactive museum. Learn about the influential legacy of Jim Henson, and reconnect with your childhood, making your puppetry dreams come true.

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Get Your Nature On

Zipline across a beaver pond, get up close and personal with hundreds of butterflies, take a hike or enjoy a concert by the river. There are infinite opportunities for fun with nature in the forest, on the river or in the wetlands. Paddle your way into wild memories here.

• Nearby Attractions

Chattahoochee River

A Totally Tubular Time

This 48-mile river is one of Atlanta’s finest outdoor destinations just fewer than 10 miles from downtown Atlanta. With spectacular scenic river front views, the Chattahoochee River is also a place for cliff jumping, paddleboarding, rafting and fishing. Take a break from the water to enjoy a riverside picnic or hike along the trail.

Chick-Fil-A College Football Hall Of Fame

You’ll Get a Kick Out of This

With a 45-yard indoor football field, this is the place to kick it. Browse decades of memorabilia, learn about Hall of Fame football legends and interact with more than 50 state-of-the-art technology exhibits.

Children’s Museum Of Atlanta

Are You Kidding? This is Awesome!

Kids and families love all the playful possibilities in this world of discovery. Climb through the layers of the Earth, enter a magical forest, build giant sandcastles, deliver food from farm to table, then release your inner artist — all before story time.

David J. Sencer CDC Museum

Unravel the Sequence of Mystery Diseases

Wonder at the complexity of tools CDC scientists used to study, eradicate and solve mystery diseases. Interactive exhibits allow guests to get the story behind CDC’s pioneering work, historic efforts and neverending quest for public health.

Delta Flight Museum

We Love the Way They Fly

Housed in two original maintenance hangars from the 1940s, Delta Flight Museum traces Delta’s history and development of commercial aviation. Take part in a guided tour to see exhibits, experience simulator technology and behold massive planes like a 747 up close.

Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta

Make Money Moves

The money machine exhibit consists of historical artifacts revealing the compelling. From barter to dollars and cents, this exhibit highlights the tumultuous past of banking in America. Interactive exhibitions include cash-processing operations and examples of rare coins and currency.

Fernbank Museum Of Natural History

A Dinomite World

Nothing says adventure more than dinosaurs, nature trails in a forest and a four-story movie screen. The immense science and nature museum has outdoor adventures and three stories of exhibitions. Daytime is a blast for the family, grownups socialize after hours.

Fox Theatre

Stars in Your Eyes

With stunning gold leaf details, Egyptian architecture and a gorgeous starry-sky, the Fox Theatre is a piece of art on its own. The ornately designed venue hosts top performances and events, including Broadway shows and movies. Whether you visit for a show or a tour, keep an eye out for the famed ghosts.

Georgia Aquarium

Sea It To Believe It

With more than 11 million gallons of water, 10s of thousands of animals and 500 species in more than 60 habitats, it’s the largest in the U.S. Whether you check out SHARKS! Predators of the Deep exhibit, take a peek at a puffin or grab a gift from the gallery, there’s so much to dive into.

High Museum Of Art

Where It’s Always Art O’Clock

The Southeast’s top art museum brings blockbuster art exhibitions to Atlanta by collaborating with world-renowned museums such as The Louvre and MOMA. Find artists from the American South and an exceptional collection of civil rights photography. The High has an annual line-up of fun special events to suit any audience.

Historic Cemeteries

Here Lies History

This is where Atlanta’s history lives. Get your ghoul on at ghost and goblin themed events at Oakland Cemetery or take in views that are to die for at the Westview Cemetery.

Historic Gems

Connect With Culture and Community

Get a glimpse of historic richness. 44th & 3rd Bookseller sits in the heart of Atlanta’s West End with books by authors from the African diaspora. The Hammonds House Museum features a 250-piece art collection focused on artists of African descent. The Wren’s Nest is the historic home of notable journalist Joel Chandler Harris with the tradition of oral storytelling at its core.

Illuminarium

Multi-Sensory Storytelling

Fall down the rabbit hole of immersive experiences at Illuminarium. The Waking Wonderland and Space exhibits engage the senses with 4k interactive projection, 360-degree audio, in-floor vibration and scent systems.

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum

Be Official in the Oval Office

Be the president for a day. Walk through a full-scale replica of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter’s White House Oval Office. Finish off your “term” by viewing the Nobel Peace Prize and walking in the gorgeous gardens.

Lenox Square And Phipps Plaza

Get a Degree in Retail Therapy

Luxury shopping lives at the intersection of Peachtree and Lenox Roads in Buckhead. Fashionistas and foodies find the 350+ iconic brands at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza extraordinary. Lenox houses Nike and Apple flagships and Phipps features Nobu, a culinary market and green space for gathering.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Live the Dream of a Civil Rights Icon

Honor the work and life of civil rights pioneer Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at this historic landmark. Leave feeling inspired after remembering notable moments while visiting King’s birth home, Ebenezer Baptist Church and The King Center, established by Coretta Scott King.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

This Place is Fan-Tastic

Home to Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United FC and high-energy concerts, there is always something to enjoy here. With the world’s largest 58-foot-tall HD video board and first-of-its kind retractable roof, fans get an exclusive all-senses experience.

Michael C. Carlos Museum

Mummies and Marvels

Spend the day a world away where true treasures rest. Get wrapped up in the marvelous mummy exhibit or check out ancient artifacts from Egypt, Greece, Rome, the Near East, Africa and Americas.

Millennium Gate

Arch You Glad You Stopped Here?

This classically styled 100-foot tall arch represents Atlanta’s historical name, “The Gate City.” The impressive work by artist Alexander Stoddart preserves Georgia history, art, culture and philanthropic heritage. Stop in The Millennium Gate Museum or take a stroll through the park.

Murals & Public Art

Picture Perfect

Vibrant, diverse street art and murals tell stories of Atlanta’s creative communities. Whether you’re moving through Midtown or cruising through Cabbagetown, you’re bound to see these incredible works of art by local and international artists all over the city.

Museum Of Design Atlanta

Imagine Art and Images of Inspiration

MODA is a creative force that is home to some of Atlanta’s most unconventional exhibits. You can see and celebrate the impact of design on everyday life with exhibitions on climate change, architecture, espresso, fashion and so much more.

National Center For Civil And Human Rights

Connect With Heroes Past and Present

Journey back to 1960 and feel the intensity of a lunch counter sit-in. Learn about and walk through pivotal moments in history. The center is an evolving attraction that connects the American civil rights movement to today’s global human rights movement.

Get on the Greenway

A step off the beaten path, this popular Buckhead trail is all the buzz as it connects to parks, walking trails, a bee habitat and neighborhoods. Ultimately leading to the BeltLine, PATH400 will have you feeling like a local.

Plaza Fiesta

Bienvenidos! No Passport Needed

Celebrate Latin culture on diverse Buford Highway. At Plaza Fiesta you can eat churros, get handcrafted imported art and buy a quinceanera dress. The vibrant plaza hosts free events year-round where everyone is welcome.

Plaza Theatre

Catch an Indie Film

With a unique, intact old-school charm, this is not your average movie theater. Open since 1939, Plaza Theatre is a neighborhood favorite and Atlanta’s oldest operating cinema. Catch independent, foreign, art house films, hard to find documentaries and quirky programming.

Porsche Experience Center Atlanta

Satisfy Your Need for Speed

Experience a $200K ride as you drive and drift away in a Porsche. This experience center allows you to test your driving skills then lose your stomach on the launch pad. Finish your ride by taking in the Heritage Gallery then grabbing a bite with a view of flights.

Skyview Atlanta

Sky-High Views You Can’t Resist

The view from this 20-story Ferris wheel is truly a must-see. Ride in style with a VIP experience that includes a glass floor, champagne and a perfect photo op. The climate-controlled gondolas provide a cool ride to catch the sunset or late-night views.

Starlight Drive-In

Drivin’ Back in Time

Lights, camera, action! This multiple-screen drive in theater provides a unique movie experience. Tucked away in a scenic location right outside of Atlanta, this theater has maintained its ode to greenery and classic art-deco style since opening in 1949.

State Farm Arena

A Shot You Won’t Want To Miss

Home to the Atlanta Hawks, State Farm Arena recently underwent the second-largest renovation in NBA history adding features including the largest sightlines from 360-degree concourses providing ample views. New venue entertainment options include Topgolf Swing Suites, Zac Brown’s Social Club and Killer Mike’s SWAG Shop for a modern fan experience.

Stone Mountain Park

This Rock Will Knock Your Socks Off

Spread across 3,200 beautiful acres, this 300-million-year old rock is Georgia’s most-visited attraction – and for good reason. Trek through the treetops on SkyHike, hike up the mountain for a scenic view or take a relaxing trip to the top with Summit Skyride year-round.

Sweet Auburn Avenue

A Walk Through History

The Sweet Auburn District is steeped in history, hip bars, street art and eateries. Iconic locations like the Auburn Avenue Research Library, Municipal Market and historic churches fill the area, along with must-visit stores such as For Keeps, a Black-owned bookstore.

The Roof At PCM

Your Atlanta experience will rise to new heights atop the iconic Ponce City Market. Vintage amusements, games, food and drinks with unparalleled views live here. Adjacent venues offer delicious bites and cocktails to enjoy with the view.

The Spectacular At Centennial Olympic Park

The Spectacular is Spectacular

The park’s Olympic rings, known as The Spectacular, pay homage to Atlanta’s Olympic legacy. The large sculpture sits at the east entrance of Centennial Olympic Park, just steps away from many of Atlanta’s attractions. While you’re there, splash around in the Fountain of Rings, enjoy a nice picnic or snap an Instagram-worthy photo.

A-Door-Able Artwork

Tiny works of art along Atlanta BeltLine inspire viewers to unlock their imaginations. Start a scavenger hunt at the visitor center in Centennial Olympic Park where you’ll find three of the 20+ seven-inch doors along with augmented reality murals made by local ATL artists.

Trap Music Museum

Do It for the Culture

You can’t come to Atlanta without finding out why it’s the Hip Hop Capital. This culture-centric museum is loaded with memorabilia, art and rooms where guests can experience hip hop culture at its finest. If the museum isn’t enough, embark on the interactive escape room experience.

Truist Park At The Battery Atlanta

Slide Into the Battery

This multipurpose development houses hotels, green space and the Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre – just steps from Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park. It offers restaurants, bars and shops, making it the perfect outing even on non-game days. Come for baseball, stay for unmatched entertainment.

Cliques and Flicks

Take a stroll down memory lane at Atlanta’s last video store. Just being there brings you back in time. The beloved film oasis puts streaming services to shame offering more than 40,000 titles and stocking anything from indie to obscure and cult international films.

Wax’N’Facts, Criminal Records, Moods Music

Notes of Nostalgia

In one of Atlanta’s hippest areas, Little Five Points, music is a mainstay. Move to your own beat as you dig through vintage vinyl at the record store. All within walking distance of each other, you’ll leave Wax n Facts, Criminal Records and Moods Music on a good note.

William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum

Where History and Culture Meet

The Breman offers understanding and appreciation of Jewish history culture and arts. It hosts a permanent Holocaust exhibition highlighting the resilience of local Georgia survivors plus comprehensive archives on Southern Jewish History, and much more.

World Of Coca-Cola

This Place Is Soda Kinda Awesome

Sip on the history of the world’s most famous soft drink, experience Taste It! tasting room with 100 flavors, learn about the anatomy of smell at Scent Discovery or watch the bottling process. The secret formula vault and photo op with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear are fan favorites.

Zoo Atlanta

Haven’t You Herd?

Home to more than 1,000 animals and 200 species from around the world, this is one of the 10 oldest zoos in operation in the U.S. Here you’ll find elephants, giraffes, zebras and the only giant panda twins in the U.S. It’s a yearround animal kingdom exploration that’s fun for all.

MORE TO EXPLORE

Neighborhoods.

• Arts & Culture
• Family Friendly

MORE THINGS TO DO

Atlanta Magic Theatre

Comedy clubs.

Laugh with a full crowd or during an intimate magical night at one of Atlanta’s many comedy clubs. At Atlanta Magic Theatre, Atlanta’s highest rated show and nightlife entertainment option on TripAdvisor, Magician Peter Morrison offers stage magic, mentalism and tons of audience involvement. No matter your level of laughter, Atlanta’s many hip laugh factories bring joy all across town. Dad’s Garage provides incredible shows with talented players that have been seen in local television shows and movies. Laughing Skull Lounge is a must if size matters to you. As a comedy club in a big city, the comics pride themselves on their small and intimate space. Looking for something off-the-cuff? Check out Village Theatre for an audience-inspired improv comedy venue in an intimate and laid-back environment serving drinks, laughs and a good time. Leave the stress of the day behind and unwind with funny stand-up acts, get involved, or even try out your own.

Freedom Farmers Market

Food halls & farmers markets.

Atlanta is home to some of the best and one of the oldest food halls in the country. Politan Row at Colony Square is a great place to Encounter the city’s eclectic mix of dining options. Don’t miss out on VIP chef’s table experiences and exclusive cocktail bars. With 31 culinary offerings and a full-service bar, Chattahoochee Food Works will satisfy your thirst and hunger in an adaptive mixed-use building on the Westside. Eat and shop at Ponce City Market, a historic Sears building converted into a city landmark now housing some of the best global flavors in Atlanta. Named one of the best food halls in the world, Krog Street Market is a must-try. It is located in one of the city’s hottest historic neighborhoods and boasts a curated mix of dining, shopping and spaces to gather. What started as a large open-air market following the Great Atlanta Fire of 1917, is now Sweet Auburn Curb Market – also known as the Municipal Market. Located in the city’s historic Sweet Auburn District, it has been ranked among the best in the world by USA Today. The independently owned businesses here include fresh produce, meat and seafood vendors, retailers and eateries. For those looking to buy international food products, visit Buford Highway Farmers Market and Your DeKalb Farmers Market. Just minutes from Downtown, you can travel around the world through flavors. Visit Atlanta’s eclectic neighborhoods and their equally diverse selection of food halls and markets.

Piedmont Park

Atlanta’s gorgeous skyline is full of glass and steel, but guests are constantly amazed at the green space in the city. The gardens in the middle of Downtown, Midtown and Buckhead — Centennial Olympic Park, Piedmont Park and Chastain Park — are just as beautiful as they are iconic. And they are only the beginning of Atlanta’s green space. Atlanta BeltLine and PATH400 are a great walks with views and attractions along the way. By foot or on wheels, head over to Old Fourth Ward Skatepark to test out your latest tricks or join a free community yoga class. Woodruff Park is an oasis Downtown, and Rodney Cook Sr. Park is the latest green development offering a place to sit by the creek. Grab your bike and head west to ride around Westside Reservoir Park, home to ADA-accessible trails and beautiful Atlanta skylines. Atlanta is home to the first park named after a Hispanic individual in the State of Georgia. Visit Sara J. Gonzalez Park and celebrate the culture and diversity of the city. We are The City in the Forest with endless opportunities for you to enjoy the outdoors. Check out one of the many Atlanta parks and gardens open to guests daily.

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Events give you a taste of Atlanta, warmly welcoming visitors to the city year-round. Discover the upcoming events in Atlanta.

Multiple days until 06/02/2024

Georgia Renaissance Festival

4/30/24 – 5/5/24

Atlanta Film Festival

4/30/24 – 5/19/24

Balloon Museum

Die walkure (“the valkyrie”).

4/30/24 – 5/1/24

Spirited Away at Aurora Cineplex-April 27–May 1

4/29/24 – 4/30/24

Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology