We frequently hear requests for what to do in Downtown Atlanta. Where should I eat? What are the best Downtown Atlanta attractions? Are there any family-friendly activities Downtown Atlanta? We’re proud of our hometown and love to share our favorite hotspots!
Downtown Atlanta is rich in history, entertainment, sports, and activities. It once hosted the Summer Olympics, recently hosted the NCAA Final Four, the Super Bowl, and will soon host the 2026 World Cup! The area is transforming rapidly with so many family-friendly activities within walking distance.
When you visit Atlanta Downtown, things to do are not lacking at all! Here is how you spend a weekend exploring the best places in Downtown Atlanta!
In this article:
What is considered Downtown Atlanta?
What To Do in Downtown Atlanta
Places in Downtown Atlanta to Eat
Downtown Atlanta Attractions for Families
New Homes Near Downtown Atlanta Attractions
What is Considered Downtown Atlanta?
Downtown Atlanta is the historic center of Atlanta. It encompasses the central business district neighborhoods of Castleberry Hill, Centennial Hill and Centennial Place, Fairlie-Poplar, Marietta Artery, Old Fourth Ward, SONO, South Downtown, and Sweet Auburn.
Downtown Atlanta is incredibly walkable, with many central Downtown Atlanta attractions within a few steps of each other. Plus, you can go north, south, east, and west to visit every corner of the city via MARTA, Atlanta’s rail and bus system.
What To Do in Downtown Atlanta
Some of the most popular places in Downtown Atlanta share the same campus! In the center of Downtown Atlanta, you’ll find Centennial Olympic Park, home to many festivals, concerts, and outdoor events. The 22-acre public park was built for the 1996 Summer Olympics and has become the heartbeat of Downtown.
You may recognize the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel outside the park’s gates. It’s here that you can get a complete view of the city while you enjoy a ride in a private, climate-controlled gondola.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights borders the north of Centennial Olympic Park. One of the most profound Downtown Atlanta attractions, the Center for Civil and Human Rights teaches us about human rights initiatives’ history, present, and future and our nation’s advocates who are making changes. If you’re wondering what to do in Downtown Atlanta, its powerful, educational, and thought-provoking exhibits are a must-see.
On the southern border of Centennial Olympic Park, you’ll find the headquarters of the major world news network CNN. The CNN Center is constantly buzzing with excitement with a food court and restaurants inside, as well as direct access to State Farm Arena, where you can watch the Atlanta Hawks basketball team play or catch a concert from one of your favorite musicians.
If you’re interested in catching even sports activities, Downtown Atlanta is the place to be! Take a short walk down the road to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where the Atlanta Falcons football and Atlanta United soccer teams take on their opponents in exciting games and matches.
Places in Downtown Atlanta to Eat
Atlanta is a foodie town; you won’t go hungry here! The city has everything: down-home southern cooking, juicy burgers, fresh seafood, authentic sushi, and pizza.
The Sun Dial
The Sun Dial is elegant and fancy for special events or celebrations–plus it has the city’s best views. It sits atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza with 360-degree views of the city skyline and nearby Downtown Atlanta attractions.
Ponce City Market
If you’ve got to make a group happy for lunch or dinner, try Ponce City Market! The famed outdoor shopping center has a high-end casual food court with unique global cuisine, plus more formal dining options. Try a little bit from each food stall, grab coffee and dessert, and stay awhile for shopping and entertainment.
Atlanta Breakfast Club
Located near our favorite places in Downtown Atlanta, Atlanta Breakfast Club boasts the “best breakfast in Atlanta,” and the lines prove that! Get there early to grab a spot looking out at the Georgia Aquarium and the city skyline!
Downtown Atlanta Attractions for Families
For the animal lovers in your life, you can’t miss the Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta! These two popular attractions let you get up close and personal with furry friends and friendly fish. Visit your family’s favorite safari animal at the zoo, or watch a dolphin show at the aquarium. There are so many things to learn, see, and experience that the whole family will enjoy these activities in Downtown Atlanta!
Steps away from the Georgia Aquarium is the World of Coca-Cola, a fascinating experience for those who love the bubbly soda and those who don’t! Watch the history of the sweet sip in the 3-D Theater, then sample drinks from around the world.
You should not worry about what to do in Downtown Atlanta if it’s too hot, too cold, or too rainy. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta has dozens of exhibits to experience, from learning about food to interacting with science. All ages are welcome here, and it’s a great place to release your inner child and be creative and playful!
The College Football Hall of Fame offers an experience like no other! Adults can be kids again in the interactive exhibits featuring a field goal-kicking activity, sportscasting desk, and indoor playing field.
New Homes Near Downtown Atlanta Attractions
When your friends ask what to do in Downtown Atlanta, be the expert next-door neighbor! Brock Built offers new modern homes just minutes from all the action in Downtown Atlanta. Ten29 West features easy access to all of Atlanta, especially places in Downtown Atlanta, via the Atlanta BeltLine Connector. Its four-story townhomes offer a unique view of the skyline from rooftop terraces that keep an eye on the city’s happenings right at home.
Just a few minutes away in East Atlanta, you’ll find the city’s very first collection of modern prairie designs. At The Parc, you can choose from three different floorplans from two to three stories of laidback living. The vibrant community is surrounded by lush landscapes and is just a short drive to the center of it all in Downtown Atlanta.
Add “buy a new home” to your list of things to do in Downtown Atlanta! Get in touch with our team to personalize your dream home in the city today.