Atlanta is a city that has it all — history, culture, food, music, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a local rediscovering your hometown, there’s no shortage of things to explore. This guide covers the best things to do in Atlanta in 2025, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems that give the city its unique charm.
🎶 1. Experience Atlanta’s Live Music Scene
Music runs through Atlanta’s veins. Known globally as the birthplace of modern hip-hop, the city also thrives with jazz, rock, R&B, and global music. For locals and travelers, catching a live performance is one of the most rewarding experiences in Atlanta.
- Surya Ensemble – A mesmerizing world music group that blends sounds from across the globe. Their performances are immersive cultural journeys, making them one of the most unique live shows in Atlanta. Perfect for a date night or cultural outing.
- Eddie’s Attic – Legendary venue that has hosted artists like John Mayer and Sheryl Crow. Great for intimate acoustic performances.
- The Tabernacle – A historic church turned concert hall, now one of the city’s premier spots for major acts.
- City Winery – Combines food, wine, and live music for a full sensory experience.
👉 If you’re planning a trip, check out our Atlanta Concerts This Weekend page for the latest events.
🏛️ 2. Visit Iconic Atlanta Attractions
Atlanta boasts a lineup of attractions that draw millions every year.
- Georgia Aquarium – One of the largest aquariums in the world, home to whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of marine species. Great for families and first-time visitors.
- World of Coca-Cola – Celebrate Atlanta’s most famous export. The museum showcases Coca-Cola’s history, branding, and global impact, plus a tasting room with flavors from around the world.
- Atlanta Botanical Garden – A stunning 30-acre garden in Midtown, featuring a canopy walk, exotic plants, and seasonal exhibitions like Garden Lights.
- Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park – A moving experience where you can visit Dr. King’s childhood home, church, and final resting place.
🍴 3. Savor Atlanta’s Food Scene
Food in Atlanta is an adventure all its own. From Southern classics to global cuisine, the city’s dining options reflect its diverse culture.
- Busy Bee Café – A soul food institution since 1947, known for fried chicken, collard greens, and sweet potato pie.
- Ponce City Market – A bustling food hall inside a historic Sears building, offering everything from artisan tacos to gourmet donuts.
- Krog Street Market – Trendy and artsy, this market has small eateries serving everything from Asian fusion to craft beer.
- Fine Dining – Atlanta is home to world-class chefs. For special occasions, try Bacchanalia, Aria, or Staplehouse.
💡 Insider Tip: Many restaurants are close to live music venues, making it easy to plan a dinner + concert night.
🌳 4. Get Outdoors in Atlanta
Atlanta isn’t just skyscrapers and highways — it’s also a surprisingly green city with plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.
- Piedmont Park – Atlanta’s answer to Central Park. Great for picnics, festivals, and skyline views.
- Atlanta BeltLine – A 22-mile loop of trails connecting neighborhoods, lined with street art, restaurants, and breweries. Perfect for biking or walking.
- Stone Mountain Park – Offers hiking trails, a cable car with panoramic views, and family-friendly attractions.
- Chattahoochee River – Locals love tubing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water.
🎭 5. Explore Arts & Culture
Atlanta’s arts and culture scene is thriving, blending historic institutions with modern creativity.
- Fox Theatre – A must-see landmark hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy acts. Its Moorish-style interior is breathtaking.
- High Museum of Art – The city’s premier art museum, featuring everything from classic masterpieces to contemporary exhibits.
- Alliance Theatre – Award-winning productions that push creative boundaries.
- Street Art in Little Five Points & Cabbagetown – A colorful and quirky look at Atlanta’s local culture.
🛍️ 6. Shop & Stroll
For those who love shopping (or window shopping), Atlanta offers everything from luxury boutiques to quirky indie shops.
- Lenox Square & Phipps Plaza – High-end shopping destinations in Buckhead.
- Ponce City Market Retail – Trendy shops with local designers and national brands.
- Little Five Points – Vintage stores, record shops, and funky boutiques for a bohemian vibe.
🏟️ 7. Sports & Festivals
Atlanta is a sports city through and through, with events year-round.
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium – Home to the Atlanta Falcons (NFL) and Atlanta United (MLS).
- Truist Park – Catch the Atlanta Braves in action and explore The Battery entertainment district.
- Music Midtown – Atlanta’s biggest music festival, featuring global headliners.
- Dogwood Festival & Atlanta Jazz Festival – Celebrated cultural events that attract thousands every year.
❤️ 8. Perfect Date Night Ideas in Atlanta
Whether it’s your first date or a special anniversary, Atlanta is full of romantic possibilities.
- Skyline Rooftop Bars – Try SkyLounge or 9 Mile Station for breathtaking views.
- Wine Tasting at City Winery – Pair wine with live music.
- Dinner + Surya Ensemble Concert – For something unforgettable, enjoy a world music performance after dinner at a nearby restaurant.
- Couples’ Walk on the BeltLine – Scenic, casual, and filled with surprises along the way.
📅 Planning Your Trip to Atlanta
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) bring ideal weather and outdoor festivals.
- Getting Around: MARTA is useful for downtown, but rideshares or driving are easier for exploring neighborhoods.
- Passes: Consider the Atlanta CityPASS for bundled discounts on attractions like the Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re here for history, food, music, or outdoor adventures, Atlanta delivers unforgettable experiences. The city balances its deep cultural roots with constant innovation, making it exciting for both visitors and locals.
Want to learn more about upcoming concerts in Atlanta or the latest things to do in Atlanta? Follow Surya Ensemble for updates, ticket info, and behind-the-scenes stories from our world music journey.
If you want to make your time in Atlanta truly special, don’t miss a live performance by Surya Ensemble. Their shows bring the world to Atlanta in a single evening — a one-of-a-kind cultural journey you won’t forget.