One Perfect Day in Atlanta

Are you planning on spending a day in Atlanta? Here’s the perfect itinerary that includes a variety of some of the best things to do in the city.

Getting Around Atlanta

Atlanta is spread out, so most of the time I recommend having a car while visiting here. However with this one day itinerary, it’s not necessary. Most of the day will be within one area that is easily walkable. For the evening portion, it will be easy to grab an Uber or Lyft and stay within another easily walkable area. Then Uber or Lyft back to the hotel.

If you plan on staying in the city longer or doing day trips, then I definitely recommend getting a car. The city is spread out and it will be the easiest way to get around.

Atlanta does have public transportation, if you want to try that. It’s not as fast as other cities with more subway trains.

Morning Time During Your Day in Atlanta

Most of the day will be centered around the Centennial Olympic Park area, so plan on parking for an extended period of time or Ubering here. There are several parking garages around the area, but the Georgia Aquarium parking may be the closest. Better yet, stay in a nearby hotel and walk over.

Start the morning at the Atlanta Breakfast Club! There will be a line, but I promise the wait is worth it! The Peach Cobbler French Toast is delish and the Chicken and Waffles were yummy!

Atlanta Breakfast Club Hours: Daily 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM

Day in Atlanta- Atlanta Breakfast Club — Peach Cobbler French Toast

After breakfast, head to the Georgia Aquarium. This is the largest aquarium in the United States! There’s a lot to see and do, so plan on spending two to three hours here. Book your tickets online ahead of time. For tips on visiting and what not to miss at the aquarium, check out this blog post.

Aquarium Hours: Monday – Thursday 9 AM – 9 PM & Friday -Sunday 8 AM – 9 PM

Next up, The World of Coca-Cola. The building is right next to the aquarium. This is a fun place to tour and learn the history behind the famous soft drink. Plus you have a chance to try over 100 different varieties of coke that are served in other countries!

World of Coca- Cola hours vary daily, but usually opens at 10:00 AM. Closing times range from 5:30 PM -7:00 PM

Afternoon During Your Day in Atlanta

For lunch, there are several good restaurants to choose from within walking distance. Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria, Dos Bocas for Mexican/Cajun, Twin Smokers BBQ, Or Johnny Rockets for burgers. In case, you missed the Atlanta Breakfast Club, they do serve lunch as well.

After lunch, head to The National Center of Civil & Human Rights. This is a moving experience that really immerses you in the past. Plan on spending at least one to two hours here.

Museum Hours: Tuesday through Friday & Sunday Noon- 5:00 PM & Saturday 10:00 – 5:00 PM

Day in Atlanta — Centennial Olympic Park

The rest of the afternoon is flexible. I suggest walking around Centennial Olympic Park. This park is 22 acres and hosted the 1996 Summer Olympics. Get a picture with the Olympic Rings. If you are visiting during the summer, I would actually start with this before breakfast. The summer heat is intense, so you don’t want to be outside.

There’s also Skyview Atlanta for a great view of the city. I’m a sucker for observation wheels, so it was a must for me. The College Football Hall of Fame and Children’s Museum are within walking distance too.

Evening During Your Day in Atlanta

If you still have lots of energy, head to Ponce City Market. This is a fun area to walk around and it has great places to eat. There’s something for everyone! They have burgers, pizza, Indian, pho, ramen, Mexican, and more! Plus several yummy dessert places.

Before or after dinner, depending on the sunset, take a walk on the Atlanta Beltline. One of the entrances is at Ponce City Market. The Beltline is a multi use outdoor trail similar to the High Line in NYC. You can rent scooters, ride a bike, or just walk the trail. Either way you head, you’ll find art murals like the ATL tiny doors, more restaurants and parks.

Check out the Roof on Ponce City Market for more fun! There’s Skyline Park which has mini golf, games, and rides. Plus a lounge area and cocktail bar. This area has plenty to keep you occupied for the entire evening.

Want a more low key option? Have dinner at South City Kitchen for their amazing fried chicken and then an early night at your hotel.

Summary

That’s my version of a perfect day in Atlanta. Luckily the biggest attractions are in one area. If for some reason none of that interests you, check out this post for many more things to do in Atlanta. The city has something for everyone.