Atlanta, the capital of the state of Georgia, was originally established at the end of the Western and Atlantic Railroad. After almost being burned down during the Civil War, the city quickly expanded and officially became Atlanta in 1847. Later, it played a major part in the Civil Rights movements led by Martin Luther King, Jr. Present-day, some of the film industry has migrated to Atlanta from California. Many popular movies such as The Hunger Games series and Avengers Endgame were filmed in Atlanta. Two days in Atlanta makes for a great weekend trip and a fun city to visit in the Southern United States.
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History of Atlanta
For thousands of years, the Creek people settled in what is now the Atlanta area. They were forced out in the 1800s with the arrival of the Europeans and Americans who wanted to build the railroad in the area.
During the Civil War, the Atlanta area became a hub of transportation and a way to get goods throughout the south. It was seriously destroyed during that time but was rebuilt during Reconstruction.
Throughout the 1900s, Atlanta was a center for race protests, production for World War II, and contributed to the Civil Rights Movement. Present-day, Atlanta is the capital of Georgia and has continued to grow throughout the years.
How to Get to Atlanta
Atlanta has one major airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. It is a MAJOR Delta hub, so you will likely find the best deal on Delta as flights connect through Atlanta through anywhere in the world.
Once there, you can catch a Lyft or Uber Downtown, but I recommend using the MARTA system to get from the airport to the Downtown area. It should take about 20 minutes.
Where to Stay for Two Days in Atlanta
Many of the Atlanta attractions are located in the city center. Although it is a lot more expensive, I recommend staying in the Downtown or Midtown area. This will put you within walking distance to many of the major attracts. We scored a Priceline Express Deal and stayed at the Hilton Atlanta for about $115/night. Another option is to get an Airbnb in the area. New to Airbnb? Sign up here to receive $40 off your first stay!
Transportation in Atlanta
There is no need to get a rental car in Atlanta as it is a very walkable city. To get around, you can also use the MARTA system which includes rail lines and bus lines. It costs $2.50/ride, a one day pass for $9, or a two day pass for $14. I recommend using the MARTA system to get from the airport to the Downtown area. It should take about 20 minutes. We also opted to use Lyft and Uber to get around the city.
What to See in Two Days in Atlanta
Day 1
Today is about exploring some of the tourist attractions in Atlanta.
World of Coca-Cola*
Cost: $17 general admission
Hours: Sun-Thurs: 10am-5pm, Fri-Sat: 10am-6pm
A museum dedicated to the history of Coca-Cola may seem like an odd concept at first. However, Coca-Cola did a really nice job when creating this museum. Not only does it give a nice overview of the history of Coke and how the products are made, but it is also interactive and fun for all ages.
Visitors will definitely get their fill of Coke products throughout this experience. Not only do you get a bottle of Coke when you first walk in, but visitors can also try over 100 different flavors of Coke products from around the world in the “Taste It” room! At the end, you also receive a souvenir bottle to take home. This is one of my favorite attractions in Atlanta and makes for a super fun morning.
Lunch and the Centennial Olympic Park
After drinking all the 100 flavors of Coke, grab lunch in the area. There are a ton of restaurants right around the corner. After lunch, walk through the Centennial Olympic Park. This 22-acre park commemorates the 1996 Summer Olympics. It was the gathering spot of those games. Present-day, it hosts summer concerts, 4th of July fireworks displays, and has several walking trails. Make sure to check out the Fountain of Rings, an interactive fountain.
Georgia Aquarium*
Cost: $27 general admission
Hours: 10am-9pm (can vary)
Another popular stop is the Georgia Aquarium which is home to hundreds of species and to over a thousand different fish. The Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the United States. There are a ton of exhibits to visit and several of them even include hands-on activities. It can take several hours to go through, so make sure to set aside enough time this afternoon.
Grab Dinner at Grub
Cost: $$
Hours: 11am-10pm
Grub is a delicious burger place that has an assortment of burgers. I loved the Bacon Love #9! Grub is also known for its creative boozy milkshakes. The burgers are pretty large, so I would recommend sharing a burger, and order of cheesy fries, and a milkshake.
Grab Drinks in Buckhead
After dinner, head to Buckhead for some drinks! Make sure to start the evening at Big Sky BuckHead. This bar has a huge outdoor area with tons of tables and games such as cornhole. It also has a huge upstairs balcony. Another fantastic option is Churchill’s Buckhead. This British Pub offers cheap drinks and lively entertainment.
Day 2
Today, you will explore more of the historical side of Atlanta. Throughout its history, Atlanta has been a center for the Civil Rights Movement and played a large role in the Civil War.
Georgia State Capitol
Cost: Free
Hours: Check tour times here
Begin your morning at the state capital of Georgia This building is the seat of the Georgia government. It is considered a National Historic Landmark and houses the governor’s office as well as the Senate and House of Representatives. This building was originally the Atlanta City Hall but became the site of the Capitol after the City Hall was burned down during the Civil War. Visitors can go on a free guided tour of the building or opt for a self-guided tour.
Martin Luther King National Historic Park
Cost: Free
Hours: 9am-5pm
After visiting the capitol building, head to Martin Luther King NHP. This site commemorates the major Civil Rights Activist, Martin Luther King, Junior. The park includes his boyhood home and the church where King was baptized and a pastor. The museum chronicles King’s life and achievements for the American Civil Rights Movement. Make sure to take a stroll through the “I Have a Dream” rose garden. King and his wife are laid to rest here.
Jimmy Carter Library and Museum
Cost: $12 general admission
Hours: Mon-Sat: 9am-4:45pm, 12pm-4:45pm
Grab lunch and then head to the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. This is the Presidential Library of Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States. Born and raised in Atlanta,
The museum goes over Carter’s life, his presidency, and his family. It also includes a replica of his Oval Office, his Nobel Peace Prize, and other memorabilia. Plan to spend an hour or two going through the exhibits.
Fox Brothers BBQ
Cost: $$
Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm
Tonight, grab dinner at Fox Brothers BBQ, one of the best barbeque places in Atlanta. This place was started by two Texas brothers who were homesick for Texas BBQ. I recommend getting a combo plate with a side of tater tots. You will definitely leave full from Fox Brothers BBQ.
Trader Vic’s
Cost: $
Hours: Mon-Sat: 5:30pm-10:30pm, Closed Sundays
Grab after-dinner drinks at Trader Vic’s, the birthplace of the Mai Thai in 1943. I recommend making reservations to ensure you are able to get it. It can get quite busy. It is the perfect place to end two days in Atlanta.
More than Two Days in Atlanta?
If you have more than two days in Atlanta, make sure to check out these stops as well.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Cost: $22 general admission
Hours: March-Oct: 9am-6pm, Nov-Feb: 9am-4pm
This 30-acre botanical garden contains a variety of different plant species. On their website, they have a calendar of when the different flowers will bloom. Make sure not to miss the Chihuly in the Garden collection and the Earth Goddess.
College Football Hall of Fame*
Cost: $22 general admission
Hours: Varies
Founded in 2014, the College Football Hall of Fame is a newer attraction in Atlanta. This interactive attraction commemorates college football players and coaches. It is a must-visit attraction for people who love college football.
CNN Studio Tour*
Cost: Start at $16.50 general admission
Hours: 9am-5pm
The CNN Studio Tour takes visitors through the world headquarters of CNN. The basic tour takes you on a 50-minute guided walking tour to see what live broadcasts are like. They also offer a more in-depth VIP Tour.
High Museum of Art
Cost: $14.50
Hours: Tues-Sat: 10am-5pm (Fri until 9pm), Sun: 12pm-5pm, Closed Mondays
The High Museum of Art contains more than 17,000 pieces of art. Notable artists include Mary Cassatt, Renoir, Monet, and Matisse. It takes an hour or two to go through several exhibits.
Teacher Tip: Interested the starred (*) attractions? It may save you money to buy an Atlanta City Pass.
Total Costs for Two Days in Atlanta
Airfare: $300/person from Los Angeles
Hotel: $230 total or $115/person
Transportation: around $15/person
Total Cost: $430/person
Atlanta is such a fun city to visit and the perfect place to take a weekend trip. Make sure to spend at least two days in Atlanta or add it to a trip around the Southeastern United States.
I am actually going to be vacation for a couple of months in Atlanta later in the year to visit family! That’s if we are allowed to travel anyway!
I have hear about the Coca Cola museum and the Martin Luther king park but not a lot of the others! I am saving this article for sure!
Oh I hope you get to go! It’s a fun city. Have the best time!
I hope you still get to go. There is seriously a ton of fun things.
I’ve only been to Atlanta once in my life for abouttt a day (interview) so I didn’t get to explore too much. I love that it’s such a walkable city! I’d love to check out the botanical garden!
The downtown area really is! It’s surprising how close a lot of the stuff is
Hopefully you will have more time to explore next time.
I’m going to be in Atlanta, hopefully, this winter! I love history so thanks for the second day pointers. I’ll be sure to check them out.
Have fun! It’s a fantastic city!
I hope you get to go. It is a fun city with lots of history.
ATL! What a nice guide. I like the you started by sharing some of the history of Atlanta. A weekend trip there sounds perfect
It’s crazy how much history Atlanta has.
Thank you. I love sharing the history of places.
I visited a friend out in Atlanta a few years ago. It’s one of those places I was like, “Eh, I’m sure it’ll be fine.” It was actually a lot of fun, with a surprising amount of green space. Great post!
Right!? Super fun city.
I love Atlanta! I was in Atlanta twice this year for about 2 – 3 weeks each time and I can’t wait to go back. Fox Brothers BBQ sounds really good. I will have to put that on my list for my next visit. I also was meaning to visit the Georgia State Capitol, but didn’t get a chance.
The BBQ is seriously the best! And Atalanta is so fun.
My childhood best friend lives close to Atlanta. This is helpful because I wanted to know some things to see/do when I go to visit her again. I’m considering moving to Georgia next year. Thank you!
That is awesome! Georgia is a fun state. My friends and family enjoy living there.
I love Atlanta! I used to go there for Christmas when I was in college and spent a lot of time at Buckhead eating nice dinners 🙂
Atlanta is such a fun city. I’ve enjoyed my trips there.