3-Day Atlanta Itinerary
It’s hard to pick and choose from Atlanta’s sights at the best of times, but when you’ve got a tight schedule, decision-making can seem daunting. We’ve compiled a 3-day Atlanta itinerary to take the stress out of travel. As seasoned tour guides, we’ve chosen a mix of outdoor and indoor activities which we know to be certified crowd-pleasers!
Day 1 – Art, Architecture, and History in Atlanta
Start your 3-day stay in this multicultural, cosmopolitan metropolis by diving into its culture and history in Downtown and Midtown. Before you visit the sights, learn about the iconic figures who shaped Atlanta’s culture and history at the Center for Civil and Human Rights. In a city where Black history, politics, education, and culture are at the heart of modern-day society, this museum is the best place to start your exploration of Atlanta.
Where to head next? Well, you’ll be spoilt for choice, in the same block you’ll find both the World of Coca-Cola and the world’s third-largest aquarium, The Georgia Aquarium. Learn more about the history of the iconic drinks brand which originates from our wonderful city, as you wander through numerous exhibits and enjoy sampling opportunities. Or maybe you’d prefer to delve into the underwater world of the Georgia Aquarium. With seven different galleries and hundreds of species in over 10 million gallons of fresh and saltwater, you won’t be short of entertainment here.
If you’re craving the outdoors after a morning packed with museums, head over to the Centennial Olympic Park. A space that symbolizes a great change in Atlanta’s history. Built for the 1996 Olympic Games hosted in the city, it marked a period of regeneration of Atlanta’s Downtown. Learn about the sporting history that took place, the bombing that occurred in Centennial Olympic Park, and the iconic landmarks that surround it.
Head up to Midtown for the rest of the day where you can choose between more great parks such as the city’s iconic Piedmont Park or the Atlanta Botanical Garden. The latter offers some respite from the cold winter temperatures in the form of the conservatory which houses tropical and desert plants.
Or if you’re after another dose of culture, check out the High Museum of Art or the Museum of Design Atlanta. Architecture and theater lovers alike can wander down to the Fox Theater which not only welcomes touring Broadway shows, but also holds ballet, film, and live music shows. The Moorish design contributes to its landmark reputation and attracts art lovers year-round.
This is just the tip of the iceberg and condensing Midtown and Downtown into just one day is a near-impossible task. If you’re interested in a tour with expert guides check out our Roundabout Atlanta City Tour, where we cover these sights and more. Or for a more personalized experience try out the custom tour and private group experiences.
Day 2 – Nature and Night Walks
Atlanta, “The City in the Forest”, is home to 343 parks, nature reserves, and gardens. Start day two by venturing into Stone Mountain Park, home to the 835-foot granite mountain from which the park gets its name. Take the cable car up to the summit and be treated to 360-degree views of Atlanta and its surroundings.
The park has plenty more attractions than the mountain for you to enjoy. Visit Crossroads, the recreation of a Southern town in 1872. Cruise around on the lake on a pontoon boat ride and if you’ve got kids, let them burn off some energy in the Dinotorium, a children’s activity center.
If you’d like to explore the park solo, and worry-free, check out our transportation options. Or maybe you’re after a special outing with fun facts and insights accompanied by your own tour guide during a private tour of the park. Either way, you can’t go wrong!
After a day in the fresh air, head back into the city for the evening and experience Atlanta at night. Whether you stroll down the avenues gazing up at the lit-up skyscrapers or take a night ride on the Skyview Atlanta wheel, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with this Southern city. And if, after your day in the park, you’d prefer to see the bright lights from the comfort of a vehicle, look into our City Lights Atlanta Tour for a truly unique experience. Not only will you get the chance to put your feet up, but our experienced guides will also keep you entertained with commentary and little-known facts.
Day 3 – Atlanta’s Icons
Many visitors come to Atlanta especially to pay homage to the iconic leader of the civil rights movement at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. The park contains the civil rights pioneer’s preserved childhood home and also his resting place. Trace the footsteps of MLK, learning about his life, politics, beliefs, and upbringing. If we’ve piqued your interest in the topic of Black history and you want to know more, consider joining us on our guided Atlanta Black History & Civil Rights tour.
Another famous figure in Atlanta is the author of Gone With the Wind Margaret Mitchell. Visit the Margaret Mitchell House and Museum where she wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Visitors to the museum can learn about the controversial themes raised in the novel and the author’s life.
When time is of the essence you don’t want to be worrying about transport. In addition to our group tours or private options. In and around the city, we also offer shuttles to and from the airport.