How to Spend 36 Hours in Atlanta

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Atlanta is one of the most visited cities in the South, welcoming millions of visitors every year through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. As someone who was born and raised in Atlanta, I’ve watched the city grow into a destination known for sports, food, history, entertainment, and culture.

If you only have 36 hours in Atlanta, you won’t be able to see everything. However, you can experience many of the city’s biggest attractions while also getting a taste of what makes Atlanta unique.

Whether you’re visiting for a sporting event, a weekend getaway, or a business trip, this itinerary will help you maximize your time in the city.

According to the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, Atlanta remains one of the most visited cities in the Southeast thanks to its attractions, sports venues, restaurants, and cultural institutions.

Day 1: Morning

Start at Centennial Olympic Park

Begin your trip in Downtown Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park. Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, the park remains one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

The Fountain of Rings is the centerpiece, and the park often hosts concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year.

From here, you can easily walk to several major attractions.

Visit the Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is one of Atlanta’s most popular attractions and one of the largest aquariums in the United States.

You’ll find:

• Whale sharks
• Beluga whales
• Sea lions
• Penguins
• Thousands of marine animals

If you’re traveling with family, this should be near the top of your list.

Save on Atlanta Attractions

World of Coca-Cola

Right next door is the World of Coca-Cola.

The highlight is the tasting room, where visitors can sample Coca-Cola products from around the world. Just make sure you try Beverly at least once.

Day 1: Afternoon

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

One of the most important places to visit in Atlanta is the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.

Visitors can explore:

• Ebenezer Baptist Church
• Dr. King’s childhood home
• The King Center
• Dr. and Coretta Scott King’s tombs

This stop provides important historical context and helps visitors understand Atlanta’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.

Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine has become one of the city’s most popular destinations.

The project connects dozens of neighborhoods through walking and biking trails while featuring:

• Public art
• Restaurants
• Breweries
• Parks
• Local businesses

Many visitors consider the BeltLine one of the best ways to experience modern Atlanta.

Ponce City Market

While exploring the BeltLine, stop at Ponce City Market.

This former Sears building has been transformed into one of Atlanta’s most popular destinations for:

• Shopping
• Food
• Drinks
• Entertainment

It’s also one of my favorite places to bring friends who are visiting the city.

Day 1: Evening

Dinner at a Local Atlanta Favorite

Some excellent options include:

Mary Mac’s Tea Room

A classic Atlanta restaurant known for Southern comfort food.

JR Crickets

One of the best places in the city for hot wings.

The Varsity

An Atlanta institution famous for chili dogs and burgers.

Catch a Show at the Fox Theatre

The Fox Theatre has been entertaining Atlantans since 1929.

Whether it’s a Broadway show, concert, or comedy performance, the Fox remains one of the most beautiful venues in the city.

Day 2: Morning

Piedmont Park

Start your morning at Piedmont Park.

This nearly 200-acre green space sits in the heart of Midtown and provides:

• Walking trails
• Dog parks
• Sports fields
• Great skyline views

Depending on when you visit, you may also catch one of Atlanta’s major festivals.

Atlanta University Center

The Atlanta University Center consists of:

• Morehouse College
• Spelman College
• Clark Atlanta University
• Morehouse School of Medicine

The AUC represents one of the most significant collections of historically Black colleges and universities in the country.

Day 2: Afternoon

College Football Hall of Fame

If you’re a college football fan, this attraction is worth your time.

Interactive exhibits and memorabilia celebrate the history of college football.

Atlanta is one of the best cities in America for sports fans.

Atlanta Braves or Atlanta Falcons

Depending on the season, attending a game is one of the best experiences in the city.

The Braves play at Truist Park, while the Falcons play at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

If You Have Extra Time

Stone Mountain Park

Located east of Atlanta, Stone Mountain offers:

• Hiking
• Scenic views
• Train rides
• Family activities

Lenox Square

One of Atlanta’s most popular shopping destinations.

Phipps Plaza

Atlanta’s premier luxury shopping mall.

Atlantic Station

A mixed-use district featuring restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

Where to Stay

Downtown is best for:

• First-time visitors
• Major attractions

Midtown is best for:

• Restaurants
• Walkability
• Nightlife

Buckhead is best for:

• Shopping
• Luxury hotels

Find the Best Atlanta Hotel Deals

Thirty-six hours is not enough time to see everything Atlanta has to offer, but it is enough time to experience many of the city’s highlights.

Whether you’re interested in sports, food, history, shopping, or outdoor attractions, Atlanta offers something for every type of traveler.

As someone who has lived in Atlanta most of my life, my advice is simple: don’t try to do everything. Pick a few attractions, explore a neighborhood or two, and enjoy the city at your own pace.