Did someone say something about delicious food and cool atmospheres for brunch? It’s time to check out some of the best black-owned brunch spots in Atlanta, Georgia.
No matter if you’re into one of those all-day breakfast spots, or brunch-centric weekend restaurants, Georgia’s largest city has what you need. Many of the best brunch spots in Atlanta also happen to be owned by celebrities.
As you browse through our curated list of black brunch spots, you’ll notice a trend of high-end dishes like salmon and grits, lobster tail eggs and honey biscuits — all that good stuff!
349 Decatur St. SE Unit A1, Atlanta, GA 30312| (404) 549-6042
Here’s what one reviewer says about Breakfast At Barney’s. “Cute trendy spot. I loved the different wallpapers and I would definitely take this design in my own place. The fresh flowers on the table add class. Our waitress was super nice and then I had the summer spritz. I can’t remember the name of it and then we ordered the fried green tomatoes, the yard bird and the shrimp and grits. Between my boyfriend and I we did finish all of it, but that was the goal. It was delicious and would recommend.”
2770 Lenox Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 748-4594
Here’s what one reviewer says about Toast on Lenox. “Marquis was an AMAZING waiter! This was our first time here, and it was amazing. We have reservations tomorrow morning to go back! We ordered the blackened salmon and shrimp and the GA honey hot chicken with greens and candied yams and Mac n cheese. We drank sweet tea and it was nap inducing and delish!”
327 Peters St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 404-941-7907
Esco Restaurant & Tapas Bar is owned by rapper and entrepreneur 2 Chainz and is known for its lavish brunch.
Here is what one reviewer says about Esco Tapas Bar. “Came in for Brunch, loved the atmosphere, food, plus the Service was A1. For Brunch I had 2 entress… Peach Cobbler French Toast, Eggs, grits, turkey sausage, plus hashbrowns. Enjoyed Unlimited Mimosas while the Atmosphere was Lit, the Bartender possibly popped about 10 bottles of Champagne bubbly with Music and other guests rolling. Definitely a Go To Spot!”
281 Peters St. SW, Atlanta, GA. 30313 | (404) 963-5495
Atlanta Locations:
Gocha Hawkins has a hit on her hands with Gocha’s Breakfast Bar in the Cascade area of Atlanta. There’s also another one in Fayetteville.
Here’s what one reviewer says about the brunch. “In town for the weekend and needed some breakfast and Gotcha’s was everything we needed to sum up our trip. We had the Grit cakes, pancakes, salmon, salmon croquettes and the shrimp skillet. Everythign was cooked to perfection and we will surely be back when we stop in town again ! Thanks Mija your service was impeccable, great menu recommendations and you were attentive and friendly !”
3725 Main Street, College Park, GA 30337
Atlanta celebrities Ne-Yo and wife, Chef Crystal Smith, along with reality TV star Karlie Redd have teamed for College Park: Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles. Another location opened on Crescent Avenue in Midtown.
Here’s what one reviewer says about the spot. “The best waffles I have ever had. I ordered the grits with lobster & shrimp. The food was delicious & the service was superb. The waiter whose name escapes me & was from Brooklyn was the nicest waiter I’ve experienced. The chef also came out & greeted us & made a fresh batch of grits when the first was a little salty. The grits were delicious. I absolutely recommend this restaurant & the grits with Lobster. I will be back when I’m in town.”
See what’s on the menu at Johny’s Chicken and Waffles.
3387 Main St, Atlanta, GA 30337 | (470) 312-2108
Atlanta restaurateur Lorenzo Wyche recently opened The Breakfast Boys, an all-day breakfast spot in College Park. The eatery is a partnership between Wyche and the proprietors of Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen, Juan and Gee Smalls.
3752 Cascade Rd Ste 110, Atlanta, GA 30331 | (404) 907-4700
Atlanta reality TV star couple and entrepreneurs Todd Tucker and Kandi Burruss of “Real Housewives of Atlanta” fame already have a hit with their Old Lady Gang restaurants. Now, they’ve opened Blaze Steak & Seafood, an upscale restaurant in Cascade.
Learn more about Blaze Steak & Seafood.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Blaze Steak & Seafood: “COVID-19 measures are in place. The decor inside is on point. Bar is huge and great selection of liquor and wine. Great menu selections as well. I had the seafood omelette and we had a peach mimosa carafe. This is the soft opening so a few kinks have to be worked out. I will say that customer service is pretty good as well.”
3719 Main St, College Park, GA 30337 | (404) 458-2883
Here’s what one reviewer says about The Real Milk & Honey. “Once we arrived, we were greeted… Well looked at by a young lady near the door. I guest she was the hostess. She wasn’t that friendly…. She escorted us to our table and we sat down. Our waitress was really nice. The honey butter biscuits were absolutely amazing!! I got the steak and eggs. The steak was a bit chewy. However everything else was great. My daughter got the cookies and cream waffle with eggs and bacon. She enjoyed her meal. They also have great coffee and the mimosas are decent. This was our first visit but I would definitely try this restaurant again.”
Atlanta continues to be a place with plentiful things to do, see and eat! If you like that part of town, don’t sleep on College Park either.
If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
Downtown Atlanta is a pretty large area, and so getting from one point to another can be a challenge.
The good news is that when you consider the historic landmarks, cool restaurants and other venues, it’s well worth exploring. But how do you get around?
We’re going to show you how you can get around downtown Atlanta (actually this works for Midtown, too).
If you’re driving into downtown Atlanta, you’re going to have to pay for parking. Here’s where you can park and how much it costs and for how long.
Getting around downtown Atlanta is fairly easy, thanks to various transportation options:
MARTA offers both bus and rail services. The rail system has several stations downtown, including Peachtree Center, Five Points (a central hub), and Civic Center. The trains can take you to key areas, including the airport, Midtown, and Buckhead.
You may also wish to take MARTA. Rail prices are $2.50 for a one-way trip. Here are fare prices for trains and buses.
The Atlanta Streetcar runs a 2.7-mile loop through downtown, connecting major attractions like Centennial Olympic Park, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, and Georgia State University.
Downtown Atlanta is pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and plenty of crosswalks. Popular attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and State Farm Arena are within walking distance of each other.
E-scooters and bikes from companies like Lime and Bird are available for short trips. They’re a quick option for navigating crowded areas.
There are some rules you need to know before you ride. Lime and Bird are the two most prevalent scooters you’ll along downtown and Midtown streets.
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in downtown Atlanta and offer a convenient way to get around.
Uber & Lyft: If you want to take advantage of a ridesharing service, you can do that too. Here are the peak times for ridesharing in Atlanta:
Weekdays
Morning Commute Hours, 6am-9am
Weeknights
Some hotels and attractions offer free or paid shuttle services that circulate within downtown or nearby neighborhoods.
You can also get around by using the Atlanta Streetcar. Call 404-848-5000 for help with the latest schedule updates or you can click here to login the Mobility Reservation System.
If you’re driving, there are multiple parking decks and lots, though traffic can be heavy during peak hours. Apps like ParkMobile can help you find parking spots.
Tuk Tuks are small electric vehicles that provide a unique and eco-friendly way to explore downtown. They usually operate on a tip basis.
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Centennial Park is often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend
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Atlanta Restaurateur extraordinaire Pinky Cole-Hayes recently announced that she has taken over The Boujee Southerner, a black-owned vegan restaurant that recently closed its doors.
Cole-Hayes, the owner of Slutty Vegan and Bar Vegan, has plans to turn the restaurant into her second Bar Vegan location.
“When I heard about everything that they [The Boujee Southerner] were going through, I felt the need to step in,” says Cole-Hayes. “Their foundation is built on being a completely plant-based Southern Fusion concept that provides comfort food, which is right up our alley.”
In March 2024, The Boujee Southerner, owned by Tara Gilbert, announced it was reducing its hours of operation to Friday through Sunday after one year in business. Eight days later, the business shared that it had closed.
Gilbert, who has been a raw vegan for several years, will now serve as Executive Chef at Bar Vegan Lawrenceville. This is a full-circle moment as Gilbert looked to Cole-Hayes for inspiration when becoming a vegan and opening her restaurant.
“This is a part of my Restaurant Takeover initiative, where Slutty Vegan or Bar Vegan will take over the lease for existing restaurants that are looking to increase their foot traffic and awareness to the public,” adds Cole-Hayes. “It’s all about collaboration and empowering one another.”
Food featured on the menu includes General Tso Chik’n, White Spaghetti, maple glazed brussels sprouts, loaded steak fries, corn ribs, jerk kabobs and Lemon Pepper Chik’n salad.
“With the menu, we plan to make it leaner, healthier and sexier,” says Gilbert. “We plan to make the food extremely yummy but also appealing to the eyes – so get prepared to snap your photos for social media,” she adds.
Bar Vegan Lawrenceville is officially opened for business.
Cole’s current business portfolio includes 12 Slutty Vegan locations across Georgia, New York, Alabama and Texas, a cookbook and Slutty Vegan products on metro Atlanta Target shelves. In 2022, Cole raised a $25 million Series A funding round for Slutty Vegan that at the time valued her business at $100 million, according to Forbes.
We were there when Cole-Hayes opened her first brick-and-mortar Slutty Vegan in the Westview neighborhood of Atlanta in 2019. Since then, she’s been on an amazing expansion plan.
Slutty Vegan is one of the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are several more. If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a bar explosion in recent years.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
Hometown legendary rapper Antwan “Big Boi” Patton will take the stage at the College Football Hall of Fame for the 10th anniversary Celebration and Kickoff Game Football Fest.
The event is set for Saturday, August 23, 2024 and features a free concert from Big Boi, one half of the famous musical duo Outkast.
Football Fest runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the Big Boi concert kicking off at 4:30 p.m. Join us for a day of entertainment. Enjoy live DJs, the Home Depot GameDay Bus, local team mascots, cheerleaders, inflatables, prize giveaways, and more.
The event is free as part of “Coca-Cola Free Admission Day” and provides the perfect opportunity to see Big Boi perform, along with the unveiling of new exhibits, clinics with Atlanta Falcons players and cheerleaders, the famed Home Depot GameDay Bus, inflatables, prize giveaways, and much more, all free-of-charge.
Where is The College Football Hall of Fame?
The College Football Hall of Fame is located in downtown Atlanta at 250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Word
If you’re in the vicinity of downtown Atlanta, make sure you grab a bite at one of the top downtown restaurants. You’ll also find plenty to do there every Atlanta weekend.
More from AtlantaFi.com:
If you want to eat fancy, most of us will go for the shrimp and grits. Let’s just get that out of the way. Atlanta, Georgia has several great restaurants that can prepare the dish to perfection with various twists.
But let’s focus on shrimp and grits, which is a Southern delicacy. Grits has long been one of Georgia’s iconic dishes. The addition of the shrimp is likely an addition from that came much later.
This article is going to show you some of the best restaurants in Atlanta that serve shrimp and grits.
50 S Main St, Alpharetta, GA 30009 | (678) 691-8320
Here’s what one customer says about Restaurant Holmes. “The salmon dish was so delicious and presented beautifully. The wine we chose from Paso Robles “If You See Kay” was very good also. Wonderful sitting outside and waiter was really nice and attentive. Great job and highly recommend. Compliments to the chef!”
1001 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 874-8887
Here is what one reviewer says about the Flying Biscuit: “The grits here are amazing (and I usually don’t like grits) but they are the best thing that we had. The jelly is great tasting also but unfortunately the biscuits are hard and dry and I only used some of it to get the jelly in my mouth. The restaurant could use a thorough cleaning. Be aware that they do require masks and one of the staff was telling customers to get a mask on. That took a star off for me.”
Atlanta Locations:
Here is what one reviewer says about Louisiana Bixtreaux’s shrimp and grits:”A good place for a yummy meal! The chargrilled oysters are fantastic! I would also recommend the “Red fish ponch” and the shrimp and grits!”
Atlanta Locations:
Here is what one reviewer says about South City Kitchen: “If your looking for a great bowl of Shrimp & Grits on a cold rainy day or a sunny day you will not be disappointed at South City Kitchen- Best I have had- Comes with homemade Biscuits & Cornbread- Sweet tea to drink – Makes my mouth water just thinking about it- The help is ready to serve you with a smile- Go by and see them today- Your tummy will thank you!!”
171 Auburn Ave NE P, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (678) 974-5019
Here is what one reviewer says about Sweet Auburn Seafood: “The brunch at Sweet Auburn is great. I know that every place that offers brunch usually has shrimp and grits on the menu, but the shrimp and grits at Sweet Auburn is probably better than all of those places you’ve tried. Give it a try. You wont be disappointed. The service is good. Bottomless mimosas are available. Music is playing. Pretty nice spot.”
Atlanta is having a restaurant renaissance. Hot chicken is the rage in Atlanta’s dining scene right now. But so are chicken and waffles.
Fast-casual is also the dining trend du jour around metro Atlanta restaurants. The concept involves mixing the quick accessibility of fast food with the casual dining experience. Food in Atlanta is also adapting to the various tastes of the migrants that come here to live.
Read more: 15+ Essential Soul Food Restaurants In Atlanta
The city has some good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South. All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Tex-Mex? Atlanta has it all.
For the latest in metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, stay with Atlantafi.com.
Music superstar Usher says he’s had to postpone the Atlanta dates of his Past, Present and Future tour due to injury.
“Earlier this week, I suffered an injury to my neck while rehearsing to provide my fans with the greatest USHER show of all time,” the singer said in a statement.
“My hope was that with physical therapy and medical treatment, I would be able to overcome the injury and be ready for opening night,” Usher posted on social media. “Unfortunately the injury has not healed yet and my doctors have instructed me not to perform any shows this week. The good news is that the doctors are saying that with appropriate rest and treatment, I should be ready to commence the tour in Washington DC on August 20th.”
The Atlanta dates have already been reached for:
See the complete dates of Usher’s tour.
Usher is one of the biggest music stars in the world right now. Who would think that a 20-year music vet would have his biggest year in 2024? That’s Usher, baby. Peace up, A-Town down.
There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
Things to do in Atlanta on a weekly basis can range from going golfing mid-week to checking out the latest restaurant openings. At AtlantaFi.com, we curate the city for you!
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There are few things better than sipping some vino in a comfortable setting on the weekend. In Georgia, you can do just that.
Wine tastings have a long history in Georgia. If any part of the state can be considered wine country, it would be Dahlonega, which has a decades-long history of vineyards.
Social distancing is something that Georgia’s wine-tasting industry is taking seriously. There are some companies holding virtual wine tastings as well as patio and outdoors-only events.
Like fine wine, you may want to sample a variety of wine tastings in the metro area or in North Georgia to see which suits your taste. Ready to get started?
Ready to get started? These wine tasting companies and wineries get great reviews online.
451 Bill Kennedy Way SE c, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (678) 349-7070
Here’s what one reviewer says about 3 Parks Wine Shop, which now holds virtual wine tastings. “I can’t say enough great things about this wine shop. We have some friends who love it, so I emailed them to see if we could put together a gift basket for them using some of their purchase history and profile. Kaitlyn was amazing. The gift basket was perfect and the process was so easy from start to finish. Such wonderful customer service. We can’t wait to return!”
Here’s what one reviewer says about ATL Vineyard Express: “ATL Vineyard Express……..Is it possible to give more than 5 stars? This was a surprise for me by my significant other “he received plenty brownie points for this oneJ”. Oh what a wonderful surprise and experience it was……..So let’s just say that I was very stunned to learn that there were so many wineries in the state of Georgia.”
Here’s what one reviewer says about Cana Wine Tours: “We had an absolutely AMAZING day touring the wineries with Cana Wine Tours! Our driver, Phillip, was professional and courteous and we enjoyed our conversations with him. The wineries were beautiful and each one had its own unique appeal. We loved tasting all of the different wines and really enjoyed our lunch while overlooking beautiful mountains and vineyards! Lisa was wonderful to work with while booking the tour and she always promptly responded to questions and provided timely communications regarding our tour. I can’t wait to book another tour with Cana to visit more of Georgia’s wineries!”
Book with Cana Wine Tours here.
591 Dock Dorsey Rd, Cleveland, GA 30528 | (706) 865-7478
Here’s what one reviewer says about CeNita Vineyards. “Great quaint winery tucked into the hills of North Georgia. Good variety of wines and beautiful backdrops. Buddy the dog greets you upon arrival and tastings can even be ordered through a window from the patio so need to go inside if that’s a concern. The wedding venue over the hill is gorgeous with plenty of space for a party. Surprised that management was a little impatient at first, but things got smoother as the day went on. Definitely will be back.”
16 N Park St, Dahlonega, GA 30533 | (706) 864-8275
Here’s what one reviewer says about Dahlonega Tasting Room. “Best wine in all of Dahlonega! Peyton was great! She made the experience enjoyable for me and my husband. We don’t drink wine often but she was able to make recommendations that we both loved. We will definitely be going back next time we are in town.”
665 N Hulett Rd, Villa Rica, GA 30180 | (770) 629-9760
Here’s what one reviewer says about Little Vine Vineyards & Winery. “Small winery with a nice selection of wines. The owners are personable and take the time to speak with customers. Outdoor seating is the order of the day and COVID rules are to be expected, especially for larger groups. I’ve been here a couple of times and find that it’s a nice little find not too far from home so it’s an easy trip. On Saturday, they have live music and a food truck. The place started to fill up and exceed capacity when we departed on our last Saturday visit. My wife and I enjoy the blueberry wine and we bought a couple bottles to take home. We’ll be back for sure.”
Contact: (404) 913-0922
Here’s what one reviewer says about Wine Tours of Georgia. “Our group had an amazing time! It was easy working with Michael and Jon. They planned everything for us and our day was perfect! Joe, our driver, was great too. He kept us on schedule! Thank you, WTG!”
299 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (470) 377-5100
Here’s what one reviewer says about VinoTeca: “Cozy vibe. Fantastic and ever-changing selection of wines. Strong emphasis on Spain (and thus: value), but a broad selection across an array of regions and price points. Inventive themed events on the weekend. Woman-owned and operated by some fantastic, creative, and knowledgeable people—they ask the right questions to ensure you’re walking out with the right wine for the occasion.”
339 Nelson St SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 220-9042
1100 Peachtree St NE #200, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 433-2956
Here’s what one reviewer says about Pop The Corn Wine Tours: “Cannot recommend this company and experience enough! I was very lucky that my incredible friends planned a WONDERFUL Bachelorette party and this was it! Chuck and LaTanya have created a business and experience that is top notch!”
1168 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 254-5077
Here’s what one reviewer says about Perrine’s Wine Shop: “Hands down the best wine shop in Atlanta! Every wine has been hand selected and curated for their shoppe. Everyone is always helpful and extremely knowledgeable. Also, be sure to check out their cheese selection—you cannot bet it!”
2891 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030 | (404) 228-5211
Here’s what one reviewer says about Wine Workshop And Brew Center. “Great experience. I’m not a wine guy but I just moved into the area and needed some grains for brewing beer and decided to give this place a try. I was greeted immediately and Steve started weighing and milling the grains. I browsed around and found a few other things I needed. Seems like they have most everything you could want, and the service was excellent — will definitely be back many times.”
1036 W College Ave, Decatur, GA 30030 | (404) 687-9463
Here’s what one reviewer says about Wahoo Wine & Provisions. “A really nice selection across the board. Especially good for bourbon and wine, beer too. Prices were reasonable and the place was very clean. They even had some pretty scarce spirits.”
180 Wolf Mountain Trail, Dahlonega, GA 30533 | (706) 867-9862
Here’s what one reviewer says about Wolf Mountain Vineyards. “Super cute environment. Tasting room is first come first serve. I would recommend coming on a non-weekend for seating options if you choose to do a wine tasting only. Also, brunch on the weekend is an option. The tasting room attendees are either informed on the wine or they know nothing and they just hand you a piece of paper to describe the wine. Tastings range from 20-30 bucks–Nothing outrages. Wine is okay.. This place is a cute getaway but if you love complex wine I wouldn’t set your hopes high. Weekends are not for solo wine tasters.”
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, you may have some reservations about gathering in closed spaces and drinking wine.
Many wineries and wine tastings have adapted to COVID by implementing safety protocols, including social distancing, capacity limitations and no sharing of glasses or utensils.
Vino is a very expensive habit, unless you’re enjoying it at a wine tasting, which will probably be cost very little. That’s because the best wine tastings are an experience. Looking for a great wine tasting venue in Georgia? Keep reading.
There is great variety in Georgia when it comes to wine tastings. Some places are loud and are more akin to a grocery store. Meanwhile, other wineries are more private, curated events governed by appointment.
Whatever you prefer, make sure you follow all the safety recommendations that the respective wineries have put in place. Bottoms up!
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
The Banana Pudding Milkshake and Banana Frosted Coffee have made their triumphant returns to participating Chick-fil-A restaurants nationwide, including in Atlanta, Georgia.
For the banana pudding milkshake, it’s a re-introduction that hadn’t been seen in over a decade.
You can order the sweet treats from August 26 through November 16, 2024, while supplies last. Customers can also grab these treats for pickup or delivery; however, delivery orders will come with a flat lid and will not include whipped cream or cherry toppings.
Banana Pudding Milkshake: This limited-time, hand-spun milkshake features Chick-fil-A’s signature Icedream® dessert blended with banana and vanilla wafer cookie crumbles, topped with whipped cream and a cherry (except for delivery orders).
Banana Frosted Coffee: A hand-spun drink combining a custom cold-brew blend with Icedream® dessert, mixed with banana and vanilla wafer cookie crumbles, available for a limited time.
The Banana Pudding Milkshake is a seasonal treat, available for a limited time while supplies last. Hand-spun the classic way, it combines Chick-fil-A® Icedream® with banana and vanilla wafer cookie crumbles, and is topped with whipped cream and a cherry (note: the cherry is not included for delivery orders).
The Banana Pudding Milkshake as well as the Banana Frosted Coffee are available for dine-in, pickup, and delivery at select locations while supplies last. Check out this list of Chick-fil-As in Atlanta.
Unfortunately, they are not available for catering. You can redeem these treats with Chick-fil-A One® points and continue earning points on the rest of your purchased.
If you’re a health nut and want more local healthy food choices, perhaps you’ll be interested in our Guide to Local Farmers Markets.
We also have special coverage of Black Farmers In Atlanta as well as How To Keto In Atlanta.
More Food Coverage:
Very cool things abound in a city as diverse and lively as Atlanta, Georgia. Many of the cool things to do can be done for free or very cheaply.
This article will show you some of the best free and cheap things to get into around Atlanta.
Keep reading to check out the best free and cheap things to do in Atlanta. Even if you’re visiting and only have 24 hours in the city, there are still some pretty cool things to do here are cheap, educational as well as entertaining.
In this article, you’ll find:
Atlanta is the state capital of Georgia, so it has tons of monuments and landmarks illustrating its rich history, including its Civil War past, the civil rights movement and more.
You’ll get an education as well as fun time at the World of Coke, the Atlanta History Center, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and massive Georgia Aquarium as these buildings represent what’s best about the city and region.
All of the things mentioned here are free, cheap or affordable, which is a necessity down here in the South. Check out all these cool things to get into in Atlanta, Georgia, the city too busy to hate:
Want to enjoy a free drink and a hard DJ? Check out Candyland at 134 Baker Street Northeast Atlanta, GA 30308 on Thursdays.
If you’re the artsy type, you’ll love this immersive Van Gogh experience being offered in Atlanta. Get tickets.
116 Centennial Olympic Park Dr SW
Yes, it’s free music and more on Sunday, August 25 · 8 – 11pm EDT. It’s happening at Crazy ATLanta Restaurant, BAR & Event Venue at 182 Courtland Street Northeast Atlanta, GA 30303.
Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience that will please your ears like no other. Get tickets
One of the most naturally beautiful spaces in the city, the Atlanta Botanical Garden features 30 acres of plants, statues & fountains with with a conservatory. High society events like concerts, parties and more take place right here, giving the building a fun, aristocratic flair for the old and new moneyed alike. 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309.
130 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 814-4000
Photo credit: Atlanta History Center
Housing the city’s preeminent historical archive, the Atlanta History Center sits on 33 acres in the heart of Buckhead. The center features one of the state’s most storied antebellum homes, as well as exhibits, grounds & gardens. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305.
275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 659-5437
Got children? Then you’ll love the Children’s Museum of Atlanta in downtown Atlanta. Among the fun things to do here are tons of rides, interactive activities for the whole family and more. The museum features 30,000 square feet of hands-on exhibits, including an indoor playground, sand table and more. The museum is appropriate for children ages 2 to 8. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313.
You’ve never seen Coke like this. Taste more than 100 international and domestic Coca-Cola beverages as you explore Atlanta’s World of Coca-Cola with captivating movies and photo ops with the iconic Coca-Cola Polar Bear. Get tickets.
800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315 | (404) 624-5600
Zoo Atlanta promises the wildest time in the city. With more than 1,500 animals, including a world-class panda exhibit, in modern habitats, the zoo is one fun hoot. On the weekends, join hundreds of families as they peruse through the park-like settings and gawk at antelopes, zebras, gorillas and more. Even in the Atlanta summer heat, the zoo guarantees a good time. The zoo is a short walk from iconic Grant Park and is in a revitalized area. Buy tickets for Zoo Atlanta.
250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 880-4800
Downtown Atlanta houses the storied halls of the College Football Hall of Fame, which features historical exhibits on famous college football players and coaches. You’ll love the big screen TVs and the indoor football field. Come on out on Saturdays before the big games and indulge in collegiate gridiron greatness. 250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313,
Around the year, there are several great skating rinks in Atlanta. In the winter, you can visit the ice rink at Park Tavern in Midtown Atlanta for a great time with the kids.
Other ice rinks in the city include:
Drinking cider is not only a seasonal tradition in autumn, but it’s absolutely delicious. Here are Atlanta spots where you can get some good cider.
Of course, these are not all of the spots you can get cider in Atlanta. If you know of a place, let us know in the comments.
Love NASCAR driving? Take a trip to Andretti’s to let the kids race around the track.
767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 929-6300
If you or a family member is a science geek, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Druid Hills has it all: dinosaurs, skeletal models and a comprehensive exhibit spread our over a three-story, sky-lit great hall. Talk about fun things to do: Every third Friday, there’s a dance party you don’t want to miss. 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307.
225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 581-4000
Come to downtown Atlanta to see more than 120,000 animals of the sea. The Georgia Aquarium is one of the world’s largest aquariums, with tons of seasonal and permanent exhibits, interactive galleries & fun activities for kids and adults alike. 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313.
1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 733-4400
Atlanta’s most famous museum is the High Museum of Art in Midtown. It features an eclectic and diverse art collection, among them historical photographs, lithographs, paintings and modern architecture. 1280 Peachtree Street Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30309.
275 Riverside Pkwy, Austell, GA 30168 | (770) 739-3400
Located in the western Atlanta suburb of Austell, Six Flags Over Georgia is the area’s largest amusement park — and since the 1960s, it’s been a hoot for people young and old. If you’re a fan of high-speed roller coasters, kids rides, cotton candy and water attractions, Six Flags is a must. The park opens in March through January annually. 275 Riverside Parkway Southwest, Austell, GA 30168.
168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (678) 949-9023
Yep, ATL has a ferris wheel. The 20-story Skyview Atlanta ferris wheel has gondolas that are air-conditioned and roomy. If you want to get into truly fun things to do in Atlanta, this is one of them. Take a ride to see a bird’s eye view of downtown and Centennial Park. 168 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303.
2000 Moreland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
East Atlanta features one of the iconic relics for yesteryear, a drive-in theater. Talk about a fun thing to do in Atlanta? Watch an outdoor movie! Starlight 6 Drive-in features six outdoor screens show current major motion pictures year-round; $8 adult admission and $1 for children 9 years old and younger.
Some children love the water, while others love to hate it. In any case, they’ll love to canoe or kayak at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Get tickets at Canoe With CNC.
The big advantage that autumn has over the other seasons is that it’s cooler so you can stand being outside longer. You also get to take in the brilliant colors of the leaves. And nowhere is this more apparent than on a trail.
You can find some great trails in all the major metropolitan counties surrounding Atlanta. Here are some great ones.
You can hike Stone Mountain in about an hour’s time and it won’t burn you out. Kennesaw Mountain is more of a trek, but there are numerous places. Here are some mountains near Atlanta.
Want to see the sights around downtown Atlanta? Grab the whole family and just take a ride on the Peachtree Trolley. Plan your trip.
If you’re looking for some fun places to visit around Atlanta, these free landmarks are your best bet. Many of these places have great historical significance not only to Atlanta, but the world.
265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | 404) 223-4412
The largest park in downtown Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park was birthed for the 1996 Olympics. The park now hosts private events, concerts and is full of serene walking paths and water gardens. During the warm months, bring the kids out to enjoy the Fountain of Rings. Come out at night or on the weekends to see the stars illuminate the site. 265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta, GA 30313.
99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Conveniently situated just feet from the Beltline in Inman Park, Krog Street Market is the city’s second-most successful project. The market sits on nine acres and feagures 12,000 square feet of anchor restaurants like Superica, a renown beer and wine store and all kinds of cool restaurants and pop-up shops.449 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (404) 526-8900
248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312 | (404) 688-2107
Perhaps the most entertaining cemetery in the nation, Oakland Cemetery is more than a memorial place, it’s a who’s who of Atlanta and Georgia’s dearly departed. Who knew that being in a graveyard could be so fun and exciting? The 1850s-era site has voice-recorded tours of Atlanta’s most notable people as well as Confederate veterans and famous African-Americans. 248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312.
1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 875-7275
Few green spaces have the visibility of Woodruff Park, located along the city’s spine of Peachtree Street. The park located in the center of Georgia’s financial center, downtown Atlanta and Georgia State University has fountains, sculptures, a famous chess court and a pavilion. What makes it a fun thing to do is the beautiful and peaceful contrast it provides to the concrete jungle around it. You’ll love the serenity of hearing and looking at the water fountain do its thing. 91 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303.
Let’s get into some of the best live music venues in Atlanta and how to get there:
880 Woodrow St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310 | (404) 594-1170
If you want to enjoy one of the city’s musical gems, Apache Cafe is the place to go. Aside from being the venue where India Irie was discovered, patrons will enjoy the daily happy hour, food and drinks.
With a weekly schedule of events that features Pangea’s Afrosocial, spoken word, karaoke, art, live music and more, this place is a must-visit. See upcoming events.
828 North Highland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 873-2583
The world-renown Blind Willie’s is the premiere spot in Atlanta for some down-home blues music. See upcoming concerts.
1374 W Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 885-1365
Center Stage is one of the most accessible places in Atlanta to hear some live music. National acts on the pop music and hip-hop scene regularly come through to perform.
The Loft is a more intimate music venue adjacent to Center Stage. It’s a standing-room only place that allows the venue to transform into a gigantic dance floor. See upcoming shows.
650 North Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (404) 946-3791
City Winery in Midtown Atlanta has some of the biggest acts week in and week out. If you want to see a top-notch live show, City Winery is the place to be. See their schedule.
800 Battery Ave SE #500, Atlanta, GA 30339 | (470) 351-3866
The Coca-Cola Roxy is a spacious venue at the Battery across the street from SunTrust Park, where the Atlanta Braves play. The Roxy plays big-name acts and packs a crowd on the weekends. See Coca-Cola Roxy events.
970 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 347-2263
If you’re looking for a lively night of creative arts, Kate’s Cafe in Midtown Atlanta may be just the thing. Neatly tucked away amid some residential homes at 970 Piedmont Ave NE, a short distance from 10th Street, Kat’s Cafe live music bar and restaurant is definitely one of those cool things to do in Atlanta on any day of the week.
5239 Floyd Rd SW, Mableton, GA 30126 | (770) 819-7765
The Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre draws some major acts to southern Cobb County. If you live out that way, Mable House packs a crowd. See events here.
1058 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 874-8745
Northside Tavern in West Midtown is a great place to catch some live music and enjoy some good food at the same time. This is Atlanta’s unofficial “home of the blues” powered by house band Mudcat. Check out their calendar.
152 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 659-9022
The Tabernacle in downtown Atlanta draws some big acts every week. You can see their event schedule to find someone you no doubt know. See event information.
887 West Marietta St NW C, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 876-5566
In West Midtown, Terminal West is a best-kept secret when it comes to places with live music in Atlanta. See Terminal West events.
See more of the best live venues in Atlanta.
Did somebody say cheap food? Atlanta has some great restaurants that won’t hurt your wallet. Here are some of our favorites places to eat around the city.
The Varsity is arguably the most famous restaurant in Atlanta. It all started about a century ago in Midtown Atlanta and gradually branched out to a handful of locations around metro Atlanta. And no wonder. Where else can you get iconic chilli dogs, hamburgers and onion rings that have made their way into pop culture and the fabric of the area’s dining scene? Come check out the largest drive-in fast food restaurant in the world. : 61 North Avenue NW Atlanta, gA. 30318.
128 E Andrews Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 848-9100
Here’s what one reviewer says about Chido & Padre’s: “Chido & Padres is a very nice, chic Mexican place to eat. They have a good variety of well prepared selections to choose from, I had the tacos. You can choose the authentic “street tacos” or the flour.”
180 Northside Dr SW #B, Atlanta, GA 30313
Intl Airport, Concourse B, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, N Terminal Rd Suite T120, Atlanta, GA 30320
Known as the kitchen of the civil rights movement, Paschals has had the most continuous success of any soul food joint in the city. The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Ralph David Abernathy and Hosea Williams all planned protests in the back room while collard greens and corn bread baked only feet away from them. Today, Paschal’s has morphed into a mid-upscale eatery with a cosmopolitan clientele. But it still has some of the meanest soul food in the ATL. Best dishes include Gulf shrimp, chicken and Andouille as well as the Caribbean Fish Tacos.
226 Northside Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 254-4494
At Dat Fire Jerk Chicken, you can get the Jerk Chicken Meal (11am-2pm) Comes w/ rice n peas, can soda or bottled water and choice of cabbage salad or collards.
2805 Main St., East Point, Ga. 30344
Oz Pizza in East Point also has a great lunch special through the week.
At Bartaco, they’ll give you any three tacos, plus a soup or salad for $11.
810 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314 | (404) 525-9212
Busy Bee Cafe has pivoted to become a mainstay takeout joint less than a mile from the heart of downtown Atlanta.
Atlanta Locations:
1878 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (770) 796-0207
Atlanta Locations:
Farm Burger has a lunch special for $8.95, which gives you a burger, fries and drink from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. through the week.
182 Courtland St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 975-3343
Crazy Atlanta Travel Bar and Street Food Event has several lunch specials, including:
1371 Clairmont Rd, Decatur, GA 30033
This soul food spot in Decatur comes from owner and restaurateur Sim Walker, whose New York City rearing comes through in the vibe. Ms. Icey’s, named after Walker’s grandmother, is Decatur’s best-kept secret even though it has quickly become a culturally hip gathering place for those in the know. When cornbread comes in an iron skillet, and oxtails do as well, you know you’re in a foodie’s dream. Not only are many of the dishes a nod to Southern and soul food culture, but the drinks are mostly handcrafted, giving the place an organic life. The sweet potato waffles are to die for.
1039 Grant St SE, Atlanta, GA 30315 | (404) 622-3501
For those keeping score, Patria Cocina comes to us from the owners of El Mexicano, which used to be the place to go on Moreland Avenue. Run by the Aguirre family, Patria Cocina has a handsome patio that looks out on the front side of the Beacon development, which is Grant Park’s answer to Krog Street Market as well as Ponce City Market.
99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (678) 791-1310
3850 Roswell Rd NE #100, Atlanta, GA 30342 | (678) 705-1235
This Ford Fry eatery has taken Atlanta by storm since its debut at Krog Street Market. Now it has expanded across Atlanta.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Superica: “Great Mexican cuisine. Very attentive staff and fairly priced. Nice ambiance and very good bar area. Portions are generous. It gets super busy so go early or be ready to wait..a while.”
Atlanta has more than 50 million visitors a year. If that doesn’t attest to this Southern metropolis as being a fun city, I don’t know what will.
The metro Atlanta area has the region’s best food, entertainment and economy, by far.
Atlanta, Georgia is the jewel of the South, the New York of the South and the Hollywood of the South. For a Southern city, Atlanta’s weekend events are hard to beat.
Atlanta is one of the best places to visit if you’ve got some time on your hands. And having fun by visiting many of Atlanta’s best places shouldn’t cost you a lot of money. In fact, many of the top sites, venues and landmarks are free!
When it comes to cool things to do in and around the city, Atlanta is a great place to live and visit. Now that Georgia has reopened amid the coronavirus pandemic, there are so many fun things to do in Atlanta.
Atlanta continues to be a tourist mecca as gigantic landmarks such as Mercedes Benz Stadium and SunTrust Park boost the metro area’s profile. But what are the fun things to do in Atlanta.
When it comes to finding fun things to do in Atlanta, the city’s sprawling metro area has plenty of more places to see, visit and experience. You may be in the mood for some good home cookin’ — and if you are, here are some top soul food places in Atlanta.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
Centennial Yards will be the site of a three-story entertainment complex which will double as a live sports and concert venue, AtlantaFi.com has learned.
The 70,000-square-foot development will be built by Cosm, a leading immersive technology, media, and entertainment company that opened a similar space in Los Angeles this past June.
The firm aims to deliver live sports and experiential entertainment in “Shared Reality,” which takes advantage of augmented, virtual and mixed reality.
“The project we’re building is a sports-adjacent, entertainment district,” Centennial Yards Company president Brian McGowan said. “When we learned about the [Cosm] concept — this cool experiential entertainment, shared reality type of sports bar — we were like, ‘Oh my God, this is perfect for us.’”
As part of the Sports and Entertainment District at Centennial Yards. Cosm is the linchpin of Centennial Yards’ next phase of development, which will bring approximately 470,000 square feet of entertainment, retail and restaurant space, including a flagship hotel, to a 7.5-acre site adjacent to the Atlanta Hawks’ State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium — home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United—as well as the Five Points MARTA station connecting the site with the rest of the city.
“Cosm’s experience is unparalleled, using its Shared Reality technology to provide guests with front-row access to global events from Downtown Atlanta at Centennial Yards,” McGowan said in a press release. “With existing, world-class sports venues and the addition of Cosm, we believe Centennial Yards will become the center of gravity for entertainment in Atlanta, connecting people of all ages with an incredible combination of sporting events, music, bars, restaurants and retail.”
“Atlanta is a passionate sports town with a proud history of hosting the world’s biggest events, including the Olympics, Super Bowls, CFP National Championships, NCAA March Madness, FIFA World Cup, and more,” said Jeb Terry, CEO and President at Cosm. “In fact, one of my favorite memories is winning the 2001 Peach Bowl in the Georgia Dome. Now, over 20 years later, the Cosm at Centennial Yards is the perfect complement to the State Farm Arena, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and Atlanta Convention Center to help make Centennial Yards the Sports and Entertainment capital of the South, and we are thrilled to work with CIM Group to make Atlanta our third location and bring Shared Reality to the East Coast.”
Cosm’s third venue at Centennial Yards will encompass 70,000 square feet and feature the company’s proprietary technology throughout, including an 87-foot diameter 12K+ LED dome.
Working with award-winning architecture firm Gensler, the venue will expand on the foundational design of Cosm’s first and second venues in Los Angeles and Dallas, respectively, and ensure its values and iconic features are embodied while still incorporating unique characteristics that reflect Centennial Yards and the Atlanta community at large.
The company’s slate of live sports offerings continues to expand through official partnerships with ESPN, the NBA, NBC Sports, TNT Sports, FOX Sports, the UFC and more, which will allow guests to experience live Shared Reality productions of the biggest sports events in the world.
In addition to live sports, Cosm’s programming will also highlight Cirque du Soleil’s timeless production “O” and immersive art experiences from members of the Cosm Studios Creator Program, including award-winning new media artist Nancy Baker Cahill; filmmaker, director, and co-founder of Planetary Collective Guy Reid; renowned DJ and artist Chris Holmes; and acclaimed composer and new media artist Ricardo Romaneiro.
“At Centennial Yards, we have the opportunity to reshape a major area of Atlanta as a walkable and appealing destination for residents and visitors, and key to that effort is bringing unique and engaging businesses such as Cosm that attract people to the district,” said Shaul Kuba, Co-Founder and Principal, CIM Group.
The Centennial Yards Company serves as the master developer of Centennial Yards and consists of a partnership between an affiliate of CIM Group, which is co-founded by Richard Ressler, and a group led by Hawks owner Tony Ressler, his brother.
Development at Centennial Yards is already well underway, with the construction of a 19-story boutique hotel and 19-story residential tower, and additional retail and residential groundbreakings commencing later this year.
Centennial Yards is a transformative project for Atlanta and one of the largest private developments in the United States, reshaping an important but underutilized portion of the city’s Downtown formerly known as “The Gulch” into a dynamic and active 24/7 community.
With a master site plan designed by a global team, the 50-acre Centennial Yards development will also feature the creation of new city blocks, public open space and up to 12 million square feet of new modern retail, hotel and residential buildings, and world-class sports and entertainment venues.
Downtown Atlanta is transforming, but so is much of the city. The best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. What separates them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called the Beltline.
The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
