Whether you’re looking for a place to eat Sunday brunch, a quiet afternoon in a museum, or a beautiful nature walk, this list will walk you through the best things to do on a Sunday in Atlanta.
Things to in Atlanta, GA on Sunday
| Attraction | Sunday Hours | Admission Cost |
| Atlanta Botanical Garden | 9am – 8pm | $22 – Youth (3-12) $25 – Adult |
| Piedmont Park | 6am – 11pm | Free |
| High Museum of Art | 12pm – 5pm | $16.50 – General Admission |
| World of Coca-Cola | 10am – 7pm | $19 – Adult $15 – Youth (3-12) |
| Zoo Atlanta | 9am – 6pm | Varies |
| Oakland Cemetery | 10am – 2pm | Free |
| Center for Puppetry Arts | 12pm – 5pm | $15 – Adults $12 – Children (2-12) |
| LEGOLAND Discovery Center | 10am – 5pm | $26 – Standard Ticket |
| Atlanta Beltline | 24/7 | Free |
| Three Forks to Long Creek Falls | 24/7 | Free |
| Atlanta History Center | 9am – 4pm | $23 – Adult $10 – Youth (4-12) |
| National Center for Civil and Human Rights | 12pm – 5pm | $20 – Adult $16 – Youth |
| Centennial Olympic Park | 7am – 7pm | Free |
| East Palisades Indian Trail | 9am – 9pm | Free |
| Food Truck Park & Market | 2pm – 8pm | Free |
| Stone Mountain Park | 10:30am – 8pm | Varies |
| Ponce City Market | 11am – 8pm | Free |
| Children’s Museum of Atlanta | 9:30am – 4:30pm | Varies |
Why Sundays Are Great For Exploring Atlanta
Sundays are one of the best days to go sightseeing in Atlanta, since you can miss the Saturday crowds while still seeing all of the unique attractions the city has to offer. Explore the city’s parks when the weather is nice or spend the day walking through one of the many indoor attractions when you need to beat the heat or get out of the rain.
Things to Do on Sunday in Atlanta
1. Atlanta Botanical Garden
Located on Piedmont Ave NE, The Atlanta Botanical Garden contains 30 acres of sprawling flora right in the heart of Midtown. The garden is one of the most popular Atlanta attractions, and for good reason! There are several exciting permanent exhibits to see, including:
- The Flower Walk – Includes many types of plants, from succulents and cacti to a pond filled with aquatic plants.
- Fuqua Conservatory – Includes a rainforest exhibit with frogs, turtles, and birds.
- The Orchid Center – A climate-controlled greenhouse containing rare orchids from around the world.
- Cascades Garden – A garden full of tropical plants and waterfalls.
- The Canopy Walk – A 600-foot-long skywalk 40 feet above the Storza Woods.
You can also visit the Edible Garden, where fruit, vegetables, and spices are grown. This food is then used in the Longleaf Restaurant located inside the garden, where you can grab a bite to eat after walking around. You can even ask to be seated on the rooftop, which has a beautiful view of the surrounding gardens and greenspace.
For sushi ideas in Atlanta, check out this list of 10 best sushi spots in Atlanta.
2. Piedmont Park
Right next to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, you’ll find Piedmont Park, an urban park and greenspace with a great view of the city skyline. There are always cool things going on in the park, whether it’s annual events such as the Arts Festival or one of the music festivals that take place in the summer and fall months. The park has also been featured in several films, including Spider Man and What to Expect When You’re Expecting. Atlanta is called the Hollywood of the South for a reason!
There are also many free things to do in the park. If you’re a music lover, check out the Sunset Sessions over at Park Tavern near the southeast corner of the park—one of the best places to hear free live music from local musicians. These free concerts take place every Sunday evening and usually feature a local alternative band or artist.
3. High Museum of Art
Located on Peachtree Street a short walk from Midtown, The High Museum of Art is one of the largest and most famous art museums in the South. You’ll find over 18,000 works of art from all over the world on display. Take a look at the folk-art exhibit to see work from self-taught artists such as Georgia’s very own Howard Finster, or you can walk through the modern and contemporary exhibits to see work by Basquiat and Alex Katz.
The museum has a permanent collection as well as constantly rotating temporary exhibitions, so even if you’ve been before, you might find something new. Be sure to keep an eye on the High Museum’s website and social media to be notified of upcoming events and exhibitions.
4. Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the country. Whether you’re looking at the sea otters and manta rays, relaxing in the sea lion theater, or watching the dolphin show, this is a great attraction for the whole family, and you’re sure to have a good time there. If you’re looking for souvenirs, the Georgia Aquarium has a massive gift shop as well.
The Georgia Aquarium is also the starting point for the Atlanta Escape Game, a fun, interactive walk-through of downtown Atlanta. The game is self-lead via an app, so there’s no need to wait on a tour group.
5. World of Coca-Cola
One of Atlanta’s most well-known attractions, the World of Coca-Cola details the history of the Atlanta-based beverage company and has many good things to do for children and adults. While you’re there, you can take a look at the vault where the secret recipe is kept, watch some vintage Coca-Cola commercials in the theater.
Possibly the most famous parts of the World of Coca-Cola is the tasting room, where you can try different kinds of Coca-Cola beverages from all over the world and learn interesting facts about each one.
6. Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta houses over 1,000 animals and contains a wide array of exhibits, including:
- The African Savannah
- The World of Reptiles
- The Asian Forest
The Giant Panda exhibit is one of the most popular attractions, as Zoo Atlanta is one of only three zoos in the United States that houses giant pandas. If you want to watch them from the comfort of your own home, you can even visit the Zoo Atlanta Website to watch the pandas via webcam.
Residents who have a Georgia library card can also check out passes for a discounted rate to the Zoo Atlanta via the Emory University Library, so be sure to take advantage of this if you’re bringing the whole family!
7. Oakland Cemetery
Oakland Cemetery is the oldest park in Atlanta. Only a short walk from downtown, this cemetery is the final resting place for many notable citizens, including Margaret Mitchell, author of Gone with the Wind, and Kenny Rogers, world-famous country musician. You can also walk through the historic African American burial grounds and the Confederate burial grounds.
In addition to the cemetery itself, there is also an art gallery and a gorgeous greenspace, making this a great destination to spend some time outdoors. If you aren’t sure where to start when exploring this historic cemetery, the park offers guided tours and scavenger hunts.
8. Center for Puppetry Arts
The Center for Puppetry Arts is one of Atlanta’s most unique attractions. There are frequent performances and shows for children to enjoy, but adults can also excite their inner children in the museum section, which houses many well-known puppets from history.
One of the most popular children’s attractions in Atlanta, it’s a frequent field trip spot thanks to its fun and educational exhibits for all ages. You can see some of the actual puppets used in Sesame Street, or even see some puppets that are hundreds of years old in the historical exhibit.
9. LEGOLAND Discovery Center
The LEGOLAND Discovery Center is an indoor attraction featuring rides, interactive activities, toy displays, and many other fun things to do for the whole family. You and your children can ride Merlin’s Apprentice, play the LEGO Race VR game, and enjoy the LEGO 4-D Cinema.
The expansive gift shop is also great for LEGO fans of all ages, containing an expansive collection of LEGO sets that may be uncommon and difficult to find in stores.
10. Atlanta Beltline
The Atlanta Beltline is a railway line that has been converted into a path through the city for pedestrians and cyclists. The Eastside Trail can be accessed via the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood and is one of the most popular places on the Beltline, but you can make your way all over the entire city solely on foot or bicycle.
There are bike rentals located all over the city, or you can use one of the many motorized scooter rentals. This is a wonderful opportunity to travel on foot without having to worry about vehicle traffic. Bars, restaurants, and food trucks line many areas of the beltline if you want to stop for a bite to eat, and there are many scenic areas as well. This is also a great way to meet friendly locals and tourists if you’re new to the area.
11. Three Forks to Long Creek Falls
If you want to get a taste of the Appalachian Trail, Three Forks to Long Creek Falls is the closest hike you’ll find to Atlanta, and it’s one of the most beautiful las well. The hike is short and beginner-friendly—only two miles there and back—and it boasts incredible waterfall views. Photographers and nature lovers will no doubt fall in love with this popular local hiking trail.
If you’re planning to camp anywhere on the Appalachian Trail, be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Camping in Georgia State Parks.
12. Atlanta History Center
Located in the Buckhead district, the Atlanta History Center is a museum featuring exhibits guiding museum guests through the history of the city. Some popular exhibitions include:
- The 1996 Olympics: The most recently added permanent exhibit, which shows the impact the Olympic Games had on Atlanta and its people.
- The American Civil War: A large collection of famous civil war artifacts.
- Shaping Traditions: An exhibition detailing the history of Folk Art in Georgia and the South as a whole—from textiles to painting.
- Native Lands: An exhibit detailing the life, history, and culture of the indigenous people of Georgia.
- Cyclorama: A multimedia exhibit featuring a famous restored painting of the Battle of Atlanta.
With a massive collection of both permanent and rotating exhibits, there is always something new to see at the Atlanta History Center.
13. Krog Street Market
Krog Street Market is located on the Beltline and is a great place to get some shopping done, have some craft cocktails, eat a delicious meal, or just walk around and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s often called one of the world’s best food halls, and you can find a wide array of cuisines there from all over the world.
Tyler Perry Studios once used studio space here before moving to southern Atlanta as well, so you can get a peek at some cinematic history while you’re perusing the market.
14. National Center for Civil and Human Rights
If you’re interested in the Civil Rights movement, Atlanta is one of the best places to learn more about it. Atlanta had a massive impact on the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, and The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a great place to learn more about America’s civil rights history as well as the global history of human rights. The building itself is also a local architectural landmark.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Collection contains some of Martin Luther King Jr.’s personal belongings and letters, and the Rogues Collection contains information on dictators such as Adolf Hitler. The Global Human Rights Movement exhibition outlines human rights advocates throughout history and in the present. Any history buff should definitely make time to see this museum.
15. Centennial Olympic Park
For sports fans, the Centennial Olympic Park is a must-see attraction. The park was built during the city’s reconstruction in preparation for the 1995 Olympic Games, and it has remained a testament to one of Atlanta’s proudest moments.
The Fountain of Rings is a large, interactive fountain that is both beautiful to look at and acts as a splash pad for children to play in on those hot Georgia days. There are several sculptures around the park to enjoy as well. Across the street, you can ride the Ferris wheel to get an incredible birds-eye view of the city—great for families and couples especially.
16. East Palisades Indian Trail
Atlanta is home to miles of nature trails and some of the most beautiful hiking locations the South has to offer. In Sandy Springs, located just north of Atlanta, you can find the East Palisades Indian Trail: an easy, family-friendly hike with a beautiful view of the Chattahoochee River. This trail is a perfect choice for fishing enthusiasts, birdwatchers, or just anyone who loves nature.
There is also drive-up access to the palisades here, which is great for kayakers or anyone who just wants to go for a dip in the crystal-clear water without making the hike.
16. Food Truck Park & Market
The Atlanta Food Truck Park & Market is open for lunch and dinner every day, and you can find a wide array of foods there from many different cuisines. From barbecue and hot dogs to sweet baked goods and ice cream, this park has anything you could possibly be craving.
The market section often features local farmers and craftspeople, so it’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for some fresh produce, locally made soaps and bath products, or even tea and coffee. Atlanta also has some amazing coffee roasters that are worth visiting.
The Food Truck Park & Market is a must-see for any foodie, whether you’re a tourist or a local.
17. Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park is located just south of Atlanta in the small town of Stone Mountain, GA, and it is the most visited tourist site in the state of Georgia. Many people find there are so many things to do at the park that they have to go back for a second day! There are also several golf courses near Stone Mountain, GA.
There are several hikes and walking trails on the mountain, ranging from beginner-level to steep and difficult, and the top of the mountain has a spectacular view of the surrounding park.
Families can visit the children’s activity center, which has games, slides, and other interactive activities for kids of all ages. The Stone Mountain Scenic Railroad ride is five miles long and takes you through some of the park’s most impressive scenery. On summer evenings, guests can relax on the greenspace in front of the mountain to enjoy the nightly Laser Light show and accompanying fireworks.
18. Ponce City Market
Ponce City Market is located in the historic Sears building, which has been converted into a market with a food hall and shopping center. It’s one of Atlanta’s top attractions, and it’s a cool place to explore and grab a snack, even if you’re not looking to buy anything.
The rooftop is also a popular local spot, either for events or just to have a nice night out. Enjoy dinner and drinks, or play some mini golf. You can even try to win a prize at one of the many carnival games on the rooftop. No matter how you choose to spend your time at Ponce City Market, you’re sure to enjoy the view of Old Fourth Ward.
19. Children’s Museum of Atlanta
The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a great indoor attraction for children—Parents will love how educational it is, and children will have fun with the interactive exhibits. Children will learn about the cultivation of food from start to finish in the Fundamentally Food exhibit, and they can do some hands-on arts and crafts in the Let Your Creativity Flow art exhibit. The museum typically has 2-5 travelling exhibits each year, so take a look at their website to see what’s going on this Sunday.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do on Sunday in Atlanta
Whether you’re looking to spend your entire Sunday exploring the city or you only want to grab a quick meal, you have plenty of options in the Atlanta area. The only question you need to ask yourself is: Where will you go first?
