Travel Guide Intro

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IHG's Guide to the Best of Atlanta

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Atlanta, the vibrant capital of Georgia, is a city that blends Southern charm with modern sophistication. Known as the "City in a Forest," Atlanta boasts an impressive skyline of skyscrapers and canopies of trees, which provides a lush backdrop to its bustling urban scene.

Today, Atlanta is a thriving hub for business and innovation, home to numerous Fortune 500 companies and a burgeoning tech scene. The city's diverse culinary landscape offers everything from traditional Southern fare to international cuisine, reflecting its multicultural population. Visitors can explore world-class attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and the High Museum of Art, or catch a game at one of the city's professional sports venues.

Why We Love Atlanta
This dynamic metropolis is rich in history and culture, serving as a pivotal center during the Civil Rights Movement, with landmarks such as the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park preserving its storied past.

Travel Tips

Be prepared for Atlanta's humid subtropical climate. Dress accordingly and stay hydrated, especially during June, July, and August, when temperatures can reach 100°F
Save on admission to top attractions with the Atlanta CityPASS, which includes access to several museums and attractions.
Traffic in Atlanta can be a challenge, so to get around Atlanta with ease, use MARTA, the city's public rail system.
Rent a bike to explore Atlanta's neighborhoods and parks. Many areas, like Midtown, Downtown, and Virginia Highland, are pedestrian-friendly.

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InterContinental Buckhead
Recently renovated, this hotel features local art, a new InterContinental Club Lounge, a revamped spa, spacious suites, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a heated saltwater outdoor pool. Enjoy dining at The Americano, led by Chef Scott Conant.

Kimpton Shane Hotel
Located in Midtown, this dog-friendly hotel showcases local art, floor-to-ceiling city views, and offers dining at Hartley Kitchen & Cocktails and fantastic drinks at Aveline. Guests can enjoy a nightly social hour, a 24-hour fitness center, and in-room yoga mats.

Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown
Close to Mercedes Benz Stadium and Centennial Olympic Park, this hotel is ideal for business or leisure travelers. Features include a pet-friendly policy, a 24-hour gym, and dining at Drafting Table Cocktails and Kitchen.

Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia
Situated near premier shopping at Perimeter Mall and major corporate offices, it’s an excellent choice for business travelers. The hotel boasts elegant rooms with contemporary amenities, an upscale fitness center, and an indoor pool. Multiple on-site dining options include the sophisticated Parkwoods restaurant and a casual coffee bar. With extensive meeting facilities and lush gardens providing a serene atmosphere, the Crowne Plaza Ravinia ensures a refreshing and productive stay.

EVEN Hotel Cobb Galleria
Nearby the Cobb Galleria Centre and Truist Park, it’s ideal for both business travelers and sports fans. The hotel features modern rooms equipped with in-room fitness zones, ergonomic workspaces, and spa-inspired showers. Guests can enjoy the fully equipped fitness center, healthy dining options at Cork & Kale™, and outdoor spaces designed to promote physical activity and well-being. This hotel is perfect for those who prioritize maintaining their health and fitness routines while traveling.

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Arts, Culture, and Museums
The High Museum of Art in Midtown features works by Monet, Picasso, and O'Keeffe. SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film celebrates fashion and film. Catch live shows at the Eastern or the Earl, or a Broadway show at the historic Fox Theatre. World of Coca-Cola offers a history of Coke products and you can taste beverage samples from around the world. SkyView Atlanta provides panoramic city views from a 20-story Ferris wheel.

There are plenty of indoor attractions in Atlanta for rainy or hot days. The world’s largest aquarium, Georgia Aquarium, features marine life from around the globe, including whale sharks, beluga whales, and manta rays.

Get tickets to a live show at the Eastern or the Earl (the venues host all kinds of bands, from rock to alternative to cumbia) or catch a Broadway show, concert, or classic film screening at the historic Fox Theatre, known for its Moorish architecture. In Downtown Atlanta, tourists love World of Coca-Cola, where you can learn about the history of Coke and sample over 100 beverages from around the world. While downtown, take a ride on SkyView Atlanta, a 20-story ferris wheel with climate-controlled gondolas in Centennial Park. From the top, you’ll witness jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.

History
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site in the Old Fourth Ward honors the civil rights leader and the Atlanta History Center. showcases the city’s past with exhibits and historic homes. Snap some photos of the Gateway of Dreams, a public monument in Centennial Olympic Park that was created in honor of the 1996 Olympic Games.

Sports, Adventure, and the Outdoors
Visit Piedmont Park for picnics, walking trails, and skyline views, and explore the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s exhibitions including Chihuly glass art. The 22-mile Atlanta BeltLine offers walking, biking, and public art installations. Take some time to explore Grant Park, the oldest surviving city park. Encompassing 131.5 acres Grant Park and is home to Zoo Atlanta and Oakland Cemetery.

Atlanta is home to many professional sports teams, including the Atlanta Braves (baseball), the Atlanta Falcons (football), the Atlanta Hawks (basketball) and of course, the Atlanta United (soccer). In fact, Atlanta will host the 2026 FIFA World Cup along with other US cities like Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle. Pro tip: on game days, attendees prefer to take public transportation because parking is extremely limited.

Reward Yourself: Already an IHG One Rewards member? Book tours, activities, and things to do in Atlanta and earn points toward future travels. Some fun ones include a 90-minute narrated sightseeing trolley tour, a day trip to North Georgia wine country, a BYOB spray paint and sip workshop, and a Black history and civil rights half-day tour showcasing historic sites as well as modern-day attractions like Tyler Perry Studios. Not a member yet, Join Now for Free!

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Here are some of our top recommendations for day trips close to Atlanta.

Stone Mountain Park
Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The highlight of the park is Stone Mountain itself, a massive granite dome with a famous bas-relief carving. Visitors can hike the 1-mile trail to the summit or opt for the scenic cable car ride. The park also offers a variety of attractions, including a historic square, a scenic railroad, and a nightly laser show during the summer months. It's an ideal spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.

Visit North Georgia’s Wineries
Nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains and just a short drive from Atlanta, the town of Dahlonega offers a peaceful retreat where you can sit back, sip award-winning wines, stroll through picturesque vineyards, and savor the rich, little known history of Georgia's wine country. Enjoy guided tastings at renowned wineries like Montaluce and Wolf Mountain or bring your pup along to the dog-friendly Kaya Vineyard and Winery.

Historic Athens
Athens, Georgia, is an artsy college town about 70 miles east of Atlanta. Known for its vibrant music scene and historic architecture, Athens offers a cultural escape. Wander through the University of Georgia’s beautiful campus, explore the State Botanical Garden, and visit the Georgia Museum of Art. Downtown Athens is brimming with unique shops, cozy cafes, and lively bars, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. Don’t miss the chance to catch some live music at one of the many iconic venues.

Helen: A Bavarian Delight
Nestled in the northeast mountains, approximately 90 miles from Atlanta, lies the quaint town of Helen, Georgia. Modeled after a Bavarian alpine village, Helen is known for its charming German-style architecture and scenic location along the Chattahoochee River. Visitors can enjoy tubing down the river, exploring local shops, and dining on authentic German cuisine. Helen's Oktoberfest, one of the largest in the United States, is a festive time to visit.

Tallulah Gorge State Park
For those who crave adventure, Tallulah Gorge State Park is a must-visit. Located about 95 miles northeast of Atlanta, this state park is home to one of the most spectacular canyons in the Southeast. The gorge stretches nearly two miles long and plunges to a depth of almost 1,000 feet. Hiking trails offer breathtaking views, while permits are available for those who wish to hike to the gorge floor. The park is also popular for rock climbing and white-water paddling.

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Coffee Shops
Visit East Pole for a classic latte or spro-jito, and Larakin for a blend of coffee, wine, and tinned fish. Chrome Yellow, Brash Coffee, and Spiller Park are a few other local favorites.

Dining
Staplehouse offers modern American cuisine with seasonal ingredients during the day with an expansive outdoor patio. For a special occasion, indulge in high-end omakase experiences at Hayakawa or Mujō (both in West Midtown), or savor delicious yet affordable sushi at Brush in Buckhead, or Mali in Virginia Highland. Bread & Butterfly, in the heart of Inman Park, beckons with irresistible French breakfast and brunch offerings, while Oaxaca in Chamblee delights with Mexican dishes like chilaquiles and corn masa pancakes (they also have Mexican wine on the menu, which is hard to find in Atlanta). Buena Gente, in the Decatur neighborhood, is the perfect weekend spot to grab Cuban pastries, cafe con leche, milkshakes, and pressed sandwiches.

Breweries
Explore craft breweries like Bold Monk Brewing, SweetWater Brewing Company, Wild Heaven, and Monday Night Brewing, and New Realm Brewing Company.

Local Favorites
Enjoy lunch tacos at El Tesoro or a blackened grouper sandwich at Fishmonger. Kimball House is known for its cocktails, and Ticonderoga Club offers a fun dining experience with a pricey steak that’s meant for groups. Other favorites include Little Bear, Desta Ethiopian Kitchen, Gigi’s Italian Kitchen, Kamayan, and LanZhou Ramen. For smoothies and fruit bowls, try LottaFrutta.

More to Explore
For a special occasion, indulge in high-end omakase experiences at Hayakawa or Mujō (both in West Midtown), or savor delicious yet affordable sushi at Brush in Buckhead, or Mali in Virginia Highland. Bread & Butterfly, in the heart of Inman Park, beckons with irresistible French breakfast and brunch offerings, while Oaxaca in Chamblee delights with Mexican dishes like chilaquiles and corn masa pancakes (they also have Mexican wine on the menu, which is hard to find in Atlanta). Buena Gente, in the Decatur neighborhood, is the perfect weekend spot to grab Cuban pastries, cafe con leche, milkshakes, and pressed sandwiches.

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Whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, historic charm, or upscale living, Atlanta has a neighborhood to suit your preferences. Here’s a quick guide to some of the city's top neighborhoods:

Midtown
Midtown is Atlanta’s cultural heart, known for its high concentration of theaters, museums, and parks. Highlights include the High Museum of Art, the Fox Theatre, and Piedmont Park. This neighborhood is also a hub for dining and nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to a wide array of tastes. Midtown's bustling atmosphere and cultural offerings make it a favorite for both residents and visitors.

Buckhead
Buckhead is synonymous with luxury and sophistication. Known as Atlanta’s upscale district, it offers high-end shopping at Lenox Square Mall and Phipps Plaza, along with fine dining restaurants, swanky bars and posh hotels. The neighborhood is also home to beautiful mansions and lush landscapes. Buckhead's blend of glamour and convenience makes it ideal for those seeking an affluent lifestyle.

Virginia-Highland
Virginia-Highland, often called Va-Hi, is a charming, walkable neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets and village-like atmosphere. It boasts an eclectic mix of boutiques, bars, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for both shopping and dining. The neighborhood hosts several annual festivals that foster a strong sense of community.

Old Fourth Ward
Old Fourth Ward is a historic area that has undergone significant revitalization. Home to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, this neighborhood seamlessly blends history with modernity. The Atlanta BeltLine’s Eastside Trail runs through Old Fourth Ward, offering parks, eateries, and shops along the way. It's a dynamic area perfect for those who appreciate both heritage and contemporary urban living.

Inman Park
Inman Park is known for its stunning Victorian homes and vibrant local scene. The neighborhood is filled with top-notch restaurants and cafes, making it a food lover's paradise. The annual Inman Park Festival showcases the area's artistic spirit with parades, music, and art displays. Inman Park's mix of historic charm and lively community activities attracts a diverse crowd.

Little Five Points
Little Five Points is Atlanta’s most eclectic and bohemian neighborhood, celebrated for its alternative culture and artistic vibe. This area is packed with vintage shops, record stores, and quirky boutiques, making it a haven for artists and free spirits. It's also a hotspot for nightlife, featuring several dive bars, live music venues, and independent theaters. Little Five Points' distinctive character and creative energy make it a must-visit for those seeking something off the beaten path.