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2 Days in Atlanta, Georgia: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Planning a short weekend getaway to Atlanta, Georgia? You can see plenty of the city’s top attractions even in just a couple days! Check out this perfect 2 days in Atlanta travel itinerary to find the best things to do, places to eat, and places to stay.

There are so many amazing things to do in Atlanta that planning a short trip can be difficult! You obviously can’t see it all in just a weekend trip, but I’ve put together the perfect 2 day itinerary that will give you a taste of what Atlanta has to offer. After this, you’ll definitely want to return!

| Tip

You can save big on Atlanta’s must-see tourist attractions on this 2-day itinerary by using the Atlanta CityPASS! Get the Atlanta CityPASS and visit the city’s top museums in any order, whenever it’s convenient for you.

With all the exciting things to do in Atlanta, you’ll have no problem planning a weekend getaway to the city.

There are so many fun ways to spend a couple days in Atlanta! Now, let’s get to the itinerary!

Where to Stay for a Weekend in Atlanta

Eco-Friendly Hotels

One of the most important parts of planning a weekend trip to Atlanta is deciding where to stay.

For most travelers to Atlanta, Downtown and Midtown are the most convenient locations thanks to all the nearby sights.

For this 2 day itinerary, I recommend staying in Downtown Atlanta.

Top 5 Downtown Atlanta Hotels

Here are my top picks for the best hotels in Downtown Atlanta:

Read more: Top 10 Hotels in Atlanta, Georgia

Once you’ve decided where to stay for your weekend in Atlanta, it’s time to plan out your itinerary!

Atlanta, Georgia Skyline at Sunset

2 Perfect Days in Atlanta Travel Itinerary

This perfect 2-day itinerary will showcase Atlanta’s diverse attractions, mouthwatering culinary scene, and captivating cultural landmarks. Get ready to immerse yourself into the heart and soul of Atlanta on this unforgettable journey through Georgia’s capital city.

Atlanta Day One: Breakfast at the Atlanta Breakfast Club

A perfect day in Atlanta starts with a perfect breakfast.

The Atlanta Breakfast Club serves classic Southern comfort dishes like chicken and waffles, peach cobbler French toast, smoked bacon and scrambled eggs, and breakfast tacos.

Their prices are typically just under $10, making this a great budget-friendly breakfast spot.

Atlanta Day One: Take in the Views from the Westin Peachtree Plaza

Downtown Atlanta Skyline

I fully believe that every city should be viewed from above as well as from below. So let’s start this Atlanta itinerary off at the top!

The Westin Peachtree Plaza is an iconic Atlanta hotel with 73-stories and a mirror-glass façade. It’s one of my favorite places to stay in Atlanta, but you don’t have to stay here to be able to see the views. The hotel has an observation deck, restaurant, and bar on the top level that are open to the public.

Take the glass elevators up to Level 72 to The View at the Sun Dial Restaurant. You can choose to make a reservation at the bar or restaurant, or you can just head to the observation level.

From this high-up perch, you can take in the 360° panorama view of Atlanta. This is my favorite way to enjoy the city.

Atlanta Day One: Explore Centennial Olympic Park

Centennial Olympic Park in Summer, Atlanta, Georgia

Centennial Olympic Park is a 21-acre public park built as part of the city improvements for the Centennial 1996 Summer Olympics. The engraved bricks represent all the donors who paid for the park. My grandparents actually have a brick in the park, so I always make sure to find it when I’m downtown.

The park has playgrounds, a fountain, paved pathways, and a concession stand. This is the center of Downtown Atlanta’s most popular attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Centennial Olympic Park is free to visit. In the summer, you can find families playing the the Fountain of Rings.

Related Tour: Atlanta Downtown Segway Tour

Atlanta Day One: Tour the World of Coca-Cola

World of Coca-Cola

The World of Coca-Cola gives you an inside look at the history of Atlanta’s most famous beverage.

You get to see tons of Coca-Cola memorabilia, take a picture with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear, and learn about the drink’s history from its pharmaceutical beginnings to its status as a soda giant today.

At the end of your tour, you’ll even get to taste Coca-Cola drinks from around the world! The tasting room is one of the best parts of visiting this museum. (Don’t forget to try the infamous Beverley drink from Italy!)

You can get discounted admission to the World of Coca-Cola by using the Atlanta CityPASS! This attraction pass also gets you discounts at 4 other top attractions in Atlanta as well, some of which are in this itinerary, helping you save a lot of money.

Or you can buy your skip-the-line World of Coca-Cola ticket here.

Atlanta Day One: Lunch at The Food Shoppe

The Food Shoppe is a great counter-serve restaurant within walking distance from Centennial Olympic Park and the surrounding tourist sights.

On the menu, you’ll find Creole and Cajun classics like shrimp jambalaya, gumbo, shrimp and grits, and red beans and rice.

Their famous Walk and Eat Bowls are perfect grab-and-go meals for your busy day in Atlanta.

Atlanta Day One: Dive into the Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is one of the world’s largest aquariums. This marine giant is home to hundreds of aquatic species in more than 10 million gallons of water.

They’re known for their exhibits containing California Sea Lions, Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, Beluga Whales, and Whale Sharks.

When you visit the Aquarium, you’ll get to see the largest indoor aquatic habitat in the world and one of the world’s largest viewing windows in their Ocean Voyager exhibit. This is where you can view the Aquarium’s Whale Sharks and Manta Rays and even SCUBA dive with them!

You can get discounted tickets to the Georgia Aquarium by using the Atlanta CityPASS.

Or you can buy your skip-the-line Georgia Aquarium ticket here.

Nearby Attractions

If you find yourself with some extra time on day one to explore more, check out some nearby attractions. The SkyView Ferris Wheel, National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and the College Football Hall of Fame are located within walking distance of today’s itinerary.

Some of these attractions are also discounted with the Atlanta CityPASS.

Read more: How the Atlanta CityPASS Can Save You Lots of Money

Atlanta Day One: Dinner at Meehan’s Public House

Meehan’s Public House is an authentic Irish pub and a perfect place to grab a bite to eat after a long day of exploring Atlanta.

Try their classic Irish pub fare, like the fish and chips or shepherd’s pie.

You’ll also want to grab a pint and enjoy some late night fun!

Atlanta Day Two: Breakfast at Grant Park Coffeehouse

Grant Park Coffeehouse is the perfect neighborhood coffeehouse located in Downtown near the GSU campus.

This coffeehouse serves light breakfast fare, sandwiches, in-house-made baked goods, and plenty of coffee.

Atlanta Day Two: Visit Zoo Atlanta

Pandas at Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia

Zoo Atlanta is one of my favorite places in Atlanta, mostly because they have two different species of bears!

The Zoo houses more than 1,500 animals from 220 different species, so you can expect to spend a lot of your day exploring their exhibits. At the Zoo, you can see lions, tigers, sun bears, giraffes, orangutans, birds, reptiles, and more.

Zoo Atlanta is most known for its Giant Pandas (two adults and two twin cubs) and its gorillas (21 gorillas have been born here since 1988). They’ve also recently expanded their elephant habitat.

You can get discounted tickets to Zoo Atlanta by using the Atlanta CityPASS.

Or you can buy your skip-the-line Zoo Atlanta ticket here.

Atlanta Day Two: Photo Opp at the Jackson Street Bridge

Atlanta, Georgia Skyline from Jackson Street Bridge

Now known for The Walking Dead promo, Jackson Street Bridge is one of the best spots for the quintessential Atlanta view.

The skyscrapers of the Downtown Skyline line up along Peachtree Street in the perfect silhouette. You’ll definitely want to stop to get some pictures for your Instagram!

The bridge is easy to get to and doesn’t have a ton of traffic. Just don’t park blocking the bike lanes on the bridge! There is plenty of street parking in the surrounding neighborhood.

And best of all, it is absolutely free to get the best picture of Downtown Atlanta. Go ahead and get a selfie at one of the most picture-perfect spots in the city!

Related Tour: The Walking Dead Private Filming Locations Tour

Atlanta Day Two: Lunch at Souper Jenny

Sandwich and soup at Souper Jenny at the Atlanta History Center, Atlanta, Georgia

For lunch, head to Souper Jenny, located at your next attraction — the Atlanta History Center. Souper Jenny has been serving the Atlanta community fresh and delicious food since 1999.

Try their delicious homemade soups or have a fresh and healthy salad or sandwich to refuel you for the day.

Atlanta Day Two: Learn the History of Atlanta at the Atlanta History Center

Swan House at Atlanta History Center, Atlanta, Georgia

The Atlanta History Center is the best place in the city to learn about, well, the history of Atanta. History-buffs will love spending time here, and you should set aside an entire afternoon to be able to fully explore the museum.

The Center presents exhibits on the people, culture, and history that have shaped the city of Atlanta. The museum’s exhibits cover the 1996 Olympics, Atlanta’s railroad history, stories of Atlanta, golfer Bobby Jones, Native American history in Georgia, Civil War history, and the cyclorama painting The Battle of Atlanta.

The Atlanta History Center also has historic buildings on the premises that you can explore. The Smith Family Farm is Atlanta’s oldest farmhouse; the Wood Family Cabin explores life dating back to the settlers; and the Swan House depicts Atlanta in the Jazz Age.

The Swan House  is one of the most photographed landmarks in Atlanta. You may recognize it as President Snow’s mansion in The Hunger Games.

Related tour: Private Atlanta History Tour From Civil War to Civil Rights

Atlanta Day Two: Dinner at Eclipse di Luna

End your day in Atlanta with tapas at Eclipse di Luna.

This Buckhead restaurant serves authentic Spanish tapas, an extensive wine list, craft cocktails, and an amazing Sangria.

| Save on admission to Atlanta’s top attractions using the Atlanta CityPASS.

Top Atlanta Tours

Top 5 popular tours in Atlanta

  • See the highlights of Atlanta on this bus tour that includes stops at key sites such as the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, Centennial Olympic Park and others
  • Feel the thrill of skydiving without the stress in this indoor skydiving simulation with an accredited instructor
  • Explore the history of the world’s most famous beverage brand at the World of Coca-Cola—the dynamic, multimedia home of Coke’s secret formula with this ticket
  • Luxuriate in Atlanta’s thriving foodie scene on a gourmet walking tour with a small group and try a variety of cuisines as you eat your way through a 4-course meal and try craft alcohol pairings over the duration of the tour
  • Atlanta is known as ‘the Black Mecca’ for its wealth of African-American culture and history — and this small-group tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s key neighborhoods, landmarks, and more

Mapping Out Your Weekend in Atlanta

Ready to explore Atlanta’s top attractions and hidden gems? Use the map below to help plan out your 2-day itinerary exploring Atlanta, Georgia.

With its diverse attractions, mouthwatering culinary scene, and captivating cultural landmarks, this vibrant city is sure to enthrall you.

I hope this 2-day itinerary helps you plan the perfect trip to Atlanta!

Where to Stay in Atlanta

Still have some time left in Atlanta?

Maybe you flew through all the stops on this itinerary and you still have time left to explore. That’s great! I have plenty of other Atlanta resources to help fill your time here. Check out more amazing things to do in Atlanta:

I hope you enjoy your amazing 2 days in Atlanta, Georgia!

Visiting Atlanta FAQ

What are the must-visit attractions in Atlanta for a 2-day trip?

The must-visit attractions for a 2-day weekend trip to Atlanta are the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, and the Atlanta History Center.

How can I make the most of my limited time in Atlanta?

To make the most of your limited time in Atlanta, get the Atlanta CityPASS which will help you save money and time accessing 5 of Atlanta’s top museums and attractions.

What is the best time of year to visit Atlanta for a 2-day trip?

The best time of year to visit Atlanta for a short tip is in the spring when the weather is nice, accommodation prices are low, and there aren’t a ton of crowds.

Is it worth visiting Atlanta’s museums and art galleries in a short timeframe?

It is absolutely worth visiting Atlanta’s museums in a short timeframe! You can fit at least two museums into your itinerary per day, and maybe more if you just see the highlights. Plan for one museum in the morning and one museum in the afternoon to make the most of your time.


Ready to visit Atlanta, Georgia? Plan your trip with these tips.

  • Get Familiar With the City: Check out my Ultimate Guide to Atlanta to help plan your trip!
  • Book Your Flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
  • Find Accommodation: You can find top hotels in Atlanta using Booking.com.
  • Save on Attractions: Save 42% on admission to Atlanta’s top attractions using the Atlanta CityPASS.

Cheers!

Paige

2 Days in Atlanta, Georgia: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Have you spent 2 days in Atlanta, Georgia? Let me know about your visit in the comments!

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12 Comments

  1. 2 days in Atlanta just isn’t enough. One of my favorite big cities in the country. But in the Peach state, Savannah remains my favorite. Such a gorgeous city I wouldn’t mind staying there for a whole week just to soak in the atmosphere!

  2. Atlanta is such a gigantic city, 2 days seems hardly enough. My mom moved there after Hurricane Katrina and we used to check out all kinds of stuff but missed out on a lot of the things you found in this 2 day Itinerary. So when we head back we are definitely going to want to check out Centennial Olympic Park to see all the old sites from the Olympics. Plus Darcee loves ferris wheels! Personally I would love to return to Coca Cola World but we also love history and Atlanta is steeped with it. So the Atlanta History Center will be a must for us as well.

    1. Oh you definitely need more than 2 days! I moved here over 5 years ago, and I still have so much to see! But this is a good starter itinerary to leave you wanting to come back for more!

  3. Pretty cool that your grandparents have a brick in the Centennial Olympic Park! Love your comprehensive list of things to do in Atlanta — I’m sure I’ll make it there someday. So far, I’ve only passed through the airport a few times.

    1. They’re a part of history now, and that’s so cool! 🙂 Oh the Atlanta airport is a world of its own! One of these days, I’ll have to write a guide for it lol!

  4. I really love coming across articles that talks about short trips. Because sometimes that is all I have time to do. I think I would love to stay at the Westin Peachtree Plaza hotel. 73 stories that is insane! I could only imagine the view…until I get there one day that is. I would totally eat the Eclipse Di Luna too! I love Spanish food!

    1. Agreed, I would say the majority of my trips are short 2-3 day trips. Hopefully you can visit Atlanta one day and experience the Westin Peachtree Plaza and Eclipse Di Luna!

  5. I love animals, but still prefer to see them in nature.
    President Snow’s mansion, however, sounds like a place I’d love to see live. Are there roses around? 🙂

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