Atlanta is a city in motion. The culture in Georgia’s capital city seamlessly marries Southern charm with world-class sophistication and modern appeal. Exciting and history-rich, Atlanta’s vibrant nightlife offers adventures for every preference.
Whether you hope to dance the night away after a pub crawl, eat a quiet dinner with that special someone, or watch a cozy game with friends, Atlanta’s got you covered. And, in a city also known as the capital of hip hop and full of so many legendary establishments, definitely keep a look out for celebrities.
Related: The Inside Scoop on Living in Atlanta, GA
Fun Things to Do in Atlanta at Night
Attractions & Shows
City Lights Atlanta Night Tour with Dinner Stop
Neighborhood: Downtown
Address: Atlanta Marriott Marquis, 265 Peachtree Center Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
City Lights Atlanta takes you on an ambassador-guided, three-hour excursion of Atlanta’s most famous cultural landmarks, such as The King Center, The Varsity, Millennium Gate, Ponce City Market, movie & TV locations, and iconic attractions like Mercedes Benz Stadium, Centennial Park and Sky-View Atlanta, all lit up against a spectacular skyline.
You’ll also get a great sampling of the local nightlife in downtown, allowing you to dial into your perfect nighttime experience.
Plaza Theatre
Neighborhood: Poncey-Highland
Address: 1049 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
If you love history, you won’t want to miss visiting the Plaza Theatre. Established in 1939, the non-profit art deco movie house is an absolute treasure with the best popcorn in town.
Currently touted as “Atlanta’s hub for arthouse and international films,” The Plaza Theatre shows cult classics like The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Wussy Mag’s monthly queer camp film series, and Silver Scream Spookshow. They also host Atlanta’s annual Film Festival.
Atlanta International Night Market
Neighborhood: Varies
Address: 1568 Indian Trail Lilburn Rd NW, Norcross, GA 30093
Atlanta’s International Night Market is a roving experience “on tour.” Popping up throughout the city around various holidays, the vendor-oriented market showcases a huge assortment of food, ranging from local to far-reaching Eastern influences. Designed to foster a more inclusive Atlanta, the multicultural experience combines cultural arts, education, and cuisine in a festival atmosphere.
Free & Cheap Things to Do in Atlanta at Night
Museum of Illusions
Neighborhood: Atlantic Station
Address: 264 19th St NW Suite 2200, Atlanta, GA 30363
If you seek mind-expanding experiences, check out the Museum of Illusions, where reality-bending rooms and installations cause you to question what exactly you’re seeing. Learn some science and snap a selfie; then head down to Atlantic Station’s food court directly below for food and frivolity.
VinoTeca
Neighborhood: Inman Park
Address: 299 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30307
VinoTeca touts itself as “a venue for enthusiasts to gather and celebrate wine,” and they absolutely hit the mark. A meld between wine shop and winery, they hold tastings, teach classes, and feature their selections based on mood. Funky and fun, you’re encouraged to buy a bottle, sit, sip, and enjoy some music At The Curbside.
Related: Free Things to Do Outdoors in Atlanta
Places to Eat in Atlanta at Night
Grana
Neighborhood: Morningside-Lenox Park
Address: 1835 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
With a dining room, mezzanine, and a rooftop bar with couches and firepits, Grana is the destination for wood-fired pizza in Atlanta. Laid back and described as “perfect for date night,” the restaurant boasts amazing sunset views. It also accommodates people with dairy-free needs.
Flight Club
Neighborhood: Blandtown
Address: 1055 Howell Mill Rd Suite 140, Atlanta, GA 30318
In the heart of Westside, Flight Club is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Home of the “Social Darts® phenomenon,” the venue brings together a gaming experience like none other, with upscale bespoke cocktails and an impressive menu.
La Travola Trattoria
Neighborhood: Virginia Highland
Address: 992 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Described as “the quintessential neighborhood Italian spot,” La Travola Trattoria is known for its mushroom tagliolini and its intimate ambiance. Even with both indoor seating and an outdoor patio available, we recommend reservations.
Dancing & Drinking: Late Night Things to Do in Atlanta for Adults
Joystick Game Bar
Neighborhood: Sweet Auburn
Address: 427 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
What’s that? Small batch whiskey, beer on tap, amazing cocktails, and a bar menu to keep you coming back, all within an old-school arcade? Seriously, bring your quarters because this chill dive bar with what some patrons call a “Stranger Things vibe” will become your new favorite hangout.
Joystick Game Bar also sits right across the street from Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium, which features some killer gospel karaoke.
MJQ Concourse
Neighborhood: Virginia Highland
Address: 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
One of Atlanta’s many hidden gems, from the street MJQ Concourse looks like a shed, but once you start down the ramp, it becomes apparent that you’ve found one of the city’s edgiest dance scenes. Only steps away from Ponce City Market, the underground club features some of the best DJs around, and the vibe between its two rooms swings from disco to dubstep and pop.
Blind Willie’s
Neighborhood: Virginia Highland
Address: 828 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306
Six nights a week, you can get your blues fix in the heart of Atlanta’s Virginia Highland bar district. Blind Willie’s features live music, reasonably priced drinks, and a comfy atmosphere. As a W.C. Handy Award Winner for Blues Club of the Year, this dive bar is definitely one you’ll want to check out.
Live Near Atlanta’s Best Nightlife
Looking for an apartment in the center of it all? AptAmigo can help! Our team of experts will provide you with a list of options to choose from and will schedule all of your tours. Take the stress out of apartment hunting by letting us assist you with your apartment hunt.
