Midtown and Downtown Atlanta are full of fabulous places to see, eat, and play. We consulted with our team of Atlanta locals to bring you the best things to do in Midtown and Downtown Atlanta.
Related: Cost of Living in Atlanta
Best Nightlife in Midtown and Downtown Atlanta
It’s not called Hotlanta for nothing—there’s tons to do when the sun goes down here. Let us be your guide for the best nightlife in Midtown and Downtown.
Whole World Theatre
Check out this must-see local comedy improv. The atmosphere is self-described as a “funky, cool, and casual, hilarious, theatrical adventure.” They also serve beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks at the venue!
Fox Theatre
No guide to the best of Atlanta would be complete without mentioning the Fox. It opened in 1929 and has been entertaining Atlantans ever since as a movie theater, dance hall, and showplace. You can catch all sorts of performances here— from Broadway shows to the Atlanta Ballet, pop music concerts or even vintage films.
Agatha’s
“Comedy murder mystery dinner theater with audience participation” is a mouthful, but it’s the only way to describe Agatha’s. You’ll get a one-of-a-kind show along with a five-course meal. It’s a fun, interactive, and delicious experience!
Underground Atlanta
Underground Atlanta is not just a spot for nightlife—contrary to popular belief. During the day you can shop, eat, and try the Scavenger Hunt or Guided Walking Tour. But it’s best known for its nighttime entertainment, restaurants, and parties, such as the largest New Year’s celebration in the Southeast. The area spans six city blocks so you can come back night after night to take it all in.
Best Outdoor Activities in Midtown and Downtown Atlanta
Why stay inside when it’s 60 degrees in December here? Midtown and Downtown have some of the best urban outdoor spaces in the country.
In Midtown Atlanta, you can get your greenery fix with Piedmont Park and the Atlanta Botanical Gardens located nearby. You can also cool off in Downtown’s famous Fountain of Rings in Centennial Olympic Park. And, of course, the Beltline; a former railway corridor turned multi-use trail, weaves in and out of Atlanta’s Intown neighborhoods.
Moving off the beaten path, here are our best picks for unique outdoor activities in Downtown Atlanta:
Yoga in the Park
Come to Woodruff Park any Saturday morning for 60 minutes of vinyasa flow on the lawn in the center of the park. Classes are free, fun, and accessible to all levels from beginners to advanced. Check the weather first, so you don’t get caught in the rain and BYOM (bring your own mat).
Bicycle Tours of Atlanta
BTA offers guided tours of Atlanta’s local attractions, hidden gems, street art, and history. It’s a get-up-and-go idea for family celebrations, team building, corporate events, or just a fun afternoon. You can also choose an electric bike for a less strenuous experience.
Best Food in Midtown and Downtown Atlanta
By now you’re probably getting hungry—we have pulled together our top choices of iconic Atlanta eats. Try these places out in between exploring the best spots in this amazing city.
The Varsity
You don’t want to miss the world’s largest drive-in restaurant, open since 1928. This place is large enough for 600 cars and more than 800 people, which easily fills up during a Georgia Tech home football game. Order a naked dog, fried pie or onion rings to get the full Varsity experience.
Mary Mac’s Tea Room
Open for more than 70 years, Mary Mac’s attracts a crowd as varied as Atlanta itself. This is the place for real finger-lickin’ Southern cooking like fried chicken, sweet tea, fried green tomatoes, deep-fried mud bugs, and chicken livers. Tell them it’s your first visit, and you’ll get a complimentary cup of potlikker.
Nikolai’s Roof
Come to Nikolai’s for sophisticated European dining. You can get a taste of the Old World with piroshki, borscht, foie gras, and other delicacies. Wine connoisseurs will want to stay all night to taste Nikolai’s 900+ wines.
Polaris
Here’s your chance to have a meal in a rotating and heavily unique restaurant—including a spectacular rooftop view. From the handcrafted cocktails, to the rooftop garden, to its own bee garden, there’s always a buzz around Polaris.
Best Attractions in Midtown and Downtown Atlanta
We’ve laid out the best attractions in Atlanta so you get the full Atlanta experience. These Downtown classics will be sure to entertain your adventurous self.
Georgia Aquarium
This aquarium has more than 100,000 animals in 10 million gallons of water. You’ll see species you won’t find in any other aquarium, so make sure you don’t miss this local favorite. If your feed has been slacking lately, the Georgia Aquarium also doubles as a trendy instagram-worthy location.
World of Coca Cola
Unfortunately, they won’t reveal the secret formula—but they’ll tell you all about the history of Coke, including memorabilia and reruns of classic commercials. The best part is the free tasting room at the end of the tour.
Skyview Atlanta
Skyview is a unique 20-story Ferris wheel in Downtown Atlanta where you’ll get scenic views of the city and green spaces as well as a recorded tour in your climate-controlled gondola. This iconic landmark only costs $13.50 for adults and includes four rotations of the wheel so you have enough time to take in all of Atlanta.
There you have it, our best of the best of Downtown and Midtown Atlanta. Get out there and start exploring our beautiful city!
Related: Tour Atlanta Like a Local
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