Do you want to find some free things to do in Atlanta? Located in the eastern part of the United States, Atlanta is situated on a plateau in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It is one of the top three highland cities in the United States, with an elevation of 350 meters above sea level. Atlanta is rich in tourism, but food, clothing, accommodation, and transportation costs aren’t cheap. If you are an international student in Atlanta and trying to save money, or if you plan to visit Atlanta but have recently been on a tight budget, this blog will guide you to the best places in Atlanta to get the most excellent travel experiences for free!
Is Atlanta Worth Visiting?
Atlanta has a profound history and culture. Founded in 1837, it began as a railroad transportation city. The Battle of Atlanta took place during the Atlanta Campaign of the American Civil War in 1864. Atlanta also hosted the 1996 Summer Olympics and was the centre of the American Civil Rights Movement. Because of these historical events, Atlanta has retained the imprint of modern American political and social change.
Today, with its high quality of life and booming economy, Atlanta is one of the most convenient cities in the United States. Countless talented people are attracted to live here. It is a historical city, an emerging industrial and commercial city, and a culture, health care and medicine centre. In addition, Atlanta has been listed by WalletHub as the fourth of the Most Fun Cities in America in 2024. As a famous garden city in the United States, Atlanta is rich in tourism resources with many famous tourist attractions. It has different attractions regarding history, culture, science and technology, entertainment, and everything else. Therefore, visiting Atlanta is very worthwhile for people from other countries and places.
For those seeking budget travel, here is a list of the top 5 Atlanta free things to do. It can provide you with some destination ideas.
Top 5 Free Things to Do in Atlanta
Adventure in Museums
1 Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center was founded in 1973 as a non-profit organization. It was the hub for many “grassroots” artists at the time. Today, it is one of the most recognized contemporary art institutions in the southeastern United States, hosting artists worldwide and serving as an essential showcase for artwork. Atlanta Contemporary Art Center hosts six to ten exhibitions from several outstanding nationally acclaimed artists per season on a variety of themes. It has no permanent collection, and new exhibitions are held every three months. Because it is one of the most valuable free museums in Atlanta, paying your visit here will be a feast for the eyes. This one of the most meaningful free activities to do in Atlanta take place at 535 Means St. NW Atlanta, GA.
2 Atlanta Monetary Museum
Atlanta Monetary Museum exhibits the history of money from barter to modern times. Visitors can learn about the Federal Reserve’s role in the U.S. economy, such as its monetary policy, bank regulation, and payment system services, and how they affect people’s daily lives. The most anticipated part of the tour is seeing the cash handling operations where millions of dollars are counted, sorted or shredded daily. You can also catch a glimpse of the fantastic automated bank vault and see robotic vehicles transferring cash to the vault. Interactive exhibits allow you to participate in the circular flow of the economy and test your knowledge of personal finance. You’ll also learn about the tumultuous history of the U.S. banking industry and see examples of rare coins and currency. Visiting the Atlanta Monetary Museum is free. After participating in this one of the most worthwhile free activities in Atlanta,you can acquire plenty of useful knowledge about money. The location is at 1000 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia.
3 Fernbank Science Center
With a rich legacy of fostering scientific curiosity, Fernbank Science Center is dedicated to inspiring a passion for learning among visitors of all ages. You will find state-of-the-art exhibits and immersive educational programs highlighting the wonders of our natural world and beyond. In the Fernbank Science Center, admission is free to all pavilions except the planetarium. Weather permitting, the observatory is open for free public observation on Thursdays and Fridays from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. Visiting this one of the free museums in Atlanta is not just an educational experience—it’s an invitation to see the world through the lens of wonder. It’s definitely a worthwhile free stuff to do in Atlanta Georgia. Fernbank Science Center is located at 156 Heaton Park Dr, Atlanta, GA.
4 High Museum of Art
Bank of America has offered the cardholders free general admission—during the first full weekend of every month. So, the High Museum of Art offers free admission to all visitors on the second Sunday of every month from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with special programs from 12:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Children under the age of 6 are free every day. It has become one of the most famous things to do in Atlanta for free since the incentive. You can bring your family to enjoy the free art-making activities, performances and exciting exhibitions. Advance online booking is recommended. You can sign up for a free guided tour to make your visit even more impressive.
5 Center for Puppetry Arts
Center for Puppetry Arts is at 1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA. Residents in Georgia with a library card can request four free tickets to the Center for Puppetry Arts at any public library and a 25 per cent discount on all-inclusive admission, including the Family Series of shows, puppet-making workshops and museums. However, this one of the fun and free things to do in Atlanta may be adjusted at any time, so it is recommended that you pre-verify your confirmation before your visit.
Cooling down in the Summer
Swimming for Free
On a hot summer day, going anywhere seems less appealing. Then go for a free swim. This is definitely one of the most attractive free activities in Atlanta in the summer. The following pools offer free hours.
1 Candler Park Pool: Candler Park Pool is free daily from 12:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., except Wednesdays and Thursdays. It is at Candler Park (1500 McLendon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA).
2 Reverend James Orange Park: Reverend James Orange Park is located at Oakland City, 1305 Oakland Dr SW, Atlanta. The pool is at most four feet deep and is open daily from 12:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., except Mondays and Tuesdays.
3 Maddox Park Pool: Maddox Park Pool is free daily from 12:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., except Wednesdays and Thursdays. The location is 1115 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW, Atlanta, GA.
You can add these free swimming destinations to your list. Don’t miss this free stuff to do in Atlanta.
Strolling Around in the Park
1 Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
As Atlanta’s most important historic park, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park must be the first stop after you land. The historic site covers 35 acres (0.14 square kilometers). The Visitor Center houses a museum of the African American Civil Rights Movement and a gift store converted from a firehouse. The International World Peace Rose Garden was also constructed to commemorate the courageous pioneer who worked for social justice. Paying a visit to Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is one of the most meaningful free things to do in Atlanta Ga. The location is at 450 Auburn Ave. NE，Atlanta GA.
2 Piedmont Park
Piedmont Park is the largest park in Atlanta, with more than 200 acres of green areas. It is finely equipped with multiple beautiful trails, dog park, sports fields, swimming pools, and Lake Clara Meer. It’s well worth to pay a few-hour visit to stroll around this park of nature. It also hosts a variety of great events regularly, such as the Dogwood Festival, the Pride Parade, and the Midtown Music Festival. Those are the fun and free events in Atlanta. Piedmont Park is at 1071 Piedmont Ave, Atlanta GA.
Take an Immersive Tour of University Campus
Emory University
Emory University, founded in 1836, is one of the world’s top private research universities. Emory University is located in Georgia, the largest city in the south of the United States. The campus has an extensive coverage of forests. The buildings on the campus are all in the Italian classical style, built with expensive marble. The style reflects Emory’s elegant and prestigious temperament. Walking in Emory is like you are in beautiful southern Europe. For people who don’t have the chance to study here, it is a precious opportunity to take an immersive tour of this university. This would be one of the most impressive and unforgettable Atlanta things to do for free.
Sightseeing
The Roof
The Roof offers panoramic views of Atlanta. A special elevator can take you quickly to the Nine Mile Station, a beer garden located on the Roof. Serving craft beer, cocktails, and delicious food, it can also host private parties or large receptions from 25 to 500 people. Though it is not an Atlanta-free stuff to do, holding a little party here with your friends while enjoying the stunning views of Atlanta can also be a good choice. In addition to the beer garden, another surprise on the Rooftop is Skyline Park, which offers guests a variety of carnival rides and a miniature golf course. There are two ways to get to the Roof: you can either pay $10 for a Skyline Park ticket or make a reservation at the Nine Mile Station restaurant. The reservation has a $20 fee, but that $20 is credited against your purchase. Sightseeing on the Roof would be one of the interesting free things to do in Atlanta.
Conclusion
There is a treasure trove of free things to do in Atlanta that cater to diverse interests and passions. Whether you choose to take an adventure in museums, swim on a hot summer day for free, stroll around in a park, take an immersive tour of a university campus, or go sightseeing, these free events in Atlanta are all worth your time. Of course, there is a rich blend of other urban and natural attractions in Atlanta waiting for your exploration.
FAQ
What is free to do in Atlanta?
For those who appreciate nature, Piedmont Park is an urban oasis perfect for picnics, strolling, or simply soaking in the skyline views. History buffs can delve into the past at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, where visitors can tour Dr. King’s childhood home and the church where he preached.
What is the most famous thing about Atlanta?
Atlanta is perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement. At the forefront of this movement was Martin Luther King Jr., whose legacy is enshrined in the city’s heart through significant landmarks such as the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
Is Atlanta a cheap city?
While Atlanta offers more affordable housing than other major cities like New York or San Francisco, costs can vary significantly depending on the neighbourhood. Atlanta provides a relatively cost-effective lifestyle without sacrificing the amenities and vibrancy expected from a thriving metropolitan area.
