Famous for its pivotal role in both the Civil War and the 1960s Civil Rights Movement, Atlanta is now a vibrant city brimming with organised tours that invite you to explore alongside like-minded travellers.
(Photo: Atlanta Sightseeing Bus Tours / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Whether you’re a history buff, a dedicated foodie, or an adventure seeker, this Southern gem of a city has a tour to suit every taste. From cruising down scenic streets to diving into the rich Civil Rights history that shaped the city, Atlanta offers endless opportunities for discovery. With everything from walking tours to less arduous excursions aboard buses and trolleys, there’s no shortage of ways to make your visit memorable. Here are five of the best.
City Bus Tour
There’s no better way of getting to know a city than by traversing its streets. But Atlanta is too big to explore entirely on foot, and so this half-day bus tour is the ideal middle-ground. With a professional guide leading the way, you’ll learn about the city’s long history as you move from Downtown to Buckhead. From the Civil War battleground sites to the mesmerising Swan House (you may recognize it from The Hunger Games), every stop offers a new perspective.
Along the way, you’ll disembark to take a leisurely stroll on the BeltLine and admire the public art on display, as well as visit the Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Other highlights include the ritzy Buckhead mansions, Krog Street Market and the dynamic transformation of Inman Park and the Old Fourth Ward. With something for all interests, this bus tour is a great way to discover what makes Atlanta so special. From $69 per person.
Food & Cocktail Tour
(Photo: Southern Culinary Tours / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
If you like the idea of eating like a local, this 3.5-hour foodie adventure takes you on a mouth-watering stroll through Midtown, one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Here, you’ll indulge in a mix of cuisines at some the district’s tastiest restaurants, with paired cocktails, wine or local craft beers at 2-3 stops along the way. You’ll also uncover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path foodie hot-spots that even locals sometimes miss.
Along the way, your expert guide will dish out juicy tidbits about the city’s rich history, including why there are so many Peachtree streets and the secrets of Midtown. With a curated menu specially prepared for your small group, plus a focus on sustainable dining, this tour is as good for the soul as it is for your taste buds. Th price covers the equivalent of a full meal eaten across four restaurants, including alcoholic or soft drinks. From $117 per person.
Martin Luther King Historical Park Walking Tour
Atlanta visitors can step back into history on this 2.5-hour journey that walks you through the life of one of the most influential leaders of the civil rights movement. During the outdoor guided tour, you’ll visit key landmarks linked to Dr. King’s life, including the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he co-pastored with his father. Along the way, you’ll hear riveting stories about Dr. King and other civil rights leaders in Atlanta that paint a vivid picture of their struggles and triumphs.
This tour also takes you off the beaten path to lesser known landmarks such as the Prince Hall Grand Lodge, the headquarters of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference during the 1960s, and the King Center, where you can view fascinating artefacts and photos from Dr. King’s life. The immersive experience offers visitors a deep connection to the man and his legacy, with sweeping views from the Jackson Street Bridge adding to the experience. From $39 per person.
Hauntings, Ghouls, and Phantoms of Atlanta Tour
(Photo: Atlanta Ghosts By Us Ghost Adventures / Courtesy Viator)
Every city has its spooky underbelly and Atlanta is no different. As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll set off through the shadowy streets of Midtown with a guide who knows the city’s darkest secrets. You’ll visit chilling sites like the notorious Bab’s Midtown restaurant – once home to the most haunted house in the city – and hear stories of ghostly encounters that will send shivers down your spine.
As you wander past famous spots like the Fox Theatre and the hauntingly tragic Sivas Hookah Lounge, the ghost stories will have you looking over your shoulder. But it’s not just the landmarks that are haunted – brace yourself for tales of spirits lingering at unexpected places, like the Stone Summit Climbing Center and Saint Mark United Methodist Church. Whether you’re a sceptic or a true believer, this tour offers a macabre view of the city that you won’t soon forget. From $31 per person.
Atlanta Trolley Tour
Trolley tours are a popular activity in cities across the US – and Atlanta’s is one of the very best, giving you an up-close look at Atlanta’s must-see sights with a fun, historical twist. After hopping aboard, you’ll be taken on 1.5-hour adventure past the city’s most notable landmarks and places of interest. With both morning and afternoon options available, this narrated journey will have you gliding through Atlanta’s vibrant streets while a knowledgeable guide shares stories about the city’s past and present.
As you cruise through the city’s art districts and past attractions like the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium, the trolley tour offers a mix of history, culture and entertainment. Other highlights include stops at the MLK National Historical Park for a chance to honour the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For first-timers and seasoned visitors alike, this tour is a unique, fun and informative way to see the city. From $36 per person.