Sights Worth Seeing

Iconic landmarks are all around the city of Atlanta, and they're never far from a MARTA bus stop or rail station. Even if you've called this city home for years, taking a day to see the sights is something everyone should do from time to time. Here are a few destinations we'd recommend checking out.

Stop One

Atlanta Botanical Gardens

1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta

The 30-acre botanical garden is located in Midtown just down the street from Piedmont Park. There are a number of themed gardens, canopy walks and a fine-dining restaurant in the garden. Visit some of the signature plant collections, including the Desert House, the Tropical Rotunda and the Orchid Display House.

Near: Midtown Station

Stop Two

Centennial Olympic Park and Ferris Wheel

265 Park Ave. W NW, Atlanta and 168 Luckie Street NW.(Skyview Atlanta Ferris Wheel)

Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, this is one of the most beloved parks in the city. The park’s fountains and lush green spaces make it a popular location for festivals, ice skating and charity events. It’s also conveniently located next to the Georgia Aquarium, CNN Center and Philips Arena for a full day in the city.

Cross the street and take a ride on Atlanta’s SkyView ferris wheel for breathtaking panoramic views of the downtown skyline.

Near: Peachtree Center and Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Stations

Stop Three

World of Coke

121 Baker St NW, Atlanta

The World of Coca-Cola is an Atlanta favorite. This museum features interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, a very large polar bear and an infamous tasting room where you can sample soft drinks from around the world. Try Italy’s notorious Beverly beverage if you’re feeling adventurous.

Near: Peachtree Center and Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Stations

Stop Four

Georgia Aquarium

225 Baker St NW, Atlanta

The Georgia Aquarium is a public aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. It houses more than a hundred thousand animals and represents several thousand species, all of which reside in 10 million US gallons of marine and salt water.

Stop Five

The High Museum of Art

1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta

Home to works by some of the most influential artists in history, the High is the leading art museum in the Southeast. For a full day of art and culture at the Woodruff Arts Center, stroll through the halls of the High, then hit up the nearby Atlanta Symphony Hall or the Alliance Theater for an evening show.

Near: Arts Center Station

Stop Six

Swan House

Atlanta History Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta

Designed by famed Atlanta architect Philip Trammell Shutze, the Swan House is a classically-styled mansion built in 1928 for the Edward H. Inman family. Walking through the home's gardens and historic rooms is a great way to spend the day.

Near Buckhead station

Stop Seven

Oakland Cemetery

248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta

Founded in 1850, Oakland Cemetery is filled with sprawling oaks and magnolias and is the final resting place for notable Atlanta legends, including Bobby Jones, Margaret Mitchell and Maynard Jackson. It's home to some stunning architecture and near a handful of favorite local eateries.

Near: King Memorial Station

Stop Eight

The Varsity

61 North Avenue NW, Atlanta

What’ll you have? This Varsity location has the world’s largest drive-in. Established in 1928, this long-running drive-in chain serves up burgers, hot dogs, fries, shakes and other American classics.

Near: North Avenue Station

Stop Nine

Sweet Auburn

Edgewood Ave. and Hilliard St.

Throughout the 1900s, this historic African-American neighborhood was home to some of the first major black businesses in Atlanta and the country. Today, this neighborhood is the embodiment of old-meets-new, complete with rich history, vibrant street art and a burgeoning food-and-drink scene. Take a walking tour of the sites and artwork along Edgewood Ave. and stop at some of the city’s best restaurants and bars along the way.

Near: Atlanta Streetcar

Stop Ten

Jimmy Carter Library & Museum

441 Freedom Parkway, Atlanta

As the only Georgian ever elected president (so far), it’s no surprise that Atlanta loves Jimmy Carter. While the former governor of Georgia continues his mission of human rights and international peace at The Carter Center, the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum gives visitors an inside look at the president’s life and accomplishments. (Temporarily Closed)

Near: Inman Park-Reynoldstown Station

Stop Thirteen

Museum of Design Atlanta

1315 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta

MODA is the Southeast’s only museum dedicated to all things design. From coding to crocheting to urban planning, the museum’s exhibits explore innovative ideas from around the world. MODA also offers events and workshops that help adults and children bring their design dreams to life.

Near: Arts Center Station

Stop Fourteen

Little 5 Points

Moreland Ave. and Mclendon Ave., Atlanta

As the unofficial arts district of Atlanta, this creative neighborhood is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The neighborhood’s eclectic shops boast some of the best bars, food, entertainment and vintage finds in town. And in the fall, the weirdest and wildest of Atlanta turn out in droves to attend the famous Little Five Points Halloween Parade.

Near: Inman Park Station

Stop Fifteen

College Football Hall of Fame

250 Marietta St. NW, Atlanta

You’re not a true fan until you’ve visited the College Football Hall of Fame. Over 50 exhibits explore the history of the nation’s greatest rivalries, players and coaches, spanning from the sport’s early beginnings to present day.

Near: Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Station