46 Unique Things to Do, Taste & Experience in Atlanta

Atlanta is a city bursting with hidden gems, offbeat attractions, and experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Atlanta has something uniquely unforgettable for you.

Step off the beaten path and explore the city’s lesser-known treasures.

Alternative & Underground Experiences in Atlanta

For those who love the strange, the quirky, and the offbeat, these spots are worth the detour.

1. Doll’s Head Trail

An eerie yet fascinating art trail in Constitution Lakes Park, Doll’s Head Trail is filled with folk art installations made from discarded items found in the area. It’s a one-of-a-kind, ever-evolving outdoor gallery where creativity meets nature.

2. Junkman’s Daughter

A legendary alternative store in Little Five Points, Junkman’s Daughter is a treasure trove of bizarre fashion, eclectic decor, and pop culture oddities. Whether you’re searching for a unique souvenir or just want to soak in the wild atmosphere, this place is a must-visit.

3. For Keeps Bookstore

A hidden gem for true book lovers, For Keeps Bookstore specializes in rare and out-of-print Black literature. The cozy space and carefully curated collection make it a haven for those looking to discover overlooked literary gems. Alternatively, you can browse through their merch section to find a unique gift for friends back home.

4. The Krog Street Tunnel

Walking through the Krog Street Tunnel is like stepping into a living, breathing art gallery—one that never stays the same for long. Every inch of the tunnel’s walls is covered in bold, expressive graffiti, from intricate murals to spontaneous street tags, creating a kaleidoscope of color and creativity.

5. The Goat Farm Arts Center

The Goat Farm Arts Center feels like a secret creative playground where the unexpected thrives. Rusted metal, overgrown ivy, and historic brick buildings set the scene for experimental theater performances, contemporary dance showcases, and immersive art installations. It’s a haven for Atlanta’s most daring artists and a must-visit for those who love boundary-pushing creativity in a setting that feels both raw and magical.

6. Skyline Park

Perched atop Ponce City Market, Skyline Park blends vintage carnival charm with stunning panoramic views of Atlanta’s skyline. Visitors can test their skills on classic midway games, ride the towering Heege Tower for an extra thrill, or sip a cocktail while playing mini-golf against a backdrop of twinkling city lights.

The Krog Street Tunnel

Seasonal and Year-Round Adventures in Atlanta

When planning your Atlanta visit, make sure to consider these unique events in your itinerary!

 7. Renaissance Festival (April-June)

The Renaissance Festival will host its 40th anniversary season, so step into a medieval world with jousting tournaments, costumed performers, and mead tastings.

8. Little Five Points Halloween Festival & Parade (October)

Join the Little Five Points Halloween Festival every October where the streets come alive with elaborate costumes, eccentric performers, and a wild parade.

9. Cabbagetown Chomp & Stomp Chili Cook-Off (November)

A neighborhood fundraising festival featuring bluegrass music, notorious cabbage games, and a massive chili competition, is held every November.

10. Atlanta BeltLine Lantern Parade (May)

Every May, the BeltLine transforms into a glowing spectacle of handmade lanterns, marching bands, and revelers.

Presented by Chantelle Rytter and the Krewe of the Grateful Gluttons, the Atlanta BeltLine Lantern Parade brings together thousands of people for a night of magic and creativity.

11. Trap Sushi Pop-Up (Year-Round)

Trap Sushi is a fusion of Atlanta’s diverse culture and Japanese pop. With a live sushi chef, DJs, local vendors, and live performances, this event promises a unique underground pop-up experience with rotating locations.

12. Atlanta Preservation Center’s Phoenix Flies Festival (March)

To fully immerse yourself in Atlanta’s history and culture, Atlanta’s Preservation Center offers free admission to a month-long festival every March: Phoenix Flies.

This celebration offers rare, behind-the-scenes tours of Atlanta’s historic landmarks.

Back in Time: Vaults and Time Capsules

Always wanted to know the secret recipe of Coca-Cola? Search no more. Atlanta holds secrets beneath its surface—literally. These time capsules and vaults store history in the most fascinating ways.

13. Crypt of Civilization

Hidden within Oglethorpe University is one of the most intriguing time capsules in the world: the Crypt of Civilization. Sealed in 1940 and not to be opened until 8113 AD, this underground vault holds artifacts ranging from phonograph records to everyday items, all meant to tell the story of human civilization to the distant future.

14. The Elvis Shrine Vault

A quirky and mysterious tribute to the King of Rock and Roll, this vault houses memorabilia and artifacts celebrating Elvis Presley. You can find the shrine in the Star Community Bar, which hosts live music events – a perfect place to reminisce about Mr. Presley and enjoy a tribute band.

15. Coca-Cola Secret Formula Vault

Atlanta is the birthplace of Coca-Cola, and its most closely guarded secret—the original formula—is kept in a high-security vault at the

World of Coca-Cola museum. The interactive exhibit offers a fun peek into the world’s most famous soda while adding a layer of mystery to your visit.

Nature’s Retreat and Unique Outdoor Adventures

Tired after all the events? Relax at one of the following serene and one-of-a-kind outdoor experiences suitable for all kinds of travelers. Alternatively, pick a great trail for a breath-taking hike and enjoy Atlanta’s beautiful nature.

16. Lake Claire Community Land Trust

This whimsical, community-driven space features sculptures, a fire pit, and even a friendly neighborhood emu! A true grassroots treasure, it offers a glimpse into Atlanta’s artistic and communal spirit while providing the perfect place to unwind.

17. Constitution Lakes Park

A hidden nature sanctuary with wetlands, boardwalk trails, and a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.

18. Sope Creek Trail

Wander through the scenic ruins of a Civil War-era paper mill, set along a creek lined with giant boulders and serene forests.

19. Lullwater Preserve

Located inside Emory University, this quiet oasis features a picturesque waterfall, a historic mill, and wooded trails perfect for a meditative walk.

20. Cochran Shoals Trail

A scenic stretch along the Chattahoochee River, ideal for jogging, biking, or simply enjoying nature with a view of the water.

21. Hidden Treasures of the Atlanta Botanical Garden

Although the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a well-known attraction, the lesser-traveled areas within it hold surprises for those willing to explore. Walk through the Canopy Walk, a 600-foot sky-high trail through the treetops, or experience the mesmerizing scents of the Edible Garden.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Unique Dining Experiences in Atlanta

Atlanta’s food scene is as diverse as its culture, offering culinary experiences that are anything but ordinary.

22. Trader Vic’s

Tiki culture is alive and well at Trader Vic’s, an iconic Polynesian-themed restaurant located in the Hilton Atlanta.

Sip on a world-famous Mai Tai while surrounded by bamboo decor, tropical lighting, and an ambiance that transports you to a faraway island.

23. The Consulate

For an ever-changing fine dining experience, The Consulate is a must-visit. This international restaurant changes its menu every three months to focus on a different country’s cuisine.

The James Bond-themed decor, craft cocktails, and unique flavors ensure that no two visits are the same.

24. Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party

A whimsical café straight out of a storybook, Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party offers an Alice in Wonderland-inspired escape.

With vintage decor, cozy reading nooks, and an impressive selection of teas and pastries, it’s a charming retreat for book lovers and tea enthusiasts alike.

25. Gunshow

At Gunshow, dining becomes a theatrical experience where chefs personally present their culinary creations tableside, fostering an interactive and dynamic atmosphere.

The menu is ever-evolving, reflecting seasonal ingredients and the chefs’ innovative inspirations. Dishes such as the “Blue Ridge Rabbit. Fig. Pecan ” showcase the restaurant’s inventive approach, blending unique flavors and techniques.

From fine dining to comfort food, try something surprisingly different in Atlanta

26. BoccaLupo

A cozy, under-the-radar Italian spot known for its hand-rolled pasta and famous black spaghetti with hot pepper and shrimp. The intimate setting, combined with a commitment to seasonality, makes it a cherished spot for those seeking authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist.

27. Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours

Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours offers a modern take on soul food, infusing traditional Southern comfort dishes with global influences. The “Southern Marinated Fried Chicken” is a highlight, served with three-cheese macaroni, a collard green roll with pot liquor, and garnished with a sweet potato apple chutney, exemplifying the restaurant’s creative flair.

28. Eats

Located on Ponce de Leon Avenue, Eats is a beloved Atlanta institution known for its hearty and affordable fare. The “Jerk Chicken” is a crowd favorite, offering a flavorful and spicy experience that keeps patrons returning. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, Eats provides a no-frills dining experience that consistently hits the spot.

29. Piedmont Park Green Market (March-December)

Every Saturday morning, Piedmont Park transforms into a vibrant hub of local commerce with the Green Market. From 9 am to 1 pm, visitors can explore a diverse array of vendors offering fresh produce, artisan breads, cheeses, and handcrafted goods. The market often features live music, creating a lively and community-focused atmosphere.

Non-Mainstream Museums in Atlanta

If you love museums but want to explore something beyond the typical, these fascinating spots will surprise you.

30. Madame CJ Walker Museum and Radio WERD

Located in the historic Auburn Avenue district, this museum pays tribute to Madame CJ Walker, America’s first self-made female millionaire, and celebrates the legacy of Radio WERD, the first Black-owned radio station.

31. Margaret Mitchell House

Step into the world of “Gone With the Wind” at the Margaret Mitchell House, where the famous author wrote her Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

This small but captivating museum offers a peek into Atlanta’s literary past.

32. Trap Music Museum

Founded by rapper T.I., the Trap Music Museum is an immersive celebration of Atlanta’s hip-hop culture. With exhibits featuring rap legends, a recreated trap house, and interactive installations, this museum is a must-visit for music lovers.

The museum also features a bar with special drinks and even an escape room!

33. The Wren’s Nest

Step into the preserved home of author and journalist Joel Chandler Harris, the author of the Uncle Remus tales. Located in Atlanta’s West End neighborhood, this Queen Anne Victorian house offers guided storytelling sessions that bring Southern folklore to life.

Every Saturday, the museum hosts live storytelling sessions, where skilled narrators bring African American folklore to life, preserving the oral traditions that inspired Harris.

34. David J. Sencer CDC Museum

Explore the fascinating world of epidemiology at this museum inside the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

This museum features award-winning permanent and temporary exhibitions that cover topics such as the eradication of smallpox, the fight against HIV/AIDS, and the science behind disease outbreaks.

Learn about pandemics, public health breakthroughs, and the science behind global disease prevention.

35. William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum

Discover Atlanta’s Jewish history at the William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum.

The museum’s permanent exhibition, “Absence of Humanity: The Holocaust Years,” presents personal narratives, photographs, and artifacts that chronicle the experiences of survivors who settled in Atlanta.

36. The Patch Works Art & History Center

Nestled in the heart of Cabbagetown, The Patch Works Art & History Center offers an intimate look into this former mill village’s transformation into a vibrant artist enclave.

Exhibits feature photographs, oral histories, and artifacts that tell the story of the community’s industrial roots.

37. The Herndon Home Museum

Explore the legacy of Alonzo Herndon, Atlanta’s first Black millionaire, at The Herndon Home Museum.

This beautifully preserved mansion showcases original furnishings, family portraits, and documents that highlight Herndon’s journey from enslavement to becoming a successful entrepreneur and founder of the Atlanta Life Insurance Company.

38. The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse

Experience Shakespeare as it was meant to be seen—up close, with period costumes, live music, and a menu of British pub fare at this intimate playhouse.

The on-site pub serves British-inspired fare such as shepherd’s pie and ale, allowing patrons to dine before or during the show, enhancing the immersive experience.

Discover Sonesta Hotels in Atlanta for a Perfect Visit

Speakeasies and Nightlife in Atlanta

Looking for something special to do after a day of activities? Whether you’re whispering a password into a red phone booth or sipping a martini under neon lights, a night out in Atlanta feels like an adventure waiting to unfold.

39. Red Phone Booth

Transport yourself back to the Prohibition era at the Red Phone Booth, a secretive cocktail lounge concealed behind a functional British telephone booth. To gain entry, guests must obtain a secret code, adding an element of intrigue to the experience.

40. Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium

Embrace the unconventional at Sister Louisa’s Church, a bar that blends religious iconography with irreverent art to create a quirky, eclectic atmosphere.

The walls are adorned with thrift-store paintings modified with humorous captions, and the upstairs area features a ping-pong table for patrons to enjoy.

41. Jojo’s Beloved Cocktail Lounge

Jojo’s Beloved Cocktail Lounge is a retro-inspired setting where the lush velvet interiors and disco-infused decor transport guests to the 1970s.

The menu features inventive cocktails that pay homage to the era, such as the “Velvet Elvis” and the “Harvey Wallbanger.”

42. The Painted Duck

Experience a modern take on gaming and socializing at The Painted Duck – a swanky “gaming parlour” featuring duckpin bowling, bocce ball, and classic cocktails in a stylish atmosphere.

43. The Clermont Lounge

Visit Atlanta’s legendary dive bar and strip club, The Clermont Lounge, known for its unorthodox charm and legendary performers.

The venue has gained fame for its longtime dancer, Blondie, who is celebrated for crushing beer cans with her bosom and penning spontaneous poetry for patrons.

End Your Day on Nostalgia Avenue

Wrap up your Atlanta adventure with a touch of vintage fun – be it a retro movie night or a weekend flea market getaway for last-minute gifts and souvenirs.

44. The Plaza Theatre

One of the oldest operating movie theaters in Atlanta, The Plaza Theatre offers indie films, cult classics, and special screenings in a retro setting. Catching a film here feels like stepping back in time.

45. Starlight Drive-In

For an old-school movie experience, head to Starlight Drive-In, where you can watch films under the stars from the comfort of your car. This iconic drive-in keeps the nostalgia alive with its neon lights and classic concession stand. Furthermore, it has a flea market onsite, open on the weekends from 6am till 3pm.

46. Kudzu Antiques + Modern

Winner of the 2023 Best of Atlanta, Kudzu Antiques + Modern is a massive warehouse full of antique furniture, retro finds, and hidden gems for vintage lovers. Importing unique antiques and furniture from all over the world, Kudzu is definitely a go-to place for those looking to revamp their homes!

Plan Your Unique Atlanta Trip With Sonesta

Discover some of Atlanta’s best-kept secrets with Sonesta.

Whether you prefer boutique charm or modern luxury, Sonesta hotels offer the perfect home base for your Atlanta adventure.