In the United States, Atlanta is a major transportation hub, earning itself the title of having the busiest airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL).
While it’s rare that you may have some time to leave the gigantic airport and explore some of what Atlanta has to offer, if you do, you have landed in the right spot!
Having flown from Atlanta, I went on a search for things to do near Atlanta airport during my time here.
In this blog post, I list 22 things to do near Atlanta airport during your limited time in the city.
I aimed to keep these places under an hour away from the airport, with most being between 7 and 35 minutes away to account for traffic and other realistic factors!
Disclaimer: This blog post does contain affiliate links which means that if you book one of these activities using my link (which I know you will because you loved how helpful this blog post is *wink*I am going to receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting BCJ!
Delta Flight Museum (7 minutes away)
Only 7 minutes from the Atlanta airport, the Delta Flight Museum will take you into a deep dive into the aviation industry through the lens of Delta, one of the United States’ most popular airlines.
Inside the museum, you will have access to interactive exhibits, such as a flight simulator and the first Boeing 747-400, and a world of knowledge about air travel and Delta in general.
Visiting the museum is one of the most convenient and coolest things to do near Atlanta airport.
Original Selfie Museum (30 minutes away)
Named the #1 selfie museum in America, the Original Selfie Museum is an active Instagram user’s dream!
The museum is a vibrant indoor compilation installation that celebrates the art of self-expression through photography.
As a guest, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a variety of themed exhibits designed specifically for capturing the perfect selfie. From colorful backdrops and installations to creative props and lighting effects, every corner offers a unique opportunity for a self-portrait.
This is a great way to release creative energy in a carefree and playful environment.
Atlanta Rainbow Crosswalks (16 minutes away)
Atlanta has long been recognized as a welcoming and inclusive destination for LGBTQ+ individuals, so its decision to install the Rainbow Crosswalks was fitting.
The Rainbow Crosswalks at 10th St. & Piedmont Ave. represent the symbols of “acceptance, unity, and tolerance representing the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.”
The intersection is considered to be the “epicenter of the LGBTQ+ community,” where several LGBTQ+-owned businesses are located.
Chick-fil-A Home Office Backstage Tour (10 minutes away)
If you are a Chick-fil-A fan, you’ll love knowing that you can take an Office Backstage Tour, which offers an exclusive peek into the brand’s history and makings.
The first Chick-fil-A opened in Atlanta, so it’s only right that when you’re in the city, you get a chance to take a backstage tour!
On this tour, you’ll learn about the history of the brand and its various departments and more about the founder of Chick-fil-A than you probably ever have.
Atlanta State Farmers Market (14 minutes away)
The Atlanta State Farmers Market is where about 150 acres of agricultural commerce and community come together in the city.
Open year-round, the market is a great stop on your way to your final destination if you’re looking to grab some colorful displays of seasonal fruits and vegetables, fragrant blooms, and savory treats while supporting local farmers.
Highlight Sites Trolley Tour (31 minutes away)
Embark on a guided trolley tour through Atlanta where you’ll get to see renowned sites such as the childhood neighborhood of Martin Luther King Jr. and lush green spaces like Inman Park and Ansley Park.
You’ll start the journey in downtown Atlanta, hopping aboard the trolley and visit other iconic spots including Centennial Olympic Park, Inman Park, and Ansley Park.
Hapeville Arts Alley (8 minutes away)
If you’re looking for a dose of artistic inspiration as one of your things to do near Atlanta airport, Hapeville Arts Alley is an outdoor art gallery that you may love!
Listed to be found behind the 600 block of N. Central Avenue in downtown Hapeville, the alley is designed to showcase a diverse collection of murals, sculptures, and art installations created by local and international artists.
Stretching along a pedestrian-friendly alley, the Arts Alley invites visitors to explore and interact with the colorful works of art that line its walls.
Skyview Atlanta (36 minutes away)
What better way to soak up one of the best views of Atlanta, then up in the sky about 20 stories above Centennial Park!?
Skyview Atlanta makes this possible with its private gonadals clustered together to make a Ferris wheel that gives you views of Atlanta’s most popular landmarks, like Centennial Olympic Park and the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Atlanta Botanical Garden (45 minutes away)
The Atlanta Botanical Garden spans 30 acres of land filled with plants from all over the world and themed gardens you can admire on a stroll through the lush greenery.
Throughout the year, the exhibits at the garden do change, as certain plants and flowers bloom during different seasons.
Whether you’re seeking calm amidst nature or learning more about the botanical scene, the garden can be a source of inspiration and peace in this bustling city.
Time to Escape Escape Room (34 minutes away)
Get into character and unlock puzzles at the Time to Escape Escape Room. You can choose from 8 varied-themed rooms, each with its own challenges and games.
If you’re a thrill-seeker or puzzle enthusiast, you’ll love the chance to solve detailed mysteries and use clues to move from step to step as you work with your group to complete your game.
Time to Escape can be a great way to pass time with excitement, suspense, and adrenaline-pumping fun.
Metro Atlanta Urban Farm (8 minutes away)
If you’re looking for one of the things to do near Atlanta airport that is a bit off the touristy path, a visit to the Metro Atlanta Urban Farm may be of interest to you.
Birthed with a beautiful mission to reduce barriers to healthy living in urban communities, this farm has transformed into a thriving agricultural hub that sparks conversation and provides job training, educational programs, and access to nutritious food for underserved communities.
A visit to the farm is a great opportunity to meet with local farmers, browse various product options, and support the local Atlanta community with some purchases.
Porsche Experience Center (9 minutes away)
Have the automotive experience of your life at the Porsche Experience Center, where you can explore the world of Porsche at their facility center.
Test your driving skills through a surreal simulator lab or tour the brand’s history inside its built-in museum.
With plenty of activities and knowledge to learn at the center, whatever you choose to do, you will be amazed and immersed in one of the world’s most popular automotive brands.
Trap Music Museum (37 minutes away)
The World’s First Hip Hop Museum, the Trap Music Museum, is undeniably one of the must-dos when visiting Atlanta and one of the greatest things to do near Atlanta airport.
Created by well-known hip-hop artist T.I., the museum showcases the evolution and impact of trap music through immersive exhibits and interactive displays.
As a visitor, you’ll delve into the genre’s roots, from its origins in Atlanta’s urban neighborhoods to its global rise in mainstream culture.
Featuring artifacts and multimedia installations, the museum pays homage to iconic artists and the realities they depict through their music.
Fun Spot America (26 minutes away)
Fun Spot America in Atlanta is an amusement park that offers a wide array of attractions and activities.
From roller coasters to family rides, Fun Spot America is bound to keep you entertained while in Atlanta.
In addition to its thrilling rides, Fun Spot America features arcade attractions, and delicious dining options, ensuring that you get multiple doses of fun!
Krog Street District (32 minutes away)
Strolling the paths of The Krog District in Atlanta is a great way to pass the time in the city.
Composed of several retail and communal dining spaces, The Krog District has vibrant graffiti murals, diverse eateries, boutiques, craft stalls, and a thriving shopping experience.
From getting a haircut to opting for a full-body dance class or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many stalls available, this district showcases yet another aspect of Atlanta’s diversity.
Hapeville Depot Museum (8 minutes away)
The Hapeville Depot Museum is “an 1890 train depot turned history museum, gallery, and visitor center. Telling the story of aviation, railroad, and automobile history as well as the early history of Georgia through the lens of Hapeville.” as described on its website.
You’ll walk through the museum and learn about Hapeville’s evolution from a railroad town to the community it is today.
International Peace Fountain (34 minutes away)
A symbol of unity and harmony in downtown Atlanta, the International Peace Fountain in Woodruff Park is surely a sight to see.
Commemorating Atlanta’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights movement, the fountain’s design features a series of cascading water jets adorned with sculptures representing the continents of the world and continues inspiring you to reinforce the values of global cooperation and understanding.
Atlanta State Farmers Market (14 minutes away)
The Atlanta State Farmers Market is a hub of agricultural activity and community connection.
Spanning over 150 acres, it offers an array of fresh produce, flowers, and goods from local farmers and vendors.
Take in the vibrant atmosphere with the colors and aromas of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other offerings.
Atlanta Zoo (20 minutes away)
If you have the energy to walk open grounds, the Atlanta Zoo is a beloved destination for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages.
Home to a diverse array of species from around the globe, the zoo offers visitors the chance to observe and learn about animals.
From lions to playful pandas, the Atlanta Zoo is a conservation center and educational institution for animal lovers.
World of Coca Cola (43 minutes away)
One of the most popular attractions in Atlanta, the World of Coca-Cola in downtown Atlanta, pays tribute to one of the world’s most well-known brands.
An immersive experience, the facility allows you to explore interactive exhibits, sample beverages from around the world, and marvel at the vast collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia.
You’ll enjoy stopping by exhibits like the Beverage Lab, where you can learn exactly what goes into crafting a beverage.
As you continue making your way through, you’ll see why the World of Coca-Cola is considered a must-see for visitors of all ages.
Children’s Museum of Atlanta (38 minutes away)
If you’re traveling with kids and looking for things to do near Atlanta airport, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a great place to start.
The museum offers a wide range of hands-on exhibits and activities for children ages 0-8 and their families.
From exploring a mini cityscape to experimenting with science concepts, the museum provides a stimulating environment where children can learn through play.
Georgia Aquarium (45 minutes away)
Spending time at an aquarium is always a great idea as you take in the stunning marine life surrounding you.
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is home to thousands of marine animals representing hundreds of species and is a great way to spend a few hours in Atlanta when looking for things to do.
Ponce City Market (35 minutes away)
Ponce City Market blends retail shops, restaurants, offices, and residential spaces all in one setting and is a great open-air hangout spot in the city to pass the time.
Including another well-done market in Atlanta, as a visitor, you can explore the food hall and try a diverse selection of culinary delights, shop for unique goods from local artisans and boutiques, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
