12 Unique Things to Do in Atlanta: A Guide to ATL’s Offbeat Activities
Are you looking for something new and exciting to do in Atlanta? Look no further. ATL is a vibrant city full of unique experiences and attractions that can easily fill up an entire weekend. From outdoor activities and unusual dining experiences to cultural attractions and nightlife, there’s something for everyone living in Atlanta.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most unique things to do in the city, such as visiting Underground Atlanta, hiking in the Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve, and exploring the Center for Civil and Human Rights. We’ll also share some of the best restaurants, shopping, and entertainment spots in town. So get ready to explore the best of Atlanta!
1. Check out Atlanta Street Art
Atlanta street art is an ever-evolving urban art form that has been gaining steam in recent years. It consists of murals, graffiti, stencils, and other forms of art that can be found on the city’s walls, buildings, and other public spaces. Street art in Atlanta has been part of the city’s culture for decades, with many of the city’s iconic murals and graffiti pieces having been created by local artists. Street art is often used to make political and social statements, and the vibrant, colorful pieces that adorn the city are a reflection of the diverse culture of Atlanta. You can find murals and street art all over the city, particularly in neighborhoods like East Atlanta, Cabbagetown, and Castleberry Hill.
2. Attend a show at the Fox Theatre
The Fox Theatre, located in Midtown Atlanta, was originally designed and built in 1929. The Fox is renowned for its unique “Moorish” architecture, which combines elements of the Islamic, Persian, and Indian architectural styles. It features a large, ornate lobby and auditorium, which are decorated with vibrant colors and intricate details. The theater also boasts a state-of-the-art sound system and a giant Wurlitzer organ. The Fox hosts a variety of performances and events, from concerts and Broadway shows to comedy acts and movie screenings. In addition, the theater is home to the Atlanta Ballet, the Atlanta Opera, and the Center for Puppetry Arts.
3. Spend the day on the Chattahoochee River
The Chattahoochee River is a major river located in the southeastern United States, running from the Appalachian Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico. It is the longest river in Georgia, and is the primary water source for the city of Atlanta. The Chattahoochee is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bass, catfish, and a variety of birds. The river is an integral part of the ATL area and has played an important role in the city’s history and development.
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Atlanta, the Chattahoochee River offers excellent opportunities. Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding are all available, with several access points and rentals.
4. Visit the Center for Civil and Human Rights
The Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta is a museum dedicated to exploring the struggles for civil and human rights in the United States and around the world. Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, the Center provides interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and rotating exhibits. These exhibits explore the past, present, and future of civil and human rights. Through compelling stories and experiences, the Center seeks to educate, inspire and empower visitors to take positive action in their communities and around the world. The Center also features a variety of educational programs, including workshops, lectures, and special events.
5. Check out the Atlanta Botanical Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a 30-acre urban oasis located in the heart of downtown Atlanta. Founded in 1976, the Garden features a variety of themed gardens, including the Children’s Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Fuqua Conservatory and the Rose Garden. The Garden offers a wide variety of activities and events throughout the year, including educational programs, seasonal festivals and concerts, as well as unique dining experiences. The Garden’s grounds also feature several sculptures and art installations, including the Imaginary Worlds exhibition and the largest outdoor Chihuly sculpture in the world.
6. Take in the view at The Sun Dial Restaurant
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Atlanta, you have to check out The Sun Dial Restaurant. It’s a rotating restaurant located in the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel in Downtown Atlanta. It offers 360-degree views of the city through its three-story-high windows. The restaurant offers classic American cuisine, as well as a variety of regional dishes from the South. The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list and a full bar. The Sun Dial has multiple dining rooms, including a private dining area for larger parties. The restaurant also offers a Sunday brunch and special menus for holidays.
7. Go for a hike in the Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve
The Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve is a 2,500-acre state park located in the DeKalb County area of Georgia. It is part of the larger Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area. The preserve encompasses two distinct mountain ridges, the Arabia Mountain and the Panola Mountain, both of which are part of the ancient granite range that stretches across the Georgia piedmont.
The area is home to several rare species of plants and animals, including the rare Georgia aster, the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, and the state-threatened Georgia blind salamander. Recreational activities at the preserve include hiking, biking, bird watching, and picnicking. The preserve is also home to the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Center, which provides educational programs and information about the area’s history and ecology.
8. Experience a thrill at the Atlanta Zombie Apocalypse
The Atlanta Zombie Apocalypse Experience is an interactive, real-life zombie hunt and it’s the ultimate unique thing to do in Atlanta. Guests enter a 5,000 square foot arena, complete with fog and smoke machines, and are armed with paintball guns and masks. As the guests try to make their way to the safe zone, they must fight off hordes of zombies and complete various missions. The experience offers a unique and thrilling way to experience zombie culture and provides a fun activity for friends, family, and groups of all ages. The experience is a safe, adrenaline-filled adventure.
9. Visit the Atlanta Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame
Founded in 2011 by passionate sci-fi and fantasy fans, the Atlanta Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame is a glittering museum that honors the genre’s greatest minds. Located in downtown Atlanta, this hall of fame is a scintillating display of interactive exhibits, artifacts, multimedia presentations. It also hosts events such as book signings, lectures, and film screenings. Here, visitors can explore the history of science fiction and fantasy and discover the works and lives of some of the genre’s greatest authors, artists, and filmmakers.
10. Experience the uniqueness of dining at Gunshow
Gunshow is an interactive, chef-driven dining experience in Atlanta, Georgia. It features a constantly rotating menu of small plates, served family-style and delivered directly to the table. Dishes are inspired by global cuisines, with a focus on seasonal, local and artisan ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and fun. Guests can order whatever they like and explore new flavors. In addition to the regular menu, Gunshow also offers a variety of special events, such as tastings, dinners, and classes.
11. Find all of ATL’s Tiny Doors
Tiny Doors ATL is a public art project in Atlanta created by artist Karen Anderson. The project consists of a series of miniature doors placed around the city. It’s designed to bring a bit of whimsy and surprise to the streets of Atlanta. Each door is unique, ranging from small and simple to elaborate and intricate. Some doors are interactive, allowing people to open them and find a surprise inside. The project began in February 2016 and has since expanded to include over 30 doors throughout Atlanta. The doors are located in places such as parks, street corners, and historic buildings. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Atlanta, finding all of ATL’s tiny doors is the perfect activity.
12. Shop till you drop at Underground Atlanta
Underground Atlanta is a historic shopping and entertainment district located in the city of Atlanta, Georgia. It is situated in the Five Points neighborhood of downtown Atlanta, at the intersection of Peachtree, Decatur, and Pryor Streets. The area is divided into six distinct districts, each with its own unique flavor: Market District, The Arcade, Centennial Park, Commerce District, Southside District and Luckie District. Underground Atlanta offers over 100 shopping, dining and entertainment venues. It also has a variety of live music, street performers, and family-friendly attractions. From clothing stores to restaurants to bars, there is something for everyone at Underground Atlanta. In addition, Underground Atlanta is home to unique events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Taste of Atlanta Food Festival and the annual Peachtree Road Race.
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