Spending a weekend in Atlanta? Awesome! From its amazing food scene, vibrant nightlife, and colorful history, you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained. Although there’s enough to keep you occupied for weeks, you can see the highlights and get the true essence of the city as long as you follow our super helpful guide. Let’s go!

To get started, make sure you snag the cheapest flight to get you to Atlanta. 

Day 1 in Atlanta

Start your day off right at the West Egg Cafe for a southern-style breakfast that will get you fueled up for the day ahead (we LOVE their shrimp and grits — try it!).

Have a look at some amazing creatures of the deep at the Georgia Aquarium — the largest aquarium in the world — which has plenty of amazing exhibits and special shows to keep you enthralled for hours.

A post shared by The Varsity (@thevarsity1928) on Nov 30, 2017 at 5:14am PST

For a local favorite at lunchtime, we recommend The Varsity. The classic fast-food joint has been serving up delightful drive-in fare since the 1920s and is the world’s largest drive-in.

Walk off that heavy lunch with your first afternoon stop — the Millennium Gate Museum. The large gate monument signifies how Atlanta’s railroad was the gate to the West long ago, and is designed in classical Roman tradition. You’ll learn about the state of Georgia’s rich art, culture, and philanthropy there. When you’re finished, head to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens, where you can walk among and admire the hundreds of species of plants and flowers, and, if you feel like it, find a shady tree under which to take a little nap!

Stop by South City Kitchen near the Botanical Gardens. You can eat there or pick up some succulent Southern soul food for the road.

After a long day of going around in the warm weather, we bet you could use a refreshing drink, right? Perfect! Head on to the Porter Beer Bar, where there’s a ton of great beers on tap that are sure to help you relax, unwind, and make some new friends.

Cheers to another beautiful day above the city. #atlanta #sundialatl #tgif #cocktails #weloveatl (Photo c/o @chloeluna11)

A photo posted by Sun Dial Restaurant (@sundialatl) on Jan 29, 2016 at 12:06pm PST

Want one more drink for the road? Head to The Sun Dial, a trendy bar and jazz club where you can catch a great view of the city while downing a delicious bourbon.

Better rest up, because you’re going to need a lot of energy for Day 2!

Day 2 in Atlanta

Wakey, wakey! It’s time to hit the ground running at Ria’s Bluebird, a hippie cafe that serves up out-of-this-world buttermilk pancakes.

Image via Flickr – CC BY 2.0 – Bradley Tinney

Step into the history one of the world’s most famous beverages at the World of Coca-Cola. Learn about its humble beginnings and evolution, try samples, and learn details about its production.

Next, head on over to the Center for Civil and Human Rights, where you can learn about the Civil Rights movement as well as the fight for equality and freedom around the world. You’ll find serval excellent exhibits that highlight poignant moments of the struggle.

Take a lunch break next at the upscale South City Kitchen Midtown. The menu is full of innovative takes on classics like fried chicken and pork chops, plus much more.

Next, head to the CNN Center, where you can take a tour to see all the workings of the TV news network, including visiting some of the actual studios, research desks, and stages that you would have only seen on TV.

After you’re done imagining yourself presenting the news, move on to the next stop to get a bird’s eye view of Atlanta by taking a ride on SkyView Atlanta. The 20 story Ferris wheel offers beautiful panoramic views of the city.

LUNCH – URBAN REUBEN (with a side of #Vegetarian Pineapple Jerk Black Beans): House Roasted Pork, Smoked Gouda, Cherry Peppers, Housemade Apple Horseradish Sauce Grilled on Local Marbled Rye (You can sub Organic Local Tofu for the pork to make it vegetarian) #AtlEats #AtlLunch #AtlantaEats #MadreLunch #SouthernLatin #Sandwich

A photo posted by Madre + Mason (@madreandmason) on Apr 12, 2016 at 11:07am PDT

For your dinner option, if Latin-inspired Southern food sounds like the perfect combo, head over to Madre + Mason. You’ll have delicious sandwiches paired with elegant craft cocktails.

If you still feel adventurous after dinner, visit the Fernbank Science Center Observatory to stargaze. Admission is free on Thursdays and Fridays, and an astronomer is usually there to answer questions.

If you want to keep the good times rolling, then find your way to the Northside Tavern. Housed in a building that was originally a gas station, you’ll meet plenty of friendly people in a welcoming setting. Enjoy your drinks and the great live blues to wrap up your stay in Atlanta.

We hope you enjoy your action-packed 48 hours in Atlanta! Bon voyage!