Summer in Atlanta is something special. Long, sunny days and warm nights make this the best time to get out and explore what the city has to offer. Whether you鈥檝e lived here for years or are just visiting, here鈥檚 how to make the most of your Atlanta summer.
Start planning your list now because summer goes by fast:
Must-See Attractions
The , a top-notch aquatic wonderland, should be at the top of your list. Witness the majestic whale sharks glide through the massive Ocean Voyager exhibit alongside manta rays and thousands of other sea creatures. It鈥檚 a mesmerizing way to beat the heat while experiencing one of the country鈥檚 most impressive aquatic displays. If you have young kids, the awaits with its engaging hands-on exhibits that let them learn through play.
The , a paradise for soda enthusiasts, lets you taste more than 100 different Coca-Cola products from around the world, a perfect way to quench your thirst on hot days. Aviation fans will get a kick out of the , where you can actually walk on the wing of a Boeing 767 and learn about how commercial flight has changed over the years. is another great option, especially in the early morning or evening when it鈥檚 cooler and the animals are more active.
Festival Time
Atlanta comes alive during festival season! The on July 4 is the to add to your calendar 鈥� 60,000 people run the world鈥檚 largest 10K and turn Peachtree Street into one massive block party!
The , held on July 26 at Piedmont Park, is exactly what it sounds like: lots of ice cream flavors, live music and activities for the whole family. On August 16 and 17, art lovers should check out the , where up to 250 artists show their work while musicians play and artists demonstrate their techniques.
Cap off the season at the on August 23 and 24 at Grant Park. This free two-day event features live music, local food and drinks and kicks off with the , which helps support the .
Parks Worth Your Time
Atlanta鈥檚 parks are perfect for summer days. is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, while is an excellent spot for a midday break. Piedmont Park feels like the city鈥檚 backyard - great for picnics, checking out the weekly Green Market or just watching people go by. Downtown, Centennial Olympic Park has the Fountain of Rings, where kids love to run around and get soaked.
is Atlanta鈥檚 biggest green space, with five miles of paved trails and great city skyline views. connects 45 neighborhoods through a 22-mile loop with walking and biking trails. Plus, you鈥檒l find public art and interesting spots to grab a bite or drink along the way!
Georgia Peach Season
You can鈥檛 do summer in Atlanta without picking peaches. From mid-May through August, farms like in McDonough and in Alto let you pick your own. There鈥檚 nothing like eating a warm, juicy Georgia peach right off the tree!
Water Activities
When it gets really hot, head to the to 鈥淪hoot the 鈥楬ooch.鈥� You can tube, kayak or canoe down the river and cool off while enjoying some natural scenery at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Remember to wear a life jacket, stay hydrated and be mindful of the river鈥檚 current for a safe and enjoyable experience.
For a full day on the water, is Georgia鈥檚 biggest lake with beaches, water sports and attractions like . is closer to the city and usually less crowded, while , up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, has clear water and a more relaxed vibe.
Lace Up Your Hiking Boots
and Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park both make for good day trips. Stone Mountain鈥檚 one-mile Walk-Up Trail takes you to the top for views of the city, while has more than 20 miles of trails where you can learn about Civil War history while you walk.
Find more ways to fill up your Atlanta summer bucket list by visiting the . Click聽聽to request your FREE copy of the relocation magazine to stay in the know regarding Atlanta鈥檚 hottest builders, events and more.