
Discover Georgia's capital with the 15 best museums in Atlanta
Be inspired by the Civil Rights Movement, local art scene, or even world-famous puppetry with a visit to the best museums in Atlanta.
Ever wondered where you can trace the roots of the Civil Rights Movement and learn about the history of puppetry? Atlanta's got the answer. From contemporary art that'll make you tilt your head (and snap a pic), to historic homes telling tales from bygone eras—there's a museum for everyone in the Georgia capital.
Whether you're looking to uncover the city’s rich history, connections to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., famous movie locations, intriguing design, fashion inspiration, or more, you'll find it all in the 15 best museums in Atlanta.
Best history museums in Atlanta

Get into Atlanta's rich history at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park
1. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park is one of the best museums in Atlanta to learn about the Civil Rights Movement. There are several significant buildings on the site, including the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was baptized and his childhood home.
Highlights:
Consider a dedicated guided tour that explores historic sites associated with the Civil Rights Movement.
Address and opening hours:
450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta. Open Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM.
See the Martin Luther King National Site

See the birthplace of Martin Luther King, Jr and learn about the Civil Rights Movement.
2. National Center for Civil and Human Rights
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights also offer a deep dive into the history of Atlanta as the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the modern Civil Rights Movement. Regular exhibitions connect civil rights history with the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.
Highlights:
The museum features three permanent exhibits showcasing papers and artifacts of Martin Luther King Jr. and stories of human rights struggles around the world
Address and opening hours:
100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-5:00 PM.

Discover decorative art at the Atlanta History Center
3. Atlanta History Center
Explore one of the best history museums in Atlanta with a visit to one of the award-winning exhibitions at the Atlanta History Center. The museums's archive is home to thousands of articles covering Atlanta's rich past, and 33-acres of historic houses and beautiful gardens.
Highlights:
Tour the Margaret Mitchell House, former home of the Gone With the Wind icon. Movie buffs might also recognize Swan House from its starring role in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.
Address and opening hours:
130 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Get a panoramic view of African American History at the APEX museum.
4. APEX Museum
Situated in the historic Sweet Auburn district, the APEX Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of African American citizens in the United States and around the world. It is listed on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, and aims to help visitors better understand and appreciate Black History through regular exhibits, workshops, and events.
Highlights:
Visit the APEX Museum as part of a self-guided tour through some of Atlanta's most important sites.
Address and opening hours:
135 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 11:00 AM-3:00 PM.
Best art museums in Atlanta

Get lost in art history at the High Art Museum.
5. High Museum of Art
The High Museum of Art is one of the best art museums in Atlanta, and a must-visit. The museum features art from around the world, with gallery highlights including French art from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Highlights:
The museum also has lots of creative events for families with children, and offers free admission every second Sunday between 12 noon to 5 p.m.
Address and opening hours:
1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Step into Jim Henson's world at the Center For Puppetry Arts.
6. Center For Puppetry Arts
The Center For Puppetry Arts is a famous museum in Atlanta dedicated to puppets and puppeteers, particularly the iconic Jim Henson. See puppets from across history and around the world, and explore the collections from The Dark Crystal and The Muppets films.
Highlights:
The museum often has live performances. You can get creative with their Create-A-Puppet Workshop.
Address and opening hours:
1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Art comes to life at the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia.
7. Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA) is a Smithsonian Institution Affiliate dedicated to collecting and exhibiting works by local Georgia artists. The permanent collection started with 250 works by artists from the state, making it one of the best art museums in Atlanta.
Highlights:
Since the museum has an ever-rotating of collection of art, you will find modern work that uses various media, such as prints, sculptures, photography, film, and painting.
Address and opening hours:
75 Bennett St NW, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00 AM-5:00 PM.
Best design museums in Atlanta

Fashion fans will adore the exhibitions SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion.
8. SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion
Celebrate the art of fashion by admiring unique exhibitions, forums, films, and events at the SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion. History lovers and fashion enthusiasts will love how the museum celebrates fashion history, whether ceremonial, celebratory or casual.
Highlights:
The SCAD Permanent Collection features pieces from fashion icons like Tom Ford, Diane von Furstenburg, and Karl Lagerfeld.
Address and opening hours:
1600 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

A celebration of all things design at MODA.
9. Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)
Billed as the only museum in the Southeast devoted exclusively to the study and celebration of all things design, the Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) showcases unique exhibits highlighting the understated but crucial role good design plays in our daily lives.
Highlights:
Exhibits past and present include the design history of everything from pasta to chairs.
Address and opening hours:
1315 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-7:00 PM.
Best science museums in Atlanta

Step into Ancient Egypt on the Emory University campus.
10. Michael C. Carlos Museum
Located at Emory University, the Michael C. Carlos Museum specializes in Egyptian antiquities. The ancient displays of mummies and Egyptian art make it a must-visit for families and history lovers.
Highlights:
The display includes the incredibly preserved coffins of chantress Tanakhtnettahat and priestess Nebetit.
Address and opening hours:
571 South Kilgo Cir NE, Atlanta. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Enjoy flight exhibits at Delta Flight Museum.
11. Delta Flight Museum
The Delta Flight Museum showcases aircraft and artifacts from Delta and other airlines. The museum explores aviation history and technology, including restored aircraft and the historic Boeing 767, the Spirit of Delta.
Highlights:
The museum is housed in two 1940s-era hangars providing a memorable experience as you learn about the aircraft restoration process.
Address and opening hours:
1060 Delta Blvd, Hapeville, GA. Open Thursday-Tuesday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Kids will love the dinosaurs at the Fernbank Museum.
12. Fernbank Museum of Natural History
The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is an emporium of the natural world, making it one of the best family-friendly museums in Atlanta. Here you can enjoy 75 acres of outdoor exhibits, walking trails, a breathtaking canopy walk, native, wildlife and nature playgrounds.
Highlights:
At the museum entrance you'll see authentic dinosaur skeletons. Check what's on at the Giant Screen Theater to catch 3D movies and documentaries
Address and opening hours:
767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.
Alternative museums in Atlanta

Learn about the world famous beverage on a tour of the Coca-Cola Museum.
13. World of Coca-Cola
Sample flavors, win prizes, and watch movies showcasing the history of one of the world’s most famous beverages at Atlanta's World of Coca–Cola. Enjoy interactive videos and insights into the development of the Coca-Cola brand and its contributions to pop culture.
Highlights:
Be surround by 1,200 pieces of memorabilia and archival elements from Coca-Cola's history.
Address and opening hours:
121 Baker St NW, Atlanta. Open daily, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM.

Enjoy some peace and quiet while exploring Oakland Cemetery.
14. Oakland Cemetery
The historic Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta has a sculpture and botanical garden, and a public park. Unravel the mysteries of the great men and women buried in the oldest cemetery in the city, including Gone with the Wind author Margaret Mitchell, and golfer Bobby Jones.
Highlights:
The Oakland Cemetery hosts events and festivals from time to time, so keep an eye on their calendar.
Address and opening hours:
248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta. Open daily, 24 hours.

See the home of one of history's greatest men.
15. The home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Get a chance to visit where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was born and raised. Learn about the history of this iconic activist and experience the international Civil Rights Walk of Fame, showcasing activists' footprints in bronze and granite.
Highlights:
On a tour you’ll get insights into the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Your guide will tell you stories stories about MLK, his speeches, and you will visit the Ebenezer Baptist church and his final resting place.
Address and opening hours:
501 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta. Open Monday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM.
Must-see landmarks in Atlanta
FAQs
What is the most famous thing about Atlanta?
Atlanta is the birthplace of iconic activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and one of the epicenters of the Civil Rights Movement. As a result, the city has a deep connection to its Black History, which can be seen and experienced through a number of attractions around the city. The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park is one of the most famous museums in Atlanta and the best place to learn about this history. It’s where you will also find the house MLK was raised in. For a broader education on African American history and culture, check out the exhibitions at the APEX Museum.
Are there any free museums in Atlanta?
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site has and Oakland Cemetery both have free admission. Some of the best museums in Atlanta like the High Museum of Art has free admission every second Sunday between 12 noon and 5 p.m.
How many museums are there in Atlanta?
Atlanta has a whopping 51+ unique museums located in the city covering art, history, science, design, and more, making them one of the many fun things you can do in Atlanta. The largest museum in Atlanta is the High Museum of Art (colloquially the High). It is 312,000 square feet (28,985 m2) and is a division of the Woodruff Arts Center.
Are there any museums in Atlanta that are suitable for families?
Some of the state's best museums for children and families are in Atlanta, and well worth a visit on your visit. Visit Center For Puppetry Arts to see classic Jim Henson characters in real life. Kids will also love learning about dinosaurs at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History and touring the World of Coca-Cola.
Read more about Atlanta

5 epic things to do in Atlanta at night
Atlanta is exciting already during the day, but when the sun sets, the city lights up with live music venues, clubs, and entertainment facilities. Since Atlanta is the capital of hip-hop, expect top DJs, intimate VIP areas, and celebrity sightings. Is the party scene not your thing? No worries, there are plenty of other fun things to do in Atlanta at night, such as the evening exhibits at the Botanical Gardens, views of the city from the Skyview Ferris Wheel, or attending a show at the Fox Theatre. Here’s more to discover for an entertaining time in Atlanta after dusk.

What to eat in Atlanta: 9 must-try dishes
Georgia’s capital is the birthplace of some of the most famous Southern dishes, so finding the best food in the city is high on most visitors' lists of things to do in Atlanta. But what food is Atlanta best known for? Sweet Georgia peaches make the perfect peach cobbler, while its signature fried chicken is a favorite with almost the entire city. And don’t forget the famous meat and three: a hearty plate of meat accompanied by three sides and a true Southern classic. Mouth watering already? Make your must-eat list before you travel with this roundup of the most popular foods to try in Atlanta. From a unique cheese spread to chicken and waffles, it’s a real bellyful.

20 fun and unique things to do in Atlanta
The range of fun things to do in Atlanta goes all the way from sprawling nature preserves to a thriving art scene, and historical sites that shaped American history. The Georgian capital isn't just a busy economic city; it offers A-list entertainment options, and world-class museums and exhibitions. The city also offers never-ending charm, from amazing architecture to inspiring street art.Tour the World of Coca-Cola, learn about the history of Martin Luther King Jr., or sample a few local blends of beer in wine-tasting tours. Outdoor activities are plentiful, from taking a rail car at Stone Mountain Park to kayaking or canoeing at Chattahoochee River. Maximize your adventure with these unique Atlanta activities.

Best places to visit in Atlanta: top attractions you don't want to miss
Atlanta isn't just about peaches and traffic; it's a cultural goldmine waiting for you to strike it rich.Ever fancied sipping on a craft brew in a historic speakeasy? Or maybe you're itching to groove to live jazz in a tucked-away alley? Atlanta's got you. From vibrant street art to soulful Southern kitchens, this city is a mosaic of authentic experiences.If you’re here with kids, check out Zoo Atlanta or a dolphin show at Georgia Aquarium, while foodies should make a beeline for Ponce City Market. Art museums are popular too, like the High Museum of Art or the Michael C. Carlos museum.The 22-mile BeltLine, similar to New York’s Highline, is a great place to be outdoors in summer, lined with art installations and walking trails, while history buffs will love exploring the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park.Whatever your interests, there’s plenty to do and see with this list of the 20 best places in Atlanta.