Big Peach Itinerary: 3 Laidback Days in Atlanta

Morning
You’re in no rush, so ease into your Atlanta getaway with a leisurely brunch at a local favorite. Try the famous Atlanta Breakfast Club downtown for fluffy chicken and waffles or shrimp and grits. It’s the perfect way to fuel up on Southern comfort food. Once you’re happily full, head over to the Georgia Aquarium, it’s just a short walk away and considered one of Atlanta’s top attractions,

The surrounding downtown Atlanta area is very walkable, so you can easily take your time to explore on foot. If you’re up for a low-key indoor activity, you could pop into the World of Coca-Cola museum next to the park to taste crazy soda flavors from around the world.

Afternoon
By late afternoon, why not treat yourself to a little refresh? From Centennial Park you can see the giant SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel nearby. For a laid-back adventure, take a ride in one of its gondolas, gently rising 20 stories high for a panoramic view of the city skyline. Each rotation lasts about 7-8 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and take it all in.

If you’re craving an afternoon pick-me-up, swing by The Varsity for a mid-afternoon snack and a refreshing sweet iced tea or orange frosted shake. This iconic drive-in has been serving hot dogs and chili cheese fries since 1928 and is a must-visit landmark known for its retro vibe and the staff’s classic greeting: “What’ll ya have?”

Evening
As night falls, downtown Atlanta comes alive with easygoing entertainment. If you’re a sports fan and luck out with the season, you could catch an Atlanta Hawks basketball game at State Farm Arena for a fun dose of excitement. If sports aren’t on your mind, head to a live music spot for a casual night out. Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint in downtown serves up delicious Southern cuisine plus live blues and jazz in a cozy setting.

Morning
After sleeping in, get ready to explore Midtown Atlanta at an easy pace. Start with a late morning brunch at the Flying Biscuit Cafe for its unique takes on Southern-style meals, such as pancake tacos. Forget about counting calories, you’ll be walking it off in no time under the sweet Georgia sunshine.

Once you’re nice and full, head over to Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s iconic green space in Midtown. This expansive park is often compared to NYC’s Central Park, and it’s the perfect spot to just lounge and unwind.

Afternoon
For lunch, keep it fun and easy. You could do a picnic in Piedmont Park after grabbing some larger-than-life sandwiches at Zaddy’s. Then, spend a lazy afternoon exploring Midtown.

The area is home to several cultural gems if you’re interested: the High Museum of Art, or the quirky Center for Puppetry Arts, where you can see Jim Henson’s Muppets and more.

If you’re itching for a little more sightseeing, take a relaxed walk along the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail. This popular walking/biking trail is lined with street art murals, parks, and beer gardens. Start near Piedmont Park and wander south, passing through cool neighborhoods like Poncey-Highland and Inman Park.

Evening
Tonight, experience Atlanta’s nightlife by keeping it chill. Start with a show at the historic Fox Theatre in Midtown. This 1920s Moorish-style theater hosts everything from Broadway musicals to classic films and concerts under a starlit ceiling.

If you’re craving something with a bit more latitude, make your way to one of Atlanta’s rooftop lounges. In Midtown, St. Julep or High Note rooftop bar can be great choices for creative cocktails and a breezy atmosphere. You’ll find yourself sipping a margarita or local peach cider while overlooking the skyline—bliss at its finest.

Morning
Add a little “fun-day” to your Sunday with brunch in the historic Decatur for a change of scenery. Pop into Cafe Alsace for a French twist and linger over your meal and watch the neighborhood wake up — kids playing in the square, church bells ringing in the distance, locals walking their dogs. It’s a blissful start that sets a mellow tone for the day.

Atlanta is full of surprises, and if you’re up for a bit of nature, consider heading to Stone Mountain Park after brunch. This popular outdoor paradise is about 30 minutes from downtown, and it’s actually Georgia’s most-visited tourist destination. The park’s centerpiece is Stone Mountain itself, a giant granite monolith offering fantastic views of the Atlanta skyline from the top.

Afternoon
On your way back toward the city, take a beat to wander Decatur Square. It’s compact, walkable, and full of indie shops, galleries, and book stores. Treat yourself to an ice-cold craft beer at Three Taverns Craft Brewery or a scoop of homemade ice cream or a scoop of homemade ice cream at Butter & Cream.

If you’re a music lover, peek into Eddie’s Attic, the famed music club where artists like John Mayer got their start. They often have an open mic night or an early evening show, and the vibe is wonderfully relaxed and friendly.

Then, make your way onto the Atlanta BeltLine trail’s Eastside segment until you reach Ponce City Market for a late afternoon bite.

Evening
As the sun starts to set on your Atlanta weekend, cap it off with a memorable evening. Relax with a drink at 9 Mile Station, the rooftop beer garden, and admire the breathtaking 360-degree views of the city as day turns to night.

There’s no better place to watch the sunset wash the skyline in pink and gold hues while sipping on a craft cocktail. It’s a laid-back finale that mixes a bit of adventure (if you choose) with plenty of chill vibes.