Birthday trip

Question

I live 2 hours from ATL. My 20th birthday is coming up and I'm having a hard time deciding on what to do that would be interesting and have good photo opportunities in Atlanta. I've done the World of Coke but they've changed a lot since I went 10 years ago. I know there's ikea and the aquarium. But is there anything else worth doing. I've looked into the High Museum of Art but don't know if id enjoy it. I definitely want a place to that has good photo spots of the skyline or any architecture of any from im general (so maybe Olympic park?). But I need a main attraction or 2 to do that's captivating and then a little add on like a park or shop if that makes sense. Any recommendations?

Answer

Happy early birthday! Atlanta has a great mix of iconic attractions, photo-worthy spots, and fun activities that can make your 20th birthday memorable. Since you’re looking for a main attraction or two with some add-ons, here’s a detailed suggestion:

For main attractions that are captivating and offer lots of photo opportunities:

Georgia Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring whale sharks, manta rays, and unique exhibits. The indoor architecture and massive tanks are very photogenic.
SkyView Atlanta: This giant Ferris wheel in Centennial Park gives you great elevated views of downtown Atlanta and the skyline—perfect for photos, especially near sunset.
Atlanta Botanical Garden: Beautiful year-round displays, including seasonal flower shows, treetop walkways, and a canopy with lights in the evenings. Lots of Instagram-worthy spots.
Piedmont Park: Adjacent to the Botanical Garden, offering wide open green spaces, walking trails, and great skyline views of Midtown Atlanta.

For architecture and unique city shots:

Olympic Centennial Park: A hub of downtown with fountains, sculptures, and the SkyView. The reflecting pools and the Fountain of Rings are iconic photo spots.
Historic and modern buildings in Midtown and Downtown: The Fox Theatre, Peachtree Center, and the skyscrapers around Peachtree Street offer striking backdrops.

For add-on activities or places to relax and explore after your main attractions:

Ponce City Market: Trendy shops, rooftop views of the city, and colorful murals. Great for food, coffee, and street-style photography.
Krog Street Tunnel: Known for its ever-changing street art murals—perfect for colorful and urban photos.
Walk along the BeltLine: You can combine murals, parks, and city views while getting a nice stroll and casual photos.

Suggested plan: Start with the Georgia Aquarium or SkyView Atlanta for a main attraction, then spend the afternoon at Piedmont Park or the Botanical Garden. Finish with sunset shots from the BeltLine or Ponce City Market rooftop. This combination gives you a mix of iconic city attractions, greenery, and unique photo spots without being too rushed.

With these options, you can enjoy a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, architecture, cityscapes, and fun photo opportunities for your birthday celebration!

Birthday trip

More Atlanta Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions