48 hours in Atlanta

How To Spend 48 Hours In Atlanta

With only 48 hours in Atlanta, there are tons of things to do to experience this Southern city. We recommend following this travel guide.

You’ll taste some of the best food in the city and see the best sights too without filling your schedule too much. A weekend might fly by here, but you’ll soon see that even two days in the city will give you a taste for how amazing Atlanta is.

48 Hours in Atlanta, Georgia

Friday Afternoon

Transfer to Midtown and check into the Four Seasons after landing at one of the world’s busiest airports. Just down the street from Piedmont Park, the hotel is a great base while visiting Atlanta–a city that often requires a car. Go for a walk or jog in the park, and make your way toward the Atlanta Botanical Gardens, which are truly beautiful.

The High Museum of Art is another way to pass the late afternoon and evening with wonderful permanent and temporary exhibits.

Enjoy dinner and drinks in the park, or visit South City Kitchen for a delicious meal closer to the hotel. Sleep well in a comfy bed and get ready for a full day ahead.

48 hours in atlanta

Saturday

Rise early and head to the Flying Biscuit Cafe for a tried and true breakfast of Southern biscuits. Afterward, head to the World of Coke to see the history and process of one of Atlanta’s biggest companies. You’ll even receive a commemorative glass bottle of Coke at the end of your tour. The CNN Center is also nearby if you care to tour it as well.

To better experience local Atlanta and its widely varying neighbourhoods, head to Virginia-Highlands for lunch and boutique shopping. It’s a charming enclave with great bars too. After that, hit Little Five Points for a more alternative scene and more shops like vintage and second-hand clothing stores, record shops and quirky bookstores.

48 hours in atlanta

Sunday Morning

Rise early and check-out before breakfast. Head south to Ria’s Bluebird as early as possible for one of the best–and vegetarian-friendly–breakfasts in town. Another option is to visit Mary Mac’s Tea Room, which is a legendary Southern fare restaurant. It’s been frequented by politicians, Presidents and even the Dali Lama.  Then head for the airport to catch your flight with a full stomach!

48 hours in Atlanta

Molly Harris

Molly Harris is a freelance travel journalist dividing her time between the United States and the Western Balkans.

View stories