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Fun Things to do in Atlanta for Young Adults: Attractions Guide

People race each other on adult big wheels in a friendly competition at the East Atlanta Strut, a fall festival

Fun Things To Do

Atlanta, Georgia has a unique and youthful energy that sets the stage for a culture filled with history and richness. Because of the energetic culture that can be found here, there are tons of fun things to do in Atlanta for young adults. Near the heart of the Southeast, Atlanta is located at the perfect place to create a city full of rich culture. As a result, more and more young adults are considering making Atlanta their new home. So, what is the attraction of living in one of the fastest growing cities in the Southeast? Let’s take a closer look at Atlanta’s dynamic landscape and and explore its trendy shopping districts, exciting festival scene, craft beer havens, and serene nature areas.

Retail Therapy for Young Adults in Atlanta

The numerous neighborhoods and boroughs of Atlanta offer endless shopping opportunities. Here, one can find upscale boutiques, luxury retailers, expansive malls, and vintage havens that all offer a unique version of Atlanta style for young adults.

Atlanta Boutiques and Uniques

Take a stroll through Midtown to find sophisticated boutiques that are full of local designs and city styles. Then, take a trip to West End Atlanta, which offers upscale shopping in locally owned shops in a walkable part of the city. Next, find eclectic and vintage offerings in Little Five Points and East Atlanta, two artistic neighborhoods with exciting nightlife.

Luxury Retail in Atlanta

Explore Lenox Square Mall, or check out Phipps Plaza in Buckhead for all your luxury retail needs. These sprawling malls boast high-end designers such as Prada, Cartier, Dior, Gucci, and Chanel. Both malls are just a short walk away from one another, all located in the luxurious Buckhead area of Atlanta.

Unique Shopping Experiences

Following a trip to Buckhead, look around Atlantic Station for an open-air shopping experience and a nightlife scene after dark. Be sure to also check out Ponce City Market. Here, you can find two stories of unique food options and retail shops, all located in a converted Sears Catalog distribution center. Each corner of Atlanta’s shopping districts boasts something different to discover in the city.

The Vibrant Festival Scene in Atlanta for Young Adults

Atlanta’s vibrant landscape also serves as the backdrop for its year-round celebrations and festivals. Because of the diversity of these events, Atlanta’s festivals are some of the most fun things to do in Atlanta for young adults.

Rich Culture and Arts Festivals in Atlanta

Culture festivals in Atlanta include the Atlanta Dogwood Festival in Piedmont Park and Sweetwater 420 Fest in Centennial Olympic Park. Or, visitors can check out art festivals such as the Atlanta Film Festival and Piedmont Park Arts Festival. These festivals are perfect for art enthusiasts and showcase the city’s talented artists. In addition to these yearly offerings, many other venues in Atlanta feature their own celebrations, such as Zoo Atlanta’s Illuminights Lantern Festival each January.

Jam at Music Festivals in Atlanta

Take a visit to one of Atlanta’s music festivals, like Music Midtown, the Atlanta Jazz Festival, or Shaky Knees. These multi-day festivals attract thousands of young adult listeners to the city’s sprawling parks each summer to enjoy world-class artists and musicians.

Chow Down and Enjoy Food Festivals in Atlanta

Food festivals like the Atlanta Food and Wine Festival are perfect for food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Atlanta’s festival scene helps celebrate its rich diversity, creativity, and diverse cultural backgrounds.

Culinary and Libation Offerings in Atlanta

Adding to the list of fun things to do in Atlanta for young adults, the city boasts a deep culinary and gastronomic culture that is unique to Atlanta.

Savor Culinary Marvels in Atlanta

From sizzling Southern comfort food to internationally inspired dishes, the city offers a culinary journey like no other. Enjoy the rich culinary scene in Atlanta at restaurants like Delbar, Bacchanalia, and Staplehouse, which are all honored in the Michelin Star Restaurant Guide. An incredible 15 restaurants in Atlanta hold Michelin Star status, with 30 more included in the Michelin recommended list. These restaurants hold a rich diversity of foods and food fusions, ensuring that there is something for everyone’s tastes.

Cheers to Adult Crafty Delights at Atlanta’s Breweries

After experiencing the best dining that Atlanta has to offer, take a trip to the thriving brewery scene. Atlanta’s brews and microbrews showcase unique blends and brew creations from world-class brewmasters. Check out breweries like Sweetwater Brewing, Scofflaw Brewing, and Firemaker Brewing. Visits to these amazing breweries with friends are some of the most fun things to do in Atlanta for young adults. In addition to these big-name craft breweries, many other microbreweries in the city create a huge diversity of creative craft beer options all over Atlanta. Atlanta’s breweries are award-winning and known across the country for their uniqueness and delicious blends.

Holiday Extravaganzas and Celebrations in Atlanta

No matter the season, Atlanta embraces festivities with open arms, turning every holiday into a dazzling celebration. During Christmas, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of holiday markets like the Atlanta Christkindl Market in Buckhead. Here, the twinkling lights and festive music create the perfect ambiance for seasonal shopping and merriment. When Halloween comes around, prepare for spine-tingling experiences at haunted houses across the city, including the award-winning Netherworld haunted house. Around the Fourth of July, Atlanta hosts its dazzling Look Up Atlanta fireworks show in Centennial Olympic Park. No matter the holiday, there are countless ways to celebrate the seasons with fun things to do in Atlanta for young adults. There’s always something special to look forward to and create unforgettable moments and cherished memories.

cheering crowd and fireworks

Young Adult Nightlife Revelry in Atlanta

Atlanta doesn’t sleep when the sun sets—it comes alive! After a craft beer tasting at one of Atlanta’s top breweries, the city’s bustling nightlife scene beckons. Check out an array of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. From trendy cocktail lounges to star-studded music venues, Atlanta offers a diverse array of fun after-dark experiences. Dive into the scene in Midtown, where chic bars line the streets, offering artisanal cocktails and a lively ambiance. Or, take a trip Edgewood Avenue, a hotspot for live music and unique bars that keep the night alive. Alternatively, check out the historic Fox Theatre for concerts and plays that are sure to please. For a unique nightlife atmosphere, head to Underground Atlanta, a hub for entertainment and culture. Whether you’re into rooftop bars with city views or hidden speakeasies, Atlanta’s nightlife promises unforgettable moments and endless possibilities for those ready to dance the night away.

The sideshow bar with Atlanta skyline in the background

Young Adults Can Enjoy Professional Sports Galore in Atlanta

In addition to nightlife and holiday celebrations, visitors can enjoy the thrill of cheering on Atlanta’s professional sports teams. The city hosts various professional sports franchises to root for. Enjoy America’s favorite pastime and watch the Atlanta Braves play at Truist Park. Or, take a trip to the State Farm Arena to watch the city’s NBA team, the Atlanta Hawks. Visit the legendary Mercedes-Benz Stadium to watch the city’s soccer team, Atlanta United, or the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta’s NFL team. For something a little different, cheer on the city’s more unique professional teams, such as the Georgia Swarm Pro Lacrosse team at Gas South Arena. With numerous professional sports offerings, Atlanta boasts a sports culture that is one of the best in the country.

fun things to do in atlanta for young adults. Atlanta Braves' home stadium, Truist Park.

Relax and Unwind from the Day in Atlanta’s Parks

Alternatively to exciting the sports stadiums that Atlanta has to offer, step away from the urban bustle and visit its sprawling green spaces and recreational areas. Atlanta’s 343 parks range can be found all over the various Atlanta neighborhoods and boroughs. These parks and trails allow young adults to escape the hustle of the city without leaving the city limits.

Atlanta's Downtown Parks

At the heart of the city lies Centennial Olympic Park, a 22-acre greenspace that serves as a landmark for the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. Here, visitors can enjoy walking paths, food vendors, and art installations. Piedmont Park offers visitors over 180 acres of tranquil greenspaces and over 4 miles of trails and pedestrian paths.

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

For the avid hiker, explore the scenic trails of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. This public-use land is nestled along 48 miles of the Chattahoochee River and is the only trout stream in the US that runs through an urban area.

Atlanta's Pedestrian Paths and Trails

In addition to the wide variety of parks, the city also boasts the Atlanta Beltline, a 22-mile paved pedestrian trail that circumvents the city. Alternatively, the PATH Foundation has transformed unused railways, rail tunnels, and bridges into pedestrian paths into over 300 miles of trails for Atlanta's residents to enjoy.

Enjoy Life in Atlanta as a Young Adult

Whether you enjoy nightlife offerings, fine dining experiences, or relaxing strolls under a shady tree canopy, Atlanta has something for everyone. Use the lifestyle guides available on Best Atlanta Schools. to find cultural experiences and enjoyable entertainment. No matter the area, there are always plenty of fun things to do in Atlanta, making it perfect for young adults. So, dive into the vibrant culture of Atlanta and make the most out of the place you call home.