How to Spend a 24-hour Staycation in Atlanta

No tourist trap here. The city will feel brand new with an itinerary that includes brunch pastries, pool passes, and late-night hangs. This piece will provide a guide on how to spend a fantastic day in this fast-growing city, with no tourist traps on the itinerary.

9 a.m. to 10 a.m. — Walk the Eastside Beltline

Start your day with a leisurely walk. Early morning is a good time to explore the Beltline, a pedestrian walkway and parks built on former railway lines. It offers a unique opportunity to enjoy art installations along the way and observe the city as it wakes up. If you’re adventurous, detour to Historic Fourth Ward Park for pleasant paths and views, or visit the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark to watch skaters take on flips and tricks.

10 a.m. — Indulge at St. Germain French Cafe & Bakery at Ponce City Market

As the city’s waking up, head to the landmark food hall Ponce City Market for St. Germain pastries. Order a hot cappuccino or iced mocha as an eye-opener, and an almond croissant or cheese custard Danish to start your day.

11 a.m. — Enjoy Brunch at Buttermilk Kitchen

Following the walk and indulgent pastries, make your way up to Buttermilk Kitchen in Buckhead. There’s a wide selection on the menu, but we recommend the fried green tomato, bacon, and pimento melt with fresh-cut fries on the side, and the folded egg frittata with mushroom confit, roasted tomatoes, and Grana Padano cheese.

12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. — Discover the Atlanta History Center Buckhead

This cultural gem spans 33 acres, providing a crash course on Atlanta’s intriguing history. Exhibits include interactive, multimedia era-specific displays, old locomotives from the Civil War era, stunning Goizueta Gardens, and historic homes, among many others.

3:30 to 6:30 p.m. — Cool off at the Pool

Atlanta offers several noteworthy pools open to the public with daily passes. Popular options include the Epicurean Atlanta with its ninth-floor sky terrace views, or the InterContinental Hotel with its saltwater pool. Both offer excellent food and drink options as well.

7 p.m. — Dinner at Kyma

Dinner time leads to a culinary trip to Greece at Kyma in Buckhead. The authentic Grecian menu is a pure delight offering seafood dishes, stews, salads, and delectable desserts.

9 p.m. to 11 p.m. — Fun Activities

Atlanta offers fun after dinner activities, like Five Iron Golf, where groups of up to five can shoot the greens of any course in the world, with advanced simulators and immersive screens. Alternatively, Painted Pickle, a fun indoor pickleball courtyard, also allows for light exercise and fun after your meal.

11:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. — Dancing and Drinks

For the night owls, several hotspots around the city allow you to dance and enjoy cocktails until the early hours. JoJo’s Beloved Cocktail Lounge in Colony Square provides a classic and intimate space for cocktails and dancing.