30 Ways to Beat the Heat in Atlanta
Atlanta, the bustling capital of Georgia, is known for its scorching summers. With temperatures regularly soaring, it’s crucial to find ways to cool off and make the most of the hot weather. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 30 ways to beat the heat in Atlanta.
1. Visit a Local Swimming Pool
Atlanta’s public swimming pools are excellent for a quick cool-down on hot summer days. Piedmont Park Pool, for example, offers a spacious pool area with lifeguards, lounge chairs, and a shaded concession stand for snacks and drinks. Grant Park Pool, another popular option, provides a relaxing atmosphere with a separate kiddie pool, perfect for families.
2. Explore the Georgia Aquarium
Escape the heat by diving into the wonders of the Georgia Aquarium. With over 10 million gallons of water, this world-renowned attraction houses a wide variety of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and sea lions. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, watch live dolphin shows, and even take behind-the-scenes tours to learn more about ocean conservation.
3. Take a Hike at Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain offers a mix of outdoor adventure and natural beauty. The park features several shaded hiking trails, with the Walk-Up Trail leading to the summit providing panoramic views of the Atlanta skyline. Along the way, you can enjoy scenic spots, picnic areas, and unique rock formations. To avoid the hottest part of the day, consider starting your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
4. Discover Big Escape Rooms
For a unique indoor activity, try solving puzzles and escaping themed rooms at Big Escape Rooms. Choose from a variety of themes like horror, fantasy, or adventure, and work together with friends or family to find clues, solve riddles, and escape within the given time. The escape rooms are air-conditioned, providing an entertaining and refreshing way to beat the heat.
5. Relax at a Cool Café
Atlanta’s café scene offers plenty of cozy spots to relax and cool off. Octane Coffee, located in West Midtown, is known for its artisanal coffee and trendy atmosphere. Condesa Coffee in the Old Fourth Ward offers a variety of coffee and tea options in a chic setting. Enjoy a cold brew or iced latte while catching up with friends or working remotely in a comfortable, air-conditioned environment.
6. Visit the Fernbank Museum of Natural History
The Fernbank Museum is perfect for escaping the heat while exploring natural history and science exhibits. Walk through the interactive displays showcasing dinosaurs, geology, and the history of Earth. The museum also has an IMAX theater with educational films, as well as outdoor trails and gardens for those who want to explore nature in the shade.
7. Ride the Atlanta Streetcar
The Atlanta Streetcar is a convenient way to explore downtown while staying cool. The streetcar route connects key landmarks like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, the Georgia State Capitol, and the World of Coca-Cola. Enjoy a scenic ride through the city without the stress of driving or walking in the heat.
8. Go Ice Skating
Center Ice Arena in Sandy Springs is an indoor ice rink that offers public skating sessions, figure skating, and ice hockey. It’s a great way to escape the heat while enjoying a unique activity. Rent skates on-site and glide across the ice, or take lessons if you’re new to skating. The arena also features a concession stand for snacks and drinks.
9. Attend a Movie Marathon
Atlanta’s theaters are perfect for a day of movie marathons. The Plaza Theatre, a historic cinema, offers a mix of classic and indie films in a retro setting. Landmark Midtown Art Cinema specializes in indie, foreign, and art-house films. With air-conditioned auditoriums and comfortable seating, you can enjoy back-to-back films while escaping the heat.
10. Take a Ride on the SkyView Ferris Wheel
SkyView Atlanta is a towering Ferris wheel located in Centennial Olympic Park. The gondolas are air-conditioned, providing a cool and relaxing way to enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlanta skyline. The ride offers a unique perspective of the city, especially during sunset or at night when the skyline lights up.
11. Explore the Atlanta History Center
The Atlanta History Center offers a comprehensive look into the city’s rich history. The museum features a variety of exhibits on topics like the Civil War, Southern history, and Atlanta’s growth. Explore the indoor exhibits to learn about the city’s past, and then take a stroll through the historical gardens and the historic Swan House for a complete experience.
12. Spend a Day at Six Flags White Water
Six Flags White Water in Marietta is a large water park with thrilling rides and attractions. Experience adrenaline-pumping slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Enjoy attractions like the Tornado, where you plunge down a massive funnel, or the Atlanta Ocean wave pool, offering gentle waves and a sandy beach area. The park also provides shaded picnic spots and food courts for a complete day out.
13. Visit the High Museum of Art
The High Museum of Art is a cultural gem in Atlanta, featuring an extensive collection of art pieces across various genres. Explore works from renowned artists like Monet and Warhol, along with modern and contemporary art exhibits. The museum has air-conditioned galleries, providing a cool and calming environment for art enthusiasts to explore at their own pace.
14. Go Bowling
Bowling alleys are ideal for group activities and staying cool. The Painted Pin, located in Buckhead, offers upscale bowling with a hip atmosphere. Enjoy bowling, arcade games, and craft cocktails in a trendy setting. Midtown Bowl, another popular spot, provides classic bowling with a retro vibe and a laid-back ambiance. Both venues offer food and drinks for a complete bowling experience.
15. Explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park to learn about the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The park includes the King Birth Home, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the King Center, with indoor exhibits detailing the Civil Rights Movement. Walk through the historic district to explore Dr. King’s childhood neighborhood, and take in the peaceful surroundings of the park’s reflecting pool and gardens.
16. Enjoy a Spa Day
A spa day is the perfect way to relax and cool off. Jeju Sauna and Spa, located in Duluth, is a Korean-inspired spa with various sauna rooms, hot and cold pools, and spa treatments. Unwind in the cooler pools or enjoy a rejuvenating massage. The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental in Buckhead offers a luxurious experience with a variety of spa services, including facials, massages, and body treatments.
17. Go Indoor Rock Climbing
Indoor rock climbing is a fun and challenging way to stay active while beating the heat. Stone Summit Climbing and Fitness is a premier indoor climbing gym with walls of various heights and difficulty levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, you’ll find something to enjoy. The gym also offers fitness classes and yoga sessions for a complete workout experience.
18. Explore the Atlanta Botanical Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a lush oasis in the heart of Midtown. The garden features a variety of themed gardens, including the Tropical Rotunda, where you can explore vibrant tropical plants in a climate-controlled environment. Visit the Fuqua Orchid Center to see a stunning collection of orchids, or stroll through the outdoor gardens and shaded areas for a refreshing escape.
19. Visit the Coca-Cola Museum
The World of Coca-Cola is a must-visit attraction in Atlanta, providing a cool and entertaining experience. Learn about the history of Coca-Cola through interactive exhibits, view vintage Coke memorabilia, and watch the bottling process in action. The museum also has a tasting room where you can sample different Coca-Cola products from around the world, all in a refreshing indoor environment.
20. Visit a Local Brewery
Atlanta’s craft beer scene is vibrant and welcoming. SweetWater Brewing Company offers tours of its brewery, allowing you to see the brewing process and sample some of their popular beers. Monday Night Brewing, another local favorite, provides a laid-back atmosphere with unique beer selections. Both breweries have indoor tasting rooms and outdoor seating areas, offering a cool spot to enjoy a cold beer with friends.
21. Take a Riverboat Cruise
Experience the beauty of the Chattahoochee River with a riverboat cruise. Companies like Chattahoochee Nature Center offer guided riverboat tours, where you can learn about the river’s ecology and history while enjoying a cool breeze on the water. The cruises are family-friendly and provide a unique perspective of the Atlanta area.
22. Visit the Children’s Museum of Atlanta
The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a fantastic place for kids to learn and play indoors. The museum features interactive exhibits that encourage creativity and imagination. Children can explore different stations, including a science lab, a construction site, and an art studio. The museum’s indoor environment provides a safe and cool space for kids to enjoy hands-on activities.
23. Go Indoor Skydiving
iFLY Atlanta offers an exhilarating indoor skydiving experience. The wind tunnel allows you to experience the sensation of skydiving without actually jumping from an airplane. Professional instructors guide you through the experience, ensuring safety and fun. The indoor setting provides a unique way to beat the heat while getting an adrenaline rush.
24. Take a Day Trip to Callaway Gardens
Callaway Gardens, located about an hour southwest of Atlanta, offers a variety of activities in a beautiful natural setting. Explore the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, where you can see hundreds of butterflies in a climate-controlled environment. The gardens also feature shaded walking trails, a beach area with water activities, and various recreational options for a day filled with outdoor fun.
25. Explore the Center for Puppetry Arts
The Center for Puppetry Arts is a unique attraction showcasing the art of puppetry. The museum features exhibits on the history and craft of puppetry, with displays of famous puppets from television and movies. The center also offers live puppet performances, perfect for families looking for indoor entertainment Learn about Jim Henson’s work and see original puppets from the Muppets and Sesame Street.
26. Visit the Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum
The Atlanta Cyclorama is a massive panoramic painting depicting the Battle of Atlanta during the Civil War. The museum provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to learn about the battle’s history and significance. Explore the exhibits and watch a brief film explaining the events surrounding the battle, all in a cool and comfortable indoor environment.
27. Take a Yoga Class
Yoga is a great way to stay cool and relax during the summer months. Highland Yoga, with several locations across Atlanta, offers various yoga classes, from gentle flow to power yoga. Thunderbolt Power Yoga specializes in power yoga, providing a challenging workout in an air-conditioned studio. Join a class to unwind, stretch, and beat the heat with some relaxing yoga practice.
28. Explore Atlantic Station
Atlantic Station is a vibrant mixed-use development with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The indoor mall area provides a cool place to shop for fashion, electronics, and more. You can also enjoy dining at various restaurants, offering everything from casual eats to fine dining. Atlantic Station hosts events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and movie nights, providing entertainment for everyone.
29. Visit the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum
The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum provides a detailed look into the life and presidency of Jimmy Carter. Explore the museum’s exhibits to learn about Carter’s achievements, humanitarian work, and legacy. The indoor environment is air-conditioned, offering a cool space to explore historical artifacts and documents related to Carter’s presidency and post-presidency work.
30. Take a Cooking Class
Cooking classes are a fun and engaging way to stay indoors and learn new culinary skills. The Cooks’ Warehouse, with several locations in Atlanta, offers a variety of classes, from beginner to advanced levels. Learn to cook different cuisines, master new techniques, and enjoy a delicious meal at the end of the class. Sur La Table also offers cooking classes, focusing on different themes and seasonal dishes, allowing you to explore new recipes in a comfortable kitchen setting.
These 30 ways to beat the heat in Atlanta provide a mix of indoor and outdoor activities to help you stay cool and have fun during the summer months. From museums and escape rooms to water parks and riverboat cruises, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while keeping the heat at bay.
