It’s the most magical time of the year in Atlanta! As a Georgia resident, I have to say that Atlanta is wonderful year round, but it does seem extra special around the holidays. There are so many fun things to do in Atlanta during the holidays, and I’ve curated a list of Atlanta’s signature holiday events. Check out these fun holiday things to do in Atlanta around Christmas time!
Note: Information updated for 2020 season. Be sure to check each website for COVID related information as some require the advance purchase of tickets.
1. Go Ice Skating at Atlantic Station
1380 Atlantic Dr, Atlanta, GA 30363
Open: November 16, 2020 – January 18, 2021
Price: $15 General Admission (all ages), $12 Veterans, Seniors, and A-Card holders
Skate the Station is an annual event at Atlantic Station that invites people to come skate at the largest outdoor ice skating rink in the Southeast! It is a great way to celebrate the holiday season, plus you can shop, dine, and explore other entertainment options at Atlantic Station as well! There is no time limit on the rink, and there’s even a stand next to the rink selling boozy hot chocolate!
2. Stroll through the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Open: November 14, 2020 – January 16, 2021 from 5 – 11 PM
Price: Varies from $44.95 (peak nights) to $24.95 (value nights)
The Atlanta Botanical Gardens is a beautiful place to visit regardless of the time of the year, but it is even more magical around the holidays! Thousands of lights are lit throughout 30 acres of outdoor gardens for their Garden Lights, Holiday Nights event! You will be amazed by the sculptures, light displays, and choreographed light show.
3. Enjoy festive drinks at the Roof at Ponce City Market
675 Ponce de Leon Ave., NE, Atlanta, GA
Open: Starts November 27, 2020 – January 10, 2021
Price: $15 for Rooftop Access, $30 for Rooftop Access & Unlimited Game Play
Ponce City Market is one of my favorite places in Atlanta, and I love the holiday transformation of the Roof at Ponce City Market around Christmas time! The Roof turns into a winter wonderland with festive decor complete with an ice skating rink, holiday bars, and igloos available for you to reserve. Visit Ponce City Market year-round for mini golf, arcade games, drinks, and fine dining! There is so much to do at Ponce City Market. Plus you’ll get a panoramic view of Atlanta’s skyline.
4. Get hands on experience at Fernbank Museum
767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307
Open: November 20, 2020 – January 8, 2021
Price: Adult (ages 13-64) $20 | Senior (age 65+) $19 | Child (ages 3-12) $18
Fernbank Museum is a natural history museum with interactive exhibits and over 75 acres of walking trails and outdoors fun! During the holiday season, there are special exhibits as part of their Winter Wonderland theme which features trees and other displays decorated by local cultural partners that recognize celebrations including Christmas and Hanukkah. Step outside to their WildWoods and walk among six decorated snow globes that highlights the best of the holidays.
5. Experience holiday fun at Stone Mountain Christmas
1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Open: November 14, 2020 – January 3, 2021
Price: Adult (ages 12+) $31.95, Child (ages 3-11) $29.95, Free for 2 and under
Stone Mountain transforms into a magical Christmas village during the holidays! Check out Stone Mountain Christmas for all the holiday magic. Enjoy park attractions such as Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, and more! Then, spend your evening listening to festive music while admiring millions of dazzling lights. Don’t miss the Christmas Parade and Laser show and catch Santa’s Big Flight. Be sure to visit some of your favorite holiday characters as well.
