The Best of Atlanta: 8 Great Things to Do When Attending DrupalCon 2025
One exciting perk of attending Drupal gatherings is the opportunity to explore the host city. Beyond leveling up your skills and connecting with the incredible community, this adds an extra layer of excitement to your experience. Having shared our top picks of insightful sessions for DrupalCon 2025, let’s dive into the best of what Atlanta, our host city, has to offer.
Atlanta is a vibrant, business-driven city with a creative spirit, rich history, and the welcoming Southern warmth reflected in its people, hospitality, and cuisine. From its dynamic skyline and scenic parks to world-class museums and lively shopping districts, there’s plenty to captivate you. Here are 8 must-do activities to make the most of your time in the city.
8 must-do activities in Atlanta
1. Stroll through vibrant parks and gardens
Sometimes, the best way to experience a city is by taking a walk and soaking in its beauty. After a busy day of sessions and networking at DrupalCon, a stroll through Atlanta’s green spaces is the perfect way to recharge.
- Atlanta Botanical Garden
1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Escape the conference buzz and unwind at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Wander through vibrant plant collections, admire intricate topiary sculptures (living plants shaped into artistic forms), and find tranquility at the serene Japanese garden. Stroll along the breathtaking Canopy Walk for a unique treetop view. Depending on the time of your visit, you might catch an exhibition or hands-on workshop. In the evening, don’t miss the illuminated light displays set to music, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
- Piedmont Park
1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Escape to Piedmont Park, a sprawling urban oasis in the heart of Atlanta. This expansive green space features scenic walking trails, picturesque lawns, and beautiful views of Lake Clara Meer, all set against the backdrop of Atlanta’s vibrant skyline. Enjoy a variety of activities, including fitness classes, outdoor concerts, and public art installations. Plus, with the Atlanta Botanical Garden right next door, you can easily explore both in one visit.
- Centennial Olympic Park
265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Discover a remarkable 22-acre park built for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games. Centennial Olympic Park features scenic pathways, picnicking spots, expansive lawns, gardens, and playgrounds.
At its heart is a dancing water fountain, the iconic Fountain of Rings, alongside a Ferris wheel you’ll recognize from many photos of Atlanta. Snap a selfie with 'The Spectacular,' a massive LED screen, and visit the memorial honoring the victims of the 1996 Olympic bombing — a poignant reminder of the park’s history.
Located in the park, SKYVIEW Atlanta offers a relaxing ride in air-conditioned gondolas with panoramic views of the city — especially stunning at night. But the skyline views don’t stop there, as we’ve got more to explore in the next section.
2. Catch a thrilling view
Looking to snap a fun selfie to add to your DrupalCon collection? Atlanta has some incredible spots with panoramic city views, offering a fresh perspective on the skyline.
- Jackson Street Bridge
433 Freedom Park Trail, Atlanta, GA 30312
According to Atlanta’s official tourism website, the Jackson Street Bridge was once a well-kept secret among locals. But the secret got out, and now both visitors and residents go there to catch the best panoramic views of the downtown skyline. The scene transforms throughout the day as the light changes, but it’s especially stunning at night when the skyline glows with multi-colored lights.
- The Sun Dial Observation Level
Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel, 210 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
For a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Atlanta, head to the Sun Dial Restaurant’s observation level. Ride a scenic glass elevator 723 feet up and enjoy sweeping views of the city. Whether bathed in sunlight or glowing under twinkling city lights, the panorama is sure to impress.
3. Step back in time
Embark on a journey through Atlanta’s rich history, where the past comes to life through captivating exhibits and iconic landmarks. These experiences provide a deep dive into pivotal moments that shaped both Atlanta and the nation, offering an opportunity to reflect.
- Atlanta History Center
130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Spanning 33 acres, the Atlanta History Center features historic homes, lush gardens, and featured exhibitions. Explore thought-provoking displays on the Civil War, the 1996 Olympic Games, and more. One of its standout attractions is “The Battle of Atlanta” cyclorama — a 138-year-old, 49-foot-tall hand-painted panorama, fully restored and among the largest oil paintings in the U.S.
- Swan House
130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
The elegant Swan House, part of the Atlanta History Center, is a 1928 mansion that captures the grandeur of the Jazz Age. Designed by Philip Trammell Shutze, a renowned American architect, this gem offers a glimpse into the life of Atlanta’s early 20th-century elite. Stroll through its stunning gardens and learn about its history, including its role as a filming location for “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.”
- Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park & Preservation District honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was born in Atlanta and spent much of his life in the city. Start at the visitor center to explore key sites, including his birthplace, the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached, and his final resting place.
4. Explore an iconic brand
Some brands become deeply tied to a city’s identity, making it exciting to immerse yourself into their global legacy and explore the stories behind them while you’re in town.
- World of Coca-Cola
121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
On May 8, 1886, Dr. John S. Pemberton, a pharmacist in Atlanta, mixed his syrup with carbonated water at Jacobs’ Pharmacy, creating the first glass of what would become Coca-Cola. Today, Atlanta is home to the World of Coca-Cola, an interactive museum where visitors can explore the brand's rich history, sample unique Coca-Cola flavors from around the world, and even create their own custom beverages.
5. Unlock the wonders of science
If you love natural sciences, Atlanta has something to surprise and intrigue you. Discover interactive exhibits and fascinating experiences that will ignite your imagination.
- Fernbank Science Museum
767 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Fernbank Museum is described as the place “where science, nature, and fun make history.” It is especially known for its impressive dinosaur exhibits, including a replica of a Giganotosaurus, one of the largest carnivorous dinosaurs ever discovered.
Step outside to experience 75 acres of beautiful nature at WildWoods and Fernbank Forest, where you can enjoy outdoor exhibits, walking trails, a canopy walk, and encounters with native wildlife. The museum also features the Giant Screen Theater, showcasing exciting movies on a 4-story screen.
6. Experience Atlanta’s creative pulse
Atlanta’s vibrant arts and culture scene offers something for every creative soul. Its art destinations spark imagination and inspire wonder.
- Center for Puppetry Arts
1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
Center for Puppetry Arts is an interactive puppetry museum with a dedicated gallery celebrating Jim Henson’s iconic creations, from “The Muppets” to “Fraggle Rock.” Discover beloved characters, enjoy live puppet shows, participate in workshops, and discover engaging exhibitions and exciting events.
- High Museum of Art
1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Located in Atlanta’s Arts District, High Museum of Art houses over 20,000 works of art, featuring a diverse range of permanent collections and rotating exhibits. Its highlights include African art, contemporary art, and special exhibitions, along with community-focused programs.
7. Discover the wonders of marine
Atlanta is home to one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world. If you’re fascinated by marine life, be sure to take some time to visit and explore the incredible creatures that call the waters of the world home.
- Georgia Aquarium
225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Georgia Aquarium boasts over 70 habitats filled with thousands of marine animals. Highlights include whale sharks, manta rays, and beluga whales. Don’t miss the chance to participate in exciting animal encounter programs for a deeper connection with these magnificent creatures.
8. Indulge in shopping and local flavors
Atlanta offers a blend of unique shopping experiences where you can explore everything from local flavors to art objects.
- Ponce City Market
675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
A historic distribution center transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining hub, Ponce City Market offers a variety of specialty stores and high-end boutiques. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you explore unique shopping options and indulge in diverse dining choices.
- Sweet Auburn Market
209 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Housing thirty local businesses, Sweet Auburn Market offers everything from fresh produce or seafood to handmade crafts. You can also find some of Atlanta’s most popular eateries there as well.
Final thoughts
Indeed, Atlanta is a city full of surprises and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Take the opportunity to explore these and many other attractions during your downtime at DrupalCon 2025. As you immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city, you might even cross paths with fellow Drupal enthusiasts — a pleasant surprise! Don’t forget to say “hi” and make the most of this chance to experience diverse cities as part of our ongoing Drupal journey!
