May is a fantastic time to visit Atlanta, Georgia. The weather is warm, the city’s impressive outdoor regions are in bloom, and popular festivals and events are happening throughout the month. 

This is a comprehensive guide of things to do in Atlanta in May. As an Atlanta resident, I love this time of year because you can easily go outdoors, explore neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the vibrant city culture.

This list is curated for singles, couples, and small friend groups looking for activities around Atlanta and its nearby suburbs. Whether you feel like basking in nature, jumping into the festivities, or wandering through museums, here are some of the best places to experience all Atlanta has to offer.

May is a great time to experience Atlanta festivals, live entertainment, local restaurants, and Atlanta events that are popping up in time for the warm weather. Read on for a list of fun activities to do throughout the month of May, plus annual events you won’t want to miss.

 

Things to do in Atlanta in May: Must-see Atlanta Attractions

 

 

World of Coca-cola

A trip to Coca-cola World to visit the world’s most famous beverage brand is a fine way to spend a day in Atlanta. When you’re planning out things to do in Atlanta in May, consider visiting this iconic destination to enjoy Coca-cola’s famous history, the Scent Discovery exhibit, and samples of Coca-cola beverages from around the globe.

 

Georgia Aquarium

 

 

The Georgia Aquarium is another Atlanta staple that makes it to most people’s lists when visiting the city. This highly rated aquarium is the home to whale sharks, penguins, and many other aquatic animals and fish. Get a day pass to explore the ongoing demonstrations and encounters, or join for after hours events that go on year round.

 

Ponce City Market

 

 

Ponce City Market is a vibrant multi-story collection of restaurants, boutiques, and shops in the original Sears building in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. Visit for a delicious local restaurant experience, and make it even more fun by visiting during the farmers market that takes place each Wednesday from March through October.

 

Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine is one of the differentiating factors of the city. This walking and biking trail circles the city to connect neighborhoods and create community spaces. The wide trail is lined with markets, restaurants, neighborhoods, and scenic city views. It is the best place to experience Atlanta at a slower pace and avoid rush hour traffic. You can easily spend a day along the trail exploring and dining. And if you want to join in on an event, the BeltLine’s Lantern Parade takes place is a great thing to do in Atlanta in May. 

 

Zoo Atlanta

The zoo in Atlanta is a staple for visitors and locals. It is open year round, with daily demonstrations and feedings you can join during your visit. During May, check out Brew at the Zoo with live music, beer and wine tastings, yard games, and more. Funds from the event go towards animal conservation. Plus, the historic neighborhood of Grant Park surrounding the zoo is a fun place to explore local bakeries and Atlanta cuisine.

 

Piedmont Park

 

 

Piedmont Park between Piedmont Heights and Old Fourth Ward was once a forest in Atlanta. Since its earliest days, the park was first a private estate, then a farm, a fairground, and now a sprawling public park. It is 185 acres of serene woods, trails, sports fields, a public pool, and even a beer garden. Weekly walking clubs are open to the public and give a chance to explore the park at length with a group. Because the park is always open you can easily stop through for a walk, to grab a drink, or to relax in the shade by the ponds any time.

 

College Football Hall of Fame

Sports fans will appreciate the College Football Hall of Fame’s many interactive exhibits that reveal the history and traditions of college football. You can grab a day or VIP pass to visit the center and view special exhibits happening throughout the year.

 

Downtown Alpharetta

Downtown Alpharetta is one of Atlanta’s scenic neighborhoods to visit during warm weather months (or anytime really). The calm streets are great for a stroll if you want to visit cozy boutiques, shops, and local restaurants. During May, you can visit and experience the Taste of Alpharetta Festival with local cuisine and entertainment.

 

Atlanta Botanical Garden

 

 

The Atlanta Botanical Garden describes itself as the ‘emerald jewel in the crown of Atlanta culture’ and I totally agree. The serene 30 acre garden is a welcome city oasis and a relaxing excursion in nature. During the month of May, visit and enjoy the Alice in Wonderland garden exhibit

 

Fernbank Forest

Fernbank Forest and Fernbank Museum of Natural History are perfect for a May visit to Atlanta. Weave through 75 acres of walking trails, wooden bridges, nature and wildlife or head into the museum for science exhibits and a 3D theater.

 

Illuminarium

Another unique Atlanta venue to visit in May is Illuminarium. This is for the 21 and over crowd. Immerse into a light and sound experience with drinks in one of the venues many cinematic live experiences.

 

Things to do in Atlanta in May: Can’t Miss May Events

 

 

1. Music Festivals

 

Atlanta Jazz Festival

You may have noticed an emphasis on Jazz across this list of events. May happens to be Jazz Appreciation Month, so it’s the perfect time to enjoy incredible music during different events.

The Atlanta Jazz Festival takes place at the end of the month of May and is one of the biggest free jazz festivals in the country. The festival is hosted at Piedmont Park and is part of the 31 Days of Jazz events series happening across Atlanta. 

This is a great place to pack a picnic or your lawn blanket and plan a day at the park. There are food vendors and crafts under the tree line, and a giant stage set up near the Park Tavern. You can buy food, listen to music, and soak up the sun to the sound of jazz.

 

Atlanta Jazz and Wine Festival

The Atlanta Jazz and Wine Festival takes place at the promenade at Piedmont Park, a great reason to visit the famous park and also enjoy live music and gourmet food vendors at the same time. Grab tickets if you’re in the mood to enjoy the tasting selection of 50+ wines, spirits, and craft beers as you listen to jazz music on the green.

 

Shaky Knees Music Festival

 

 

The Shaky Knees Music Festival is an annual festival of rock music in Atlanta that draws huge crowds. Bringing the rock music scene in Atlanta together, the event features 60+ bands, major artists, food trucks, and interactive activities. Live performances, food trucks, and fun on-site activities make for a lively weekend excursion.

Past musicians have included Weezer, Foo Fighters, Queens of the Stone Age and many more. Be sure to purchase tickets early on as they can go quickly. You can purchase one day or multi day tickets depending on the artists you want to see.

One thing I love about this festival is the great lineup of local food vendors and the energetic ambiance. Stages are set up around Atlanta’s Central Park, so you can go from stage to stage listening to music, eating and drinking, and checking out the different vendors.

 

2. Arts and Antiques

 

Lakewood 400 Antiques Market

The Lakewood 400 Antiques Market takes place during the first weekend of each month in Cummings, Georgia. It’s a short trip outside of Downtown Atlanta and a chance to snag some unique American antiques. The market is on the list of the top ten US antique markets, and there are plenty of outdoor trails around Cummings if you want to stay and explore the area.

 

Decatur Arts Festival

Downtown Decatur is about 15 minutes outside of Downtown Atlanta. The city of Decatur features a walkable downtown region, and each May the Decatur Arts Festival pops up with an art walk, live music festival, and local artists market.

Downtown Decatur is home to historic buildings, local shops, and tons of highly rated restaurants. Because of this, you can easily spend a half day exploring the downtown area and the festival.

 

High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art is Atlanta’s premier art museum. Join a Friday Night after hours event with art and music or visit for First Saturday. Monthly Friday jazz evenings are a great chance to visit the museum and enjoy live music at the same time.

 

Atlanta Film Festival

View films in a historic setting during the Atlanta Film Festival. This big annual festival of film in Atlanta takes place each May. You can visit the viewing events in person and online and enjoy your choice of the 150+ featured films. The home base for the event is Atlanta’s very first theater, the Plaza Theater, built in 1939. 

 

Chastain Park Arts Festival

The Chastain Park Arts Festival makes the list as a top 100 art festivals nationwide. It brings together 175+ artists for a free event for the public with a family friendly atmosphere. There is emphasis on visual arts, with local food trucks and acoustic music to enjoy while you explore the work of talented artists.

 

3. Food Festivals

 

Alpharetta Arts Streetfest

Artists, vendors, and exhibits line the streets of Alpharetta during the Alpharetta Arts Streetfest at the end of May. This is a festive outdoor setting hosted in the Grove at Wills Park where you can enjoy 100+ local crafters, artists, and Atlanta food stations.

 

Things to do in Atlanta in May: May Holidays to Celebrate in the City

 

Cinco de Mayo

 

Tequilafest at Atlantic Station

Tequilafest at Atlantic Station is perfect for you if you’re looking for a day party with dancing, tequila drinks, food and entertainment. Ready to live it up? Bottle service is available, and tickets are required beforehand for entry. 

 

Cinco de Mayo Run

The annual Cinco de Mayo Run commemorates the 5th of May and the ideal of winning against all odds. It kicks off at S Peachtree Creek Trail. Pick your distance and grab a swag bag at the end of this fun race.

 

Memorial Day Weekend

Just a note, Atlanta Jazz Festival mentioned above takes place over Memorial Day weekend. 

 

Atlanta Carnival 2025

Check out Downtown Atlanta’s Caribbean Carnival and parade. The event goes from 10am to 10pm on May 25th in Westside Park, Atlanta. Live music, dancing, and a parade make for a fun way to spend Memorial Day weekend in the city. 

 

An Ode to America

Each Memorial Day the Alpharetta Symphony hosts a free admission Ode to America concert in the park at Alpharetta Methodist Church. Relax in the shade and listen to talented live music before heading out to explore the downtown shops and restaurants around Alpharetta.

 

Mother’s Day

 

Mother’s Day Brunch and Paint

The Strong as a Mother Sip n Paint event in Sandy Springs is a unique way to celebrate Mother’s Day in Atlanta. The best part is that you can take your art with you after the event.

 

Closing Thoughts on Things to do in Atlanta in May

 

 

There you have it, a list of fun places, events and festivals to explore throughout the month of May. This is a great time of year to visit the city and enjoy indoor and outdoor activities. 

The great thing about the city is you won’t run out of things to do. Atlanta always offers something unique to be explored regardless of the time of year.

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