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 my curated 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 cute neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the vibrant city culture.
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.
Let’s dive in.
Events at Atlanta’s Top Attractions
Celebrate ‘Have a Coke Day’ at 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.
On May 8th, Coke is celebrating Have a Coke Day with a free drink (for those with flexible admission tickets).
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.
Science on Tap at Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is another Atlanta staple. This highly rated aquarium is the home to whale sharks, penguins, aquatic animals and unique fish.
This May the aquarium hosts Science on Tap for the 21+ crowd. If you book you’ll have access to a special presentation, plus light hors d’oeuvres, beer, and wine.
You can also purchase a day pass for access to the aquarium, and ongoing demonstrations and encounters.
Pro Travel Tip: If you plan on visiting multiple attractions in Atlanta, grab a City Pass. This pass gives you quick access to the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca Cola, College Football Hall of Fame, and a ton of other spots.
May Events at 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 Ponce in May for a lineup of events like the “Reflections” Kaleidoscope Experience, Lululemon Earthstrong Yoga Series, Sips of Italy wine tasting class and more.
Pro Travel Tip: Find the coziest, trendiest, and most historic places to stay in Atlanta with my insider’s neighborhood guide.
Brew at The Zoo at Zoo Atlanta
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.
The zoo in Atlanta is a staple for visitors and locals. It’s open year round, with daily demonstrations and feedings you can join during your visit.
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 in early May is always a hit.
History Tours at Piedmont Park
Add a trip to the park to your itinerary for May events like weekly walking club, Saturday history tours, or the Atlanta Jazz Festival.
With such a central location it’s hard to believe Piedmont Park (the185 acres between Piedmont Heights and Old Fourth Ward) was once a forest.
In fact, the park was first a private estate, then a farm, a fairground, and now a sprawling public park.
Now days it’s basically a city haven of serene woods, sports fields, a public pool, and even a beer garden.
Taste of Alpharetta
During May, you can visit and experience the Taste of Alpharetta Festival with 70+ participating restaurants.
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, local shops, and great restaurants.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
During the month of May, make it a point to visit the Alice’s Wonderland garden exhibit. The towering flower sculptures and fairytale music are absolutely magical.
The Atlanta Botanical Garden describes itself as the ‘emerald jewel in the crown of Atlanta culture’ and I totally agree. Spanning 30 acres next to Piedmont Park, it is a welcome city oasis and a relaxing excursion in nature.
Fernbank After Dark at Fernbank Forest
Fernbank After Dark is a perfect excuse to merge natural history, libations, and museum adventures into one evening (for the 21+ crowd). This event takes place on the second Friday of each month.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History is also perfect for a daytime visit in May.
You can weave through 75 acres of walking trails, wooden bridges, nature and wildlife or head into the museum for science exhibits and a 3D theater.
Best May Festivals and Events
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 is kicks off every May in Atlanta, and it’s one of the biggest free jazz festivals in the country.
It’s 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.
You’ll find food vendors and crafts under the tree line, and a giant stage set up near the Park Tavern.
Try local food trucks, listen to tons of great music, and soak up the sun to the sound of jazz.
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 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.
Friday Jazz at The 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.
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.
May Holidays to Celebrate in the City
Best Cinco de Mayo Events
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.
Best Memorial Day Weekend Events
Atlanta Jazz Festival and Brew at the Zoo are happening over Memorial Day weekend this year!
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.
Atlanta Carnival 2025
Check out Downtown Atlanta’s Caribbean Carnival and parade. Live music, dancing, and a parade make for a fun way to spend Memorial Day weekend in the city.
Best Mother’s Day Events
Mother’s Day Brunch at Atrium (Ponce City Market)
Atrium is one of my favorite restaurants in Ponce City Market. And this year they’re hosting a beautiful Mother’s Day Brunch.
Honestly, the decor and vibes are perfect for Mother’s Day, and the bar and brunch menu is excellent.
Mother’s Day Tea at St. Regis
Sit down for elegant afternoon tea at the St. Regis.
Botanical Garden: Mother’s Day in The Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden offers complimentary entry for moms on May 11th.
Enjoy access to all garden exhibits and complimentary music during your visit.
Atlanta in May: Conclusion
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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[…] You can even enjoy a drink at Park Tavern along 10th street. Depending on the season the park hosts movies, concerts and events. If you want to see some of the cool events going on in May, check out my full article on top Atlanta events in the month of May. […]