Atlanta, Georgia is known for its vibrant neighborhoods, rich history, incredible dining, and lively music scene. Most days are warm and sunny, and winters are typically mild, making Atlanta, Georgia a great choice for a quick getaway or longer vacation.
In the past year, Atlanta has been highlighted as one of the best year-round travel destinations in the U.S., making both National Geographic’s and Lonely Planet’s travel lists for 2022.
Wondering about the best time to visit Atlanta, Georgia? In this guide, we’ll look at weather conditions, activities, and insider tips from a local (that’s me!) to help you pick the ideal time for your trip.
When is the best time to visit Atlanta, Georgia?
May through September is generally considered the peak season for Atlanta tourism. During these warmer months, you can expect more travelers, lots of events, and bright, sunny days. This is the perfect time to soak up some vitamin D in Atlanta’s numerous parks, gardens, and rooftop venues.
January through April is the slowest season with fewer visitors, cooler weather, more hotel deals, and a higher chance of rain. This is a great time to visit if you’d like to explore Atlanta’s amazing museums without the summer crowds.
Spring and fall are the shoulder seasons for tourism. This is the sweet spot for many travelers because you’ll still have comfortable temperatures while avoiding the scorching hot days of summer.
Cliche as it sounds, there’s no bad time to visit Atlanta. I grew up just outside the city, and I’ve shown friends around in all seasons. The city is packed with fun things to do year-round and the weather skews warm most of the year, making winter storms a rarity.
Seasons in Atlanta
Here’s what you can expect in each season:
Summer in Atlanta: Average summer temperatures range from 69 degrees to 89 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer is hot and humid, so sunscreen, water, and breathable fabrics are a must.
The benefit of visiting Atlanta in the summertime is that there are tons of outdoor activities, festivals, and attractions to enjoy. As a result, the city tends to be more crowded during this period.
The downside of visiting during summer is that the heat can feel sweltering, especially during the afternoons. Temperatures max out in July, where the average highs are around 89 degrees and the humidity can make it feel even toastier.
To avoid melting, I like to plan indoor or shaded activities to cool off during the heat of the day. If you can book accommodation with a pool, even better. At night, temperatures typically stay warm and balmy.
Fall in Atlanta: Average fall temperatures are typically in the 40s and 50s. Fall provides optimal temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, sports, festivals, and scenic drives. As a bonus, the crowds from the summer months disperse.
Days are still usually warm throughout the fall, but you’ll find cooler temperatures after the sun goes down.
Winter in Atlanta: Average temperatures during the winter range from the mid-30s to mid-50s but temperatures can change on a dime. It’s not uncommon for my family to spend Christmas in teeshirts, only to bundle up in winter coats a few days later.
Typically, Atlanta winters are chilly and wet, but they don’t last long. You may get occasional flurries, but the city usually doesn’t get fluffy piles of Hallmark Christmas movie snow.
Spring in Atlanta: Average temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-80s during the Spring months. Early spring (March and April) is a good time to visit Atlanta with fewer crowds and still get warm weather.
However, if you have strong seasonal allergies, you may want to visit in a different season. Spring pollen is no joke in the south!
Looking for places to stay? This guide covers some of the best Atlanta, GA hotels and accommodation options.
Things to do in Atlanta in Summer
Atlanta’s summer, although hot and humid, offers endless outdoor events, activities, and festivals that you can add to your itinerary.
You’ll love visiting during the summer months if you’re a foodie. Atlanta is home to some amazing restaurants and summer food festivals.
Atlanta Summer Beer Fest and the Decatur BBQ, Blues, and Bluegrass Festival are big draws for those who like to taste their way through a city.
You can also take a guided food tour through Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline to try even more southern classics.
Grab tickets to a Braves game at Truist Park, tube on the Chattahoochee River, or attend the Piedmont Arts Festival in Piedmont Park.
If you’re traveling with kids, you can take a refreshing splash in the Fountain of Rings at Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta. Here, you’ll also find playgrounds and plenty of lawn space for picnics.
And of course, it’s essential to top off any of these events with dessert at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams or The Yard Milkshake Bar.
Things to do in Atlanta in Fall
The temperatures cool off a bit during the fall months, making this one of my favorite times to visit Atlanta. It’s still warm enough to wear a t-shirt or light jacket well into September and October, but you may need to throw on a sweater after dark since the evenings get chilly.
Fall is the perfect time to check out the Taste of Atlanta, Atlanta Food and Wine Festival, or Atlanta Pride Festival. To experience great music, don’t miss the Sweet Auburn Music Festival. These lively events are popular among locals and also draw people from around the country.
You can also head to well-known Atlanta attractions like The World of Coca-Cola and The Georgia Aquarium.
Truthfully, these places are popular year-round so you could still find crowds, especially on the weekends, but they’re usually less packed outside of the high summer season.
If you’re interested in sports, grab tickets to an Atlanta Falcons game or head to the College Football Hall of Fame. (Pro tip, make sure to grab dinner and a beer at nearby Der Biergarten after.)
Things to do in Atlanta in Winter
Winter in Atlanta is cold and wet. Although snow is unusual, you may see some flurries. Cold weather in the south brings fewer crowds, making it a great time to see the city if you don’t mind being chilly.
If you’re visiting around the holidays, check out Garden Nights Holiday Lights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, the Stone Mountain Christmas Festival, or New Year’s Eve at the Georgia Aquarium.
You can also grab tickets to The Nutcracker with the Atlanta Ballet at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center.
Make sure to visit the Martin Luther King National Historical Park, including Martin Luther King’s birth home, to learn about the Civil Rights Movement. If you’re in town for MLK Jr. Day, the city hosts numerous events like 5K runs and service days in his honor.
If you catch Atlanta on an especially cold or rainy day, warm up at the High Museum of Art, the National Center for Human Rights, or the Fernbank Science Museum.
Things to do in Atlanta in Spring
Spring is another amazing time to visit Atlanta for pleasant weather and sunny days. Similar to fall, you’ll experience mid-range temperatures that make it easy to roam the city comfortably.
Spring is the best time of year to see the city in full bloom. Good weather and occasional rain showers fill Atlanta’s parks with colorful flowers and lush greenery. Make sure to check out the Atlanta Blooms Festival at the Botanical Garden for a front-row seat.
If you’re interested in art, you’ll love the Atlanta Dogwood Festival. It’s happened annually for over 80 years in Piedmont Park and local artisans, craftspeople, and creators display their work.
Fun music events are also held in the spring. The Shaky Knees Music Festival and the Atlanta Jazz Festival are great ways to spend time outdoors surrounded by lively tunes.
Speaking of spending time outdoors, you can also visit the Spring Wine Festival or the laid-back Sweetwater Brewery and Taproom.
Planning a trip to Atlanta, Georgia?
With warm temperatures most of the year and plenty of fun seasonal activities, there’s no bad time to visit Atlanta.
Personally, I love exploring the city during fall or spring to avoid the peak summer heat and crowds, however, the city is definitely worth visiting any time of year.
Heading to Atlanta, Georgia, United States? Check out these guides to help you plan your trip:
- 15 Best Places to Stay in Atlanta, Georgia
- 19 Best Restaurants in Atlanta, Georgia
- Ultimate Florida Georgia Road Trip Itinerary [Miami to Atlanta]
