Girlfriends Guide to Atlanta

Known as the "Capital of the South," Atlanta is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends Southern charm with a modern urban vibe. It's a bustling metropolis nestled in the heart of Georgia, where history, culture, and innovation converge. From its iconic skyline dotted with gleaming skyscrapers to its rich tapestry of neighborhoods, Atlanta offers a little something for everyone. You can explore world-class museums, catch a Braves game, savor delicious soul food, or groove to live music in the city's vibrant nightlife scene. Atlanta is an energetic melting pot that captures the spirit of the South in a truly unique way.

Table of Contents

Disclosure: Girlfriend Weekend is a reader-supported site. We may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you click through our links and make a purchase from one of our partners. For details, refer to our Privacy Policy and Disclosure.

Where to Stay

We’ve curated a short-list of moderately priced boutique hotels perfect for your next girls’ weekend.

Note: some of the boutique hotels we recommend have a nightly amenities fee for some awesome extras included in your stay. Be sure to read about what’s included to take full advantage!

Hotel Clermont

Hotel Clermont is a trendy boutique hotel located in the vibrant Poncey-Highland neighborhood. This retro-chic hotel is known for its vibrant and eclectic design, capturing the spirit of Atlanta's past. The hotel has a lively atmosphere and a stylish rooftop bar. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and the hotel's vibrant nightlife scene.

Hotel Clermont
Hotel Colee

Hotel Colee is a hidden gem that blends modern luxury with Southern charm. With stylishly designed rooms, attentive staff, and a prime location in the heart of the city, this hotel offers a memorable stay. Enjoy the convenience of being within walking distance to trendy restaurants and vibrant shopping districts. Whether you're taking a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool or savoring delectable dishes at the on-site restaurant, Hotel Colee provides an unforgettable experience.

Hotel Colee
Moxy Atlanta Midtown

This vibrant and chic hotel is the perfect base to explore the city's trendy neighborhoods and attractions. With modern, Instagram-worthy decor, a lively rooftop bar and two other lounge areas, and cozy rooms, it's the ideal spot to unwind and create lasting memories with your squad. Embrace the vibrant energy of Atlanta while enjoying the convenience of staying in the heart of the action at Moxy Atlanta Midtown. Get ready for a weekend filled with laughter, fun, and unforgettable experiences!

Moxy Atlanta Midtown

Where to Eat

Recommending restaurants can be tricky – there are so many choices! Here we have recommended a few of our favorites, but be sure to check out our local search links below if you are looking for something specific. Bon Appétit!

Bar Avize is a dreamy girls‑weekend stop when you want something chic, cozy, and a little indulgent. This Alpine‑inspired cocktail and wine bar in West Midtown pairs a luxe, fireside lounge vibe with playful, elevated bar food and a standout champagne and cocktail program. With plush banquettes, warm lighting, and a buzzy but intimate atmosphere, it’s the kind of place that invites ordering truffle fries, popping a bottle, and settling in for a long night of cocktails and laughs.

Set along the BeltLine in a converted historic warehouse, this lively food hall lets everyone follow their cravings (cocktails, wine, tacos, dumplings, sweets) without committing to just one menu. The casual, social setup makes it ideal for grazing, sharing bites, and popping in and out of conversations, while the atmosphere keeps the weekend momentum going. It’s a go‑with‑the‑flow stop that feels fun, modern, and unmistakably Atlanta.

This Buckhead gem blends a stylish wine‑centric restaurant with a curated bookstore, creating a cozy yet sophisticated space where you can sip beautiful wines, share refined plates, and linger among shelves of books. The atmosphere feels polished but warm, ideal for long dinners filled with thoughtful conversation, shared bites, and that “let’s order one more glass” energy. It’s the perfect place for an evening out.

This stylish Poncey‑Highland wine bar has a buzzy, intimate energy with a gorgeous bar, cozy seating, and a patio that’s perfect for golden-hour pours. The standout wine list (including rare and reserve options) plus shareable, elevated plates make it easy to order a little of everything and turn dinner into an all‑night hang, exactly the kind of place where one glass turns into three and the conversation just keeps flowing.

This Michelin‑recognized neighborhood restaurant has a warm, rustic atmosphere that immediately invites lingering, paired with a menu built for sharing, seasonal plates, wood‑fired dishes, and beautifully crafted cocktails. The vibe feels intimate and relaxed without sacrificing sophistication, making it ideal for ordering a spread of dishes, sipping something fun from the bar, and settling into long, meaningful conversations that stretch well into the evening.

Want to see more options? We’ve included our favorite search links for this destination below. Use them for research or bookmark this site to use them on the fly when you want to search nearby.

What to See

If you and the girls are looking for a dreamy, nature‑filled escape right in the middle of the city, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is pure bliss. Spread across more than 30 lush acres next to Piedmont Park, it’s the perfect place to wander, take photos, and soak in some seriously gorgeous views.

Every winter, the garden lights up with its famous Garden Lights, Holiday Nights display with more than a million sparkling LED lights that turn the whole place into a magical wonderland. But even outside of the holidays, there’s always something happening: weekly classes and events like Garden Grooves, Tai Chi sessions, and tons of other fun programs.

Make sure you step inside the Fuqua Orchid Center, where you’ll find rare high‑elevation orchids that have never been grown in the Southeast before. It feels like discovering a hidden tropical world. And of course, no visit is complete without meeting the iconic Earth Goddess in the Cascades Garden, one of the most breathtaking living sculptures you’ll ever see.

If you and the girls want a night that feels a little extra, the Fox Theatre in Atlanta is the place to go. This beautifully restored movie palace turned cultural icon is one of the city’s most beloved landmarks and stepping inside feels like being transported straight into old‑school Hollywood glamour.

Originally built as the headquarters for the Yaarab Temple Shrine, the Fox ended up opening as a movie palace on Christmas Day in 1929. It dazzled audiences for decades, and now welcomes more than 750,000 visitors a year. From Broadway shows and concerts to dance performances and live events, the Fox hosts more than 300 shows annually, and honestly, might be the best entertainment venue in Atlanta.

Even the building itself is part of the experience. Once you settle into your seat, look up: the ceiling glows like a dreamy night sky, complete with twinkling stars and drifting clouds. Fun fact, one of those sparkling “stars” is actually a piece of a Coca‑Cola bottle. The lobby and ballrooms, with their Moorish and Egyptian design influences, feel like stepping into a glamorous 1920s fantasy.
If you visit during the summer, don’t miss the Coca‑Cola Summer Film Festival, the perfect way to escape the heat and watch everything from classics to newer releases inside one of the most magical theaters in the country.

For a meaningful and uplifting moment on your girls’ getaway, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park is an incredibly powerful place to explore together. Spanning nearly 35 acres, this free historic district is filled with landmarks, monuments, and exhibits that tell the story of Dr. King’s life, legacy, and the broader civil rights movement.

You can start at Dr. King’s birth home, where he spent the first 12 years of his life. It’s a remarkable window into the childhood of a world-changing leader. Then stroll through the beautiful International World Peace Rose Garden, complete with a peaceful fountain and the striking “Behold” Monument.

One of the most moving experiences is stepping inside Ebenezer Baptist Church, where you can listen to recordings of Dr. King’s sermons and speeches echoing through the space where he once preached.

At The King Center, you’ll find inspiring exhibits, preserved writings, videos, and educational displays that share his message of nonviolence and justice. Finally, take a quiet moment to pay your respects at Dr. and Mrs. King’s Tomb, with the Eternal Flame burning nearby as a symbol of their enduring legacy.

It’s a beautiful blend of history, reflection, and inspiration and a memorable stop to share with friends on your trip.

For a powerful and inspiring stop on your girls’ trip, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights is absolutely worth a few hours. Right in downtown Atlanta, this museum connects the story of the American civil rights movement with the ongoing fight for human rights around the world, and it’s the perfect place to start if you want to understand the heart of the city.

The center features three main exhibits: the American civil rights movement, global human rights, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Collection from Morehouse College. Each one is packed with hands‑on, immersive displays that pull you into the experience in a really meaningful way.

You can sit at a lunch counter that simulates Freedom Riders protests, watch videos on a panoramic screen, explore stories of activists around the world, and even stand next to life-size images of history’s dictators (spoiler: most of them are surprisingly short).
It’s a visit that sparks conversation, reflection, and connection — the kind of shared experience that sticks with you long after you leave.

Yes, an attraction dedicated entirely to a soft drink, and honestly, it’s one of the most unexpectedly fun things you can do in Atlanta on a girls’ trip. Inside the World of Coca‑Cola, you can sample flavors from all over the world (some delicious, some… very memorable), explore the world of aroma, and wander through decades of iconic Coca‑Cola ads that will spark all kinds of nostalgia.

Don’t forget to grab a photo with the famous Coca‑Cola Polar Bear (it’s practically a rite of passage) and then head into the Vault of the Secret Formula for a little mystery and mythology. You can also dive into the brand’s history at the Coca‑Cola Stories exhibit, where the archives bring the company’s journey to life.

You can stroll through an immersive Coca‑Cola town, complete with an old‑school pharmacy, vintage commercials playing in the “windows,” and adorable photo ops, including AI‑powered portraits that make you look straight out of a retro Coca‑Cola ad. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it’s the perfect lighthearted stop to add some sparkle to your girls’ weekend.

Fairlie Poplar in downtown Atlanta
Credit: © 2016, Gene Phillips, Courtesy of ACVB & AtlantaPhotos.com.

What to Do

Experience the best of Atlanta’s food scene on this small-group walking tour. Skip the stress of searching for the city’s top bites on your own as your guide leads you to must-try spots, including Krog Street Market, named America’s number one food hall by “Newsweek.” Enjoy local classics like crispy fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and a refreshing cocktail. End the tour with a stroll along the lively Atlanta Beltline, where colorful street art, bustling patios, and a steady buzz of activity capture the city’s vibrant spirit.

On the “Secret Food Tour: Atlanta”, you’ll discover a city of the future with strong ties to its past. Your experienced guide will welcome you on a delicious journey through the capital of the South, where you’ll see firsthand why Atlanta is known for being the epitome of true Southern hospitality. After all, this is the home of Coca-Cola, the Braves, and some of the best darn food you’ll ever put in your mouth! Seriously, our cuisine feels like a warm hug for the soul (that’s why we call it soul food!) and we cannot wait to share it with you. From down south specialties like chicken and waffles to international delights like yucca fries, we’ve got a little something for everyone. So, come on in, set a spell, and get ready to dig in while we share some stories of “The City Too Busy To Hate.”

Enjoy sweeping views of downtown Atlanta and the surrounding metropolitan area with this ticket for the SkyView Ferris. Ride in comfort with a group of up to 6 in climate-controlled, private gondolas.

Get a comprehensive overview of Atlanta’s culture and street art scene in just a few hours. See some of the city’s most notable murals, graffiti, and installations and hear the stories behind each piece from your guide. Ask your guide for hidden gems in areas including Cabbagetown, Krog Street Tunnel, and the Atlanta BeltLine.

Step aboard the stylish pink bus for a delightful blend of luxury, sightseeing, and premium tea. Sip on three carefully selected teas as you savor freshly baked scones, savory bites, and sweet treats, all while taking in stunning views of Atlanta’s most iconic landmarks, including the Georgia State Capitol, Centennial Olympic Park, and the Atlanta Skyline. Relax in our temperature-controlled bus as a live guide shares fascinating stories and history of the city’s best-known sights. It’s the perfect way to explore Atlanta in style while enjoying a relaxing, elegant afternoon.

Where to Shop

Atlantic Station is a vibrant, walkable destination on Atlanta’s Westside, offering a lively mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment perfect for a day out with the girls. Set along charming brick‑paved streets with a central green space, it feels like its own little city, compact, easy to explore, and full of stylish surprises. With more than 50 shops ranging from fashion and beauty to home décor and lifestyle finds, there is something for everyone. Between stops, you can relax at sidewalk cafés, enjoy a leisurely meal, or catch a movie at the onsite theater. The district’s blend of boutiques, popular retailers, restaurants, and a boutique hotel makes it an effortless all‑in‑one outing.

One of Atlanta’s most iconic shopping destinations, this sprawling, multi‑level mall in the heart of Buckhead that has been drawing shoppers since 1959. With nearly 250 stores spread across 1.5 million square feet, it offers an upscale, fashion‑forward experience perfect for a day out with friends. The mix of luxury boutiques, beloved national brands, and stylish specialty shops makes it easy to wander, browse, and discover something new at every turn.

Ponce City Market is one of Atlanta’s most iconic destinations. A massive, historic hub in the Old Fourth Ward, it blends shopping, dining, and entertainment into one lively, walkable space. Housed in a beautifully restored building, it offers a vibrant mix of clothing, jewelry, home décor, and lifestyle boutiques. The bustling Central Food Hall adds to the experience with artisanal bites and local flavors, while regular events like yoga sessions and seasonal markets bring even more energy to the space. The market is also home to a popular rooftop attraction where you can take in skyline views, enjoy playful activities, or simply unwind after a day of shopping. With its blend of history, creativity, and modern charm, Ponce City Market delivers a full, fun, and stylish outing perfect for a girls’ day out.

Midtown Peachtree Street
Credit: © 2019, Gene Phillips, Courtesy of ACVB & AtlantaPhotos.com

Nightlife

For those of you looking for a fun night out on your girls’ getaway, we’ve got your back. Whether it’s dancing the night away or girl talk over delicious cocktails, we’ve got options. We’ll help you find the right fit with our favorite local search links below.

Palo Santo Rooftop is the definition of an elevated night out, literally and figuratively. Set above a modern Mexican restaurant in West Midtown, this rooftop delivers skyline views, creative cocktails, and a high‑energy atmosphere that effortlessly transitions from chic drinks to full‑on night vibes. The bar program is agave‑forward with mezcal and tequila cocktails that feel special (and photo‑worthy), while live DJs on weekends turn the space into a stylish rooftop party.

This is where the night turns into a full‑on dance party. Located on Edgewood Avenue, this late‑night spot is known for its high‑energy DJ sets, immersive lighting, and packed dance floor that keeps the vibe buzzing well past midnight. The music is front and center here creating a space that feels like a true nightclub rather than just a bar with dancing. Strong drinks, pulsing beats, and a tightly packed crowd make it a place you go when you’re ready to move.

Articles & Itineraries

No articles yet. Check back often!

Events

Atlanta Food and Wine Festival
September 10, 2026
- September 13, 2026
gfwknd-culinary-event
Shaky Knees Music Festival
September 18, 2026
- September 20, 2026
gfwknd-music-festival

Are you a travel blogger who lives in this destination? Write for us!

We are accepting Girlfriend Weekend Itineraries for this destination. Find out more here.