What to do in Atlanta while house and pet sitting

Whether it’s your first time visiting The Big Peach or you’re a regular to the city, you won’t be disappointed when looking for what to do in Atlanta on your next pet sit. The South’s largest city boasts historic sites and attractions, amazing music venues like the Fox Theatre, a vibrant downtown scene and an eclectic range of activities to indulge in when you’re not busy with your pet sit. Make sure you bring your appetite too because Atlanta has some of the country’s most mouth-watering restaurants.

Atlanta attractions

Stuck on what to do in Atlanta? Well, there’s plenty of activities to choose from. From walking tours and markets, to museums and parks, we’ve picked out some top attractions for when you visit: 

1. Ponce City Market 

Spend the day browsing big-name retailers, small local boutiques, and a selection of restaurants and food stalls (featuring several James Beard award-winning chefs). Catch a show at the RoleCall Theater, check out the farmers market, or just hang out at the rooftop bar. 

2. North Georgia Wine Country Tour

Wine lover looking for what to do in Atlanta? Take this day trip from Downtown Atlanta to the North Georgia Wine Country. On route, you’ll discover rolling hills and breathtaking vineyards that make up Georgia’s wine region. You'll visit three celebrated wineries for approximately 14 wine tastings, and go for lunch at the Alpine village-inspired village of Helen. There’s over 200 speciality and import shops to enjoy from glass blowing to quilts.  

3. National Center for Civil and Human Rights

The Center for Civil and Human Rights celebrates the achievements of both the American Civil Rights Movement and the global human rights movement. The contemporary building features immersive exhibits that begin with the 1950s Jim Crow era and ties together the fight for broader human rights around the world. There’s lots of educational programs and community discussions available, too.  

4. Fox Theatre

The Fox Theatre is the place in Atlanta to catch first-class Broadway, concerts, comedy, ballet, R&B, and tours. The Egyptian-style venue includes the largest working Moller theatre organ in the world, “Mighty Mo,” built in 1929.

5. Stranger Things Tour

Fan of the show? Travel to the world of Stranger Things on this tour of filming locations in Atlanta. Get immersed in the real life places where Eleven, Mike, Dustin, Luke and Will lived their intense adventures with the Demogorgon.

Free things to do in Atlanta

Some of Atlanta's most well-known attractions are also some of its most affordable. We’ve put together a list of our top 5 free things to do for fun:

1. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

Celebrate the spirit of the visionary Civil Rights leader for a few well-spent hours. You can pay your respects at his nearby crypt on the grounds of the Martin Luther King Center for Nonviolent Social Change. There’s also exhibits dedicated not only to Dr. King, but fellow social reformer Mahatma Gandhi. 

2. Piedmont Park

Atlanta’s answer to Central Park, Piedmont Park is a popular spot for joggers, walkers and picnic lovers. The green space hosts frequent art festivals throughout the year, including the Dogwood Festival, a spring celebration of flowers and fine art, the Atlanta Jazz Festival and plenty of farmers markets.

3. Atlanta BeltLine

Revamped into a vibrant, multi-use path lined with art, native plants and attractions, the former railway corridor is a fully accessible loop waiting to be explored. Walk between stops like Ponce City Market and Piedmont Park, or enjoy events along the BeltLine like fitness classes, art events and more.

4. Arabia Mountain

Love hiking? Discover the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area and Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve. Explore mountain, farmland, lakes and hiking trails on a nature preserve that spans more than 2,000 acres.

5. Centennial Park 

Relax in the well-groomed park that pays homage to the 1996 Olympics. The park hosts a wide variety of free events all year as well as being just a generally popular place to exercise and relax. You can even take the dog you’re sitting for an afternoon walk. 

Fun things to do in Atlanta

Looking for fun things to do in Atlanta on your latest pet sit? Here are a few of our favourites:

Indie Craft Experience

Love your crafts? The Indie Craft Experience events have the in-person vibe of your favourite Etsy page. It’s a great place to get in all things crafty with seasonal pop-up events and shopping markets and collectors. 

College Football Hall of Fame

Football fan? The College Football Hall of Fame is an interactive attraction devoted to college football. The National Football Foundation founded the Hall in 1951 to immortalize the players and coaches of college football that were voted first team All-American by the media.

World of Coca-Cola

A trip to Atlanta wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the museum of the soda king itself. Take a trip inside the world of Coca-Cola with replica soda fountains, the pop-culture museum, 4-D theater displays and DIY beverage fountains dispensing flavors from around the world. Fancy a taste test? Choose from over 100 beverages, including all the classics as well as special limited editions you won’t get your hands on anywhere else.

Civil Bike Tours

Love a good bike ride? One of the best ways to see the city is to jump on a guided Civil Bikes tour and get pedaling. Pedal through the historic Sweet Auburn District, the site of the Ebenezer Baptist Church and visit landmark human rights sites.

Best restaurants in Atlanta

Peckish after your dog walk? From authentic Mexican and delicious Italian eateries to fresh seafood restaurants and vegan delights, we’ve put together a selection of the best restaurants in Atlanta to get your appetite fired up. 

1. Taqueria La Oaxaquena

One of the best Mexican restaurants in Atlanta, Oaxaquena, features specialty dishes like large grilled tortillas covered with refritos, string cheese, avocado, lettuce, and your choice of meat. Taco lovers shouldn’t miss this spot with their handmade tortillas folded around delicacies such as stewed beef cheeks, tripe, and pork al pastor. 

2. Piastra Restaurant 

Looking for the best Italian restaurants in Atlanta? Family-owned Italian restaurant Piastra is located on Marietta’s historic town square and won’t disappoint. Here you’ll find traditional pasta dishes on the menu made using fresh local and non-GMO ingredients. 

3. C&S Seafood and Oyster Bar

This Vinings seafood spot is one of the best seafood restaurants in Atlanta. The popular eatery specializes in raw bar favorites like oysters and shrimp cocktail, as well as boiled seafood platters, whole fish entrees, and king crab platter.

4. Lov’n It Live 

Devoted to raw foods and dishes made with ingredients from local farms, relaxing spot Lov’n It Live has all the vegan favourites and speciality favourites like collard rolls with nut meat and lentil burgers. 

There’s a wide variety of places, events and historical sites to discover while you visit Atlanta. From checking out downtown Atlanta and the bustling night scene to sampling the best restaurants the city has to offer, there’s something for you to enjoy in between looking after your furry friend. 

Do you have more travel-related queries? Check out our blog for tips on pet sitting when you visit a new city. Or, visit our friendly Community Forum where you can chat with like-minded members and share advice, find support, and discuss all things house sitting, pets, travel, and more.