Atlanta isn’t just the home of Coca-Cola or the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr.—it’s a city alive with stories of civil rights, historic neighborhoods, and dynamic change. Its diverse districts, from Sweet Auburn to Inman Park, offer a wealth of history and culture that can be explored through a variety of tours. We especially love the Martin Luther King Jr. History Walking Tour for its intimate look at key landmarks in the civil rights movement, and the Segway Tour for a fun, active way to cover more ground. Whether you’re interested in walking through historic districts or driving past iconic sites, Atlanta’s tour options bring its story to life.
Quick Overview
This list includes a mix of walking tours, driving explorations, food and street art adventures, and private experiences. From in-depth civil rights journeys to historic home visits, each tour offers a unique perspective on Atlanta’s past and present. Explore neighborhoods like Sweet Auburn and Inman Park, learn about civil rights leaders, and even try making Southern biscuits. For a complete look at what Atlanta has to offer, see the full lineup below.
1. Martin Luther King Jr. History Walking Tour
At number 1, this 2.5-hour walking tour takes you through the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, a core site of the Civil Rights movement. Your guide shares stories about Martin Luther King Jr.‘s personal and public life, visiting key sites like the Ebenezer Baptist Church, the King Center, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. The tour also includes exterior visits to historic landmarks like the Prince Hall Grand Lodge and a walk across the Jackson Street Bridge, offering fantastic city views.
What makes this tour stand out is its detailed storytelling and focus on personal stories behind the movement. It’s perfect for history lovers and anyone wanting a meaningful, neighborhood-focused experience. Many reviews praise guides like Zoe and Kristin for their engaging style and deep knowledge.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an authentic, impactful look at MLK’s Atlanta, ideal for those who want a personal connection to civil rights history.
2. 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Historic Atlanta
For around $69, the Segway tour provides a high-energy way to cover Atlanta’s historic neighborhoods like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, and Cabbagetown. After a quick training session, you’ll glide past landmarks like Ebenezer Baptist Church, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, and the Oakland Cemetery, where notable figures like Maynard Jackson are buried.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of fun and learning, with guides like Jet and Jeremy making the city accessible and entertaining. Guests often appreciate the balance of history, city views, and visually engaging neighborhoods. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, though safety is emphasized.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a fast-paced, memorable way to see Atlanta’s historic sites with a bit of a thrill.
3. 3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour
At number 3, this walking tour explores Atlanta’s Inman Park with a focus on food, street art, and history. It includes tastings from local restaurants, visits to the vibrant Krog Street Market, and a stroll along the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail. Your guide highlights the area’s transformation from old industrial spaces to trendy dining and art hubs.
Guests rave about the regional cuisine and the chance to try Southern staples like biscuits and local cocktails. The tour is well-suited for foodies and art lovers, offering a relaxed pace and insider insights about urban renewal.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a mix of culinary delights and cultural exploration in a historic neighborhood.
4. 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class
This 2-hour experience combines a market tour with a biscuit-making class, giving you a taste of Atlanta’s culinary scene. You’ll visit the oldest market in Atlanta, sampling nearly a dozen savory and sweet foods, then learn how to make Southern biscuits from scratch.
Tour guide Joy makes the experience lively and educational, with visitors appreciating both the food tastings and the interactive baking. It’s a fantastic option for families or anyone interested in Southern cuisine with a hands-on twist.
Bottom Line: Offers great value for money and a fun, flavorful way to learn about Atlanta’s food heritage.
5. 2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market
Number 5 features a guided tour inside the iconic Ponce City Market, a historic Sears building turned foodie haven. It includes tastings from local, award-winning chefs, and a walk along the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail to view street art.
Guests love the large, flavorful samples and the chance to explore Atlanta’s food scene in one of its most vibrant locations. The tour is ideal for culinary enthusiasts seeking a mix of history, architecture, and gourmet bites.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers wanting a comprehensive experience combining history, art, and delicious food.
6. Atlanta: Black History and Civil Rights City Driving Tour
Spanning 4 hours for $69, this driving tour focuses on African-American heritage and civil rights landmarks. Highlights include Sweet Auburn Avenue, Paschal’s Restaurant, and the last residence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr..
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the ability to see many sites without extensive walking. It’s best suited for those with limited mobility or travelers wanting a rundown of Black history in Atlanta. The guide offers insights into the city’s close ties with black leaders and activists.
Bottom Line: A convenient way to learn about civil rights history, especially if walking long distances isn’t ideal.
7. Atlanta: Martin Luther King Historical Park Walking Tour
Number 7 offers a 2.5-hour guided walk exploring the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. You’ll see artifacts, photos, and landmarks like Ebenezer Baptist Church and Dr. King’s birth home.
Many reviews highlight the immersive storytelling and the opportunity to walk in Dr. King’s footsteps. Guides like Kristin and Ariel make the history engaging and accessible. This tour is ideal for anyone wanting a deep dive into MLK’s life and his impact.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, heartfelt tour that brings the civil rights leader’s story to life.
8. Private Atlanta History Tour From Civil War to Civil Rights
This 3-hour private tour offers a tailored experience visiting Civil War sites, Oakland Cemetery, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site. It mixes driving and walking for a personalized exploration.
Guests love the customized attention and historical depth, with stops at Coca-Cola founder’s home, Grant Park, and historic neighborhoods. Perfect for families or travelers wanting an intimate, flexible introduction to Atlanta’s history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a private, in-depth overview of Atlanta’s Civil War and Civil Rights stories.
9. Atlanta: Beltline Food, Street Art, and History Walking Tour
Number 9 combines food tastings, street art, and historic insights over 3 hours. It includes stops at local restaurants, Krog Street Market, and mural photography along the Eastside Trail.
This tour is popular with foodies and art enthusiasts who want to experience Atlanta’s contemporary culture while learning its history. The guide shares stories behind the murals and the urban renewal efforts.
Bottom Line: A lively, flavorful way to explore Atlanta’s arts, food, and neighborhood revitalization.
10. Atlanta: Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class
Ideal for food lovers, this 2-hour experience combines a market tour with a hands-on biscuit-making class. You’ll sample local specialties at the Municipal Market and learn Southern baking techniques from a skilled guide.
Guests enjoy the interactive nature and delicious results, with many noting the entertaining and informative guide. It’s perfect for those wanting a culinary-focused experience with plenty of tasting and learning.
Bottom Line: Great for anyone eager to understand Atlanta’s food culture and try their hand at Southern cooking.
11. Atlanta Then and Now Private History Tour
As a private option, this 3-hour tour takes you from historic sites like Oakland Cemetery and Sweet Auburn to modern developments. It covers civil rights history, urban growth, and future directions.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to customize the experience. It’s suitable for travelers who want an intimate, flexible overview tailored to their interests.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want an all-encompassing view of Atlanta’s past, present, and future.
12. Atlanta: Historical Homes Tour
This 3-hour small-group tour showcases Atlanta’s historic homes in Buckhead, including Governor’s Mansion, Swan House, and Rhodes House, ending with a visit to the Callanwolde Arts Center.
Guests love the beautiful architecture and the chance to see some of Atlanta’s most prestigious estates. It’s best suited for architecture buffs or those interested in local history. The tour offers a good balance of exteriors and narration but note that inside visits are limited.
Bottom Line: Excellent for lovers of historic architecture wanting an elegant, informative experience.
13. Midtown Atlanta: Walking Tour on Women’s History
Number 13 is a 2-hour walking tour highlighting women’s contributions in Midtown. It features stories of activists, writers, and artists, along with historic buildings and landmarks.
Best suited for those interested in gender history and urban development, the tour provides a fresh perspective on Atlanta’s cultural landscape.
Bottom Line: A focused, engaging way to celebrate women’s history in a lively neighborhood.
14. Black History and Civil Rights Tour
This 3-hour tour explores Atlanta’s Black history, including the Herndon Home Museum and Sunset Avenue, offering a personal perspective on the city’s civil rights stories.
The tour emphasizes walking and is valued for its emotional depth and insightful narratives, suitable for those wanting to connect personally with the history.
Bottom Line: A compelling choice for a thoughtful, immersive experience focusing on Black history in Atlanta.
15. Atlanta’s Best and Historic Treasures – Private Walking Tour
Number 15 is a 2.5-hour private walk covering MLK Jr. sites, Jackson Street Bridge, Sweet Auburn, and The King Center. The personalized approach makes it a convenient, customized exploration ideal for those who prefer tailored experiences.
Guests praise the efficient itinerary and personalized attention, making it a good fit for travelers seeking a more intimate look at Atlanta’s civil rights sites.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private tour suited for those wanting an all-in-one civil rights history experience.
16. Atlanta: Atlanta Then And Now 3 Hour Private History Tour
Finally, this 3-hour private tour blends historic landmarks with modern-day developments. It visits city centers, cemeteries, and national parks to provide a broad overview of Atlanta’s evolution.
Travelers looking for a customized, in-depth journey will value this tour’s flexibility and personal touch, especially those interested in city growth and future prospects.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who want a comprehensive, private snapshot of Atlanta’s transformation over the years.
$140 per person
How to Choose the Right Atlanta Tour
When selecting your Atlanta historical tour, consider your interests, mobility, and how much time you have. If civil rights history is your passion, the Martin Luther King Jr. History Walking Tour offers a detailed neighborhood walk, while the Civil Rights Driving Tour provides a broader, less walking-intensive overview.
For those who want a more active experience, the Segway tour covers a lot of ground quickly and funly, while food lovers should consider the Beltline Food Tour or the Market Food Tour and Biscuit Class. For architecture and historic homes, the Homes Tour is a perfect fit.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak travel seasons, and always check if tours operate on your preferred dates. Matching your interests—whether it’s Civil Rights, architecture, or food—will ensure a fulfilling experience in Atlanta.
Final thoughts
Atlanta offers a wide array of tours that reveal its complex history and cultural richness. Whether you prefer a walking exploration of civil rights landmarks, a private customized experience, or a fun Segway ride, each option provides a unique window into the city’s past and present. For a deep understanding of Martin Luther King Jr., the MLK Jr. History Walking Tour remains a top choice, while history and architecture buffs might lean toward the Historical Homes Tour.
No matter which tour you choose, booking ahead will help you secure your spot in these enriching, insightful excursions. Atlanta’s story is compelling and well worth exploring—so plan your visits wisely and get ready to walk, ride, and taste your way through this fascinating southern city.