Nicole Letts

There is a neighborhood and bar scene to satisfy every kind of night out in Atlanta, you just have to know where to look. Looking for an epic dive for a night out with friends? Bars in Edgewood and East Atlanta have the go-to spots. In the mood for an upscale vibe with high end cocktails to match? Midtown and Buckhead have you covered, including some of Atlanta’s best bars that we’ve listed below.  Of course, we can’t forget Atlanta’s institutions, bar mainstays that’ve now survived new development, recessions and economic booms, plus a whole pandemic. Iconic Atlanta bars like Northside and Eddie’s have seen Atlanta through many stages, and we thank them for their ongoing service.  That doesn’t mean that we don’t celebrate the newcomers—some of the best bars in Atlanta are bringing a new flavor to the city, making for a robust nightlife scene with as many options as there are flavors at your favorite wing spot.  May 2025: We’ve refined our list for this Atlanta bar guide while doing our best to cover it all, from dives to sports bars to upscale spots. We’re updating this list monthly so you have plenty of options to imbibe this spring. 

Atlanta is a treat for all the senses, whether you go for the buzzy nightlife scene boosted by amazing cocktail bars, or the breathtaking culinary offerings that range from  casual wing spots to cutting-edge modern takes on Latin or Italian fare. The best attractions in Atlanta offer a deeper dive into the history and culture of the city, as well as plenty of opportunities for fun, thrills and even a taste of the great outdoors. There’s a reason why Atlanta is called the city in the forest. Here, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to bask in nature. Atlanta also has world-class museums, a renowned aquarium and attractions dedicated to Atlanta-based companies Delta and Coca-Cola. From sports fanatics and nature lovers to foodies and the athletically-inclined, these Atlanta attractions offer something for everyone. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

Everything Atlanta does, it does big, including its events. From traditional neighborhood bashes that have been growing for generations to iconic music and sporting events that draw crowds from around the country, Atlanta knows what’s up when it comes to hosting an event. The best Atlanta events are must-sees, regardless of the content, because you know it will be a good time. Atlanta’s annual events include everything from live music, family entertainment, golf, and football to food and wine, Pride, and more. No matter the season, there is something to celebrate at an Atlanta event. Atlantans always have something to look forward to, and for visitors, a big Atlanta event is a great reason to travel to the city: attend a great event, then check out all the fabulous things to do and places to eat around town. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in AtlantaRECOMMENDED: The best hotels in AtlantaRECOMMENDED: The best luxury Airbnbs in AtlantaRECOMMENDED: The best Airbnb cabins in Atlanta