Often perceived as an expensive destination, Atlanta offers a dynamic scene rich in history, culture, and entertainment, with many affordable activities. Known as the “Black Mecca,” Atlanta is a hub for Black culture, heritage, and business, making it a must-visit for Black travelers.
From historical sites and museums to parks and local festivals, Atlanta provides diverse experiences that are both enriching and budget-friendly, debunking the myth that great travel requires a hefty price tag.
1. Visit The King Center
Established in 1968 by Mrs. Coretta Scott King, The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center) has been a global destination, resource center, and community institution for over a quarter century. Visit the King Center to view exhibits of Dr. King’s civil rights legacy and the final resting place of Dr. and Mrs. King.
- Cost: Free
- Website: thekingcenter.org
- Get more for your money: The museum also features a free exhibit area called Freedom Hall that honors Dr. King, Rosa Parks, and Mahatma Gandhi.
2. Stroll Through Piedmont Park
Piedmont Park is a large urban park offering scenic walking trails, sports facilities, and events. The park hosts several miles of paved paths suitable for walking, running, biking, and inline skating.
- Cost: Free
- Website: piedmontpark.org
- Get more for your money: Piedmont Park has something for all ages. Check the program’s site for more information.
3. Grab Coffee At The Urban Grind
Start your morning with Urban Grind, a black-owned coffee shop in West Midtown, Atlanta, GA. The hip coffeehouse serves fresh specialty coffees, small bites, and pastries.
- Cost: $3-10 for coffee and snacks
- Website: urbangrindatlanta.com
- Get more for your money: Urban Grind also hosts free open mics, film screenings, and other arty events starting at $10.
4. Walk The Atlanta BeltLine
The Atlanta BeltLine is one of the largest wide-ranging urban redevelopment programs in the United States. This network of public parks, multi-use trails, transit, and affordable housing along a historic 22-mile railroad corridor strives to enhance mobility in Atlanta.
- Cost: Free
- Website:beltline.org
- Get more for your money: The BeltLine also offers free fitness classes open to the public.
5. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With Sublime Doughnuts
Since opening in 2008 Sublime Doughnuts has become an Atlanta institution, offering everything from luscious cake to light and fluffy yeast doughnuts.
- Cost: $2-$5 per doughnut
- Website: sublimedoughnuts.com
- Get more for your money: Sublime Doughnuts also offers apple fritters and danishes with several toppings to choose from.
6. Visit The Atlanta University Center Robert W. Woodruff Library
Constructed in 1982, the Atlanta University Center (AUC) Robert W. Woodruff Library supports the teaching, learning and research missions of four institutions of higher education that comprise the world’s largest consortium of HBCUs: Clark Atlanta University, the Interdenominational Theological Center, Morehouse College, and Spelman College.
- Cost: Free
- Website: auctr.edu
- Get more for your money: The library also hosts free lectures, readings, and performances.
7. Get Lunch At Slutty Vegan
Founded in 2018, The Slutty Vegan is a Black-owned vegan hamburger restaurant chain, based in Atlanta, serving the best vegan dishes the city has to offer.
- Cost: Meals under $20
- Website sluttyveganatl.com
- Get more for your money: Slutty Vegan also has treats such as banana pudding and sweet potato pie for under $5.
8. Catch Some Tea At Just Add Honey
Nestled in between Old Fourth Ward and Inman Park on Atlanta’s Eastside Beltline trail, The Just Add Honey café is a warm and inviting way to sip differently. The company offers loose-leaf tea, gifts, tea accessories, and locally sourced treats. Whether you bring a book, meet a friend, or grab and go, Just Add Honey is your cup of tea.
- Cost: $5-$10 for tea and snacks
- Website: justaddhoney.net
- Get more for your money: Just Add Honey also offers sunset yoga classes for $20.
9. Visit For Keeps Bookstore
Opened in 2018, For Keeps is a bookstore in Atlanta, Georgia that specializes in Black classic and rare books.
- Cost: Free entry, select books under $20
- Website: forkeepsbooks.com
- Get more for your money: The bookstore also offers select tote bags for under $20.
10. Have A Family Night Out At Busy Bee Cafe
Established in 1947, Busy Bee Cafe is a Black-owned soul food restaurant, known for its classic Southern dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese.
- Cost: Many meals between $10-$20
- Website: thebusybeecafe.com
- Get more for your money: Select chicken and seafood meals are also available for under $20.
Atlanta is a top destination for Black travelers and a symbol of African American heritage. It offers many affordable and deeply meaningful opportunities for education, enrichment, and entertainment. Whether visitors explore historical sites, support Black-owned businesses, or enjoy the city’s diverse cultural offerings, Atlanta promises a fulfilling and memorable experience alongside vibrant community life.
