10 Things to Do in Atlanta for $20 or Less

Often perceived as an expensive destination, Atlanta offers a vibrant scene rich in history, culture and entertainment, with many affordable activities. Known as the “Black Mecca,” Atlanta is a hub of Black culture, heritage, and business, making it a must-visit for Black travelers.

From historic sites and museums to local parks and festivals, Atlanta offers diverse experiences that are both enriching and budget-friendly, debunking the myth that a good trip requires a high 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 more than a quarter century. Visit the King Center to see exhibits about 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 has a free exhibition area called Freedom Hall which honors Dr. King, Rosa Parks and Mahatma Gandhi.

2. Take a walk in Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park is a large urban park offering scenic walking trails, sports facilities and events. The park is home to several miles of paved trails suitable for walking, running, biking, and in-line skating.

• Cost: Free
• Website: piedmontpark.org
• Get more for your money: Piedmont Park has something for all ages. Visit the program website for more information.

3. Grab a coffee at the Urban Grind

Start your day at Urban Grind, a Black-owned coffee shop in West Midtown, Atlanta, Georgia. The trendy café serves fresh coffee specialties, 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 arts events starting at $10.

4. Travel the Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine is one of the largest urban redevelopment programs in the United States. This network of public parks, multi-use trails, public transportation and affordable housing along a historic 22-mile rail corridor works to improve 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 donuts

Since opening in 2008, Sublime Donuts has become an Atlanta institution, offering everything from luscious cake to light and fluffy yeast donuts.

• Cost: $2 to $5 per donut
• Website: sublimedoughnuts.com
• Get more for your money: Sublime Donuts also offers apple fritters and danishes with several toppings to choose from.

6. Visit the Robert W. Woodruff Library at the Atlanta University Center

Built in 1982, the Robert W. Woodruff Library at the Atlanta University Center (AUC) supports the teaching, learning, and research missions of four institutions of higher education that constitute 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. Have lunch at Slutty Vegan

Founded in 2018, The Slutty Vegan is a Black-owned, Atlanta-based vegan burger restaurant chain serving the best vegan food in the city.

• Cost: Meals for less than $20
• Website salveganatl.com
• Get more for your money: Slutty Vegan also offers treats such as banana pudding and sweet potato pie for under $5.

8. Have tea with Just Add Honey

Nestled between Old Fourth Ward and Inman Park on Atlanta’s Eastside Beltline Trail, Just Add Honey Coffee is a warm and inviting way to sip differently. The company offers locally sourced loose leaf tea, gifts, tea accessories and treats. Whether you’re bringing a book, meeting a friend, or grabbing a meal, Just Add Honey is your cup of tea.

• Cost: $5 to $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 the For Keeps bookstore

Opened in 2018, For Keeps is a bookstore in Atlanta, Georgia specializing in classic and rare black books.

• Cost: Free admission, some books under $20
• Website: foreverbooks.com
• Get more for your money: The bookstore also offers a selection of tote bags for under $20.

10. Spend a family evening at Busy Bee Cafe

Founded 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: Several meals between $10 and $20
• Website: thebusybeecafe.com
• Get more for your money: Some chicken and seafood dishes are also available for under $20.

Atlanta is a favored 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 historic sites, support Black-owned businesses, or enjoy the city’s diverse cultural offerings, Atlanta promises an enriching and memorable experience alongside vibrant community life.