Summer in Atlanta is something special. Long, sunny days and warm nights make this the best time to get out and explore what the city has to offer. Whether you’ve lived here for years or are just visiting, here’s how to make the most of your Atlanta summer.

Start planning your list now because summer goes by fast:

Must-See Attractions

The Georgia Aquarium, a top-notch aquatic wonderland, should be at the top of your list. Witness the majestic whale sharks glide through the massive Ocean Voyager exhibit alongside manta rays and thousands of other sea creatures. It’s a mesmerizing way to beat the heat while experiencing one of the country’s most impressive aquatic displays. If you have young kids, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta awaits with its engaging hands-on exhibits that let them learn through play.

The World of Coca-Cola, a paradise for soda enthusiasts, lets you taste more than 100 different Coca-Cola products from around the world, a perfect way to quench your thirst on hot days. Aviation fans will get a kick out of the Delta Flight Museum, where you can actually walk on the wing of a Boeing 767 and learn about how commercial flight has changed over the years. Zoo Atlanta is another great option, especially in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler and the animals are more active.

Festival Time

Atlanta comes alive during festival season! The AJC Peachtree Road Race on July 4 is the to add to your calendar – 60,000 people run the world’s largest 10K and turn Peachtree Street into one massive block party!

The Annual Atlanta Ice Cream Festival, held on July 26 at Piedmont Park, is exactly what it sounds like: lots of ice cream flavors, live music and activities for the whole family. On August 16 and 17, art lovers should check out the Piedmont Park Arts Festival, where up to 250 artists show their work while musicians play and artists demonstrate their techniques.

Cap off the season at the Summer Shade Festival on August 23 and 24 at Grant Park. This free two-day event features live music, local food and drinks and kicks off with the Run for the Park 5K, which helps support the Grant Park Conservancy.

Parks Worth Your Time

Atlanta’s parks are perfect for summer days. Piedmont Park is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, while Centennial Olympic Park is an excellent spot for a midday break. Piedmont Park feels like the city’s backyard - great for picnics, checking out the weekly Green Market or just watching people go by. Downtown, Centennial Olympic Park has the Fountain of Rings, where kids love to run around and get soaked.

Shirley Clarke Franklin Park is Atlanta’s biggest green space, with five miles of paved trails and great city skyline views. The Atlanta BeltLine connects 45 neighborhoods through a 22-mile loop with walking and biking trails. Plus, you’ll find public art and interesting spots to grab a bite or drink along the way!

Georgia Peach Season

You can’t do summer in Atlanta without picking peaches. From mid-May through August, farms like Southern Belle Farm in McDonough and Jaemor Farms in Alto let you pick your own. There’s nothing like eating a warm, juicy Georgia peach right off the tree!

Water Activities

When it gets really hot, head to the Chattahoochee River to “Shoot the ‘Hooch.” You can tube, kayak or canoe down the river and cool off while enjoying some natural scenery at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Remember to wear a life jacket, stay hydrated and be mindful of the river’s current for a safe and enjoyable experience.

For a full day on the water, Lake Lanier is Georgia’s biggest lake with beaches, water sports and attractions like Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. Lake Allatoona is closer to the city and usually less crowded, while Lake Burton, up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, has clear water and a more relaxed vibe.

Lace Up Your Hiking Boots

Stone Mountain and Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park both make for good day trips. Stone Mountain’s one-mile Walk-Up Trail takes you to the top for views of the city, while Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park has more than 20 miles of trails where you can learn about Civil War history while you walk.

Find more ways to fill up your Atlanta summer bucket list by visiting the Atlanta News page. Click here to request your FREE copy of the relocation magazine to stay in the know regarding Atlanta’s hottest builders, events and more.