Are you planning a trip to the “Gateway to the South”? Atlanta is a vibrant, multicultural city that is the perfect blend of historic roots and a rapidly evolving cultural scene. Bursting with landmarks, monuments and pivotal moments in history, it's easy to see why Atlanta draws so many history enthusiasts every single year. 

But it's not just about the history, Atlanta also has a thriving foodie scene and is quickly building a reputation as a destination for foodies! Naturally, it’s home to some of the best Southern comfort food in the US, but thanks to the variety of diverse restaurants, food trucks, markets and cafes in this bustling city, you’ll find an eclectic mix of dishes you won't want to miss. 

But if you’re on a tight schedule, how would you spend just 48 hours in Atlanta? Well, having the right transport to get you around the city is key, so hire a car from the airport to make sure you can get from A to B as smoothly as possible. After that, take a look at our recommendations and city break ideas for history buffs and foodies. 

Day One: Step into History

Time is of the essence, but that doesn't mean you have to feel rushed when you visit Atlanta. Having a good itinerary will ensure you don’t feel short-changed when you finally head back home. So, start your first morning in this beautiful city right with a hearty breakfast of Southern comfort food. Eateries like The Flying Biscuit Café are great places to start the day and you’ll not only enjoy the best food but also get a taste of that famous Southern hospitality. 

Next, it’s time to indulge your inner historian with a trip to The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Here you can take a tour of his childhood home, and explore the Ebenezer Baptist Church and the King Center. Reflecting on the Civil Rights movement is something every visitor should do when they visit Atlanta and there’s no greater place to feel close to history. 

Ready for some lunch? Why not combine your love of food with your passion for history and book a table at Paschal’s for some soul food and feel closer to the movement? Paschal’s became famous as a place where both black and white people could eat together and the Paschal brothers were also known for serving meals to protestors.

For some more historical exploration in the afternoon, you need to head to the Atlanta History Center.  Here, history buffs can discover fascinating exhibits on the Battle of Atlanta Cyclorama and the Swan House - a beautiful example of Second Renaissance Revival architecture that was built by the Inman family, whose wealth helped rebuild Atlanta after the Civil War. You could also take a trip to Oakland Cemetery where notable historical figures such as Margaret Mitchell (the author of Gone with the Wind) and Maynard Jackson, Atlanta’s first African American Mayor are buried. 

Day Two: Food and Culture Combined

Are you ready for day two? A second day spent in Atlanta promises more food and culture than the first! Start your morning with some more Southern specialities and head to Home Grown for a classic and famous Comfy Chicken Biscuit! Once you’re ready it’s time for some culture and a trip to the Centre for Civil and Human Rights should do the trick!

Here you’ll find plenty of interactive exhibits on the human rights movement and gain a stronger insight into the important role that Atlanta played during those dangerous but empowering times. Marvel at the Voice to the Voiceless Exhibit, which showcases personal belongings and writings of Martin Luther King Jr, including his most famous speech - I have a Dream.

After a few hours of immersing yourself in the deep history of Atlanta’s civil rights history, it’s time to stop for lunch. Atlanta has a buzzing food truck scene with all kinds of mobile food vans offering all kinds of fare. Head to Krog Street Market and you’ll find plenty of mouthwatering options. From lobster and gourmet sandwiches to mac and cheese and tacos, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Or if food trucks aren’t your thing, then how about a trip to the Ticonderoga Club, where you can enjoy everything from steak to seafood, craft ales and cocktails in this Colonial-era-inspired tavern?    

How about an afternoon of shopping, more food and even more history? Take a trip to Ponce City Market. Visitors can try everything from Indian street food to Southern-inspired gelato! Not forgetting a huge variety of bars like Ponce on Tap, that offer a wide selection of beers, wines and spirits. 

Then, why not head to the roof and explore Skyline Park? Essentially a theme park on the roof of the building - Skyline Park has (as the name suggests) impressive views of the city skyline - particularly when you’re up on the Ferris wheel! For just $15 you can enjoy unlimited gameplay on activities such as crazy golf, and giant slides, enjoy vintage amusement arcade games and win plenty of cool prizes! 

Or if shopping is more your thing, then Ponce City Market offers a huge variety of stores including big high street brands like Anthropologie and JJ’s Flower Shop to more unique, artisanal offerings too, like those found in Modern Mystic Shop! So you’re bound to see something you won’t find anywhere else.  

Now if you have room left for any more delicious food, it’s time for dinner. And where better to spend your last evening in Atlanta, than a fine dining experience like one at Staplehouse, or for a truly unique dining experience, a meal at Canoe - a riverside restaurant with a sumptuous menu. 

Final Thoughts…

It’s pretty obvious that 48 hours in Atlanta might not be enough to see everything. But, by planning your trip carefully and considering the itinerary above, you can hopefully make the most of your time in this incredible city.