16 Most Romantic Things to Do in Atlanta With Your SO

Planning a peachy, perfect date night is easy when you’ve got this list of romantic things to do in Atlanta as your guide.

I’ll walk you through everything the Georgia capital has to offer couples, from the lush greenery of the Appalachian Mountain foothills to its booming culinary scene, rich history, and world-renowned cultural institutions.

With a diverse set of nicknames, from “The New York of the South” to “The City of Trees,” Atlanta truly does have a charm that’s easy to see and hard to resist.

16 Romantic Things to Do in Atlanta

So get ready to fall in love twice over–with your darling date and with the stunning city of Atlanta–as I explore it hand-in-hand!

1. Pamper Yourselves at the Waldorf Astoria Spa

Now, let’s get a little fancy. If you’re the kind of couple that really loves to splurge, then few romantic things to do in Atlanta can compare with a visit to the Waldorf Astoria Spa.

Surrounded by English gardens, the 15,000-square-foot spa provides a space to retreat from the world and focus solely on your special someone for a while.

Their services range from detoxifying baths to body scrubs to massages, and you can indulge in all of them from the comfort (and privacy) of a bright, airy couples’ suite.

In true Atlanta fashion, I recommend the Peachtree Indulgence treatment. 

After a skin-softening dry brush, your body will be scrubbed with sea salts and then massaged with warm peach oil.

Read next: 16 Most Romantic Getaways in Georgia

2. Catch a Show at Fox Theatre

This grandiose building, first opened in 1929, is steeped in history, culture, and (most importantly) romance. Step into the 4,665-seat auditorium and get ready to start swooning.

Designed in the style of an Arabian courtyard, it boasts midnight blue ceilings covered in flickering crystal stars and projections of clouds drifting across the night sky.

Pair those views with whatever is currently playing, and you’re sure to have a romantic evening in store.

Fox Theatre hosts the Atlanta Ballet, touring Broadway shows, live music concerts, and a popular summer film series–so there’s never a shortage of arts to enjoy.

3. Embark on a North Georgia Wine Tour

Skyscrapers will shift to rolling hills and Bavarian-inspired towns as you leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and get swept away on this full-day tour of beautiful Georgia Wine Country.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from downtown, entrance to three fabulous wineries, and all tastings. 

You’ll get to enjoy up to 13 samples of wines from local vineyards and perhaps find your new favorite to take home.

To break up the drive, take some free time to shop, dine, and explore in the oh-so-adorable alpine village of Helen.

Click to check availability

4. Get Lost Amidst the Blooms at the Atlanta Botanical Garden

Thirty acres of whimsical displays, art installations, carefully landscaped gardens, and natural beauty await at the award-winning Atlanta Botanical Gardens.

Grab your partner’s hand and simply take turns choosing which direction to head in. 

You’ll find an edible garden, rose garden, orchid house, tropical rotunda, and so many more gems hidden around every corner.

The Botanical Gardens also have events running all year round, from evening cocktail parties and live music concerts in the summer to fabulous light displays for the holiday season.

If you want to make a full day of it, plan to hit another of my favorite romantic spots in Atlanta, the onsite Longleaf restaurant, which serves tasty, shareable bites in a gorgeous glass dining room.

5. Enjoy a Historic Staycation at Stonehurst Place B&B

Few stays in Atlanta for couples can compete with the storied history, Southern hospitality, and absolute charm of this 19th-century family home turned bed and breakfast.

Stonehurst has everything you need for the ultimate romantic getaway–without even leaving Atlanta.

Couples will adore the Old Hollywood-inspired Fowler Suite, which boasts everything for pairs: a soaking tub for two, a unique open-air walk-in multi-head shower for two, a king bed, and a fireplace perfect for snuggling in front of every evening.

As for the other “B,” start each day in style with a gourmet meal made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients (think beet and goat cheese napoleons, herb frittatas, bread pudding, and more).

Click here to check availability

6. Share a Picnic at Centennial Olympic Park

As you may have guessed from the name, this 22-acre greenspace serves as Georgia’s legacy of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games. 

Today, it’s a place perfect for pairs and boasts several romantic things to do in Atlanta.

Enjoy the peaceful cascades of the Water Gardens, walk through the Magnolia Tribute Garden, and take a couple of shots in front of the iconic Olympic Rings at Fountain of Rings Plaza.

There’s plenty of green space, and the park is in the heart of downtown, so grab some grub from a nearby food truck or restaurant, then sprawl out on a blanket and enjoy the sunshine.

Read next: Romantic Restaurants in Atlanta

7. Indulge in an Intimate Italian Dinner at Sotto Sotto

Few things go together quite like a romantic night and Italian cuisine. So, for all your pasta-filled fantasies, look no further than Sotto Sotto.

Between its white tablecloths, candlelight, and warm atmosphere, this beloved eatery is easily one of the most romantic spots in Atlanta and has long been an anniversary destination for locals and travelers alike.

I recommend the Pappardelle al Sugo d’ Anatra (with duck ragù), the Ravioli Nudi (with spinach and ricotta filling), or the Cape Sante (seared jumbo sea scallops).

Make sure to save room for dessert, as Sotto Sotto boasts a long list of traditional Italian treats, plus after-dinner cocktails and cordials.

Read next: Weekend in Atlanta

8. Reenact “The Notebook” on Skyview Atlanta

This is easily one of the most classic romantic things to do in Atlanta, and for good reason. 

After all, any rom-com fan knows Ferris wheels are the perfect place to share a sweet moment with your special someone.

Hop aboard Atlanta’s iconic ride and climb nearly 20 stories above Centennial Park, scoring breathtaking downtown views in the process.

You’ll cruise in a climate-controlled, private gondola. To spice things up even further, book the Love Is in the Air package, which includes two adult tickets and a box of chocolates.

Or opt for the VIP car, which features a glass floor and Ferrari-style seats and allows you to skip the line for an extended ride.

9. Nerd Out at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Calling all couples that love to learn! It just so happens that one of the city’s coolest museums also hosts one of the most romantic things to do in Atlanta.

Although this educational spot is cool at all hours, it sets the stage for a truly fun date night idea after dark.

That’s right: On the second Friday of each month, Fernbank hosts a themed adults-only science night complete with live music, full bars, tapas menus, science demonstrations, and more.

Even if you’re not able to make it to this event, the museum is still well worth a visit. 

Among their most swoon-worthy exhibits are a star gallery, an ancient pottery hall, and a walk through Georgia from the time of the dinosaurs to today.

10. Feel Like Kids Again at Skyline Park

I couldn’t make a list of what to do in Atlanta as a couple without including this absolutely adorable date idea.

Skyline Park has all the ingredients for movie-like romance: vintage games, mini golf, and food and drinks galore.

Stoke some friendly competition over skeeball and goblet toss, get an adrenaline rush on the three-story slide and tower drop ride, then fuel up on American cuisine and craft cocktails at 9 Mile Station. 

Of course, don’t forget to spend some time admiring the sweeping views of Atlanta below.

In the winter, the romance is kicked up a notch with a rooftop ice skating rink, where you and your lover can glide around while watching the city lights come to life.

11. Take a Romantic Stroll Through Piedmont Park

If you’re looking for things to do in Atlanta as a couple but don’t want to break the bank, welcome to one of my favorite budget options!

A date at Piedmont Park is totally free and full of opportunities to enjoy quality time together. 

You can stroll hand-in-hand for a scenic loop around the lake or pack a picnic from home and dig in with views of downtown.

Bring along a camera and get snaps of each other in front of the park’s many picturesque backdrops, like the Midtown Reflection, the Meadow at Piedmont, and the Dockside. (They’re especially incredible when the fall foliage is in full swing).

The park also hosts hundreds of free or affordable events year-round, like figure drawing classes, trivia nights, farmers markets, walking clubs, and gardening classes. Check their website for the updated calendar!

12. Hop Aboard the Peachtree Trolley

What if you could learn more about local history while also riding around in style? The quaint little Peachtree Trolley will help you do just that!

Cozy up next to your date and enjoy a scenic 90-minute trolley ride. Meanwhile, a narrator will fill you in on all the stories and legends of famous Atlanta institutions, like the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, Mercedes Benz Stadium, the Atlanta Beltline, MLK National Park, Midtown Atlanta, Oakland Cemetery, and the fabulous Fox Theater.

Whether you live in the city or are just passing through, it’s a great way to develop a deeper understanding of Atlanta’s rich history–plus pinpoint places you’d like to go back and explore further.

13. Go for a Hike by the Chattahoochee River

Just 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area allows you to trade busy sidewalks for winding paths through pristine natural landscapes.

The sprawling outdoor space offers practically endless opportunities to explore. 

Hike and bike on an extensive trail network, try your hand at birdwatching, or (if the weather’s warm) get in the waters for tandem canoeing or tubing.

Among the acreage, you’ll find hidden bamboo forests and scenic 19th-century mill ruins, plus plenty of local wildlife and plants, so always keep your eyes peeled.

14. Split Small Plates at Krog Street Market

If the way to someone’s heart is, in fact, through their stomach, that makes this one of the most romantic things to do in Atlanta.

Krog Street Market was once a factory built around the 1920s. Now, although the industrial-chic atmosphere remains, it’s been converted into a popular hangout overflowing with independent food stalls.

Foodie couples will be in absolute heaven as they explore row after row of vendors. 

There’s something for every craving–from artisanal donuts to Sichuan cuisine to a 100% plant-based eatery. Order lots and enjoy family-style!

Alternatively, Ponce City Market is also a vibrant food hall worth checking out.

15. Have a Nostalgic Date Night at Starlight Theater

Between buzzy new releases, a vintage snack bar, and the chance to cozy up in your car, this swoonworthy throwback destination is a must-stop in Atlanta for couples.

After all, nothing says romance quite like a drive-in. Starlight Theater has been hosting movie-goers since 1949 and shows no signs of slowing down yet.

The drive-in is open 7 nights a week year-round, and tickets cost $10 per person. Aside from select single-billings, that gets you access to a doubleheader–2 movies for ½ the price!

Not a fan of the cinema? Starlight also hosts a flea market on weekends from 6 AM-3 PM. 

Just pay $0.50 to get in, then spend your morning hunting through various trinkets and treasures locals have brought in to sell or swap.

16. Root for the Home Team at a Braves Game

Last but not least of my favorite things to do in Atlanta as a couple is a tried-and-true classic: watch a Braves game. 

This is a city that’s proud of its baseball team, and an afternoon at the ballpark guarantees a good time.

Share some classic snacks (peanuts and Cracker Jacks, of course), and settle onto the grass for views of both the game and the city skyline in the background.

Whether you’re a big sports fan or not, it’s a great way to soak in some sunny Atlanta atmosphere with your partner by your side.