Atlanta is a city that combines southern charm with modern buzz, making it a top spot for exploring by various means. But what really sets Atlanta apart is its eclectic neighborhoods, landmarks like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, and pop culture filming locations like those from The Walking Dead. Whether you’re interested in Civil Rights history, Atlanta’s film fame, or simply want to see the city’s sights in style, there are plenty of quality tours to choose from. The variety of options like air-conditioned buses, private car tours, and themed city nights means you can tailor your experience to fit your schedule and interests. Just remember, Atlanta’s sprawling layout and diverse neighborhoods make a guided tour a practical way to get your bearings and see the highlights without the hassle of navigation.
To help you pick the best fit, we’ve compiled a list of the 16 top city tours in Atlanta, covering everything from comprehensive sightseeing to specialized experiences like black history, comedy spin, or The Walking Dead locations. Each offers a different perspective and style, ensuring you’ll find one that matches your travel vibe and curiosity level.
Quick Overview
Our list features full-day bus tours like the Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus, which covers iconic neighborhoods, Civil War sites, and local landmarks. For a more thematic experience, the Atlanta: Black History and Civil Rights City Driving Tour digs deep into Atlanta’s African-American heritage. If you’re after something lighter and more humorous, the Atlanta Comedy City Tour offers a fun spin with jokes and adult humor. For tech-savvy travelers, the Scavenger Hunt in Atlanta by Operation City Quest turns sightseeing into a friendly competition. Private and small-group options are also available, like the Atlanta City Tour by Private Car Service, perfect for customized explorations.
1. Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus
This 5-hour city tour offers a comfortable way to see Atlanta’s most famous sights in one go. Hop aboard an air-conditioned bus and enjoy a route that covers the Swan House, BeltLine trail, Ponce City Market, and Buckhead mansions. The tour is designed to provide a solid overview of Atlanta’s history, culture, and architecture, with stops that highlight Civil War sites and major landmarks. The itinerary includes multiple stops like MLK’s historic site and Buckhead’s upscale neighborhoods, with a break at the bustling Ponce City Market for lunch or shopping. With a 4.6/5 rating from 390 reviews, travelers appreciate the informative guides and well-organized stops. This tour works well for first-timers wanting a broad introduction without feeling rushed. The only potential downside is the fixed schedule, which may limit spontaneous exploration.
Bottom Line: A solid, comprehensive introduction to Atlanta that balances history, neighborhoods, and iconic sights — perfect for those with limited time.
2. Atlanta: Black History and Civil Rights City Driving Tour
For those interested in Atlanta’s centuries of African-American heritage and the Civil Rights movement, this tour hits the mark. It takes you down Sweet Auburn Avenue, past Paschal’s Restaurant, and to the last residence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Learn more about Atlanta’s civil rights legacy. The 4-hour tour features a knowledgeable guide who shares stories about key figures and moments, and also includes visits to Tyler Perry’s studio and public art around the city. Rated 4.9/5 from 125 reviews, guests praise Omar and Jeff for their personable approach and deep knowledge. This tour is ideal if you want a meaningful, culturally rich experience that dives into Atlanta’s role in Black history.
Bottom line: A deeply enriching tour for history buffs and cultural explorers eager to understand Atlanta’s pivotal role in civil rights.
3. Atlanta Comedy City Tour
For a light-hearted break from sightseeing, the Atlanta Comedy City Tour offers 90 minutes of laughs. Led by a local comedian, this tour takes you through neighborhoods like Cabbagetown and Centennial Olympic Park while giving humorous insights into Atlanta’s sights. The guide’s jokes are adult-oriented, and there’s a midway 15-minute beverage break—so bring your own beer or wine if you like. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 92 reviews, travelers say it’s a fun, adult outing that adds a different flavor to city touring. It’s perfect for those who enjoy comedy and want a memorable, humorous perspective.
Bottom line: A quick, entertaining way to see Atlanta’s neighborhoods with a comedic twist—ideal for adults looking for fun and laughter.
4. Atlanta Electric Car City Tour
Explore Atlanta in an electric car, a quiet, eco-friendly way to take in the city’s highlights. This 1.5-hour tour covers in-town neighborhoods like Inman Park and Little Five Points, with stops at landmarks like the Fox Theater and Piedmont Park. The guide, Jamal, draws praise for being engaging and knowledgeable, showing you places beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s a flexible tour suited for travelers wanting a relaxed, modern experience without the noise of a large bus. Guests appreciate the visit to local neighborhoods and hidden gems, making this a more intimate look at Atlanta’s everyday life. The tour costs $45 and has a 4.8/5 rating from 122 reviews, emphasizing its value and fun.
Bottom line: Perfect for eco-conscious travelers and those wanting a personalized, quiet exploration of Atlanta’s lively districts.
5. Atlanta: City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop
Experience Atlanta after dark on this City Lights Night Tour, where the city skyline lights up against the night sky. Over 3 hours, you’ll photograph landmarks like The King Center and Ponce City Market, with scenic stops at Jackson Street Bridge and Centennial Olympic Park. The tour includes a dinner break at Krog Street District, offering regional cuisine and drinks. Rated 4.9/5 from 74 reviews, travelers love the combination of stunning views, local food, and city ambiance at night. It’s an excellent choice if you want to see Atlanta’s nighttime glow and vibrant cityscape while enjoying a relaxed evening.
Bottom line: A memorable way to see Atlanta’s skyline and lights with a dinner stop, ideal for couples or anyone wanting evening city photography.
6. The Walking Dead in the City: Private Atlanta Film Location Tour
Fans of The Walking Dead will find this private tour a dream. Visiting the actual filming sites like Rick’s hospital, Morgan’s house, and Terminus, this Walking Dead film location tour offers up close looks at the places that brought the zombie apocalypse to life. Led by Greg, a knowledgeable guide with film experience, you’ll see key spots from the show and learn how Atlanta’s landscape became a star on the small screen. The tour lasts about 3 hours and costs $140 per person, making it a more exclusive experience with personalized attention. It’s perfect for avid fans who want behind-the-scenes stories and a unique tour experience.
Bottom line: For Walking Dead aficionados, this private tour offers a candid peek into Atlanta’s role as “Hollywood of the South” for TV productions.
7. Atlanta City Tour by Private Car Service
If comfort and flexibility top your list, the Private Car Service offers a bespoke experience in a luxury SUV. Over 1 to 1.5 hours, your driver will take you through neighborhoods like Inman Park, Little Five Points, and Cabbagetown, with stops and commentary tailored to your interests. This is ideal for travelers who want a personalized touch, quick orientation, or to visit specific sites. Recent reviews praise the friendliness and knowledge of guides like Henry and Charlie. The tour costs about $89.99 per person, which is a good value considering the privacy and customization. Be aware, the route can be flexible but less comprehensive than larger group tours.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a personalized, comfortable experience with a flexible itinerary.
8. Must See Sites of Atlanta Private City Tour
This 3-hour private tour offers a curated look at Atlanta’s top sights, from the Georgia Dome to the World of Coca-Cola and Centennial Olympic Park. Designed to be customized, it’s perfect for first-time visitors who want an overview with flexibility. The guide will handle all driving while you relax and learn about Atlanta’s architecture, sports venues, and neighborhoods. Rated 5.0/5 from 7 reviews, travelers praise the tailored experience. It’s especially good for those who prefer a more intimate, private setting and want to avoid large bus crowds.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for travelers wanting a personalized, comprehensive snapshot of Atlanta’s best sites.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best Atlanta tour depends heavily on your interests, schedule, and style. If you want a broad overview covering major landmarks in comfort, the Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour is hard to beat. For those wanting an in-depth look at civil rights history, the Black History and Civil Rights Tour delivers meaningful stories. Fans of TV and film should consider the Walking Dead Location Tour for an exclusive behind-the-scenes perspective.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Scavenger Hunt, while those seeking a personalized experience should look into the Private Car Tour, which can be tailored to your specific interests. Think about how much time you have—most tours range from 1 to 5 hours—and what kind of experience excites you most. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular options like private or themed tours, to ensure availability.
Final thoughts
Atlanta’s diverse range of city tours makes it possible for almost every traveler to find something that fits their style and curiosity. A comprehensive bus tour offers a quick yet thorough introduction, while private and themed options add depth and personalization. If you’re interested in Atlanta’s civil rights history, the Black History and Civil Rights Tour is especially compelling.
For a fun evening with memorable photos, the City Lights Night Tour will show Atlanta in a different light. Don’t forget, booking in advance is wise, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot on the experience that best matches your interests.
Happy exploring, and enjoy your Atlanta adventure!