The 6 Best Shopping & Market Tours in Atlanta
Atlanta isn’t just about Civil War sites and peach cobbler—its shopping scene is equally diverse and vibrant. From bustling markets filled with hyper-local ingredients to upscale malls and historic neighborhoods, Atlanta offers a wealth of retail experiences that cater to every taste. Food lovers can indulge in tasty tastings and cooking classes, while shoppers can explore designer outlets and luxury malls. With so many options, it’s worth knowing which tours stand out for their authenticity, value, and unique takes on Atlanta’s retail scene.
In this guide, you’ll find the top six shopping and market tours in Atlanta. Whether you’re after a hands-on cooking experience at a historic market or a leisurely drive through stylish neighborhoods, this list will help you choose the perfect way to enjoy Atlanta’s retail treasures.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a range of Atlanta shopping and market tours: from food-focused experiences like Atlanta: Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class to urban sightseeing combined with shopping such as the Private Atlanta Sightseeing Tour with Ponce City Market. For high-end shopping, there’s the Atlanta’s Shopping Heaven Tour, and if you’re into outlet shopping, the Private Shopping Tour from Atlanta hotels to North Georgia Outlet offers a full day of savings. Finally, food hall tours at Ponce City Market provide a delicious way to explore Atlanta’s culinary scene in a lively setting.
Now, let’s dive into the details of each tour so you can pick the one that suits your style and schedule best.
1. Atlanta: Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class
At number 1 on our list, this 2-hour experience combines food tasting and a hands-on cooking class at Atlanta’s historic Municipal Market. The tour offers a small-group setting for a more intimate experience, focusing on hyper-local ingredients that reflect Southern flavors. You’ll explore the market stalls, learn about Atlanta’s food history, and sample a variety of delicious offerings.
What makes this tour stand out is the biscuit-making workshop—a chance to unleash your inner chef and bring home a batch of freshly made biscuits. The guide, Glenn, shares stories about the Sweet Auburn Market’s origins, explaining how women raised funds for it, adding a layer of cultural insight. Reviewers praise the delicious food and engaging storytelling, with one noting, “The food was delicious and I could make yummy biscuits!” The tour is priced at $70 per person, offering excellent value for a full sensory and educational experience.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for foodies, history enthusiasts, and anyone eager to learn Southern cooking techniques in an authentic setting.
2. Atlanta: Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour
At number 2, this food tour centers on Atlanta’s largest food hall—Ponce City Market. Over about 2 hours, you’ll visit five different restaurants, sampling everything from Oprah’s favorite gelato to grilled chicken tikka naan topped with slaw, and even boozy slushies. It’s a great way to explore gourmet creations without the hassle of long restaurant lines or having to choose just one spot.
The tour also highlights the market’s history, being the largest brick building in the Southeast, and explores the colorful murals along the nearby Eastside trail of the Atlanta Beltline. The reviews are glowing, with visitors mentioning the generous tastings, the knowledgeable guide David, and the informative city tour elements. The cost is $99, which, considering the variety and quality of food, offers fantastic value.
Bottom line: Ideal for culinary explorers and outdoor art lovers, this tour balances food, history, and urban scenery.
3. Private Atlanta Sightseeing Tour w/ Shopping and Lunch Stop at Ponce City Market
Number 3 offers a personalized 3-hour tour combining sightseeing and shopping, with a stop for lunch at Ponce City Market. The itinerary includes visits to the King Center, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Buckhead’s mansions, the Swan House, and the Margaret Mitchell House—all in a comfortable private vehicle. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a rundown of Atlanta’s neighborhoods and history with shopping included.
It’s especially suited for those who prefer a tailored experience. The lunch is at your own expense, but the tour provides insights into Atlanta’s cultural and architectural highlights. The reviews are highly positive, praising Shelley’s engaging storytelling and personalized approach. The tour costs $157.90 per person, offering great value for a customized city tour with a shopping component.
Bottom line: Best for history and architecture enthusiasts who want a flexible, private experience that includes some shopping.
4. 4-hour Atlanta City Tour w/Ponce City Market Lunch Stop
At number 4, this 4-hour driving tour covers Atlanta’s main attractions, including Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Downtown, Midtown, and Inman Park. It combines sightseeing with stops at key sites like the MLK Center and Ponce City Market, where you can explore the largest food hall and shopping destination in the city.
The tour includes famous landmarks like Georgia Tech and the World of Coca-Cola Museum, giving a broad overview of Atlanta’s cultural and commercial landscape. Reviews mention guides like Jamaal and Steve, who are praised for being knowledgeable, personable, and engaging. Priced at $69 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing and shopping for a reasonable price.
Bottom line: Great for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive tour that hits many highlights in a single day.
5. Atlanta’s Shopping Heaven Tour
Number 5 is a 3-hour tour for fashion lovers, focusing on Lenox Mall and Phipps Plaza—two of Atlanta’s premier shopping destinations. The tour includes roundtrip transportation from downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead, making it a convenient way to enjoy boutique shopping without the hassle of navigating Atlanta’s traffic.
While reviews are limited, the focus on high-end malls makes this a good choice for those looking for luxury brands and a relaxed shopping experience. Expect to see famous brands like Polo Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch, and Burberry. It’s priced at $41.03 per person, which is quite reasonable given the premium shopping involved.
Bottom line: Perfect for luxury shoppers wanting to avoid the hassle of transportation and focus on designer brands.
6. Private Shopping Tour from Atlanta hotels to North Georgia Outlet
Finally, number 6 is a full-day, 6-hour private tour ideal for serious bargain hunters. Starting from your hotel, you’ll be driven to the North Georgia Premium Outlets, featuring over 140 stores including Polo Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch, Nike, Coach, and more. Expect significant discounts, with savings of 25-65% on many items.
This tour offers customized shopping time and is best suited for those who want a luxury outlet experience with personalized service. At $367.87 per person, it’s a premium option—but one that guarantees access to world-class boutiques at unbeatable prices.
Bottom line: Excellent for serious shoppers and those craving designer deals in a flexible, private setting.
How to Choose Your Perfect Atlanta Shopping & Market Tour
Picking the right tour depends largely on your interests, budget, and time. If you want to combine food and history, the Atlanta: Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class offers an authentic taste of Southern cuisine plus a delicious hands-on experience. For food hall enthusiasts, the Ponce City Market Food Tour delivers gourmet samples and city insights in two hours.
Travelers seeking a personalized city overview should consider the Private Atlanta Sightseeing Tour, which combines sightseeing with shopping and flexible stops. Budget shoppers aiming for big savings will appreciate the North Georgia Outlet Tour, while those who prefer luxury brands will find the Shopping Heaven Tour a great pick.
Remember to consider availability, duration, and your personal interests when booking. Many tours offer small group sizes and expert guides, ensuring a more engaging experience. Booking early is advised, especially during peak times or weekends.
Final Thoughts
Atlanta’s diverse shopping and market scene means there’s a tour tailored for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a food lover looking to taste Southern specialties, a fashionista craving designer brands, or an history buff wanting a cultural overview, these tours deliver real value and memorable experiences.
If you’re tight on time, the shorter food tours like the Ponce City Market Food Tour offer a quick taste of Atlanta’s culinary scene. For a more luxurious shopping experience, the private outlet tour is unbeatable. Whichever you choose, early booking will help ensure your spot on these popular outings—so plan ahead and enjoy Atlanta’s shopping and markets!