From dazzling light displays that rival the stars to world-class attractions decked out for the season, there are so many things to do in Atlanta in December. You'll find seasonal markets brimming with handcrafted gifts, theaters hosting spectacular performances, and attractions that blend year-round appeal with December charm.
Explore Atlanta Holiday Lights and Seasonal Displays
Holiday lights in Atlanta create an enchanting backdrop for December adventures. The city comes alive after dark with displays that range from subtle elegance to over-the-top spectacle. Zoo Atlanta's IllumiNights transforms the grounds into a glowing pathway of animal-themed light sculptures and interactive exhibits. Wander along illuminated trails, spotting your favorite creatures reimagined in thousands of colorful bulbs.
Centennial Olympic Park becomes a hub of seasonal cheer with its towering Christmas tree and nightly light displays. The park sits right in the heart of downtown, making it easy to pair your visit with nearby attractions. During December, the park often hosts holiday-themed events and markets, perfect for picking up unique gifts or enjoying festive treats. Families can take advantage of photo opportunities with sparkling decorations, while couples might enjoy a romantic stroll under the lights.
Family-Friendly Indoor Attractions
Atlanta's indoor attractions shine especially bright in December, offering warmth and entertainment when you need a break from outdoor activities. These destinations welcome families with seasonal programming that enhances their already impressive year-round offerings.
Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the world's largest aquariums, home to tens of thousands of animals representing hundreds of species. December visits offer a serene escape from the holiday hustle. You'll find yourself mesmerized by beluga whales, whale sharks, and manta rays gliding through millions of gallons of water. The Ocean Voyager exhibit puts you in an underwater tunnel surrounded by marine life on all sides. Kids love the touch pools where they can interact with stingrays and other gentle creatures. The aquarium often adds festive decorations that complement its exhibits without overwhelming the natural beauty of its residents.
World of Coca-Cola
Just steps from the aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola celebrates the iconic beverage brand with interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and the famous tasting room where you can sample drinks from around the globe. December brings extra sparkle to the experience, with seasonal displays adding to the already cheerful atmosphere. You'll see the evolution of Coca-Cola advertising through the decades, meet the Coca-Cola Polar Bear, and discover the "secret formula" vault. The Pop Culture Gallery showcases how the brand has influenced art and entertainment over the years.
Fernbank Museum
The Fernbank Museum of Natural History takes you on adventures through time and space. The Giants of the Mesozoic exhibit features some of the largest dinosaurs ever discovered, including the massive Argentinosaurus. The museum's IMAX theater presents nature documentaries on a screen several stories tall, creating an immersive viewing experience. December often brings special exhibitions and programming that add fresh perspectives to the permanent collections. The WildWoods outdoor discovery area lets kids burn energy while learning about Georgia's natural habitats, even during cooler months.
Outdoor Activities and Tips for a Winter Visit
Winter activities in Atlanta take advantage of the city's generally mild December weather. The Atlanta BeltLine offers miles of paths perfect for walking, jogging, or biking through different neighborhoods. Public art installations line the route, and you'll pass cafés and shops where you can warm up with hot chocolate or coffee. Many sections feature holiday decorations that add festive cheer to your journey.
Stone Mountain Park, located outside the city, offers hiking trails of varying difficulty and spectacular views from the summit. December crowds tend to be lighter, giving you more space to explore. Piedmont Park sits in the heart of Midtown, offering open green spaces and walking paths with skyline views.
Pack layers for December visits. Mornings and evenings can be cool, while afternoons might warm up enough for just a light jacket. Parking at popular attractions fills up quickly during the holiday season, so arrive early or use public transportation when possible. MARTA trains and buses serve major tourist areas and can save you the hassle of finding a spot during peak times.
Cultural Experiences and Holiday Performances
The Fox Theatre, a stunning 1920s movie palace, transforms into a holiday showcase each December. Its ornate interior, complete with a ceiling resembling a night sky, provides the perfect setting for seasonal performances. The theater hosts everything from classic ballet productions of The Nutcracker to concerts featuring holiday favorites. The building itself deserves admiration, with its elaborate Moorish design and restored architectural details.
The Alliance Theatre presents plays and musicals that range from traditional holiday stories to contemporary works. December performances often include family-friendly options suitable for all ages. Smaller venues throughout the city offer jazz concerts, choir performances, and theatrical productions that capture the spirit of the season.
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park offers a different kind of cultural experience, encouraging reflection on themes of peace, justice, and community. December provides an appropriate time to visit this important site, where you can tour Dr. King's childhood home, see his final resting place, and learn about the Civil Rights Movement's impact on Atlanta and the nation.
Seasonal Markets and Local Holiday Traditions
Holiday markets bring European-style charm to Atlanta's December scene. The Atlanta Christkindl Market recreates a traditional German Christmas market with wooden vendor stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, imported treats, and artisan gifts. You'll smell roasted nuts and warm spiced wine (along with non-alcoholic options) as you browse through unique items you won't find in regular stores. The location for this market changes year to year, so make sure to check its current schedule.
Lucy's Market is a great December choice with its curated selection of vendors offering jewelry, home decor, clothing, and food products. The market emphasizes local creators and small businesses, making it an ideal place to find distinctive gifts while supporting Atlanta's creative community.
Ponce City Market, housed in a converted Sears building, operates year-round but adds special holiday programming in December. The mixed-use development combines shopping, dining, and entertainment under one massive roof. The rooftop amusement park offers games and attractions with views of the Atlanta skyline, which is a fun option when you want something different from traditional holiday activities.
Make the Most of Atlanta Holidays With CityPASS Tickets
Planning your December visit becomes simpler when you can bundle Atlanta's premier attractions into one convenient package. Whether you're drawn to holiday lights in Atlanta, indoor cultural experiences, or outdoor winter activities in Atlanta, CityPASS® tickets help you see more while spending less.