Atlanta’s historical tours cut straight to the heart of this Southern city’s most significant sites. The must-do experiences center around the Civil Rights movement, with outstanding walking tours through the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park and surrounding Freedom Trail.
We love the Atlanta History Center tours for their well-preserved Civil War artifacts and authentic 1860s Smith Farm experience. The Sweet Auburn neighborhood tours stand out for combining important historical stops with fantastic Southern food tastings.
Our favorite tours consistently earn top marks for their knowledgeable local guides and meaningful connections to Atlanta’s past. Check out these top historical tours worth your time and money:
Key Points
- Atlanta offers a diverse range of historical tours showcasing the city’s rich culture, heritage, and significant landmarks, including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park.
- Tours cater to various interests, from civil rights and architecture to local cuisine, providing engaging and educational experiences led by knowledgeable guides.
- Notable tour locations include the Atlanta History Center, Oakland Cemetery, Fox Theatre, and Margaret Mitchell House, allowing for in-depth exploration of the city’s history.
- Many tours offer wheelchair accessibility, small group sizes, and opportunities for culture, including visits to local eateries and interactions with artisans.
- Historical tours in Atlanta consistently receive high ratings from visitors, highlighting the quality of storytelling, knowledge of guides, and the educational and cultural significance of the experiences.
Atlantas Black History and Civil Rights Tour
Why not start your Atlanta adventure with the immersive Atlanta’s Black History and Civil Rights Tour?
This highly-rated 4.9-star tour takes you on a half-day exploration of the city’s vibrant African-American heritage.
With a maximum of 14 participants, you’ll dive into neighborhoods like Sweet Auburn and visit key Civil Rights landmarks.
Expect an engaging experience led by knowledgeable guides, who’ll share insights into Atlanta’s rich history and traditions.
Convenient transportation, bottled water, and an optional lunch stop are included.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and near public transit.
With a 98% traveler recommendation, this tour is an excellent introduction to Atlanta’s captivating Black history and culture.
Read our full review: Atlantas Black History and Civil Rights Tour Review
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Atlanta: Black History and Civil Rights City Driving Tour
Frequently, travelers to Atlanta embark on the immersive Atlanta: Black History and Civil Rights City Driving Tour, a highly-rated 4.9-star experience that delves into the city’s vibrant African-American heritage.
This 4-hour tour offers a comprehensive exploration, visiting significant sites like the birth home and last residence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and the renowned Paschal’s Restaurant, a hub of civil rights activism.
Guests discover influential African-American leaders, explore neighborhoods steeped in black culture and history, and gain a deeper understanding of Atlanta’s pivotal role as a center for black education, politics, and influence.
With wheelchair accessibility, free cancellation, and a convenient central pickup, this tour provides an enriching and accessible way to experience the city’s remarkable past.
Read our full review: Atlanta: Black History and Civil Rights City Driving Tour Review
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Martin Luther King Jr. History Walking Tour
Atlanta’s Martin Luther King Jr. History Walking Tour is a must-do experience for visitors and locals alike. With 556 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, this tour immerses guests in the rich history of the Civil Rights Movement.
Explore the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, visit key sites like Ebenezer Baptist Church and the King Center, and learn engaging stories from knowledgeable guides. The tour offers an educational and entertaining glimpse into Dr. King’s personal and public life, as well as the impact of Atlanta on the broader movement.
While the King birth home tour is currently closed, this walking tour provides an equally compelling experience. Priced at $40 per person, it’s a fantastic value for the insights and immersion it provides.
Read our full review: Martin Luther King Jr. History Walking Tour Review
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Atlanta: Martin Luther King Historical Park Walking Tour
Enjoy the rich legacy of the Civil Rights Movement on the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park walking tour in Atlanta.
Over 2.5 hours, you’ll explore key landmarks like Ebenezer Baptist Church and the King Center, learning about Dr. King’s life and the broader civil rights struggle through immersive stories from your knowledgeable guide.
Admire scenic views at the Jackson Street Bridge and discover notable artifacts and photos.
The tour includes entry tickets and a donation to the King Center. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the 1.7-mile outdoor walk involves a lot of standing.
With a 4.9/5 rating, this intimate and engaging tour is a must for history buffs visiting Atlanta.
Read our full review: Atlanta: Martin Luther King Historical Park Walking Tour Review
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5hr Guided Segway Tour of Historic Atlanta
Setting out on a 2.5-hour guided Segway tour, visitors can explore Atlanta’s historic sites and vibrant neighborhoods in an eco-friendly manner.
With 99% of travelers recommending the tour, it offers an educational and entertaining small-group experience. Participants will visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and neighborhoods like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, and Cabbagetown.
Scenic views can be enjoyed from Oakland Cemetery and the Atlanta BeltLine, where the oldest food hall is located. The tour includes a Segway training session, and participants must meet weight requirements and dress code.
With an overall 4.9 rating, the knowledgeable guides ensure a fun and unique exploration of Atlanta’s history and landmarks.
Atlanta: Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class
For those seeking a more immersive experience in Atlanta’s rich culinary history, the Atlanta Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class offers a delectable adventure.
Priced at $70 per person, this 2-hour tour takes participants on a guided exploration of the historic Municipal Market, considered one of the top 10 markets in the country.
Highlighting hyper-local ingredients, the tour includes 9 tastings from 5 vendors and a hands-on biscuit-making workshop. Knowledgeable guides share informative stories about Atlanta’s food heritage.
While not suitable for dietary restrictions, the tour provides an engaging indoor experience for up to 10 participants.
With a 5/5 rating from 11 reviews, this tour promises a delightful blend of flavor and history.
Read our full review: Atlanta: Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class Review
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3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour
The 3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour takes participants on an immersive exploration of Inman Park’s vibrant culinary, artistic, and historical offerings.
Guests will sample regional cuisine, including five food tastings and one cocktail tasting from local vendors. Along the way, they’ll visit key sites like the Krog Street Market, Krog Street Tunnel, and the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, led by a knowledgeable local guide.
With a maximum group size of 16, the tour offers an intimate experience, though it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Traveler reviews praise the high-quality food, engaging storytelling, and insightful local perspectives provided throughout the 3-hour experience.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour Review
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Atlanta’s Best and Historic Treasures – Private Walking Tour
Visitors can explore Atlanta’s rich history and vibrant culture on this intimate private walking tour.
For $268.68 per group (up to 2 participants), the 2.5-hour tour explores the city’s top historic treasures.
Highlights include the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, the iconic Jackson Street Bridge, the historic Sweet Auburn district, and the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame.
The tour also includes a visit to The King Center to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy.
With a professional local guide, this flexible tour offers a personal connection to Atlanta’s monumental stories and sights.
Read our full review: Atlanta’s Best and Historic Treasures – Private Walking Tour Review
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2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market
This 2-hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market provides an immersive exploration of Atlanta’s vibrant culture and rich heritage.
With 151 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this guided tour takes visitors through the historic Ponce City Market, where they’ll sample cuisine from 5 award-winning local restaurants and a craft beer tasting.
The tour also includes a walk along the Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail, providing insights into the architectural history of the market and surrounding area.
Suitable for all ages and accessible to wheelchair users, the tour offers a well-rounded experience highlighting the best of Ponce City Market.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market Review
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Atlanta Historical Homes Tour
Exploring Atlanta’s architectural legacy, the Atlanta Historical Homes Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history.
This half-day tour takes visitors to some of the most renowned historical homes in the area, including the Governor’s Mansion and the Swan House.
With a knowledgeable guide providing insightful commentary, guests can learn about Atlanta’s past while admiring the stunning architecture and gardens.
The tour also includes a stop at the Swan Coach House for lunch, allowing visitors to enjoy the local culture.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, making it an engaging and accessible way to discover Atlanta’s historical treasures.
Read our full review: Atlanta Historical Homes Tour Review
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Sum Up
Atlanta offers a wide variety of historical tours that explore the city’s rich Black history and civil rights legacy. These tours cover iconic sites like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park and the Ponce City Market, providing in-depth insights into Atlanta’s pivotal role in the struggle for equality. Whether you prefer walking, driving, or Segway tours, there are options to suit every interest and schedule.