Atlanta is quickly becoming a hot spot for tourists. Some places like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coke have long been essential attractions to visit in Atlanta, but they can be crowded and too expensive for the average college student to enjoy. While the thought of spending the day in the city may sound financially intimidating to a broke college student, there are plenty of free and affordable activities worth your time.
High Museum of Art
On the second Sunday of each month, the High Museum of Art offers free admission to all visitors. The dates for the rest of the semester are February 9th, March 8th, April 12th, and May 10th. Their Sunday hours are 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Currently on display through March 8th is the exhibition “Virgil Abloh: Figures of Speech.” The High’s website describes the exhibition as follows:
“Virgil Abloh: “Figures of Speech” offers an unprecedented survey of Abloh’s creative work over nearly two decades and pulls back the curtain on his process. The exhibition presents prototypes alongside finished artworks, product designs, and fashion to reveal his myriad inspirations—from centuries-old paintings to commonplace construction signs.”
Fernbank After Dark
On the second Friday of each month, the Fernbank Museum opens up after hours to offer a mixture of unique experiences. Their website states that they include “evening access to museum experiences, live music, full bars, tapas menus, films in the giant screen theater, and all-new science demonstrations and encounters.”
This makes for a great date night, a fun experience with friends, or an awesome way of meeting new people.
Fernbank After Dark is exclusively for ages 21+ and tickets are $19.95 each.
The BeltLine
Easily one of the best free amenities in Atlanta, the BeltLine is an old railway corridor turned trail for visitors to walk and bike throughout the city. From seeing dozens of paintings by local artists to beautiful views of the skyline, there is something for everyone to do. Stop by Ponce City Market to have lunch and take a walk on the BeltLine located right outside of the market.
Skyview Atlanta
One of the most iconic landmarks in Atlanta is the Skyview: a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel. Students with a valid student ID receive a discount on tickets. For only $12.50 each, you can have a relatively cheap date or go with up to five other friends to enjoy the views. Each ride lasts between 7-12 minutes according to their website.
Little Five Points
– The Vortex
A staple in Atlanta is the Little Five Points neighborhood, which features one of Atlanta’s most, if not the most, iconic bars and restaurants, The Vortex. Known for their iconic dazed skeleton exterior and crazy burgers, this restaurant draws in hungry locals and tourists from all over, as long as they are 21 and up.
– Criminal Records
Whether you collect vinyl records or not, Criminal Records won’t disappoint. This large record shop just around the corner from The Vortex sells vinyl, CDs, comic books, and other collectibles. You can spend hours shuffling through their large collection of records from the classics to new releases. If you are in the neighborhood, stopping here is a must.
– Rag-O-Rama
Easily one of the best thrift shops in Atlanta, Rag-O-Rama sells a large variety of mostly used and some new items of clothing for all genders. They also take items for those who are trying to get rid of some of their wardrobes. Not only is shopping at thrift stores like this one financially responsible, but it also helps out the environment. With every purchase made, Rag-O-Rama will give you a token worth five cents to donate to a charity of your choosing between three options they provide. So not only are you finding unique clothing here, but you are also doing something good.
As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Atlanta when you’re surviving on a college budget. From looking at fine art or dinosaur remains, to thrift shopping in a hip neighborhood, Atlanta has something for everyone to enjoy.