Atlanta's Black History and Civil Rights Tour

Atlanta , United States

Atlanta's Black History and Civil Rights Tour

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(1320 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us as we unfold time with this exciting Black History and Civil Rights tour. What better place to delve into African-American heritage than the Mecca of the Civil Rights Movement? Showcasing historic sites and most talked about black historic neighborhoods like Summerhill, The West End, Downtown Atlanta, Old 4th Ward and the Historic Sweet Auburn Ave District. During this 4 hour tour you will be immersed in black culture and arts, civil rights landmarks, groundbreaking HBCU’s, Tyler Perry Studios, along with famous Hollywood Film & TV locations and more. These are some of the reasons Atlanta is nicknamed "The Black Mecca" and one of the top destinations for Black History and Culture. This tour goes further than any other tour, allowing you to fully experience the historical and cultural significance of our groundbreaking city.

Available options

Atlanta's Black History and Civil Rights Tour

What's included

Bottled water

Driver/ Local Tour guide

3-5 stops for exploring and selfies (lunch-stop is optional)

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Built of the 1996 Olympic Games considered the attraction hub of Atlanta. World of Coke, Georgia Aquarium, CNN and others.

Heart of Atlanta! Where Atlanta began.
-Amazing unknown facts!! See Five Points District and the Birthplace of Coca Cola

Stop 3 Pass by

Atlanta's Government Center
-Atlanta City Hall
-Fulton County Courthouse
-Georgia Depot

The Olympic Stadium & Torch and relive the 1996 olympic moments. Amazing unknown facts! Fulton County Stadium, Baseball legend Hank Aaron and Historic Summerhill

Fun Stop for selfies and group photos
***Note: Visitors are only allowed to enter the studio welcome entrance area after 5pm Friday, all-day Sat & Sun and holidays per Tyler Perry mgmt.

The Original Madea House that Tyler Perry filmed popular movies like "Diary of a Mad Black Women and Family Reunion.

West End Atlanta-One of Atlanta’s spiritually rich and pro-black historic neighborhoods. Popular local black-owned businesses, Beautiful Victorian Homes, Beautiful Street Arts Murals

Atlanta oldest bookstore and culture center
*Great street art murals and famous black-owned businesses

HBCU's-Atlanta University Center (Largest Consortium of black colleges in the country) Morehouse College, Spellman College, Clark Atlanta University, Morris Brown College, Interdenominational Theological Center, Morehouse school of Medicine
-Famous Film locations

Stop 10 Pass by

Cruising through the Centennial Olympic attractions and see the great views of Mercedes Benz stadium, CNN Center, State Farm Arena, and Downtown Atlanta's beautiful skyline.

Atlanta’s hidden jewel for eclectic, laid-back, rich art gallery scenery.
-Paschal’s Restaurant
-(OLG) Old Lady Gang Restaurant
-The Glam Shop
-Frost Bistro & Bar
-Escobar Restaurant & Tapas
-The Castleberry filming Back lot of famous movies & TV shows

Once Atlanta’s richest Negro Street in the world.
-Woodruff Park, Atlanta Daily World (1st black daily newspaper)
-Atlanta Life, Apex Museum, Royal Peacock,
- SCLC Headquarters, Historic Black churches
-Beautiful Civil Rights art murals
-Famous Movie locations

See historic Civil Rights landmarks from schools, restaurants, businesses to Civil Rights headquarters to Civil Rights soldiers residences.

*Atlanta’s historic gem! Lunch stop Great food and snack options from Independent/family-owned eateries like Soul food, BBQ, New Orleans, seafood West African & Asian cuisines, wide selections of herbs & spices and much more.
Grady Hospital
Butler Street YMCA

Stop 15

Home to one of the greatest freedom fighters, Dr. MLK Jr! See
Ebenezer Baptist Church, MLK’s Birth Home, The King Center
The Visitors Center and more

Historic Old 4th Ward District known for beautiful street art murals and Eclectic Bar District.
-The Swag Shop, Esca Seafood & Bar, Cafe Circa Resturant & Bar
Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar, Fin & Feathers, BQE Resturant & Lounge

What's not included

Gratuities (suggested)

Food

Child Car Seat

Parking rates range $10-$30 Parking lots are located about one block from Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

836 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

484 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Atlanta Marriott Marquis Hotel is the meet-up location for all travelers. Good location that's using using Marta train riders, Uber/Lyft drop offs. The hotel has comfortable lobby seating, clean bathrooms, and Starbucks (opened 6am-1pm only) Parking is available, but isn't free! The parking garages and lots are located about one block from the hotel. Parking rates range $10-$30. Most important to arrive 25-30 minutes before tour departure.

Tour operates in all weather. Umbrella or rain poncho is recommended for for light rain. For extreme weather conditions, please call the phone number on your voucher to reconfirm tour operation.

The morning tour starts from 9:30am-1:30pm and the afternoon tour 2:15pm-6:15pm

Meeting point

Meetup at the hotel’s STREET curbside for pickup (You’ll see a big grey sign on the hotel STREET curbside entrance that’ll display “Marriott Marquis Atlanta” The sign is located directly across the street from the Hyatt Regency. Paid-parking is available one block from the hotel. Arrive 15min early

About Atlanta

Atlanta, the capital of Georgia, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and significant role in the American Civil Rights Movement. It offers a mix of modern attractions, historic sites, and Southern charm, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Georgia Aquarium

One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life, including whale sharks and beluga whales.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate ($35-$45 for adults)

World of Coca-Cola

An interactive museum dedicated to the history and culture of Coca-Cola, featuring exhibits, tastings, and a bottling process demonstration.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate ($16-$20 for adults)

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

A collection of sites related to the life and work of Martin Luther King Jr., including his childhood home, the Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the King Center.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (some sites require tickets)

Ponce City Market

A vibrant market and food hall housed in a historic building, featuring a variety of local vendors, restaurants, and shops.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, varies by vendor

Atlanta Botanical Garden

A beautiful 30-acre garden featuring a variety of plant collections, themed gardens, and seasonal displays.

Nature 1-2 hours Moderate ($21.95 for adults)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fried Chicken

Crispy, golden-fried chicken, often served with biscuits and gravy. A staple of Southern cuisine.

Main Course Contains gluten and typically fried in vegetable oil

Pimento Cheese

A spread made from cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, often served on crackers or as a sandwich filling.

Appetizer/Snack Contains dairy and may contain gluten

Peach Cobbler

A warm, sweet dessert made with peaches, sugar, and a buttery crust, often served with ice cream.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Grits

Creamy, savory cornmeal porridge, often served with cheese, butter, or shrimp.

Breakfast Can be made gluten-free and vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in Stone Mountain Park Zip-lining at Adventure Outdoors Kayaking on the Chattahoochee River Spa treatments at Chateau Elan Beach relaxation in Tybee Island Picnic in Piedmont Park Visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park Exploring the High Museum of Art

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-28°C 60-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, French, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Atlanta is generally safe for tourists, with most visits being trouble-free. However, some areas can be sketchy, and petty crime can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Use reputable tour guides and taxi services

Getting there

By air

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport • 17 km (10.5 miles) from downtown

By train

Atlanta Union Station

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station, Megabus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

MARTA is efficient and affordable, with four rail lines connecting major attractions, the airport, and suburbs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Midtown Buckhead East Atlanta Decatur

Day trips

Stone Mountain Park

32 km (20 miles) from downtown Atlanta • Half day to full day

A massive granite dome featuring a laser show, hiking trails, and a historic carving of Confederate figures.

Chateau Elan Winery and Resort

97 km (60 miles) from downtown Atlanta • Full day

A luxurious winery and resort offering wine tastings, fine dining, and spa services in a picturesque setting.

Savannah

400 km (250 miles) from downtown Atlanta • Overnight

A charming coastal city known for its historic district, beautiful architecture, and nearby beaches.

Festivals

Atlanta Dogwood Festival • Early April Atlanta Jazz Festival • Late May Atlanta Pride • Early October

Pro tips

Use MARTA for easy and affordable transportation around the city and to the airport
Visit popular attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola in the morning to avoid crowds
Explore Atlanta's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
Try local Southern specialties like fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, and peach cobbler
Check for free and discounted attraction passes, such as the Atlanta CityPASS, to save money on popular attractions