Atlanta Attractions Open on Thanksgiving Day

By Carol Carter

Published October 25, 2022
Last Updated November 12, 2024

The long-range weather forecast for Thanksgiving Day in Atlanta looks perfect for getting out of the house. Luckily, several of the city’s most popular attractions are open on Turkey Day.

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at Atlanta Botanical Garden

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights, the annual lights extravaganza at Atlanta Botanical Garden, won The Great Christmas Light Fight 2023 on ABC TV. This year, there is an upgrade to the world’s largest curtain of synchronized light and sound, Nature’s Wonders. Also, you may expect new music and choreography with more vertical lights than ever. Look for several of the giant plant sculptures from Alice’s Wonderland Returns dramatically lit, including the Skyline Garden’s towering White Rabbit and nearby Chess Set as well as the Cheshire Cat perched on Alston Overlook. Other features back by popular demand include large illuminated metal sculptures of deer and birds by French artist Cedric Le Borgne. Two deer are grazing among the grasses, while six birds are perched among the hardwoods or taking flight
through the treetops. Nov. 16 — Jan. 12, 2025.

Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium. Got family visiting for Thanksgiving? Before (or after) the turkey, visit the largest aquarium in the United States. Book a close encounter or just stroll the galleries. In Cold Water Quest say hello to beluga whales, African penguins and bat stars. We don’t need to tell you what you’ll find on Dolphin Coast. Head into the Ocean Voyager gallery to see whale sharks and manta rays. Speaking of sharks, don’t miss SHARKS! Predators of the Deep. In the River Scout gallery, look for the Eastern River Cooter. It’s a turtle, BTW.  

Stone Mountain Christmas

Stone Mountain Christmas. Wrap up your Thanksgiving Day by looking forward to December with a visit to Stone Mountain Christmas. The Christmas Light Show includes favorite holiday songs brought to life with videos, special effects and a fireworks finale. Look up so as no to miss Santa flying in his sleigh each night during the Enchanted Tree Lighting Ceremony. More holiday moments include a visit with Santa, a journey through the Musical Frosted Forest, carolers and a Christmas parade. Nov. 9 — Jan. 5, 2024.

Turkey Dinner

Yes, some Atlanta restaurants are open on Thanksgiving Day — and they’re fixing all the trimmings. Here are Atlanta Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Day for Dine-In and Takeout.

Run the Half Marathon

Kick off your Thanksgiving Day with the Invesco QQQ Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon, 5K, Mile & Dash. It’s an Atlanta tradition. Runners and walkers will start their race under Atlanta’s iconic Olympic rings, then stick around for a post-race celebration. You’ll want to bring your medal and your bragging rights to Thanksgiving dinner.

Feel like Dancing?

For a post-dinner dance party, Johnny’s Hideaway will be open on Thanksgiving night from 8 p.m.-3 a.m., offering a setting perfect for dancing off the day’s indulgence. Wrap up Thanksgiving in style.

Where: 3771 Roswell Road NE

Walk the Atlanta Beltline or Take an Artsy Stroll

If you could use a little Thanksgiving Day exercise, take a walk on the Atlanta Beltline. Here’s another idea: Atlanta is known for its jaw-dropping street art. Armed with this handy street art map, you can plan your own artsy stroll through the A.

Enjoy the Long Weekend

Browse our Things to Do Over Thanksgiving Weekend in Atlanta for ways to extend your holiday fun. Perhaps visit an Atlanta park. Check our Ultimate List of 50+ Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids.

For even more things to do in Atlanta anytime, check our calendar of events.

Journalist Carol Carter writes and edits for Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.