10 Awesome Hidden Gems in Atlanta

Atlanta’s scenic location at the southern end of the Appalachian Mountains — and its role as the cultural capital of the South — makes it the perfect city for an offbeat adventure. Whether you’re looking for unique cultural venues or beautiful outdoor trails, we’ve come up with this list of 10 hidden gems in Atlanta to give you some ideas for memorable experiences in the South. Ranging from public spaces to private venues, these locations will be less crowded than mainstream tourist spots, but they’ll still give you a taste of Atlanta’s one-of-a-kind personality.

1. The Junkman’s Daughter in Little Five Points

Little Five Points is known as Atlanta’s Bohemian quarter, full of shops, galleries, music venues, tattoo parlors, and vibrant outdoor murals. One of its most eclectic attractions is the Junkman’s Daughter, a vintage store and novelty shop that sells clothes, gifts, games, and more. Come for a wardrobe upgrade, or to get some shots of the store’s colorful exterior. Photos of the interior aren’t allowed, so you’ll have to visit in person to see it for yourself!

2. A historic mansion in Kirkwood

If you want to experience some of Atlanta’s most impressive architecture, check out this 1896 mansion full of Southern charm and ambiance. It has a wraparound porch, formal dining room and parlor, billiards room, and more. It even has a pecan orchard outside! It’s a great place to host a traditional wedding ceremony, with furniture rentals and a PA package available for an added fee. The upstairs bedrooms can be rented out separately for accommodations.

3. A modern bungalow in the West End

This 2500 sq.ft. home is the perfect setting for a photo shoot, interview, or even a cooking demo in the spacious chef’s kitchen. The entire space is decorated with an “Afro-chic” flair, drawing on inspiration from Morocco, Indonesia, and other parts of the globe. There’s also a front porch that can be rented separately for small gatherings that features a day bed and optional hookah!

4. The Kendeda Canopy Walk in the Atlanta Botanical Garden

Atlanta is sometimes called a “city in a forest” due to its extensive tree cover. You can see the city from new heights on the Kendeda Canopy Walk in the Atlanta Botanical Garden, which will take you for a stroll on a 600-foot-long “skywalk” 40 feet above the ground. This hidden gem in Atlanta was only opened in 2010, so be sure to visit now before it becomes more popular!

5. A former church with circus stage in Grant Park

This spacious church offers a beautiful event space with hardwood floors, high ceilings, and lots of natural light. With over 3000 sq.ft., you can rent out the main hall and adjoining rooms for up to 300 guests. While it’s suitable for a variety of events — from weddings to film screenings to yoga classes — the venue has been rigged to host aerial and acrobatic performances. You can work directly with your host to line up live music and circus performers to entertain your guests!

6. A castle with rooftop in Old Fourth Ward

This multi-story brownstone is easily one of our top hidden gems in Atlanta, with an impressive rooftop offering views of the city skyline. With an outdoor grill, refrigerator, and fireplace, the roof is the perfect spot to host a birthday party, Fourth of July party, or small gathering of any kind. It has a two-car garage and additional parking next door, and can accommodate up to 55 guests. It also has several indoor spaces, including a chef’s kitchen, formal dining table, and bedroom.

7. The Worlds of Puppetry Museum in Midtown

One of the only venues of its kind, the Worlds of Puppetry Museum is a lesser-known attraction that’s a must-see stop for fans of the creative arts. It includes the Jim Henson Collection, which features popular Muppets characters, and also offers film screenings and workshops for adults and kids alike. Visit their website to find out which puppets are currently on display.

8. The Museum of Design in Midtown

The Museum of Design is another eclectic museum in Atlanta, this one home to rotating exhibits on everything from guitars to espresso machines. The venue is also available for private events, with room for up to 100 guests for a cocktail-style reception. You’ll have access to the lobby and the three museum galleries. Catering is allowed, with some restrictions on red wines and drinks that could stain or damage the exhibits. It’s also a great option for off-site corporate retreats.

9. A historic event space in Inman Park

This unique venue was built in 1880 and can host weddings, birthday parties, and other events for up to 400 guests. Located in the residential Inman Park neighborhood, it’s a great alternative to a mainstream hotel or conference center. With a cavernous interior and high wooden rafters, the space can be set up for a seated dinner, reception, dance floor, and more. There’s also an outdoor space with hanging lanterns that can host your guests well into the evening.

10. The Artmore Hotel in Midtown

One of the city’s most impressive hotels, this hidden gem in Atlanta is a great space for a photo shoot, wedding, or cocktail party in the vibrant Midtown Arts District. With an open-air courtyard and cocktail garden, you’ll have both indoor and outdoor spaces to choose from. The Artmore’s Mediterranian architecture, featuring beautiful archways and a central fountain, can serve as a romantic backdrop for portraits or ceremonies. Choose from one of three preferred caterers or reach out to the Peerspace Concierge to coordinate furniture rentals and event staff.

Atlanta’s historic architecture and vibrant greenery makes this a beautiful city to explore on foot or host an event at one of our memorable Peerspace venues. From mansions and museums, to skywalks and rooftops, we think these hidden gems in Atlanta are a great way to experience the city for yourself. Book a venue today through the Peerspace Concierge service, or browse the listings in Atlanta for even more options, all available to rent from local hosts!

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