Centennial Olympic Park
A vibrant urban oasis and legacy of the 1996 Olympics, featuring the iconic Fountain of Rings and lush gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Centennial Olympic Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant urban oasis and legacy of the 1996 Olympics, featuring the iconic Fountain of Rings and lush gardens.
"A true gem in the heart of the city, amazingly maintained with pristine green spaces and sparkling water features."
🎯 Catch the Fountain Show
Don't miss the synchronized water and light show at the Fountain of Rings in the evening!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the park's many paths and attractions. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fountain of Rings
Center of the park
An iconic, interactive fountain with synchronized water jets, representing the Olympic rings. A must-see, especially during evening light shows.
Olympic Rings Sculpture
Near the Fountain of Rings
A classic photo opportunity with the five Olympic rings, a lasting tribute to the 1996 Games.
Gardens and Water Features
Throughout the park
Explore serene water gardens, cascading waterfalls, and lush landscaping perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Safety and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Fountain Show
Don't miss the synchronized water and light show at the Fountain of Rings in the evening!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the park's many paths and attractions. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of green space and picnic areas make it ideal for a relaxed lunch. :sandwich:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture memories at the Fountain of Rings and Olympic Rings sculpture. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Fountain Show
Don't miss the synchronized water and light show at the Fountain of Rings in the evening!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the park's many paths and attractions. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of green space and picnic areas make it ideal for a relaxed lunch. :sandwich:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture memories at the Fountain of Rings and Olympic Rings sculpture. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring water or plan to purchase some. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Centennial Olympic Park for its beautiful landscaping, cleanliness, and the captivating Fountain of Rings, especially its evening light shows. It's seen as a well-maintained urban oasis perfect for strolls, picnics, and family outings. Some minor concerns about late-night safety and the presence of homeless individuals have been noted, but overall, it's highly recommended as an Atlanta landmark.
"A very nice park with waterfalls and lots of beautiful landscaping. We were there when the dancing lights were on display and it was awesome. We rode the skyview and it was great as well. The park closes at 10. It is clean and well taken care of. Would highly recommend visiting here."
Jawana Watson Silvestri
"A must-visit Atlanta landmark right in downtown. The park offers plenty of picnic areas and clean restrooms, making it convenient for families and groups. It’s a pleasant place for a walk, and you’ll also find many attractions nearby to explore."
Kelly Lee
"Centennial Olympic Park is a true gem in the heart of the city. The park is amazingly maintained, with pristine green spaces, sparkling water features, and immaculately clean pathways. It's clear that a great deal of care goes into keeping the park in such good order. The beautiful landscaping and well-kept facilities make for a peaceful and enjoyable experience, whether you're strolling through the grounds, relaxing by the Fountain of Rings, or attending one of the many events. The park's cleanliness and excellent upkeep truly enhance its beauty and make it a must-visit destination."
Zack Eckley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Centennial Olympic Park is located in downtown Atlanta. You can easily reach it by MARTA (Atlanta's public transit system) via the Peachtree Center or Civic Center stations. Driving is also an option, with several parking decks nearby, though rates can vary. Many visitors also walk to the park from nearby attractions like the Georgia Aquarium or World of Coca-Cola.
Yes, there are several parking decks surrounding the park, including the Centennial Olympic Park Deck and the Georgia Aquarium Parking Deck. It's advisable to check parking rates in advance as they can fluctuate, especially during events.
Absolutely! Centennial Olympic Park is centrally located and within walking distance of major attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
MARTA is a convenient option for getting to downtown Atlanta. Once in the area, walking is often the easiest way to navigate between attractions and Centennial Olympic Park. Ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, Centennial Olympic Park is well-served by Atlanta's public transportation system, MARTA. The closest stations are Peachtree Center and Civic Center, both offering easy access to the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Centennial Olympic Park is free to enter and explore. It's a public park open to everyone.
The park is generally open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. However, hours can sometimes vary due to special events, so it's always a good idea to check the official park website before your visit.
Since the park is free to enter, no advance ticket booking is required. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
Generally, you can bring picnic items and non-alcoholic beverages. Large coolers might be restricted during special events. It's always best to check the park's specific policies if you plan on bringing a lot of items.
Leashed pets are typically allowed in Centennial Olympic Park, but it's always wise to confirm the latest pet policy on the park's official website, especially during busy event days.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park's main attractions include the iconic Fountain of Rings, the Olympic Rings sculpture, beautiful water gardens, and expansive green spaces perfect for relaxation and picnics. 
The Fountain of Rings often features a water and light show in the evenings. While specific showtimes can vary, late afternoon and evening are generally the best times to catch this spectacular display.
During the day, the park is generally considered safe and well-patrolled, with police presence noted. However, some visitors express caution about walking through the park late at night. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.
Yes, Centennial Olympic Park provides clean and accessible restrooms for visitors, making it convenient for families and longer stays.
Families can enjoy picnics, let children play in the open green spaces, and be mesmerized by the Fountain of Rings. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll and to enjoy the outdoors.
📸 📸 Photography
The Fountain of Rings, especially during its light show, and the Olympic Rings sculpture are prime photo locations. The park's landscaping and water features also offer beautiful backdrops.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check the park's official regulations regarding drone operation before attempting to fly one.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene shots. Evenings are magical with the Fountain of Rings' light show, providing dynamic photographic opportunities.
The Olympic Rings sculpture is a direct nod to the 1996 Olympic Games. The park itself, as a legacy of the event, offers a historical context for your photos.
Visitors often capture photos of the Fountain of Rings, the Olympic Rings, family portraits, and general scenic shots of the park's greenery and water features. Drone footage also showcases the park's layout and surrounding city skyline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawn, and take advantage of the clean restrooms available throughout the park. It's a safe and engaging environment for children to explore and enjoy the outdoors. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
📸 Photographers
The Olympic Rings sculpture provides a classic Atlanta landmark shot. The park's diverse landscaping, water features, and the surrounding city skyline also offer varied backdrops for both daytime and sunset photography. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the 1996 Olympics
Today, the park continues to host numerous events, from concerts and festivals to sporting activities, further cementing its role as a community hub. It serves as a living memorial to the Games, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in Atlanta's history. Visitors can appreciate the thoughtful urban design that balances recreational space with historical significance, making it more than just a park, but a landmark.
Experiencing the Fountain of Rings
During the day, the fountain provides a refreshing respite from the Atlanta heat, with children often enjoying the opportunity to splash around in designated areas. However, the real magic happens in the evening when the fountain transforms with a dazzling light show. The interplay of water, light, and sound creates an unforgettable experience, making it a prime spot for evening strolls and photography.
To make the most of your visit, check the park's schedule for specific showtimes, as they can vary. Arriving a bit before a show allows you to secure a good viewing spot and fully immerse yourself in the captivating performance.
Navigating Safety and Comfort
However, some discussions on platforms like Reddit have raised concerns about safety when walking through the park late at night, particularly for solo travelers. While the park is officially open until 10 PM, it's always recommended to exercise caution after dark, stick to well-lit areas, and be aware of who is around you. If attending an event that ends late, consider transportation options that minimize walking through less populated areas.
For a comfortable visit, especially during warmer months, remember to wear comfortable shoes for walking, stay hydrated by bringing water or purchasing it on-site, and consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or late afternoons.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit