Is Atlanta CityPASS Worth It? A Complete Visitor’s Guide
Want to explore Atlanta’s top attractions while saving money? Atlanta CityPASS might be your perfect solution. This comprehensive guide will help you decide if CityPASS is right for your visit and how to maximize its value.
What is Atlanta CityPASS?
Atlanta CityPASS is a bundled ticket package that includes admission to five of Atlanta’s most popular attractions:
- Georgia Aquarium
- World of Coca-Cola
- Zoo Atlanta
- Plus choose 2 more, National Center for Civil and Human Rights (Temporarily Closed Jan-Fall 2025) , Fernbank Museum of Natural History, OR College Football Hall of Fame
Savings & Value Breakdown
Purchase a CityPASS, and you’ll save about 40% compared to buying individual tickets. The pass is valid for 9 consecutive days from first use, giving you plenty of flexibility to plan your visits.
Is CityPASS Right for You?
Perfect for:
- Weekend Warriors: Planning to hit multiple attractions in 2-3 days
- Family Explorers: Parents with kids will especially benefit from the streamlined entry and savings
- First-Time Visitors: Great introduction to Atlanta’s must-see attractions
- Extended Stay Visitors: The 9-day validity period allows for a relaxed pace
Maybe Skip If:
- Business Travelers: Limited time might not justify the package
- Return Visitors: If you’ve seen most attractions
- Budget Travelers: Planning to visit only 1-2 attractions
Gift-Giving Guide
Looking for a memorable Atlanta experience to gift? CityPASS offers several advantages as a present:
- Flexibility: Recipients have 9 days to use the pass once activated
- Choice: They can select their final two attractions based on their interests
- Value: More meaningful than a single attraction ticket
- Perfect for: Visiting family, graduation gifts, or special occasions
- Digital delivery: Easy to purchase and send
Best Strategies for Using Atlanta CityPASS
Recommended Visit Order
Start with Georgia Aquarium early in the morning when marine life is most active, then walk to World of Coca-Cola next door. This pairing saves time and maximizes your experience at both attractions. Here’s how to plan your visits:
Morning-to-Evening Route Option 1 (All Indoor):
- Georgia Aquarium (opens 9am)
- World of Coca-Cola (short walk)
- Lunch break in Centennial Olympic Park
- College Football Hall of Fame
- Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Morning-to-Evening Route Option 2 (With Zoo):
- Georgia Aquarium (opens 9am)
- World of Coca-Cola (short walk)
- Lunch break in Centennial Olympic Park
- Zoo Atlanta (allow extra time for travel)
- Fernbank Museum or College Football Hall of Fame
Timing
Important Timing Note: While it’s possible to visit multiple attractions in one day, attempting all five in a single day would be extremely rushed and might diminish your experience. Here’s what to know:
- Georgia Aquarium alone deserves 3-4 hours for a proper visit
- World of Coca-Cola typically takes 2 hours
- Zoo Atlanta requires at least 3-4 hours
- Fernbank Museum needs 2-3 hours
- College Football Hall of Fame takes about 2 hours
For the best experience, we strongly recommend spreading your visits across at least 2-3 days. If you must do multiple attractions in one day, consider:
- Check travel time between non-downtown attractions
- Maximum 3 attractions per day
- Skip sit-down restaurants in favor of quick bites
- Focus on your must-see exhibits at each venue
Recommended 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1 (Downtown Focus):
- 9:00 AM: Georgia Aquarium (3-4 hours)
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at Centennial Olympic Park
- 2:00 PM: World of Coca-Cola (2 hours)
- 4:00 PM: College Football Hall of Fame (2 hours)
Day 2:
- 9:30 AM: Zoo Atlanta (3-4 hours)
- 2:30 PM: Late lunch
- 3:30 PM: Fernbank Museum (2-3 hours)
3-Day Relaxed Schedule
Day 1:
- 9:00 AM: Georgia Aquarium (full morning)
- Lunch break
- 2:00 PM: World of Coca-Cola (afternoon)
Day 2:
- 9:30 AM: Zoo Atlanta (full morning and early afternoon)
- Rest of day free for other Atlanta activities
Day 3:
- Morning: Fernbank Museum
- Afternoon: College Football Hall of Fame
Weekend Schedule:
- Saturday Morning: Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola
- Saturday Afternoon: One choice attraction
- Sunday: Zoo Atlanta (best for nice weather) and final choice attraction
Maximizing Your 9-Day Window
Week-long Vacation Schedule:
Pro Tip: Use rainy days for Fernbank Museum or College Football Hall of Fame
- Day 1: Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola (pair these together)
- Day 2-8: Zoo Atlanta (save for the nicest weather day)
- Day 2-8: Space out your final two choices between other Atlanta activities
Value Scenarios
Family of Four
- Best Value: Visit all attractions
- Time Needed: 2-3 days minimum
- Pro Tip: Schedule around kids’ energy levels
Couples Weekend
- Optimal Schedule: 2 attractions per day
- Best Pairing: Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola on day one
- Evening Option: Add downtown dinner plans after attractions
Solo Traveler
- Advantage: Move at your own pace
- Strategy: Combine with free attractions like Centennial Olympic Park
- Flexibility: Easy to adjust schedule
Seasonal Tips for CityPASS Users
Peak Seasons:
- Summer (June-August): Expect longer lines, arrive early
- School Holidays: Higher crowds at family attractions
- Holiday Weekends: Plan for extra time at each venue
Quieter Times:
- September-November: Ideal weather, smaller crowds
- January-February: Shortest lines, but check for weather impacts
- Weekday mornings: Best for attractions like Georgia Aquarium
Money-Saving Tips Beyond CityPASS
Transportation Savings:
- Park once: Use one parking spot for Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola
- Consider MARTA: Save on parking with public transit
- Walking routes: Many attractions are within walking distance
Meal Planning:
- Pack snacks: Some attractions allow outside food
- Lunch breaks: Use Centennial Olympic Park for picnics between attractions
- Dining deals: Look for restaurant promotions near attractions
Additional Savings:
- Avoid peak parking times
- Bring water bottles
- Consider hotel packages that include CityPASS
Pro Tips for Maximum Value
Planning Ahead:
- Check operating hours for each attraction
- Reserve timed entries when available
- Follow attractions on social media for special events
- Download attraction maps before visiting
- Consider weather forecasts for outdoor venues
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is Atlanta CityPASS valid? A: Your CityPASS is valid for 9 consecutive days from the first day of use, giving you plenty of flexibility to visit attractions at your own pace.
Q: Do I need to visit all attractions in a specific order? A: No, you can visit the attractions in any order you prefer. However, we recommend starting with Georgia Aquarium early in the day for the best experience.
Q: Can I visit the same attraction twice? A: No, CityPASS is valid for one admission per attraction only.
Q: Do I need to make reservations? A: While not always required, reservations are recommended for some attractions during peak seasons. Check each attraction’s website for current policies.
Q: What if I don’t use all my tickets? A: Unused tickets will expire after the 9-day period. To get the best value, plan to visit at least 3-4 attractions.
Additional Planning Resources
- Official attraction websites for current hours and special exhibits
- MARTA trip planner for public transportation
- Atlanta weather forecasts
- Downtown Atlanta parking apps
Related Guides
- Complete Guide to Georgia Aquarium
- Downtown Atlanta in One Day
- Best Photo Spots in Atlanta
- Family-Friendly Atlanta Activities
Final Verdict Atlanta CityPASS offers significant savings if you plan to visit multiple attractions. For most visitors, especially families and first-time Atlanta tourists, the pass provides excellent value when combined with strategic planning.
