10 Best Musical Attractions in Atlanta

Fox Theatre is a top mention for musical attractions in Atlanta when it comes to live performances. The theatre’s regular schedule presents a wide variety of entertainment. Unmissable Broadway musicals like Hamilton, Fiddler on the Roof, and family-friendly feature presentations like Disney’s Frozen appeal to a wide demographic.

For grownups looking for a good laugh, there are knee-slapping stand-up comics, featuring the likes of Bill Burr. There are also symphony orchestras and concerts from different music genres, as well as dazzling dance performances. Besides the shows, the Fox Theatre is a go-to for a slice of Atlantan history and architecture harking back to the Roaring Twenties. Don’t miss the rare Moller pipe organ, "Mighty Mo”, which also frequently features in special concerts.

The Trap Music Museum on Travis Street in Atlanta is a shrine to the synth-heavy subculture of hip-hop that was born in the city. Nicknamed “dirty south hip-hop”, trap music developed in the late '70s with rappers and DJs such as Lil Jon, Master P, and Outkast fostering the scene. Now curated by rapper Clifford Joseph Harris Jr., better known by his stage name “T.I.”,  the museum is not to be missed for a taste of Atlantan music history.

Inside the stone-and-wood building, you’ll find all sorts of hip-hop art and memorabilia. Among the highlights are the mock jail cell, “grandma’s living room” which is decorated with the young portraits of several famous trap musicians, including that of T.I. himself, Cardi B and others. There's also a mockup kitchen, complete with a stove and pan. A recreated walk-in wardrobe showcases assault rifles and guns alongside T.I.’s Grammy trophy. There’s even an escape room game for extra fun.

The Woodruff Arts Center is an Atlantan musical landmark and a performing arts centre, best known as the home of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Theatre enthusiasts also know the centre for being the home of the Alliance Theatre company. They offer a multitude of productions annually at the Alliance Stage and Coca-Cola Stage, with plenty of programmes also for young audiences.

The High Museum of Art is the last of the 3 art institutions based at the Woodruff Arts Center. The permanent collection at this Smithsonian Institution Affiliate comprises tens of thousands of decorative and contemporary artworks from Africa, America, and Europe, as well as photography.

Magic City on Forsyth Street in Atlanta is one of the city’s legendary hip-hop clubs. The 21-and-over hotspot is where rappers and R&B artists – either budding or established – as well as music execs, millionaires, and average music lovers brush shoulders.

The fun Atlanta nightspot – a former print shop – was turned into the hot spot it is today back in 1985. It initially had its fair share of ups and downs and raids and arrests, but has now become a cultural phenomenon. Today, unlike many other strip clubs, Magic City is known for its high standards and professionalism. You have a big chance of spotting a rap celebrity or the next big DJ here.

The Masquerade in downtown Atlanta offers one of the coolest live music experiences in the city, thanks to its dazzling design and diverse programming. The location of the concert venue is also unique – it’s deep down at the lowest level of the Underground Atlanta shopping and entertainment district in the Five Points neighbourhood.

Concert revellers can find 3 gig spots that are named after the afterlife – Heaven (the largest), Hell and Purgatory. The Masquerade mostly hosts indie and alternative rock bands. Among the top names that have performed here are Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Green Day, Radiohead, and The Ramones.

Eddie’s Attic is a renowned acoustic space in downtown Decatur. Here, you can enjoy live performances by rising stars and open-mic sessions by local talent. The hotspot that calls itself a “listening room” began back in 1992 and gained traction as the place where musicians who have claimed celebrity status grew their initial fanbase – Justin Bieber and John Mayer are among its past performers.  

In all, if you’re into the indie music scene, Eddie’s Attic is a great place to head to in Atlanta. That’s augmented by its awesome acoustics, paired with a very welcomed ‘silent phone’ policy. Even when no aspiring artist or songwriter is taking to the stage, the bar and poolroom are good reasons to come for a fun or laidback evening out with friends. It’s a 15-minute drive east of Downtown Atlanta.

Wax 'N' Facts is a longstanding music shop in Atlanta’s Little Five Points neighbourhood, best known for having a vast selection of used and new vinyl records in store. If you’re an avid collector but still looking for that missing Daft Punk album from 2 or 3 decades ago, there’s a good chance you’ll find it among the vast stacks.

Beyond vinyl records, there's also a massive choice of CDs and cassettes – already rare and soon-to-be-forgotten media in this internet age. Wax 'N' Facts is a great source for pop culture objects and memorabilia – perfect for adorning the studio or living room back home.

Piedmont Park is a leafy, 180-acre gathering spot in the heart of Atlanta. It’s the main venue of many major festivals and outdoor events in the city. The park plays host to concerts from a wide range of genres. Its concert history dates back to the late ‘60s, with the Grateful Dead performing one of their best live gigs.

Top music festivals held at Piedmont Park include the Atlanta Jazz Festival and Music Midtown. And among the top performers who’ve graced the stage here are such names as Paul McCartney, Dave Matthews Band, Maroon 5, R.E.M. and Miley Cyrus.

Fantasyland Records in Atlanta has been a go-to spot for vinyl collectors and DJs since the mid-1970s. The record store on Pharr Road offers new and used vinyl records from a wide range of genres in LP, 7-inch or 45 formats, as well as CDs and cassettes. You’ll find hit albums from the 1950s, pop singles gracing the airwaves today, and lots in between in their range.

When you stop by here, you might spot top musicians in the store. The likes of Robert Plant and Eric Clapton are said to be among Fantasyland Records' patrons. Besides records, you’re treated to a great selection of collectables, posters, and hard-to-find back issues of top music magazines.

Cascade Skating Rink in Atlanta is known for its great music programming that helps skaters enjoy the sport and have a great time. The large open rink allows ample space for all to move and groove to the upbeat sounds. It’s where Atlanta’s music and roller skating culture thrives, thanks to its lively sessions with some of the city’s best skate DJs.

As an icon of skating in Atlanta, Cascades further affirmed its legendary status after scoring a central role in the coming-of-age movie ATL (2006), starring rapper T.I. If you’re new to Atlanta’s skating scene, this is the place to see it firsthand. Atlantan skaters are known for their aggressive and energetic moves. Just watching the power skaters freestyling to rap tracks can be the highlight of your visit.