Centennial Olympic Park

Set in the pulse of downtown Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park radiates energy, history, and community pride. Created as a lasting legacy of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, this 22-acre urban greenspace now anchors a district bursting with life, color, and activity. Whether you’re a visitor with a packed itinerary or a local seeking a vibrant outdoor escape, the park delivers an experience that reflects the bold spirit of the city around it.

A Legacy Carved in Brick and Bronze

Centennial Olympic Park rose from what was once a neglected stretch of real estate into one of the most celebrated gathering spaces in the Southeast. It opened just before the 1996 Games, offering a central meeting place for athletes and fans. Today, it remains a monument to Atlanta’s Olympic chapter and the city’s broader transformation into a global destination.

At the heart of the park lies Centennial Plaza, paved with over 500,000 commemorative bricks engraved with names, messages, and dedications from supporters across the world. This living monument invites visitors to find their personalized brick or simply wander through the display, soaking in its collective spirit.

Nearby, The Spectacular sculpture rises as one of the most photogenic spots in the park. The iconic Olympic Rings stand tall as a nod to the event that changed the city’s skyline, framed by the gleaming towers of Atlanta’s ever-growing downtown.

The Fountain of Rings

Few attractions are as mesmerizing as the Fountain of Rings, the world’s largest interactive fountain that incorporates the Olympic symbol. Set within a plaza shaped like the Olympic Rings, the fountain presents a water-and-music show four times a day at 12:30, 3:30, 6:30, and 9:00 p.m. Children dart through its jets, parents relax nearby, and couples take in the choreography as the music pulses and lights shimmer. It’s an experience grounded in fun and sensory delight, free for all to enjoy.

Interactive Discovery and Exploration

Centennial Olympic Park offers more than green lawns and photo ops. Its Visitor Center features an interactive digital mural that captures the park’s dynamic story through art and technology. Guests can also access a mobile audio walking tour that guides them through the park’s history, quirks, and architectural highlights, paired with original music that brings the narrative to life. This self-guided experience allows for a deeper connection to the space and the stories etched into its corners.

Annual Celebrations that Unite the City

Throughout the year, the park becomes a stage for some of Atlanta’s most anticipated events. During summer, the Look Up Atlanta Independence Day Celebration lights up the skyline with fireworks and performances. In June, the Juneteenth Atlanta Parade and Music Festival fills the park with vibrant colors, music, and cultural pride. These events draw thousands, transforming the park into a communal space where heritage and celebration intertwine.

Attractions That Surround and Connect

Step beyond the park’s borders and you’re instantly connected to some of Atlanta’s most prominent cultural attractions. Within walking distance are:

• Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest in the world
• World of Coca-Cola, showcasing the history of an iconic brand
• National Center for Civil and Human Rights, exploring powerful global movements
• SkyView Atlanta, a towering Ferris wheel offering panoramic city views
• Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame
• Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Centennial Olympic Park serves as the perfect basecamp for exploring Atlanta’s downtown core. Whether you’re spending a few hours or an entire day, the nearby offerings create a seamless blend of education, entertainment, and cultural enrichment.

Local Tips for a Smooth Visit

To make the most of your time at the park, keep the following suggestions in mind:

• Use MARTA, Atlanta’s rapid transit system, to avoid limited parking challenges
• Bring a packed lunch or grab something nearby and enjoy it on the expansive lawns
• Stop by the Visitor Center for maps, park background, and complimentary Wi-Fi
• The best views of the park are from the top of SkyView Atlanta across the street

A Centerpiece with a Purpose

What began as an Olympic showpiece has evolved into a community anchor, fueling billions in development and bringing residents and visitors together. The park continues to serve as a gathering point for families, convention-goers, sports fans, and anyone drawn to Atlanta’s energy.

With every fountain splash, every brick found, and every photo taken in front of the Olympic Rings, the spirit of progress and unity shines. Centennial Olympic Park doesn’t rest on past glory. It thrives in the present, pulsing with new stories, shared moments, and the enduring pride of a city that knows how to host, welcome, and inspire.