The Stunning Architecture in Atlanta

With a rich history and a thriving metropolis, Atlanta, Georgia monument architecture brings together an array of notable buildings ranging from classical to contemporary. For those interested in visiting famous buildings in Atlanta that have had an impact both visually and historically, the city has many that are worth seeing and many that we would love to show you!

The High Museum of Art

The combination of the white exterior, various shapes, and glass brick, as well as its elevated position on a hill, make this building stand out. This sculptural structure is the ideal setting for the over 15,000 works of art housed within its permanent collection. While the museum was founded in 1905 and went through several designs, the current structure was built in 1983 by Richard Meier (who won the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize the following year because of it). Following that, Renzo Piano built a three-building expansion to complement it.

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is another noteworthy museum. The museum is dedicated to civil rights achievements both within and outside of the United States, and it perfectly complements our Atlanta Black History & Civil Rights Tour. The building, designed by architect Philip Freelon, opened in 2014 in Pemberton Place on land donated by The Coca-Cola Company. It is located near three other notable attractions: the Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Olympic Park, and the World of Coca-Cola. The museum is surrounded by two curved walls with rows of rectangular shapes in various brown tones.

Swan House

The Swan House at the Atlanta History Center is the quintessential luxury residence in terms of classical architecture. The house was built in the 1920s for wealthy Atlanta businessman Edward Inman and his family. Philip Shutze designed the house and gardens, which incorporate elements from Italian and English classical styles. The building has a complicated historical story, with ties to the civil rights movements. The family moved into the house in 1928, one year before the Great Depression, and Edward died three years later. Emily Inman, his wife, lived at the house until her death in 1965 at the age of 84. The Atlanta Historical Society purchased the house and its contents and opened it as a museum in 1967, undergoing restoration in 2004. The building has been famously used for certain scenes in both the 2013 film The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and its 2015 sequel, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2.

Mercedes Benz Stadium Atlanta

This multi-purpose stadium is not only home to two of Atlanta's sports teams, the NFL's Atlanta Falcons and the MLS's Atlanta United FC, but it is also a visually stunning structure. The structure has a retractable roof and a pinwheel shape made up of eight interlocking triangular panels. The stadium, which replaced the existing Georgia Dome, was designed by architect Bill Johnson, who was inspired by the Roman Pantheon. It opened in 2017.

The Georgia State Capitol

This structure is notable not only for its architectural merit, but also for its historical significance in terms of civil rights in the area. This is the primary office building of the state's government, including the governor, lieutenant governor, and secretary of state. It is a National Historic Landmark. It also serves as a meeting place for Georgia's General Assembly. Designed to look like the Neoclassical style of the United States Capitol in Washington, DC. This is most noticeable due to its central dome tower, which is adorned with gold in this case. Built in 1889, the structure also houses a museum with exhibits celebrating the state's natural and cultural history.

Many Notable Mentions

Atlanta has something for everyone like its monument architecture and design, and the city's buildings showcase its rich history and culture, as well as its rise to become the prominent metropolis that it is today. The Westin Peachtree Plaza, Atlanta's very own Flatiron Building, the grandeur of Atlanta City Hall, the elegance of the Fox Theatre, and more! Architectural treasures can be found all over the city.

As you can see, Atlanta's architecture is just one example of the city's offerings. If you're looking for a private guide to accompany you and share insider information, or a transportation service to help you get around the city, our knowledgeable guides and professional drivers have you covered.