Pemberton Place in Atlanta: A Hub of Culture, History, and Fun

Introduction

In the heart of downtown Atlanta lies Pemberton Place, a lively 20-acre destination that brings together some of the city’s most iconic attractions. Named after John Pemberton, the pharmacist who invented Coca-Cola in 1886, this site honors both Atlanta’s entrepreneurial spirit and its cultural heartbeat. With its manicured green spaces, family-friendly atmosphere, and world-class museums, Pemberton Place is more than just a tourist stop—it’s a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Here, you can step into the World of Coca-Cola, dive deep into marine wonders at the Georgia Aquarium, or celebrate sports history at the College Football Hall of Fame. Pemberton Place also offers plenty of open-air areas, making it a perfect spot for relaxing between adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, a family traveler, or simply curious about Atlanta’s modern identity, Pemberton Place serves as a gateway to unforgettable experiences.

Let’s uncover everything you need to know about this vibrant Atlanta landmark.

What is Pemberton Place in Atlanta famous for?

Pemberton Place is famous for being the home of three major attractions: World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, and the College Football Hall of Fame. It’s also a green, walkable area that connects these cultural landmarks in one central location.

Why should you visit Pemberton Place in Atlanta?

You should visit Pemberton Place because it combines entertainment, education, and leisure in one spot. You can:

Explore Coca-Cola’s global history.

Visit one of the largest aquariums in the world.

Celebrate the heroes of college football.

Enjoy landscaped plazas perfect for photos, picnics, or people-watching.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit Pemberton Place in Atlanta?

Pemberton Place itself is an open plaza and green space, accessible daily without restriction. However, the attractions within it have their own hours:

World of Coca-Cola: 10 AM – 5 PM (varies by season).

Georgia Aquarium: Typically 9 AM – 6 PM, with extended evening hours on some days.

College Football Hall of Fame: Wednesday–Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM.

Best time to visit: Morning visits are quieter, especially on weekdays. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for enjoying the outdoor areas.

How much does it cost to visit Pemberton Place in Atlanta?

Entry to the plaza and outdoor areas of Pemberton Place is free. However, each attraction has its own admission:

World of Coca-Cola: Around $20–$22 for adults.

Georgia Aquarium: Around $45 for adults (discounts online).

College Football Hall of Fame: Around $30 for adults.

What can you see or do at Pemberton Place in Atlanta?

At Pemberton Place, you can:

Tour the World of Coca-Cola and taste sodas from around the globe.

Visit the Georgia Aquarium to see whale sharks, dolphins, and penguins.

Step onto the field at the College Football Hall of Fame and explore interactive exhibits.

Relax in the central green space and enjoy Atlanta’s skyline views.

Attend public events, festivals, or seasonal celebrations hosted in the plaza.

What is the history behind Pemberton Place in Atlanta?

Pemberton Place was named after John Pemberton, who created Coca-Cola in Atlanta in 1886. The plaza was developed in the early 2000s as part of a downtown revitalization effort. In 2007, the World of Coca-Cola moved to Pemberton Place, followed by the Georgia Aquarium and the College Football Hall of Fame, transforming the area into a hub for both tourism and local pride.

Where is Pemberton Place located and how do you get there?

Address: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

By MARTA: Take the Blue or Green Line to GWCC/CNN Center Station or Peachtree Center Station, both within a short walk.

By car: Multiple parking garages are available nearby.

On foot: Conveniently located in downtown Atlanta, within walking distance of Centennial Olympic Park.

Insider Tips for Visiting Pemberton Place

Buy combo tickets online for discounts when visiting multiple attractions.

Plan to spend a full day here—each museum takes 1–3 hours to explore.

Arrive early to enjoy the plaza before the crowds gather at peak times.

Nearby Attractions to Pemberton Place in Atlanta

Centennial Olympic Park – Historic green space built for the 1996 Olympics.

SkyView Atlanta – A Ferris wheel offering panoramic city views.

CNN Center – Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the global newsroom.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta – Perfect for families with young kids.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights – A powerful museum dedicated to equality and justice.

Call-to-Action

Discover the cultural heart of Atlanta at Pemberton Place, where history, entertainment, and innovation meet. With Questo, you can turn your visit into an interactive quest—explore hidden stories, uncover fun challenges, and see Atlanta in a whole new way.