10 of Atlanta’s best Black history tours

Balloons are released at the Auburn Avenue mural during the John Lewis Memorial Freedom Ride on Saturday, July 16, 2022. (Photo: Jenni Girtman / John R. Lewis Legacy Institute)

There is so much to discover about Atlanta’s African American history through its civil rights legacy and its global influence on Black culture. With several significant landmarks, including the National Center for Civil and Human Rights as well as a National Historical Park dedicated to the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., there is no question why so many tourists visit this city every year.

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What better way to see every historical site in the city than on a tour? From biking and walking tours to powerful murals and more, pay tribute to Atlanta’s rich Black history by embarking on a memorable tour from the list below.

Hop’N Go Tours

Hop’N Go Tours offers a wide range of tour packages at reasonable prices. To experience everything Atlanta has to offer, they offer group tours, solo tours, and two or three-hour tours. The MLK Historical Park, Sweet Auburn, the Madam C.J. Walker Museum, and other historical sites are included on the tour’s itinerary.

Website: hopngotours.com; Contact: 678-748-7747

Civil Bikes

You’re in for an incredible bike ride as you discover some of Atlanta’s most renowned civil rights heroes and stories. So grab your helmet and ride through Atlanta’s historic Sweet Auburn district and the West End neighborhoods with Civil Bikes Tours. For up-to-date information on upcoming events, visit their Instagram page.

Website: civilbikes.com

Unexpected Atlanta Tours

Let Unexpected Atlanta take you on its Martin Luther King, Jr. tour exploring the city’s historic Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. On this walking tour, you’ll take in the amazing skyline views of ATL from the famous Jackson Street Bridge, visit Dr. and Mrs. King’s memorial, experience the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and much more.

Website: unexpectedatlanta.com; Contact: 470-223-2203

The Mural Walk

There is something truly special about one-of-a-kind street art with powerful messages. All across the city, you can see a variety of murals honoring Atlanta’s African American history. If you’re interested in learning more about the Black heritage of Atlanta through a different form of storytelling, consider taking the Mural Walk tour.

Website: themuralwalk.com

Roundabout Atlanta Tours

Roundabout Atlanta’s Black History and Civil Rights Tour is an absolute must-see! You’ll get to explore a little bit of everything, both new and old, including Atlanta’s first Black public high school and the civil rights headquarters, as well as Tyler Perry Studios and Madea’s house. Check out the full itinerary available here.

Website: roundaboutatlanta.com; Contact: 404-685-1090

ATL Cruzers - Eastside Atlanta Segway Tour

Have you ever wanted to ride a segway? Now’s your chance! This guided segway tour takes you on a historic adventure through Atlanta’s eastside neighborhoods, where you’ll visit areas including Cabbagetown, Historic Old Fourth Ward, Grant Park, Inman Park, Oakland Cemetery and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. This is a great sightseeing tour for ages 14 and older.

Website: atlcruzers.com; Contact: 404-492-7009

Amazing Atlanta Tours - “Fall in Love with Atlanta” Bike Tour

This fascinating bike tour from Amazing Atlanta Tours will make you “fall in love with Atlanta” all over again. You will learn about the historical turning points that ultimately influenced the development of the city we know today as you travel along this eight-mile route via some of the city’s most notable locations.

Website: amazingatlantatours.com; Contact: 404-273-2558

Black Girl Magic Tours

With its mural crawl through Atlanta, Black Girl Magic honors and celebrates the brilliance of Black women. While listening to inspiring tales of Black women’s tenacity from the past and present, you’ll journey in style in their luxurious sprinter van, indulge in sweet treats, and admire stunning murals around the city.

Website: blackgirlmagictours.com; Contact: 908-509-1635

Atlanta Preservation Center Tours

The Atlanta Preservation Center offers a wide range of walking tours that provide a detailed look at the history and significant heritage of the city. During their “Sweet Auburn” tour, you’ll see important sites associated with the civil rights movement as well as Atlanta’s first African American church or their “Old Fourth Ward” tour, which features Martin Luther King, Jr.’s childhood home and the historic Howard Middle School. Check out their complete list of tours and their calendar for more info.

Website: atlantapreservationcenter.com; Contact: 404-688-3353

Gwinnett County Bus Tour: Explore Black History

This month, take a Black History bus tour to learn more about Gwinnett County’s African American heritage. In collaboration with the United Ebony Society, you will travel to various locations in the area that have contributed to the county’s historical roots. The deadline to sign up for this tour is Feb. 6.

Location: Lawrenceville - 455 S. Perry St.; Website: secure.rec1.com/gwinnett-county; Contact: 770-822-5178; Date: Saturday, Feb. 11

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