Inside Look at CNN Center Studio Tours

Catch a behind-the-scenes look into this TV network, and see how news is broadcast all over the world from Atlanta. The experience at the CNN Center gives tour visitors a peek into live studios, the chance to sit behind an anchor desk, and a bird’s-eye view of the famous 24-hour newsroom.

The Educational Aspect

This tour gives an in-depth look into the history of the first 24-hour news network, in a way kids can understand. It also brings news gathering and news production to life beyond the TV screen, which may spark new interest into journalism. There’s a lot going on at CNN, and spending time learning about the operations may leave you inspired to want to know everything about what goes on inside.

Hands-On Learning

Kids and adults get to dive right into what it’s like to work at CNN. Families can visit a mock studio and read copy from a monitor using a green screen, view live broadcasts happening in the studio and even see right into the CNN Newsroom, where producers, researchers and editors work. Kids will also have the chance to listen to live audio of news directors and producers as they prepare a national news segment. The large, robot-like television cameras are also a fun element, kids will be fascinated by seeing them move around. 

Large Free-Standing Escalator

Kids will ooh and ahh over this large escalator leading up into the globe, where tours begin. Spot people from above and pick out where you want to eat in the food court after the tour. Kids will enjoy the seemingly never-ending ride to the top.

Where to Eat and What to Do 

Inside the atrium of the CNN Center sits a food court, with plenty of options for the whole family. Try fast picks such as Chick-fil-A, Burger Fi or Moe’s, or Fresh2Order and Taco Mac. Downtown Atlanta has many options when it comes to things to do and what to eat. More food choices include Ted’s Montana Grill or Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria. Stop by the CNN Center’s neighbor, Centennial Olympic Park, or hop on the SkyView Atlanta for views of the city from above. Children’s Museum of Atlanta, Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola and more are also close by stops. 

The Details

CNN Center Studio Tours
One CNN Center, Atlanta (Corner of Marietta Street and Centennial Olympic Park Drive)
Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Last tour begins at 5 p.m.
Cost: Adults, $16.50; ages 13-18, $15.25; ages 4-12, $14; ages 3 and younger, free.