Getting There
Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is one of the country's largest and busiest airports, and the hub for Delta Airlines. It's very easy to get into Atlanta by plane, and a jump on the subway MARTA connecting the airport to the city, makes it a friendly airport for air travelers. By car, Atlanta is a bit isolated from other major cities and is five hours from an ocean/beach and Savannah.
Getting Around
Atlanta is broken into various sections: Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, Virginia-Highlands, Vinings and Grant Park as the main areas. Most tourist attractions are located in Midtown, Downtown and south of the city. While it may be confusing when locals refer to these areas, you'll be most confused by the use of "Peachtree" as a street name. There is Peachtree Street, Peachtree Circle, Peachtree Avenue and more -- even confusing the locals and becoming a joke to anyone driving Atlanta's streets. Laugh if you get lost -- we've all done it.
MARTA, the city's "subway" system is only good between certain locations in Buckhead, Midtown and Downtown, as it really only runs in a couple of straight lines and does not extend outside the city. It does, however, connect to the airport and will bring you into the city. You will most likely need to rent a car if you plan to go anywhere outside the central city area, as Atlanta and its neighborhoods and connecting towns can be quite some distance, and a pricey cab ride.
The Art of Smart Timing
It's not called "Hot-lanta" for nothing: Atlanta becomes a scorcher in the summer months. Without a sea breeze or mountain air nearby, and high smog days when it's hot, the city can become a bit stifling with temps ranging from the 80s to 90s, and into the 100s with the heat index. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer. Air conditioning is everywhere, but the best time to visit Atlanta is in the spring or fall, when temperatures range between the upper 60s to the lower 70s.
For Mom and Dad
When you can escape for a date night, the hotspots for Atlanta residents are everywhere. The Highlands, where Virginia and Highlands Avenues met, is a street filled with boutiques, restaurants and bars, while Midtown has become a glam-city destination for martinis and dance club action. Buckhead was once party central in Atlanta before the city shut down its 4 a.m. bars and nightclubs. It's now being rebuilt as a luxury area filled with Rodeo Drive-style shopping, lux-high rises and the city's best restaurants.
Visitor Bureau
Atlanta Visitor Bureau
Atlanta Planning & Tips
Atlanta Planning & Tips
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