Lodging

Atlanta offers a diverse range of lodging options, from luxurious hotels and resorts to quaint bed and breakfasts, and budget-friendly accommodations. Choosing the right lodging can significantly enhance your travel experience, providing comfort, convenience, and a taste of local hospitality.

Where to Stay in Atlanta

Atlanta, the capital of Georgia, has long been a crossroads of the South. The city’s role in American history, from its roots in the Civil War to its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, has made it a significant destination for tourists. Over the years, Atlanta has evolved into a vibrant metropolis, drawing visitors with its blend of Southern charm, cultural attractions, and modern amenities. The city’s tourism industry has grown exponentially, bolstered by its diverse neighborhoods, world-class attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and major events such as the 1996 Summer Olympics.

How to Get There

Atlanta is accessible through various modes of transportation:

By Air: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
By Car: Major interstates such as I-75, I-85, and I-20 converge in Atlanta, making it easily reachable by car.
By Train: Amtrak’s Crescent line runs through Atlanta, connecting it with cities like New York, Washington D.C., and New Orleans.
By Bus: Greyhound and Megabus provide bus services to and from Atlanta.

Best Seasons to Visit

Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a delightful time to visit.
Fall (September to November): Pleasant weather and vibrant fall foliage attract many visitors.
Summer (June to August): While hot and humid, summer hosts numerous festivals and outdoor events.
Winter (December to February): Mild winters with occasional cold snaps make it a good time for indoor attractions.

What to Bring Based on Seasons

Spring: Light layers, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella for occasional showers.
Summer: Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Fall: Layers to accommodate fluctuating temperatures, comfortable shoes, and a light jacket.
Winter: Warm clothing, including a coat, hat, and gloves for colder days.

Hotels

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta

Address: 181 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Amenities: Spa, fitness center, restaurant, free Wi-Fi, business center
Price Range: $$$
Suitable for: Luxury seekers, business travelers

2. Hyatt Regency Atlanta

Address: 265 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Amenities: Pool, fitness center, multiple dining options, conference facilities
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Business travelers, families

3. Hotel Clermont

Address: 789 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Amenities: Rooftop bar, fitness center, restaurant, pet-friendly
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Couples, young professionals

4. W Atlanta – Midtown

Address: 188 14th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30361
Amenities: Pool, spa, fitness center, restaurant, nightlife options
Price Range: $$$
Suitable for: Young professionals, luxury seekers

5. The Westin Peachtree Plaza

Address: 210 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Amenities: Pool, fitness center, revolving restaurant, business center
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Business travelers, families

6. The Georgian Terrace Hotel

Address: 659 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Amenities: Rooftop pool, fitness center, restaurant, historic charm
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: History enthusiasts, families

7. Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Address: 265 Peachtree Center Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Amenities: Pool, fitness center, multiple dining options, business center
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Business travelers, families

8. Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center

Address: 100 CNN Center, Atlanta, GA 30303
Amenities: Pool, fitness center, dining options, direct access to attractions
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Tourists, families

9. Loews Atlanta Hotel

Address: 1065 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Amenities: Spa, fitness center, restaurant, pet-friendly
Price Range: $$$
Suitable for: Luxury seekers, business travelers

10. Hilton Atlanta

Address: 255 Courtland St NE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Amenities: Pool, fitness center, dining options, business center
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Business travelers, families

Resorts

1. Stone Mountain Park

Address: 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Amenities: Golf course, spa, recreational activities, dining options
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts

2. Chateau Elan Winery & Resort

Address: 100 Rue Charlemagne Dr, Braselton, GA 30517
Amenities: Winery, golf course, spa, multiple dining options
Price Range: $$$
Suitable for: Couples, wine enthusiasts, luxury seekers

3. Callaway Resort & Gardens

Address: 17617 US-27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822
Amenities: Gardens, golf course, spa, recreational activities
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Families, nature lovers

4. Lanier Islands

Address: 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford, GA 30518
Amenities: Water park, golf course, marina, spa
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Families, water sports enthusiasts

5. Barnsley Resort

Address: 597 Barnsley Gardens Rd, Adairsville, GA 30103
Amenities: Golf course, spa, outdoor activities, historic ruins
Price Range: $$$
Suitable for: Couples, luxury seekers, history buffs

6. Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa

Address: 6321 US-76, Young Harris, GA 30582
Amenities: Golf course, spa, horseback riding, hiking trails
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts

7. The Lodge at Lake Lanier

Address: 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford, GA 30518
Amenities: Water activities, golf course, spa, dining options
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Families, water sports enthusiasts

8. Legacy Lodge at Lanier Islands

Address: 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford, GA 30518
Amenities: Marina, golf course, spa, recreational activities
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts

9. Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge

Address: 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534
Amenities: Hiking trails, waterfalls, dining options, adventure activities
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Families, nature lovers

10. Serenbe Inn

Address: 10950 Hutcheson Ferry Rd, Chattahoochee Hills, GA 30268
Amenities: Organic farm, spa, nature trails, cultural activities
Price Range: $$$
Suitable for: Couples, eco-conscious travelers

Price and Suitability

Budget Options: Greenwood Bed & Breakfast, The Peach House, Urban Oasis Bed and Breakfast
Mid-Range Options: Hyatt Regency Atlanta, The Westin Peachtree Plaza, Callaway Resort & Gardens
Luxury Options: The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta, Chateau Elan Winery & Resort, Stonehurst Place

Bed and Breakfasts

1. Stonehurst Place

Address: 923 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Amenities: Historic charm, gourmet breakfast, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly
Price Range: $$$
Suitable for: Couples, history enthusiasts

2. Sugar Magnolia Bed & Breakfast

Address: 804 Edgewood Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Amenities: Victorian charm, complimentary breakfast, gardens
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Couples, history enthusiasts

3. Greenwood Bed & Breakfast

Address: 737 Greenwood Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Amenities: Comfortable rooms, home-cooked breakfast, free parking
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Couples, solo travelers

4. The Peach House

Address: 88 Spruce St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Amenities: Historic charm, breakfast, free Wi-Fi, close to attractions
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Couples, solo travelers

5. The Social Goat Bed & Breakfast

Address: 548 Robinson Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
Amenities: Farm experience, home-cooked breakfast, pet-friendly
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Families, couples

6. Urban Oasis Bed and Breakfast

Address: 1309 North Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Amenities: Eclectic decor, breakfast, free Wi-Fi, garden
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Couples, solo travelers

7. Inman Park Bed and Breakfast

Address: 100 Waverly Way NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Amenities: Historic charm, breakfast, free Wi-Fi, gardens
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Couples, history enthusiasts

8. Shellmont Inn

Address: 821 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Amenities: Victorian charm, breakfast, free parking
Price Range: $$$
Suitable for: Couples, luxury seekers

9. Virginia Highland Bed & Breakfast

Address: 630 Orme Cir NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Amenities: Comfortable rooms, breakfast, free Wi-Fi, garden
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Couples, solo travelers

10. The University Inn at Emory

Address: 1767 North Decatur Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307
Amenities: Comfortable rooms, breakfast, close to Emory University
Price Range: $$-$$$
Suitable for: Families, visitors to Emory University

Short Term Rentals

Short-term rentals have surged in popularity, offering travelers a unique and personalized lodging experience. These accommodations range from cozy apartments to entire houses, providing more space, privacy, and a “home away from home” feel.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

More space and privacy
Kitchen facilities for self-catering
Often located in residential neighborhoods for a more local experience
Ideal for longer stays or larger groups

Disadvantages

Lack of front desk support or concierge services
Inconsistent standards across different properties
Potential issues with cleanliness or maintenance

Booking Tips

Best Platforms: Airbnb, VRBO, HomeAway, Booking.com
Tips for Vetting Listings:
- Read reviews from previous guests.
- Check the cancellation policy.
- Communicate with hosts to clarify any doubts.
- Look for properties with verified photos and descriptions.

Ten highly rated Short-Term Rentals

1. Midtown Luxury Loft

Features: Modern decor, fully equipped kitchen, city views
Address: Midtown, Atlanta, GA
Suitable for: Couples, business travelers

2. Cozy Cottage in Inman Park

Features: Historic charm, garden, near restaurants and shops
Address: Inman Park, Atlanta, GA
Suitable for: Families, solo travelers

3. Spacious Buckhead Home

Features: Multiple bedrooms, large backyard, upscale neighborhood
Address: Buckhead, Atlanta, GA
Suitable for: Large groups, families

4. Modern Downtown Apartment

Features: Rooftop access, gym, close to attractions
Address: Downtown, Atlanta, GA
Suitable for: Young professionals, couples

5. Ponce City Market Loft

Features: Industrial decor, high ceilings, rooftop access
Address: Old Fourth Ward, Atlanta, GA
Suitable for: Couples, young professionals

6. Virginia Highland Bungalow

Features: Charming decor, backyard, close to parks and restaurants
Address: Virginia Highland, Atlanta, GA
Suitable for: Families, couples

7. Historic Grant Park Home

Features: Period features, garden, near zoo and park
Address: Grant Park, Atlanta, GA
Suitable for: Families, history enthusiasts

8. Luxury Condo in Atlantic Station

Features: Modern amenities, pool access, shopping nearby
Address: Atlantic Station, Atlanta, GA
Suitable for: Business travelers, couples

9. Treehouse in East Atlanta

Features: Unique experience, surrounded by nature, cozy interiors
Address: East Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
Suitable for: Couples, nature lovers

10. Chic Studio in West Midtown

Features: Modern decor, fully equipped kitchen, close to nightlife
Address: West Midtown, Atlanta, GA
Suitable for: Solo travelers, young professionals

RV and Camping

For those who prefer a closer connection to nature, RVing and camping offer a unique way to experience Atlanta’s surrounding natural beauty. From fully equipped RV parks to rustic campgrounds, there are options to suit every camper’s needs.

RV Parks

1. Stone Mountain Park Campground

Address: 4003 Stonewall Jackson Dr, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Amenities: RV hookups, tent sites, bathhouses, recreational activities
Suitable for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts

2. Sweetwater Creek State Park

Address: 1750 Mt Vernon Rd, Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Amenities: Tent sites, hiking trails, fishing, historic ruins
Suitable for: Nature lovers, history enthusiasts

3. High Falls State Park

Address: 76 High Falls Park Dr, Jackson, GA 30233
Amenities: RV hookups, tent sites, waterfalls, fishing
Suitable for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts

4. Red Top Mountain State Park

Address: 50 Lodge Rd SE, Acworth, GA 30102
Amenities: RV hookups, tent sites, hiking trails, lake access
Suitable for: Families, water sports enthusiasts

5. Fort Yargo State Park

Address: 210 S Broad St, Winder, GA 30680
Amenities: RV hookups, tent sites, lake access, hiking trails
Suitable for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts

6. Chattahoochee Bend State Park

Address: 425 Bobwhite Way, Newnan, GA 30263
Amenities: RV hookups, tent sites, river access, hiking trails
Suitable for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers

7. Don Carter State Park

Address: 5000 N Browning Bridge Rd, Gainesville, GA 30506
Amenities: RV hookups, tent sites, lake access, boat rentals
Suitable for: Families, water sports enthusiasts

8. Hard Labor Creek State Park

Address: 5 Hard Labor Creek Rd, Rutledge, GA 30663
Amenities: RV hookups, tent sites, golf course, hiking trails
Suitable for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts

9. Vogel State Park

Address: 405 Vogel State Park Rd, Blairsville, GA 30512
Amenities: RV hookups, tent sites, lake access, hiking trails
Suitable for: Families, nature lovers

10. Indian Springs State Park

Address: 678 Lake Clark Rd, Flovilla, GA 30216
Amenities: RV hookups, tent sites, historic springs, hiking trails
Suitable for: Families, history enthusiasts

Planning and Preparation

Types of Facilities

RV Parks: Designed for RVs with amenities like electrical hookups, waste disposal, water access, and bathhouses.
Campgrounds: Suitable for tents and smaller RVs, often more rustic with fewer amenities but closer to nature.

Planning and Preparation

Booking Campsites: Popular sites can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. It’s best to book well in advance.
Camping Essentials: Tent, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, first aid kit, insect repellent, and any necessary permits.

General Information

Pet Policies

Many accommodations in Atlanta are pet-friendly, including several hotels, short-term rentals, and campgrounds. It’s important to check specific policies and any associated fees when booking.

Sustainability

Sustainable travel options are growing in Atlanta. Many hotels and resorts are implementing eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient systems, recycling programs, and locally sourced dining options. Campgrounds and RV parks often encourage leave-no-trace principles and conservation efforts.

Seasonal Considerations

Accommodation availability and pricing in Atlanta can vary significantly with the seasons. Spring and fall are typically the most popular times to visit, leading to higher prices and limited availability. Booking in advance is recommended during these peak periods. Summer can be hot and humid, which may influence outdoor activities and preferences for accommodations with air conditioning. Winter, while milder, offers lower prices and fewer crowds.

Final Thoughts

Atlanta offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs, from luxurious hotels and resorts to charming B&Bs, versatile short-term rentals, and adventurous camping and RV sites. Understanding the different lodging types, their amenities, and their suitability for various travelers can help you make the most informed choice for your stay. Whether you’re seeking the comforts of a high-end hotel, the homey feel of a rental, or the rugged charm of camping, Atlanta has something to offer. Enjoy your stay in this vibrant, historic, and dynamic city!