Atlanta, Georgia, is a unique city packed with Southern charm, upscale destinations, and family-friendly attractions. If you are planning your first visit to ATL, choosing your hotel may seem like a daunting task—there are so many options! Here are some quick tips to get you on the right path to finding the best accommodations for your specific needs.
- Getting Around Town
In order to guarantee a stress-free stay, your hotel should make travel to Atlanta and the surrounding area easy. For example, if you’re flying to one of Atlanta’s major airports, or you have only a short time in the area, it may make sense to pick a hotel that’s close to the airport. Once you’re here, will you have access to a car? Atlanta is an extremely drivable city, but if you’d rather not rent a car, it may make more sense to choose a hotel that’s at or near a MARTA public transit stop. A hotel in nearby College Park that’s close to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and MARTA-accessible may suit your needs.
- Business or Pleasure?
While you’re here, what do you want to do? If you’re in town for business, you may want to stay in or near the conference center or your office building—making it easy to get to a short-notice meeting or grab that drink with colleagues you only get to see once a year. Are you in town purely for pleasure? Atlanta is home to many wonderful bars, restaurants, and nightlife, making it an ideal destination for all kinds of celebrations. If you plan to get festive, a hotel in Midtown might suit you best.
- Traveling With Companions?
Is Atlanta your destination for a family vacation? If so, you may want to stay in a quieter part of town, like College Park, Druid Hills, or Buckhead. Take the kiddos to one of Atlanta’s museums or parks, or catch a show at one of the city’s theaters and then take a peaceful ride out of the hustle and bustle of downtown for a great night’s sleep. Are you traveling with a furry family member, too? Several hotels in and around Atlanta happily accommodate dogs of all sizes, making it a breeze to bring Bingo and avoid the cost of a kennel or pet sitter while you’re away from home.
- Cost
Last on this list, but an important consideration, is cost. The price of a hotel stay shouldn’t come between you and a wonderful time in this Southern gem of a city. Atlanta is a very affordable travel destination, and if money is no object, there are definitely upscale options for fine dining and indulgent accommodations. However, for most of us, money is indeed a factor. Rest assured, there are many fabulous, affordable hotels from which to choose.
These quick tips should help get you started on your Atlanta adventure. Whatever you do in ATL just remember: NEVER try to order Pepsi in the home of Coca-Cola!
