Hi everyone.
I'll be in Atlanta in July.
What is the best area to book an hotel?
I will have a rental car but I would like to stay near the main attractions.
Thank you
Rosanna
Hi Rosanna! It’s great that you’ll be visiting Atlanta in July. With your rental car, you’ll have the flexibility to explore the city and its main attractions. Here are a few neighborhoods and areas to consider when booking your hotel in Atlanta:
1. Downtown Atlanta: If you want to stay close to the city’s most iconic attractions, Downtown is a great option. It’s home to major sights like the Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Olympic Park, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and the College Football Hall of Fame. You’ll find a variety of hotels here, from budget to luxury. The area is also well-connected by MARTA if you want to use public transportation, and it’s easy to drive to other parts of the city.
2. Midtown Atlanta: Midtown is another excellent area with a good mix of attractions, restaurants, and parks. If you’re interested in art and culture, Midtown is home to the High Museum of Art, the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Piedmont Park. The area has a vibrant nightlife and dining scene, and it’s centrally located, making it easy to get around. Midtown tends to be a bit quieter than Downtown but still offers a lot to do.
3. Buckhead: Buckhead is known for its upscale shopping and dining, as well as its beautiful hotels. If you’re looking for luxury and want to stay in a more residential area, Buckhead is a good choice. While it's a bit farther from some of the main tourist attractions (like the Georgia Aquarium or the World of Coca-Cola), it’s easy to drive to these places and Buckhead offers plenty to do, such as visiting the Atlanta History Center or shopping at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza.
4. Virginia-Highland / Inman Park: If you prefer a more laid-back, neighborhood feel with local charm, consider staying in Virginia-Highland or Inman Park. These areas are known for their quirky boutiques, great restaurants, and close-knit community vibe. They’re also within a short drive or MARTA ride to Downtown and Midtown, offering a quieter escape after a day of sightseeing.
5. Old Fourth Ward / Krog Street Market: For a trendy, up-and-coming neighborhood, look into staying near Old Fourth Ward or Krog Street Market. This area offers cool boutique hotels, vibrant street art, and access to the BeltLine. It’s close to popular attractions like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and Ponce City Market. The BeltLine is a great walking and biking trail that connects several neighborhoods and provides easy access to the rest of the city.
6. Near the Airport (Hartsfield-Jackson): If you’re looking for convenience when flying in or out of Atlanta, staying near the airport is an option. While it’s a bit farther from the main attractions, the airport area offers affordable hotel options, and you can easily drive into the city to visit sights like the Atlanta Zoo, the Atlanta Botanical Garden, or the Georgia Aquarium.
Conclusion: For the best access to the major attractions and a good variety of dining, entertainment, and accommodations, I’d recommend staying in either Downtown or Midtown. These areas offer the most to do and are centrally located, making it easy to drive to other neighborhoods and attractions. If you prefer a more upscale or residential experience, Buckhead could be a great choice, though it’s a bit farther from the main tourist sites.
Enjoy your trip to Atlanta!