Atlanta’s phoenix isn’t just on the city seal—it’s in its soul. We not only reinvent culture – we make it every day, often in the most unexpected places. Tucked inside converted warehouses on the Westside. Echoing through the acoustics of The Fox. Pulsing from underground stages in East Atlanta. Painted across the walls of Cabbagetown. Atlanta’s culture is not only on the rise, it’s all around us, and always evolving.
Let Filterbuzz be your cultural compass. Explore the map. Curate your calendar. Be part of the ATL buzz.
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Transportation
Transportation Projects
Atlanta has several major infrastructure projects in the works aimed at improving transportation. This includes expanding MARTA rail lines, improving bus service, and creating more bike and pedestrian-friendly spaces. Projects like The Atlanta BeltLine (a large redevelopment project that includes light rail, bike lanes, and park space) are also designed to reduce dependence on cars and improve mobility.
Traffic
Atlanta has a notorious reputation for traffic jams, especially during peak commuting hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM). The I-285 Perimeter, in particular, is infamous for heavy congestion.MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority): MARTA is the primary public transportation system in Atlanta and covers buses and a rail network. It is the most commonly used public transport system in the city.
MARTA Rail: The MARTA rail network consists of four lines: Red, Gold, Blue, and Green. These lines connect the suburbs to downtown Atlanta and key areas like the airport, Midtown, and Buckhead.
MARTA Bus: MARTA operates a comprehensive bus network that covers the entire metropolitan area. Buses serve areas not directly served by the rail system.
Fares: MARTA uses a Breeze Card for fares. As of the latest information, a single ride on either the bus or rail costs around $2.50, with discounts for seniors and people with disabilities. There are also day passes and weekly passes available.
Free Streetcar: Atlanta operates a streetcar service known as the Atlanta Streetcar, which serves a small downtown loop, connecting key areas like Centennial Olympic Park, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, and the Five Points area.
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Weather
Summer (June to August)
Average Highs: 85°F to 90°F (29°C to 32°C), though it can occasionally reach the mid-90s (35°C+).Fall (September to November)
Average Highs: 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) in September, cooling to 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 16°C) by November.Winter (December to February)
Average Highs: 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C), though temperatures can occasionally dip below freezing.
Snow: Snowfall is rare but possible, typically 1-3 inches per year. Ice storms are more of a concern than heavy snow.Spring (March to May)
Average Highs: 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C) in March, warming to 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) in May.
Rain: Spring is the wettest season, with thunderstorms common, especially in April and May.
Overall Feel: Mild and beautiful, with a mix of sunny and rainy days.-
Where to Stay
Midtown
Best For: Business travelers, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife.
Why Stay Here: Midtown is at the heart of Atlanta’s cultural district, close to museums, parks, and upscale dining. It’s well-connected by public transport and offers a blend of modern and historic architecture.
Top Hotels:
The Georgian Terrace – Historic and luxurious, it’s perfect if you want to be close to the Fox Theatre and Piedmont Park.
Loews Atlanta Hotel – Modern, upscale, and centrally located with excellent amenities.
W Atlanta – Midtown – Chic, trendy, and ideal for those looking to experience Atlanta’s nightlife.
Downtown Atlanta
Best For: History buffs, tourists, and those visiting major attractions.
Why Stay Here: Home to major landmarks like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and Centennial Olympic Park, Downtown Atlanta is the perfect place for sightseeing.
Top Hotels:
The Westin Peachtree Plaza – Iconic skyscraper with panoramic views of the city.
Omni Atlanta Hotel – A luxurious choice with great proximity to the Georgia Aquarium and CNN Center.
Hyatt Centric Midtown Atlanta – Located near all the downtown action, combining comfort and convenience.
Buckhead
Best For: Shopping, upscale dining, and a more suburban feel.
Why Stay Here: Known for its luxury shopping at places like Phipps Plaza and Lenox Square, Buckhead offers a quieter, more upscale atmosphere while still being close to city attractions.
Top Hotels:
The St. Regis Atlanta – Opulent, with top-notch service and a prime location near high-end shopping.
The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta Buckhead – Classic luxury with superb service and amenities.
Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead – A comfortable, modern option with a more affordable price tag compared to some of the other high-end hotels.
Old Fourth Ward
Best For: Art lovers, foodies, and a vibrant local scene.
Why Stay Here: This neighborhood is a mix of modern living, trendy bars, and historic charm, including the famous Ponce City Market.
Top Hotels:
Hotel Clermont – A charming boutique hotel with a rooftop bar and old-school vibe.
The Social House at Ponce City Market – Located in the heart of Ponce City Market, with easy access to great food and shopping.
East Atlanta Village
Best For: Hipsters, nightlife, and a laid-back vibe.
Why Stay Here: Known for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic bars, and local restaurants, this area is more low-key but full of energy.
Top Hotels:
The Candler Hotel Atlanta – A historic building with modern amenities, offering a boutique hotel experience just outside East Atlanta Village.
Tiny House in East Atlanta – For a more unique and intimate stay, you can even rent a tiny house.
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More on Getting Around
Biking and Walking
Biking: Atlanta has made significant improvements to its bike infrastructure in recent years. The city has dedicated bike lanes, shared-use paths, and bike-sharing programs like Relay Bike Share, which allows you to rent bikes for short trips around the city. However, the city is still working on expanding and connecting its bike routes.Walking: Walking in certain neighborhoods like Midtown, Downtown, and parts of Buckhead is feasible. However, the city is very car-dependent overall, and walking long distances outside of these areas can be difficult.
Trolleys and Shuttles
There are various shuttle services within the city, particularly for tourists or travelers attending events. These services are often found around downtown, the Georgia World Congress Center, and other major venues.Some areas of the city also have trolley services, which provide a nostalgic way to explore the city. These are more common in tourist areas like downtown.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is a popular option for both visitors and residents, as it provides the most flexibility in terms of traveling around the city and beyond. Major rental agencies operate from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and various locations throughout the city.