Insider Tips for Navigating Atlanta

My Atlanta story began in 1990, when my parents moved their young family to the metro area to pursue new job opportunities. It was an exciting time to grow up in the unofficial capital of the South. Atlanta’s first Black mayor, Maynard Jackson, was in his third and final term; local leaders were working on their successful bid to host the 1996 Summer Olympics; and Freaknik, the biggest college party for historically Black college and university (HBCU) students, had already gained a national reputation.

As an adult, I’ve moved away from home a few times, but this city always seems to draw me back in. I find new ways to fall in love with Atlanta every time I return. If you’re planning a visit, here are a few insider tips to help you navigate our rules, culture, and even the streets.

1. Plan to Spend at Least Three Days in the A

It’ll take a first-time visitor at least two days to see all the typical sites, starting with Atlanta’s downtown tourist district – home to the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola museum, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, all within the same square. Centennial Olympic Park is a short walk away. The King Historic District is about a five-minute drive from there, but given the legacies of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, it requires time to absorb it all. After that, visitors can choose their adventure by exploring Atlanta’s neighborhoods, strolling along the Beltline—a 22-mile multi-use trail, or enjoying a meal at one of Atlanta’s award-winning restaurants.

2. Know the Pros and Cons of Each Season

Summertime is filled with incredible festivals and outdoor celebrations; however, brace yourself for 90°F (32°C) temperatures and sweltering humidity. Winters are mild, but there’s significantly less to do in Atlanta since Southerners don’t appreciate cold weather of any kind. Spring and fall are magical times in the city, but check with your allergist first, as Atlanta gets blanketed in pollen, particularly in the spring due to its abundant tree cover.

3. Prepare to See and Be Seen in Atlanta

Atlanta doesn’t believe partying should be limited to the night. Day parties and restaurants with a lounge atmosphere are plentiful. This style may seem strange to some visitors. To enjoy them like a local, go for the vibes rather than traditional restaurant service.

4. Sunday Booze Sales Can Be Confusing

Southern cities have a complicated relationship with alcohol sales on Sunday, and Atlanta is no different. It can be tough to keep track of regulations, especially when ordinances change from county to county. If you’re in the city limits of Atlanta, you can order a Sunday morning mimosa or bloody mary at brunch beginning at 11 a.m. If you’re outside of Atlanta/Fulton County, be aware that local laws may vary.

5. Getting Around Without a Car Is Challenging

MARTA is Atlanta’s public transportation system, and it’s generally reliable and safe. Many use the train’s red and yellow lines to get to and from the airport, but the train system isn’t robust enough to take locals or visitors to all of the area’s best offerings, which are sprawled across a large metro area. Renting a car or using rideshare apps are your best options as spontaneous traffic jams regularly occur.

6. Atlanta Has All the Peachtree Streets

Whoever was in charge of naming streets in Atlanta seemed to run out of ideas. You’ll notice many roads are named after peach trees. At last count, 71 roads in Atlanta have Peachtree in the name. It can get confusing quickly, so pay attention to the details to see if you’re looking for Peachtree Street, Road, or Way.

7. Fill Your Soul with Local Cuisine

You can’t come to the South without indulging in soul food, and Atlanta has some iconic options for you. Look out for local favorites such as shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese. For eclectic international offerings, try the food hall at Ponce City Market, Buford Highway Farmers Market, or East Atlanta Village. The diner food chain Waffle House, founded in a suburb of Atlanta, is also a must-visit.

8. Saying Hotlanta Will Get You the Side Eye

Although Atlanta gets hot in summertime, calling the city “Hotlanta” is considered outdated and will label you as an outsider. Locals prefer the casual nicknames “the A” and “A-T-L.”

9. Black Culture Is Intrinsically Connected to Atlanta

Atlanta has the second largest population of Black Americans in the US, behind New York City. It’s also home to four HBCUs and Tyler Perry Studios, and has deep roots in the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 60s. The city remains a major hub for hip hop, from early pioneers to fresh talents.

10. Atlanta Embraces Our LGBTQ+ Community

Atlanta is a hub for the Black queer community, with celebrations such as Atlanta Black Pride every Labor Day weekend. The city offers year-round opportunities to celebrate diversity and inclusion, whether it’s during Atlanta Pride in October or at various gay bars and clubs.