Things to do at Atlanta International Airport
Situated in the heart of the United States, ATL proudly holds the title of the nation's busiest airport and ranks among the world's top airports. It serves as a pivotal hub, connecting travelers to a vast network of domestic, international, and intercontinental destinations. The Atlanta Airport (ATL) takes great pride in being the first airport worldwide to greet more than 100 million travelers within a single year, all while boasting an impressive track record of swift customs processing.
Located in the state of Georgia, this aviation giant is strategically positioned just 7 miles (11 km) to the south of Atlanta's bustling financial district. Whether you only have an hour to spare before your flight or you are spending a long layover at the airport, ATL Airport has an option for you.
Things to do at ATL
Location: Atlanta GA International, International Terminal / Concourse F. Airside - Mezzanine Level, next to the Chapel.
Open Hours: 06:00 - 22:00 daily
The Club at ATL serves as an ideal escape from the bustling airport environment. It stands as the exclusive lounge at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, where you can pay for access at the door.
Immerse yourself in the contemporary and tranquil ambiance of this lounge, complete with complimentary Wi-Fi, a selection of refreshments, and a variety of additional amenities that assure a seamless sanctuary for your travel needs.
Freshen Up with a shower at Minute Suites
Location: Concourse B near gate B24
Open hours: Around the clock
Minute Suites is a well-known private suite provider in the Atlanta Airport Terminal. For a quick refresh, you can rent a shower facility for a reasonable $30 for a 30-minute session. However, for a cost-effective option, you can opt to combine a shower with a suite rental, by paying only $20
Download the Sanctifly app to explore all the facilities available to Sanctifly members.
Location: Terminals A, C, D, and E.
Open hours: 10 AM to 8 PM
Airports can be stressful places. Relieve the travel-induced stress and tension by indulging in a soothing visit to XpresSpa. XpresSpa thoughtfully accommodates your schedule with massage durations ranging from a quick 15 minutes to a luxurious 90 minutes, making it ideal for passengers at Atlanta airport (ATL). Additionally, this spa also extends its services to include facials and nail treatments for travelers.
If you are a Sanctifly member, you can use your Sanctifly pass to get a $30 voucher which can be redeemed against any XpresSpa services.
Free things to do at ATL
Meditate in the Interfaith Airport Chapels
Location: Domestic Terminal Chapel, Atrium, Landside, 3rd Floor, Concourse E Chapel, Airside, behind Martin Luther King Jr. Exhibit,
Concourse F Chapel, Airside, International Atrium, 2nd Floor.
Open hours: Open around the clock
A great way to get away from the chaos of the main terminal is to spend some time in the Interfaith Airport Chapel. At ATL, you will discover three airport chapels designed to accommodate travelers of various faiths and provide open and welcoming spaces where visitors are encouraged to embrace tranquility and contemplation.
As you wait for your flight, make the most of your airport downtime by selecting one of our guided meditation videos. You can easily access them on the 'Videos' tab, helping you relax and find your center.
Utilize your spare time at the Atlanta airport by immersing yourself in the art scene. ATL's Art Program constantly curates a diverse collection of art, sculptures, and live performances for travelers to enjoy.
Get active in your downtime by combining cultural exploration with a bit of physical activity, as you walk through the ATL and explore the artistic offerings in its terminals.
Luggage storage at ATL
Like most US airports, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport lacks luggage storage services. If you find yourself on a layover at ATL and need to store your baggage, consider these options:
Seek assistance at the airport information desk; they can suggest nearby luggage storage facilities.
If you're making your way downtown, explore the availability of luggage storage lockers at bus and train terminals.
Utilize the power of Google to locate a luggage storage service. There are a number of websites and apps that cater to luggage storage needs in major cities throughout the United States.
An alternative to storing your luggage at ATL airport is to use a service such as Stasher. Stasher offers private solutions for luggage storage and costs approx. $5.99 per item, per day. Search your city on their website and you can book a location to store your luggage.
Grab a Bite
Location: Concourse E
Open hours: 6 AM to 4 PM on Weekdays, 6 AM to 7 PM on Weekends
Prior to your flight, savor a wholesome snack at Nature's Table. Indulge in gourmet wraps, sandwiches, and salads crafted from the freshest and healthiest ingredients at the Lounge in ATL, situated in Concourse E.
Location: Concourse T
Open hours: 7 AM to 8 PM on Weekdays, 7 AM to 4 PM on Weekends
PAPI'S at ATL's Lounge offers something for every palate, with special options for vegetarians. As the top-rated "best eats" option on Yelp, Papi's invites you to savor their signature house salad crafted from the freshest ingredients.
Long Layover at ATL
For those with an extended layover at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, consider taking a quick trip to downtown Atlanta. The airport is conveniently situated just 11.2 miles from the heart of the city and is excellently connected by transportation options. Taking the Gold or Red Metro line will swiftly transport you downtown in approximately 30 minutes.
The regional train system, MARTA, connects various city points to the airport, making it easy to go out and explore the city and get some sightseeing done. Be sure to allocate ample time for your return journey to the airport and the security checkpoint, ensuring a smooth transition to your next flight.
Escape the airport and savor the fresh air during your airport layover at Sykes Park. This tranquil location offers ideal opportunities for either a pleasant stroll or an invigorating hike with numerous trails at your disposal. Bear in mind that the park is a favored destination for mountain bikers, so be sure to observe the designated rules when traversing the paths. Moreover, you'll discover tennis and basketball courts readily available in the park.
Located just 4.1 miles from the airport, the most efficient route is to hail a taxi. Alternatively, you can opt to take the Red or Gold line to East Point Station, followed by a transfer to the 181 bus, disembarking at Washington Rd @ Dodson Dr Conn. From there, it's a brief 12-minute walk to the park's entrance. Enjoy a refreshing break from the Atlanta airport hustle at Sykes Park.
If you find yourself with a few spare hours at ATL (Atlanta Airport) and want to explore the area without heading downtown, consider a visit to the Delta Flight Museum. For a nominal fee of $15, this museum offers a remarkable collection of vintage aircraft, historical uniforms, engaging exhibits, and simulators filled with intriguing aviation insights.
The museum operates during the following hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM
Closed on Wednesdays
For an even more immersive experience, consider booking a session on the flight simulator, allowing you to step into the shoes of a commercial airplane pilot.
The museum is conveniently located just 2.6 miles from the airport, and the most preferable mode of transportation is to take a taxi. Alternatively, you can opt to ride the Red or Gold line to the College Park Transit Station and then catch the 172 bus from Main St @ John Wesley Ave to Virginia Ave @ Delta Blvd.
RENT A RIDE:
When faced with an extended layover at the Atlanta airport (ATL), consider treating yourself to a luxurious chauffeur-driven adventure and explore the surroundings.
As a member of Sanctifly, you'll enjoy an exclusive 8% discount on SIXT Ride, allowing you to book chauffeur-driven vehicles and airport transfers at a reduced cost . If you are from the USA, it's possible to redeem a $20 car rental voucher with just 100 points, and this voucher can be combined with the existing 15% discount.
Transport Options
The train is the best option for getting to and from the airport.
The MARTA rapid transit commuter rail system connects Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to downtown Atlanta. You can catch the Red or the Gold line from the Airport Station, located at the end of the Domestic Terminal.
Overnight Layover?
Location: Concourse B, specifically at Gate B16
Open Hours: Open around the clock
Whether your needs include a brief rest, unwinding, or a productive workspace, Minute Suites at the Atlanta airport is the solution for you. With a state-of-the-art sound masking system and a personal thermostat, you have full control over your environment to ensure a tranquil experience. Although the cabins are compact, they offer a comfortable setting and provide complimentary Wi-Fi access. For travelers facing an overnight layover at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, this is a convenient solution for rest and productivity.
The minimum stay is 1 hour, priced at $42.
If you prefer a more conventional hotel experience during your layover, there are several hotels located within the airport vicinity.
Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway, Springhill Suites Atlanta Airport Gateway is hardly a 2 to 3-minute ride on the ATL SkyTrain. Renaissance Concourse Atlanta Airport Hotel provides a free airport shuttle service that can pick you up and drop you back at the airport as per your schedule.
However, accessing these hotels will require passing through security.
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