If you have a green thumb, or just want to have fun outdoors, this plant-oriented Atlanta event may be good for you. Spring has sprung in Atlanta, and plant lovers across the city are gearing up
https://youtu.be/cldrtPmZpg0 Is one-third of TLC a Trumper? That's what fans what to know. Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas, the Stone Mountain-raised singer best known as one-third of the
Atlanta's own Tyler Perry is once again picking people for actor and extras roles for his Netflix and BET+ productions filmed at his Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, Georgia. If you want to appear on
Atlanta is a vibrant city packed with history, culture, nature, and community spirit — and you don't need to spend a fortune to experience it. In 2026, the city continues to shine with over 40
In a move that’s set to ignite the next wave of diverse talent in Georgia’s booming film scene, Spelman College is rolling out two brand-new film courses next spring, thanks to a fresh partnership with the Georgia Film Academy.
Kicking off in the spring 2026 semester, the courses—”Introduction to Film and Television Production” and “Introduction to Film and Television Post-Production”—mark the entry point into the academy’s 18-credit-hour certification program.
Spelman Launches Film Classes
These hands-on classes will dive into the nuts and bolts of narrative filmmaking, post-production wizardry, and digital media creation, giving students the tools they need to break into an industry hungry for fresh, inclusive voices.
“This partnership is a game-changer for our community,” said Dr. Mark Lee, Spelman’s provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs. “We’re excited to equip our students with the skills to thrive in film production and beyond—fields where underrepresented perspectives aren’t just welcome, they’re essential.”
The Georgia Film Academy, a powerhouse in talent development, already links up with over 30 colleges statewide, blending classroom learning with real-world training like equipment demos and industry lectures.
Spelman’s entry makes it the first all-women’s college and the second private HBCU to join the fold, amplifying opportunities for women and Black creatives in Atlanta’s vibrant film ecosystem.
“Teaming up with Spelman adds a powerful layer to what we do,” noted Scott Votaw, assistant vice chancellor at the Georgia Film Academy. “We’re not just teaching skills—we’re building confidence and creativity to help these students light up Georgia’s screens.”
As Hollywood’s grip on Georgia tightens—with major productions like Black Panther sequels and Marvel blockbusters filming right here in ATL—this collaboration couldn’t come at a better time.
It’s a clear signal that local institutions are doubling down on homegrown talent, potentially funneling more diverse filmmakers into casting calls, studios, and post houses across the city.
Final Word
For aspiring directors, editors, and producers at Spelman, these courses aren’t just credits—they’re a direct line to the jobs shaping tomorrow’s stories. Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates on enrollment and how this partnership unfolds.
Chamblee, GA – The Hawkins, a sleek 192-unit luxury apartment community, recently opened in Chamblee. The units are already turning heads—and runways—as a hot spot for renters in metro Atlanta’s fast-growing suburbs.
Just five months after kicking off leasing, the development has hit an impressive 63% occupancy rate, with projections to reach full capacity by the end of the first quarter of 2026, according to Atlas Real Estate Partners.
Grand Opening Celebrates The Hawkins Apartments
The rapid uptake underscores the surging appetite for premium, transit-friendly housing in Chamblee, where proximity to bustling hubs like Buckhead, Brookhaven, and Downtown Atlanta makes daily commutes a breeze.
What sets The Hawkins apart? Its prime perch right next to DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK), delivering jaw-dropping, unobstructed vistas of private jets and the glittering Atlanta skyline.
“We designed The Hawkins to stand out not only in Chamblee, but across Atlanta,” said Alex Foster, Managing Partner at Atlas Real Estate Partners. “Blending irreplaceable offerings like the sky lounge overlooking PDK to its practical amenities such as our dog walk and pet spa, coworking spaces and intimate courtyard, every detail reflects our goal of creating a community where residents can live, work, and connect in one of Atlanta’s most exciting neighborhoods.”
The residences themselves cater to a range of lifestyles, blending studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts with upscale touches: think expansive open floor plans, high-end finishes, and smart, contemporary conveniences that scream modern comfort.
But it’s the shared spaces that elevate the experience.
The crown jewel is the sky lounge—a showstopper with floor-to-ceiling glass walls framing those panoramic airport and city views, perfect for sunset cocktails or remote work sessions with a view.
For the wellness crowd, there’s a cutting-edge indoor/outdoor fitness center and a resort-style pool to beat the Georgia heat.
Pet owners will appreciate the dedicated dog spa and walking areas, while remote professionals can plug into flexible, high-design coworking zones.
Adding to the everyday ease: Plans for ground-floor retail and a grab-and-go market mean coffee runs and quick bites are just steps away.
All of this sits minutes from Chamblee’s top-tier dining, shopping, and entertainment scenes, with easy access via multiple transit lines.
This isn’t Atlas’s first rodeo in the Peach State. The New York- and Miami-based firm, founded in 2010, has scooped up over 9,000 multifamily units and built nearly 1,000 more, honing a reputation for value-add developments that prioritize creativity and top-notch operations.
The Hawkins fits neatly into their Opportunity Zone strategy, aiming to revitalize and energize underserved areas.
Joining Atlas on this venture is a powerhouse lineup: FIDES Development as co-developer, New South Construction handling the build, Nelson Architects on design, Banko Design for interiors, and Greystar Property Management to keep things running smoothly.
As Atlanta’s real estate market continues to evolve, projects like The Hawkins signal a shift toward communities that don’t just house residents—they inspire them. Ready to soar? Prospective tenants can dive into details and schedule a tour at thehawkinsatl.com.
AtlantaFi.com is your go-to source for the latest on homes, developments, and market trends across the ATL and beyond.
tlanta has one of thebest real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.
Delta’s newest offering — Delta Comfort Basic — promises more leg room while keeping airfare prices at a minimum.
As a frequent flier with Delta, I’ve been testing out my various flights to write about them to see which experiences resonate with me and readers.
Enter Delta Comfort Basic, the airline’s newest fare option that promises more space in the skies without the premium price tag. Launched in late November 2025, this stripped-down version of Delta’s popular Comfort+ seating is already sparking buzz among ATL travelers.
But with added restrictions, is it truly a game-changer or just another layer of airline complexity?
What Is Delta Comfort Basic?
Delta Comfort Basic is the entry-level tier in the airline’s revamped Comfort lineup, designed to let budget-conscious passengers snag extra legroom seats at a discount.
It’s not available on award tickets yet, only paid fares, and Delta’s testing it in “very select” domestic markets to gauge demand before a broader rollout.
Available for booking since November 6 on select domestic routes for travel starting November 19, it’s currently limited to a handful of markets — though Delta hints at expansion soon.
Delta Comfort Basic, which fits into the existing Delta Comfort product line as its lowest-priced, most restricted tier. It is an unbundled extra-legroom economy fare that provides the onboard amenities of the standard Comfort product with the limitations of a “Basic Economy” fare.
The Delta Comfort product line now has three tiers:
Basic: The lowest cost option, offering extra legroom, Zone 3 boarding, complimentary alcohol, and dedicated overhead bin space, but seats are assigned after check-in, and fares are not eligible for upgrades or free changes.
Classic (formerly the standard Comfort+): Offers all the perks of Basic, plus the ability to choose your seat in advance, greater flexibility (e.g., free changes/cancellations), and the ability to earn more miles.
Extra: The highest tier within the Comfort line, offering the most flexibility, the highest mileage earn rate, and better boarding priority than Classic.
✈️ How it Ranks in the Overall Hierarchy
The Delta Comfort line (Basic, Classic, Extra) sits above the standard Delta Main cabin (formerly Main Cabin Economy) and below the premium cabins like Delta Premium Select (Premium Economy on international/some premium domestic routes) and Delta One (Business Class with lie-flat seats).
The full passenger experience hierarchy, from highest to lowest, is:
Delta One (International/Premium Domestic Business Class, lie-flat seats)
Delta First (Domestic First Class, wider recliner seats)
Delta Premium Select (International Premium Economy, wider seats, more recline, footrests)
Delta Comfort (Extra legroom economy, with Basic, Classic, and Extra fare options)
Delta Main (Standard economy, with Basic, Classic, and Extra fare options)
The new “Comfort Basic” specifically provides a middle ground for travelers who prioritize the physical comfort of extra legroom and onboard perks (like free drinks) over the flexibility of choosing a specific seat or avoiding change fees.
Delta Comfort Basic: Is It Worth It?
Unlike the full Delta Comfort experience, which has long been a staple for those seeking a step up from standard economy, Comfort Basic trades some flexibility for affordability.
At its core, Comfort Basic keeps the essentials that make Delta Comfort appealing: – Extra Legroom: 3-4 inches more than Main Cabin seats (typically 34 inches of pitch), perfect for taller travelers or those dreading a cramped cross-country hop. – Dedicated Overhead Space: A reserved bin section to stash your carry-on without the mid-boarding scramble — a godsend on packed ATL departures. – Zone 3 Boarding: Slip in right after First Class and Premium Select, beating the main cabin rush. – Complimentary Beverages: Free beer, wine, spirits (on flights over 500 miles), and Starbucks coffee on routes longer than 251 miles, plus premium snacks on select flights over 900 miles.
Priced dynamically, Comfort Basic often undercuts standard Main Cabin fares. For example, a one-way from Washington Dulles (DCA) to Miami (MIA) clocks in at around $104 — cheaper than the $109 Main Classic option — while offering superior onboard perks.
Verdict
Ultimately, Comfort Basic shines for price-sensitive ATL travelers who crave a taste of premium without the full commitment.
For shorter ATL routes (under two hours), the value dips — why pay for legroom you’ll barely use? But on longer jaunts, like to the West Coast, the dedicated space and early boarding shine, especially amid ATL’s notorious crowds.
If you’re a leisure flyer on a domestic route, value overhead security over seat choice, and don’t mind rolling the dice on assignment at check-in, it’s a solid pick — potentially saving you enough for an extra checked bag or a post-flight meal at Paschal’s
Final Word
For Atlanta-based travelers, this lands squarely in Delta’s wheelhouse. As the carrier’s largest hub with over 893 daily flights, ATL passengers — who make up 70% of the airport’s traffic — often face high demand and tight schedules.
Skip it if flexibility is key (e.g., business trips with potential changes) or if you’re chasing elite perks — opt for Comfort Classic instead. And for international escapes from ATL, wait for Delta’s teased expansions; this is domestic-only for now.
As Delta’s unbundling experiment unfolds, expect more tiers in Premium Select and beyond, potentially complicating bookings at our bustling hub.
Atlanta’s dining scene is bidding a bittersweet farewell to one of its longtime favorites as Dantanna’s, the beloved Buckhead steakhouse and sports bar, prepares to close its original location this weekend.
Nestled near Lenox Square since 2003, Dantanna’s has been a go-to spot for generations of locals and visitors alike, dishing out prime steaks, fresh seafood, and a lively atmosphere perfect for cheering on the Falcons or catching a big game.
Dantanna’s To Close Its Doors in Buckhead
But after more than two decades of sizzling success, the restaurant will pour its final drinks this Saturday night, timing the goodbye to coincide with the college football conference championships.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the owners expressed deep gratitude to the community that made Dantanna’s a Buckhead staple.
“It is humbling to look back now and reflect that our amazing team has provided millions of great experiences,” they wrote. “With absolute sincerity, we thank our friends, guests, and amazing team members who have defined Dantanna’s culture of hospitality which built and inspired our guests’ loyalty.”
While the closure comes as a heavy-hearted decision—though no specific reasons were shared—the spot’s legacy endures.
Dantanna’s first made its mark in 2003, quickly earning a reputation for its upscale yet approachable vibe and menu highlights like the signature filet mignon and crab cakes.
The chain briefly expanded downtown to the CNN Center in 2018, but that outpost shuttered amid the challenges of the 2020 pandemic.
For many Atlantans, Dantanna’s wasn’t just a restaurant—it was a backdrop for birthdays, business deals, and bracket-busting watch parties. As the final weekend approaches, loyal patrons are encouraged to swing by for one last toast to the memories.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more on how this closure fits into the evolving Buckhead dining landscape, and check out our app for real-time updates on the city’s food scene.
If you’re a health nut and want more local healthy food choices, perhaps you’ll be interested in our Guide to Local Farmers Markets.
Downtown Atlanta’s dining scene is about to get a lot spicier. Khao Thai Isan, a new Thai tapas restaurant highlighting the bold, punchy flavors of Thailand’s Northeastern Isan region, will open in 2026 at The Mitchell – the first ground-up residential tower completed within the massive $5 billion Centennial Yards development.
The restaurant comes from sisters Niki and Tanya Pattharakositkul, the Thai-born duo already behind popular local concepts 26 Thai Kitchen & Bar, Pink Lotus, Blackjack Bar Tapas, and the upcoming Terminal 26 at Ponce City Market.
Khao (which simply means “rice” in Thai) will be their first venture in Downtown proper.
Khao Thai Opening in Centennial Yards
Expect shareable small plates packed with the sour, salty, spicy, and funky street-food staples of Isan – think larb, grilled meats, som tam, and sticky rice – all served with sleek, modern plating.
The drink menu will feature Thai-inspired cocktails and towering beer towers perfect for groups.
“In Thailand, when people meet each other, rather than saying ‘hi’ or ‘how are you,’ they say ‘Gin Khao Mai,’ meaning ‘have you eaten yet?’” said Niki Pattharakositkul, founder of Khao Thai Isan. “We wanted to bring that same sense of welcoming and community to anyone who dines at Khao Thai Isan. The restaurant is our way of saying ‘hello’ to Downtown Atlanta.”
What To Expect at Khao Thai Isan
The nearly 5,000-square-foot space sits at the base of The Mitchell, a new 19-story, 304-unit luxury apartment building with 16,000 square feet of street-level retail.
Khao Thai Isan will boast a large outdoor patio designed to channel the chaotic energy of Isan night markets, while the interior and logo draw inspiration from the region’s iconic “kratip” woven sticky-rice baskets.
“Centennial Yards will be a place for everyone to enjoy unique dining experiences,” said Brian McGowan, President of Centennial Yards Company. “Khao Thai Isan aligns perfectly with the neighborhood vibe we are curating for the district.”
Timed to open ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the restaurant will be steps from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena, and the future Entertainment District at Centennial Yards – a growing hub that already includes confirmed heavyweights like Live Nation and immersive venue Cosm.
In a move that’s rippling through Midtown’s bustling streets, the beloved Publix supermarket at Atlantic Station is set to shutter its doors for good on December 27, 2025.
The store has been open for nearly two decades of serving shoppers fresh subs, local produce, and that signature Publix smile.
The announcement, which caught many longtime customers and employees off guard, marks the end of an era for the vibrant mixed-use development that’s become a cornerstone of urban Atlanta living.
The 30,312-square-foot store, which opened in 2005 alongside the launch of Atlantic Station itself, has long been a go-to spot for residents in the district’s thousands of apartments, office workers along 17th Street, and visitors drawn to the area’s shops, dining, and green spaces.
Why Is the Publix at Atlantic Station Closing?
But Publix cited a “number of factors” in its decision to close, including the store’s compact footprint and challenging parking layout—issues that have long frustrated regulars navigating the multilevel garage and pedestrian-friendly design.
“We’ve been privileged to serve the Midtown community at the Publix at Atlantic Station for almost two decades,” a Publix spokesperson said in a statement. “While it is always a difficult decision to make, we have decided to close this store on December 27, 2025.”
Employees at the store were notified Monday morning, with Publix emphasizing its commitment to its workforce amid the changes.
“”In our 95-year history, Publix has never had a layoff,” the statement continued. “We will offer associates at the Atlantic Station location positions at neighboring stores if they so desire.”
For many staffers, that means potential transfers to nearby locations like the larger Publix at The Plaza Midtown (just 1.5 miles away at 950 W. Peachtree St. NW) or the Howell Mill Village store (2.5 miles distant).
Shoppers, however, face a more immediate inconvenience, with five other Publix outlets within a two-mile radius but none as conveniently embedded in the Atlantic Station ecosystem.
The closure comes at a time of flux for the grocery sector in metro Atlanta, where rivals like Kroger have shuttered underperforming stores earlier this year in areas like Lindbergh, Brookhaven, and Decatur.
Publix itself is closing another small-format location at Shallowford Exchange in Chamblee around the same time, signaling a broader strategy to consolidate in favor of bigger, more efficient spaces.
What’s Next for Atlantic Station?
Atlantic Station’s tight-knit layout, while innovative for walkability, may simply no longer align with the modern grocery model’s demands for expansive aisles and ample parking.
For the community, the loss stings. “This Publix was more than a store—it was a daily ritual,” said longtime resident Jonelle Dennis, who lives in a nearby condo and relies on it for quick runs to grab ingredients for her family’s empanadas. “The parking’s a nightmare sometimes, sure, but it’s right here. Now we’ll have to trek across Midtown or settle for the Target.”
Indeed, the on-site Target will remain open, offering some grocery basics, while a CVS pharmacy inside provides prescription services.
Atlantic Station Management (ASM) is framing the departure optimistically, viewing it as a chance to refresh the district’s retail mix.
“The retail industry is cyclical, and Atlantic Station continues to adapt in ways that strengthen our position as a leading mixed-use destination,” ASM said in a statement. “With the planned closure of Publix on Dec. 27, 2025, we have an opportunity to reimagine the space and consider concepts that will add new options and value to the surrounding community. Plans for the space will be shared as details are finalized.”
The development isn’t standing still: Recent openings have already brought the expanded Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United Team Store, the interactive Art Station ATL, and the budget-friendly MINISO.
Looking ahead, a second outpost of the iconic Busy Bee Cafe is slated for 2026, with more announcements expected early next year.
Speculation among locals and bloggers is rife—could a Trader Joe’s or another fresh-concept grocer fill the void? For now, though, the focus is on wrapping up strong before the holidays.
Final Word
As Atlanta evolves, so does its neighborhoods. The Publix closure underscores the challenges of blending urban density with everyday needs, but it also highlights Atlantic Station’s resilience.
Shoppers are encouraged to stock up on those holiday hams and bakery treats while they can—December 27 will be the last call for this Midtown mainstay.
AtlantaFi.com is your source for hyper-local coverage of the stories shaping our city. Have a tip? Email us at cj@atlantafi.com.
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Hey Atlanta travelers! It’s Travel Tuesday and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is your launchpad for unbeatable deals.
As the world’s busiest airport, ATL connects you to over 200 destinations, and right now, airlines are slashing fares on domestic getaways, international escapes, and everything in between.
Check Out These Travel Deals
These flash sales won’t last long (most expire tonight or tomorrow), so book fast for winter 2026 trips to beat the holiday rush. We’ve scoured the latest offers to spotlight the best ones departing from ATL.
Pro tip: Tuesdays are already a sweet spot for cheap flights, so you’re doubling down on savings today.
Top Domestic Flight Deals from ATL
Perfect for quick weekend vibes or family reunions—think beaches, mountains, or city breaks. Here’s a roundup of the hottest steals:
Destination
Airline
One-Way Fare
Travel Dates
Details
Orlando (MCO)
Spirit Airlines
$25 (Saver$ Club) / $30 (non-members)
Dec. 6, 2025 – Mar. 4, 2026 (no Fri–Sun travel)
Book by Dec. 1; join Saver$ Club for $50.95/year to unlock extras for you +8 guests.
Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
Spirit Airlines
$30
Dec. 6, 2025 – Mar. 4, 2026
Same blackout dates; ideal for South Florida sun without the premium price tag.
Tampa (TPA)
Frontier Airlines
$27
Flexible winter dates
Low-cost carrier fave—add-ons like bags extra, but base fares are rock-bottom.
New York (JFK/LGA/EWR)
Delta / American
$42+
Jan. 6 – Feb. 11, 2026
Nonstop options galore; bundle with hotels via American Vacations for even more off.
Los Angeles (LAX)
Frontier Airlines
$59 (transcon)
Jan–Mar 2026
JetBlue alternative at 35% off select routes—Hollywood here we come!
Denver (DEN)
Frontier Airlines
$30+
Winter 2026
Ski season starter; check for nonstop from ATL’s domestic terminals.
Las Vegas (LAS)
Spirit Airlines
$36
Dec. 2025 – Mar. 2026
Neon lights on a budget—pair with a show for the ultimate ATL escape.
Source: Aggregated from airline sites and deal trackers like Kayak, OneTravel, and ABC News reports.
International Steals from ATL’s Global Gates
Craving a passport stamp? ATL’s international terminal has direct links to Europe, Latin America, and beyond. These deals shine for off-peak winter jaunts:
Cancun (CUN), Mexico: Delta from $200 round-trip. Book by Dec. 3 for Jan–Mar 2026 travel. Tequila sunrises await—no peak-season markup. cnn.com
London (LHR): British Airways or Delta up to 20% off, starting $450 round-trip. Valid through Dec. 2 booking for spring 2026. Heathrow from ATL in under 9 hours. travelandleisure.com
Paris (CDG): Air France via Delta network, $500+ round-trip deals. Cyber Week extension through Dec. 3—Eiffel Tower views on a shoestring. cnn.com
Nadi, Fiji: Fiji Airways $598 round-trip (via LAX). Book today for mid-2026; ATL connection makes it seamless for island hopping. thepointsguy.com
Hotel & Package Perks to Sweeten the PotWhy stop at flights? Bundle for bigger wins:
Marriott Bonvoy: 15–25% off stays at ATL-adjacent spots (like Midtown) or destinations—book via app by Dec. 2 for 2026 travel. fastcompany.com
Expedia Flash Deals: Up to 75% off hotels in NYC or LAX, plus 30% off vacay homes. ATL departures pair perfectly—deals live through Dec. 2. travelandleisure.com
Priceline Cyber Week: 60% off packages including ATL flights + hotels to Florida or Cali. Ends Dec. 2. travelandleisure.com
Quick ATL Tips for Deal Hunters
Book Smart: Use flexible dates on Google Flights or Kayak—ATL’s Tuesday departures average 20% cheaper than weekends. cheapflights.com +1
Airport Perks: Arrive 2 hours early for domestics; grab free Wi-Fi and ATL’s new SkyTrain to terminals. Watch for real-time deals on the ATL app.
Watch Out: Blackout dates apply (e.g., holidays), and low-cost carriers charge for bags—factor that in. Prices fluctuate, so snag ’em now!
These deals are hotter than a Georgia summer—perfect for your site’s “Deals of the Day” section. Refresh often, as more pop up hourly. Got a fave route? Drop it in the comments. Safe travels, Peach State explorers!
Starting February 1, 2026, flyers without a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or other approved identification will face a $45 fee to board domestic flights.
This new charge, tied to the TSA’s “Confirm.ID” verification program, aims to cover the costs of alternative screening – but it could add unexpected stress (and expense) to your next getaway.The announcement comes just months after REAL ID enforcement kicked off nationwide on May 7, 2025, following two decades of delays since the law’s passage in 2005.
For now, non-compliant travelers can still fly with extra screening at no direct cost, but that grace period ends soon. At ATL – the world’s busiest airport and a hub for millions of Georgia-bound vacations – officials are bracing for questions and potential lines as the deadline approaches.
What Is REAL ID, and Why Does It Matter for Fliers?
Enacted in response to 9/11 Commission recommendations, the REAL ID Act sets federal standards for state-issued IDs to enhance security and curb fraud.
A compliant card – whether a driver’s license, learner’s permit, or non-driver ID – features a star (often gold or black) in the upper right corner. In Georgia, over 80% of eligible residents have upgraded, but that leaves thousands of locals and visitors potentially scrambling.
Without it, you’ll need an alternative like a passport, military ID, or Global Entry card to breeze through security. But if you’re caught short, the new fee buys you 10 days of verified access via TSA Confirm.ID, a digital identity check that travelers can pay for online or at the airport.
“This ensures the traveler, not the taxpayer, covers the verification costs,” TSA officials stated in a recent release.ATL’s Passenger Experience Director, Brianna Ruiz, emphasized preparedness: “We’re already the gateway to the South’s best beaches, mountains, and festivals – don’t let ID issues ground your plans.”
The airport reports smooth sailing since May’s enforcement launch, with extra staff on hand for guidance, but warns peak holiday hours (5-9 a.m.) could amplify any hiccups.
The $45 Sting: How It Works and What It Means for Your WalletPay the fee upfront online for a receipt to flash at checkpoints, or handle it on-site – though airport processing might take up to 30 minutes, per TSA guidelines. It’s a hike from the agency’s initial $18 proposal, reflecting higher-than-expected program costs.
And here’s the kicker: Even after paying, verification isn’t guaranteed; unconfirmed travelers could be denied boarding.
For budget-conscious Atlanta road-trippers eyeing quick jaunts to Savannah’s historic charm or the North Georgia wine trail, this fee could tip the scales toward driving or delaying upgrades.
Families heading to Disney or the Golden Isles? Double-check everyone’s ID now to avoid mid-trip surprises.
Acceptable ID Alternatives (No Fee Required)
Details
U.S. Passport or Passport Card
Most common backup; valid for domestic and international.
Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
Available in select states; works like REAL ID.
DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, etc.)
Expedites screening if you have it.
Military/Department of Defense ID
Free for service members and families.
State-Issued REAL ID
Star icon confirms compliance.
Georgia’s Upgrade Game: Easier Than You Think?
Good news for Peach State residents: Getting REAL ID-compliant is straightforward at any Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office. Bring proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security number, two residency proofs (utility bills), and lawful status docs.
Appointments book fast – aim for off-peak slots via dds.georgia.gov – and the upgrade costs about $32 for a new license.
ATL travelers who flew without compliant ID in May faced minimal drama, thanks to proactive airport signage and TSA notifications redirecting folks to secondary lanes. But with the fee incoming, experts predict a pre-February surge at DDS locations.
“We’ve seen compliance climb steadily, but this could motivate the holdouts,” noted TSA spokesperson Robert Spinden during enforcement rollout.
Travel Smarter: Tips to Dodge the Fee and Delays
Audit Your Wallet Now: Snap a pic of your ID – does it have the star? If not, prioritize the DMV visit before holiday chaos.
ATL-Specific Advice: Arrive three hours early for domestic flights if unsure; use the ATL app for real-time wait times. Domestic Terminal checkpoints are in Concourses T and A-F.
Alternatives for Frequent Flyers: Enroll in TSA PreCheck ($78 for five years) for faster lines, or Global Entry ($100 for five years) if international trips are on your radar.
Holiday Heads-Up: With ATL expecting 3.5 million passengers over Thanksgiving alone, non-compliance could cascade into longer queues for everyone.
The TSA stresses that 94% of flyers are already compliant, so most trips remain unaffected. But for the rest – especially spontaneous weekend warriors to Chattanooga’s hikes or Tybee Island’s shores – this $45 nudge is a wake-up call.
As we gear up for 2026’s adventures, let’s make security seamless, not pricey.
AtlantaFi.com is your go-to for navigating the Southeast’s skies and byways. Got a tip or travel tale? Email us at tjohnson@atlantafi.com.
Lucky Star, the buzzy Taiwanese gem in West Midtown that just landed on the Michelin Guide’s Recommended list, is throwing one of the city’s most stylish New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Chef Jason Liang’s playful, flavor-packed dishes, creative cocktails, and a late-night DJ set will keep the energy high as Atlanta says goodbye to 2025 and hello to 2026.
Bring NYE at Atlanta’s Lucky Star
Your $60+ ticket (available now on Resy) includes:
Two signature “shorties” crafted by Beverage Director Kirk Gibson
Choice of Lou Rou Fan or the cult-favorite Sichuan Beef Dry Noodles
A warm, fresh-baked Strawberry Cheesecake Cookie from the pastry team
Bubbles for the midnight toast
Want more? The full à la carte menu will be available all night, and a live DJ will keep the dance floor going into the early hours.
Tucked into Lucky Star’s sleek, intimate space with its glowing centerpiece bar, the night promises the perfect mix of cozy and electric—the ideal spot to celebrate with friends or that special someone.
Tickets are limited and moving fast. Book on Resy today. Validated parking for up to 2 hours is available in the Star Metals public deck.
I don’t have to tell you, but I will — the Georgia Bulldogs play exceptional football. Because Georgia games are must-see TV, we need a place to watch the game on a big-screen TV while we indulge in great food and adult beverages.
We’re going to show you the best bars to watch UGA football in Atlanta, Georgia.
Here are the Best Bars To Watch Georgia Football In Atlanta
These are some of the city’s top watering holes as well as bars, taverns and food halls where you can watch the Georgia Bulldogs beat up on their opponents.
Monday Night Brewing
Locations: Lee + White: 933 Lee St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310 (The Garage)
Midtown: 670 Trabert Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 (Midtown)
The official gathering spot for the UGA Atlanta alumni chapter, both locations are packed with Bulldogs fans on game days. Expect a lively atmosphere, craft brews, and plenty of TVs. The Garage offers a spacious setup, while Midtown’s vibe is cozier but just as spirited.
Brass Tap
Atlanta locations:
Hapeville: 925 Virginia Ave, Hapeville, GA 30354-1311 Phone: (404) 500-1990
Marietta: 1420 Terrell Mill Road, Suite 100, Marietta, GA 30067 Phone: (470) 706-4144
Here’s what one customer says about Brass Tap. “The food is typical bar food, but the service is always great- every server is friendly and professional. The atmosphere is awesome! This is such a great sports bar, and can’t wait for fall football on the patio. Charlie is super friendly and welcoming, and helped me and my friends pick out cocktails and beers! Shout out to the owner Raj for making sure we were taken care of- he’s got great energy. I can tell they want to be the neighborhood bar, and that’s why they’re always welcoming. Suggestions: burgers, tater tot nachos, tacos, and pizzas.”
Fado Irish Pub
933 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, (404) 260-7910
Fado Irish Pub is place to be to watch the game and down a Guinness pint at the same time. The Midtown location as well as one at The Shops at Buckhead.
300 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, (404) 885-1472
The go-to sports bar in downtown Atlanta, STATS is a short walk from the Omni, CNN Center and College Football Hall of Fame. Inside the brewpub, customers can try their hand at tabletop beer taps and exquisite food with screens all around to watch the NFL playoffs.
One Google reviewer says: “This place was incredible! Service was excellent, food was amazing! There were so many delicious looking things on the menu that my waitress had to help me out with a recommendation. I’m glad I listened to her, the BBQ Brisket Burger was out of this world. The fries were really good too. And then she talked me into getting the key lime pie, it was every bit as good as everything else was. I will definitely go back whenever I’m in Atlanta again.”
Park Tavern
500 10th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 249-0001
Park Tavern at Piedmont Park is a great venue for live music, but on Saturday afternoons, it also doubles as HQ for Georgia Watch Parties!
El Super Pan at The Battery
455 Legends Place, Atlanta, GA 30339
El Super Pan at The Battery is the perfect place to enjoy some Cuban-inspired dishes while watching your #1 sports team.
Here’s why one Google reviewer says it’s the best sports bar in Atlanta: “The flavor in each dish, AMAZING! The agua tropical is refreshing and they always have a different variety based upon the season. Try them all! The decor is vibrant and the music uplifts your spirit. The staff here are awesome and Chef Hector is very engaging. He usually makes great recommendations in case you find yourself unsure of what to order. This restaurant is def my fav!”
The go-to sports bar in downtown Atlanta, STATS is a short walk from the Omni, CNN Center and College Football Hall of Fame. Inside the brewpub, customers can try their hand at tabletop beer taps and exquisite food with screens all around to watch the NFL playoffs. One Google reviewer says: “This place was incredible! Service was excellent, food was amazing! There were so many delicious looking things on the menu that my waitress had to help me out with a recommendation. I’m glad I listened to her, the BBQ Brisket Burger was out of this world. The fries were really good too. And then she talked me into getting the key lime pie, it was every bit as good as everything else was. I will definitely go back whenever I’m in Atlanta again.”
