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.
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!”
Atlanta has always been a city of hustle, but long before tech bros and film studios, some of our sharpest minds were quietly building the future in garages, basements, and laboratories right here in the Peach State.
Here are six Atlanta-area inventors whose creations still touch your life—whether you’re sipping a Coke downtown or streaming music on your phone.
1. Dr. John S. Pemberton – Coca-Cola
Most people know the story: a pharmacist from Columbus who moved to Atlanta after being wounded in the Civil War. In 1886, while searching for a headache remedy, Pemberton (1831–1888) mixed coca leaves, kola nuts, sugar, and a secret blend of oils in a three-legged brass kettle in his Jacobs’ Pharmacy lab on Peachtree Street.
The result? Coca-Cola, originally sold as a “brain tonic” for 5¢ a glass.
By the time of his death two years later, the drink was already Atlanta’s most famous export. Today the World of Coca-Cola downtown still honors the man who accidentally invented the world’s most recognized brand.
2. Asa Griggs Candler – The Modern Coca-Cola Company
Yes, Pemberton created the syrup, but Atlanta druggist and marketing genius Asa Candler (1851–1929) bought the rights in 1888 for about $2,300 and turned a local tonic into an international empire.
Candler pioneered bottled soda, nationwide franchising, and some of the earliest mass-media advertising.
By 1916 he was Atlanta’s first self-made millionaire and would later become mayor. Without Candler’s business innovations, there’s no red truck, no Santa ads, and probably no Olympic sponsorship in 1996.
3. Dr. Crawford W. Long – Surgical Anesthesia (the very first use of ether)
Though he practiced in Jefferson, Georgia (about 60 miles northeast of Atlanta), Crawford Long (1815–1878) was an Atlanta-trained physician (University of Georgia and later in Atlanta hospitals) who, on March 30, 1842, removed a tumor from a patient’s neck while the patient was under diethyl ether anesthesia—the first documented case of painless surgery.
Long didn’t publish his findings quickly enough to win the public credit battle (that went to Boston’s William Morton), but historians now agree the Georgian was first.
The Crawford W. Long Museum in Jefferson and the statue of him on the State Capitol grounds remind us that modern surgery owes its start to a quiet country doctor from the Atlanta orbit.
4. Dr. Lonnie Johnson – The Super Soaker
Yes, the best-selling water gun of all time was invented right here. The inventor? Dr. Lonnie Johnson (b. 1949) of southwest Atlanta.
A nuclear engineer who worked on the Galileo mission to Jupiter and the Stealth Bomber program at the Air Force’s nuclear lab in Marietta, Johnson came up with the idea for a high-pressure water gun while testing a new type of heat pump in his Cascade Heights bathroom in 1982.
A accidental high-powered squirt across the room led to seven years of tinkering in his basement workshop.
Patented in 1989 and licensed to Larami, the Super Soaker earned Johnson over $1 billion in royalties and made him one of the wealthiest African-American inventors in history.
He still lives in Atlanta and now funds STEM education through his Johnson Research & Development company in Vinings.
5. Eugene Stoner & Robert Fremont – The AR-15/AR Platform
While most people associate the AR-15 with later military use, the original ArmaLite AR-15 rifle was designed in the 1950s by Eugene Stoner (1922–1997) — who moved to Georgia in the 1980s — and a small team that included Atlanta-born engineer Robert Fremont (1919–2008).
Much of the final development and early testing of the lightweight, modular rifle happened after ArmaLite set up a research division in the Atlanta area.
Adopted by the U.S. military as the M16, the platform remains the most widely produced rifle design in history—and its civilian variants are everywhere. Love it or hate it, the black rifle that dominates modern firearms culture has deep Georgia DNA.
Final Word
From pain relief to billion-dollar beverages, from airport walkways to backyard water wars, Atlanta inventors have been quietly shaping daily life for over 180 years.
Next time you grab a Coke, dodge a Super Soaker blast, or jog across a moving walkway at the world’s busiest airport, tip your hat to the tinkerers who made it all possible—right here at home.
In the latest chapter of the high-profile split between Real Housewives of Atlanta alum Kandi Burruss and husband Todd Tucker, new court filings reveal that Tucker is formally seeking primary custody of the couple’s two minor children together: son Ace, 9, and daughter Blaze, 6.
Tucker explained in the filing that the children currently reside with him in Georgia while Burruss, 49, handles “out-of-state work obligations,” which “will continue to require her to be away from the children for at least the next several months,” according to court documents obtained by US Weekly.
Todd Tucker Seeks Primary Custody
The producer and entrepreneur stressed that the couple has so far managed the separation amicably, stating, “The parties have been working cooperatively… and [Tucker] remains committed to continuing those discussions in good faith.”
However, Tucker made it clear he is prepared to pursue a more formal arrangement if private negotiations stall.
He noted that “in the hopefully unlikely event” they cannot reach a custody deal, he will seek primary physical custody, joint legal custody and final decision-making authority, while proposing “[Burruss] having substantial time and meaningful access to the children.”
Despite the custody request, Tucker was careful to praise his estranged wife’s parenting, emphasizing, “[Tucker] wishes to make clear that he recognizes [Burruss] as a loving and capable parent.”
On the financial front, Tucker acknowledged signing a prenuptial agreement ahead of the couple’s lavish 2014 wedding but raised questions about its validity.
He alleged he was pressured into signing at the last minute, claiming, “Despite that knowledge, [Burruss’] counsel presented the final agreement to [Tucker] for signature immediately before the wedding ceremony… These circumstances raise substantial questions concerning the enforceability of said document.”
Neither Burruss nor her representatives have publicly responded to the new filings as of press time.
The Grammy-winning singer and businesswoman first hinted at the separation in February 2025 after 11 years of marriage, citing a mutual decision to part ways.
Fans of the longtime Bravo couple have watched the breakup unfold both on social media and through court documents, with many expressing hope that the former RHOA stars can keep things civil for the sake of Ace and Blaze.
We’ll continue to follow this story as new developments emerge from the Fulton County courthouse.
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In a city where Atlanta traffic is as predictable as a Falcons comeback, anything that streamlines life behind the wheel is a win.
Enter Georgia’s digital driver’s license: a secure, wallet-friendly alternative to fumbling for your plastic card during a traffic stop or at Hartsfield-Jackson’s TSA line.
Launched in 2023 for Apple users and expanded under House Bill 296 this past July, the Peach State’s mobile ID program now lets nearly 500,000 residents — about one in 20 Georgians — tap their phone to prove they’re legal to drive.
Electronic Georgia Driver’s License: How To Go Digital
But here’s the catch: As of now, it’s not a full replacement for your physical license. Georgia law still requires you to carry the real deal when you’re on the road.
“The digital version is optional and free, but think of it as a high-tech sidekick, not a substitute,” says a spokesperson for the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).
That could change as more law enforcement agencies equip with readers, but for now, keep that laminated card handy.
Ready to join the digital revolution? Whether you’re zipping down I-85 or just grabbing groceries on Peachtree Street, here’s your step-by-step guide to getting set up. The process takes about 10-15 minutes, plus a quick DDS verification.
Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible
You need a valid Georgia driver’s license or state ID that’s not expired or suspended. If yours is due for renewal, head to a DDS Customer Service Center first (skip the line with an online appointment at dds.georgia.gov).
For iPhone users: iPhone 8 or later running iOS 15.4 or newer. Apple Watch Series 4 or later works too, if you want to sync it.
For Android users: Google Wallet support rolled out in late 2024, but you’ll need a compatible device (Pixel 6+ or Samsung Galaxy S21+ recommended) with the latest OS. Scan your physical card via the Wallet app, just like Apple.
Pro tip for Atlanta newbies: If you’re a recent transplant, ensure your license is Georgia-issued. Out-of-staters can apply for a Peach Pass equivalent at any DDS office.
Step 2: Download and Set Up Your Wallet App
Apple users: Open the Wallet app (pre-installed on iOS). Tap the “+” in the top right, select “Driver’s License or State ID,” and choose Georgia.
Android users: Open Google Wallet, tap “Add to Wallet,” select “ID card,” and pick Georgia from the state list.
Both platforms guide you through a quick privacy rundown — your data stays encrypted on your device, and you control what info gets shared.
Step 3: Scan and Verify Your Identity
Position your phone’s camera over the front and back of your physical Georgia license. The app auto-captures it — no blurry selfies allowed.
Complete a facial recognition or fingerprint scan (Face ID/Touch ID on Apple; fingerprint/PIN on Android) to confirm you’re the real owner. This step uses your phone’s secure enclave for extra peace of mind.
Hit submit. The DDS reviews your request, usually within minutes to a few hours. You’ll get a push notification when it’s approved.
No documents beyond your physical card? Nope — the scan handles it all. And it’s free; no hidden fees from DDS.
Step 4: Use It Like a Pro
Once added, your digital ID lives in your wallet app, ready to share via NFC tap or QR code. At ATL airport, breeze through TSA by holding your phone to the reader — no handing over your device. Pharmacies like CVS on Ponce de Leon have started accepting it for age checks, and some bars in Midtown are testing it too.
For traffic stops? Starting this summer, equipped Georgia State Patrol cruisers can verify it on-site. But if the officer’s gear isn’t updated, flash the physical one to avoid a headache. “We’re rolling out readers statewide, but rural spots might lag,” notes DDS.
Why Bother? The Perks for Peach State Drivers
Security boost: Biometric locks mean no one swipes your ID from a lost wallet.
Convenience: Forgot your license en route to Grant Park? Your phone’s got you.
Eco-friendly: Less plastic in landfills — a small win for our humid Atlanta summers.
A Few Caveats from the DDS
It won’t work offline forever; your phone needs a signal for full verification.
Minors under 18? Not yet — stick to physical for now.
Lost your phone? Report it to DDS immediately via their app or hotline (678-413-8400) to remotely disable the digital ID.
As Atlanta’s tech scene booms — think Delta’s digital boarding passes and MARTA’s app payments — the digital license fits right in.
Governor Kemp hailed it as a “business-friendly innovation” back in 2023, and with adoption surging, expect more spots to tap in soon.
Head to dds.georgia.gov/digital for the full FAQ, or drop by a local DDS office (like the one off Jimmy Carter Boulevard) for hands-on help. Got questions? Hit us up in the comments — safe travels, ATL!
If you’ve ever seen a Georgia license plate, grabbed a peach at an Atlanta farmers market, or cheered at a Braves game, you’ve probably noticed one thing: peaches are everywhere.
Roadside stands, gift shops, and even the state’s official nickname proudly proclaim Georgia as “The Peach State.” But here’s the surprising part: Georgia isn’t even the top peach-producing state in the U.S. anymore. So how did this fruity nickname stick?
It Started in the 1800s – And It Wasn’t an Accident
The peach love affair began in the mid-19th century. After the Civil War and the devastating boll weevil infestation that crippled cotton crops, Georgia farmers needed a new cash crop.
Enter the peach.
The Middle Georgia region around Fort Valley and Macon turned out to have nearly perfect conditions: sandy loam soil, moderate winters, and just enough chill hours for peach trees to thrive.
By the 1850s, a man named Prosper Berckmans (yes, the same family behind Augusta National’s famous nursery) was already importing and cultivating peach varieties.
Prosper Berckmans, circa 1850s.
Then, in the 1870s, Samuel Rumph of Marshallville developed the famous Elberta peach – a large, juicy, freestone variety that shipped beautifully on the expanding railroad network. Suddenly, Georgia peaches were showing up in New York, Chicago, and beyond.
At its peak in the 1920s, Georgia grew more peaches than any other state and was shipping over 8 million baskets a year.
Marketing Genius Turned Fruit Into Identity
Georgia’s agricultural leaders and railroad companies knew they had a gold mine (or peach mine?). They aggressively marketed “Georgia peaches” as the sweetest, juiciest in the country. Fancy labels, colorful crate art, and even refrigerated rail cars branded with peach imagery flooded the nation.
The nickname “Peach State” started appearing in newspapers and travel brochures as early as the 1930s, and in 1995 the state legislature made it official by adopting peach-themed license plates.
The Decline – And Why the Nickname Stayed Anyway
Here’s the twist: peach production in Georgia has dropped dramatically since the 20th century. Urban sprawl, labor costs, and competition from California (which now grows about 70% of America’s fresh peaches) took their toll.
Today, South Carolina actually produces more peaches than Georgia most years.
Yet the nickname never left. Why? Because by the time production declined, “The Peach State” had become part of Georgia’s soul. It’s on highway welcome signs, in school song, the , and baked into local pride.
What States Produce the Most Peaches?
Rank
State
Production (1,000 tons, 2023)
1
California
418
2
South Carolina
70
3
Georgia
25
4
New Jersey
22
5
Pennsylvania
13
The peach represents a golden era of Georgia agriculture and a taste that people still swear is unmatched.
Where to Taste the Legend Today
Want the real thing? Head to middle Georgia in June and July:
Dickey Farms in Musella (since 1897 – claims to be the oldest continuously operating peach packing house in the state)
Pearson Farm in Fort Valley (five generations of peach growing)
Lane Southern Orchards near Macon (peach ice cream that will ruin all other ice cream for you)
The Peach Outlet in Byron (for every peach jelly, salsa, and candle imaginable)
So next time someone asks why Georgia is the Peach State, you can tell them: It’s not because we grow the most anymore. It’s because, for a shining moment, we grew the best – and we never let the world forget it.
Georgia: Where the peaches are fewer, but the pride is still 100% juicy. 🍑
Industry analysts and major real estate platforms are already pointing to metro Atlanta as one of the hottest housing markets to watch heading into 2026.
A new report released this week by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) in its annual “Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2026” ranks Atlanta No. 4 nationally for overall real estate prospects, trailing only Nashville, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Austin.
Realtor.com went further in its latest forecast, naming Atlanta the No. 2 market in the country for expected home-price appreciation and sales growth combined next year, behind only Miami.What’s driving the optimism?
1. Continued Job and Population Growth
Metro Atlanta added more than 78,000 new jobs in the 12 months ending October 2025, according to the latest Georgia Department of Labor figures.
Major expansions and relocations — including Rivian’s ongoing build-out east of the city, multiple new film and TV production facilities, and Microsoft’s planned 1-million-square-foot campus in Midtown — are bringing thousands of high-wage workers who need housing.
2. Relative Affordability Still an Edge
While the median existing-home price in metro Atlanta has climbed to approximately $415,000 (October 2025 data from Georgia MLS), it remains well below coastal gateway cities. That price gap continues to pull buyers and investors from New York, California, and South Florida.
3. Inventory Finally Loosening
After years of severe shortage, active listings in the 28-county metro area are up 28% year-over-year as of November. Many homeowners who were previously “rate-locked” at 3% mortgages have decided to move up, move out, or cash in on equity, giving buyers more options for the first time since 2021.
4. Investor and Institutional Interest Surging
Build-to-rent communities broke ground on more than 6,200 new units in metro Atlanta in the first three quarters of 2025 alone, according to RealPage Analytics.
Institutional investors purchased $4.8 billion worth of multifamily and single-family rental properties in the region this year — the highest total since 2021.
Local experts are cautiously optimistic.“
Atlanta is hitting that sweet spot where job growth, population growth, and new supply are starting to find balance,” said Jennifer Koach, president of the Atlanta Realtors Association. “We’re not expecting the crazy double-digit price spikes we saw in 2021 and 2022, but 5-8% appreciation in 2026 looks very achievable across most of the metro.”
Not every submarket will move at the same pace. Analysts highlight these areas as ones to watch:
South Fulton & Clayton County – Still the most affordable intown-adjacent counties; new BeltLine-style trail projects and the coming Southside BeltLine are drawing first-time buyers and investors.
Gwinnett County (especially Peachtree Corners and Duluth) – Benefiting from the new Rivian plant and continued tech expansion along the I-85 corridor.
Paulding & Bartow Counties – The fastest-growing counties west and northwest of the city, fueled by remote workers and new industrial parks.
Intown neighborhoods (Old Fourth Ward, Reynoldstown, West Midtown) – Luxury condo and townhome developments are absorbing quickly as empty-nest buyers downsize from the suburbs.
Challenges remain. Mortgage rates are expected to hover in the low-to-mid 6% range through much of 2026, and insurance costs continue to rise sharply in Georgia.
Still, most forecasts agree: Atlanta’s combination of economic momentum and relative value will keep it near the top of national watch lists for another year.If you’re thinking of buying, selling, or investing in 2026, the message from analysts is clear — Atlanta isn’t cooling off anytime soon.
Final Word
When it comes to real estate for the new year, the metro area is once again one of the top housing markets in the United States.
With so much economic pressure on Americans, it’s understandable that many would be concerned about affording a home right now. But the key is that you can get in the home you want and need for the most part.
One thing you’ll have to do is get pre-approved by a lender of your choice, who will consider the income you take in annually as well as your debt and credit.
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.”
