With the Fourth of July holiday, many local retailers have adjusted their hours to either close early or close altogether, although many haven’t changed their hours of operation at all.
In this article, we’ll show you what the store hours are for popular retailers in Atlanta:
Who’s Open, Closed or Closing Early for July 4th in Atlanta?
Walmart: Open regular hours, typically 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Target: Open regular hours, generally 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., but some locations may vary.
Publix: Open regular hours, usually 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Kroger: Open regular hours, typically 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., though some stores may have slight variations.
ALDI: Open with limited hours, likely 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but check local store locator for specifics.
Costco: Closed on July 4.
Sam’s Club: Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Plus members, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Club members.
BJ’s Wholesale Club: Open regular hours, typically 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Whole Foods: Most locations close early at 6 p.m.
Trader Joe’s: Open but closes early at 5 p.m.
Home Depot: Open, but closes early at 8 p.m.
Lowe’s: Open, but closes early at 8 p.m.
Best Buy: Open regular hours, typically 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Macy’s: Open regular hours, usually 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Nordstrom: Open regular hours, typically 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
CVS: Most locations open regular hours, including 24-hour stores, but pharmacy hours may be reduced at some locations.
Walgreens: Open, but pharmacy hours may vary by location.
Petco: Open, typically closing at 7 p.m. or 8 p.m.
PetSmart: Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Dollar General: Open, typically 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., but hours may vary.
Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s: Open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Academy Sports + Outdoors: Open regular hours, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Belk: Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Big Lots: Open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
JCPenney: Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Kohl’s: Open regular hours, typically 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., but some may close early.
Office Depot/OfficeMax: Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
REI: Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Notes:
Always verify hours with your local store, as they can differ by location or due to holiday adjustments.
Liquor stores in Georgia may have varying hours, as some are state-controlled and may align with federal holiday closures. Check locally or buy alcohol in advance.
For wholesale markets like AmericasMart, note that it is closed on July 4, 2025, and primarily serves trade professionals, not general retail.
Final Word
Speaking of stores, one thing people love to buy are phones. If you want to know where to take your cracked phone, here are some handy resources.
With the Fourth of July and related events here, you might be interested in knowing your rights — and restrictions — as it relates to shooting fireworks in Atlanta and surrounding cities in Georgia.
Can I Shoot Fireworks in the Air in Georgia?
Yes, it is legal to shoot fireworks in the air in Georgia, provided certain conditions are met. Consumer fireworks, including aerial types like bottle rockets, sky rockets, and mortars, classified as DOT 1.4G, are permitted for purchase and use by individuals aged 18 and older, as outlined in Georgia General Assembly House Bill 727.
These can be used on private property any day from 10:00 A.M. to 11:59 P.M., with extended hours until midnight on July 3 and July 4, and until 1:00 A.M. on January 1.However, there are restrictions:
Prohibited Locations: Fireworks cannot be ignited within 100 yards of hospitals, nursing homes, electric substations, or facilities storing over 500 gallons of flammable liquids or gases. They are also banned in public parks, historic sites, recreational areas, or on city/state property without a special permit.
Local Ordinances: Local governments may impose stricter rules, such as noise ordinances, which can limit usage times (e.g., to 10:00 P.M. in some areas). Check with your local jurisdiction for specific regulations.
Safety and Age: Only those 18 or older can purchase fireworks, and it’s illegal to use them while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Children under 16 should be supervised due to high injury risks.
Drought Restrictions: The governor may suspend fireworks use during drought conditions for safety reasons.
Private Communities: HOAs or private communities may have additional rules prohibiting fireworks.
Final Word
As you can see, you can shoot fireworks in the air in Atlanta, but there are restrictions set down by the laws of the state.
For public displays or events, a permit is required from the local fire marshal, as in Marietta, where applications must be filed 10 days in advance.
Final Word
No matter what you do on The Fourth, the priority is to stay safe. Here are some ways to do that:
Always have adult supervision for children.
Read and follow all instructions on the fireworks packaging.
Use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area away from buildings and flammable materials.
Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby to extinguish sparks or fires.
Light one firework at a time and never try to relight a dud.
Wear protective eyewear and avoid loose clothing.
Always use fireworks on private property, away from structures, vehicles, and flammable materials, and follow safety guidelines to avoid injuries or property damage. If you’re in a specific city or county, verify local rules, as they can override state allowances in some cases.
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Do you love deals and freebies? The Town at Trilith is hosting its annual Super Sidewalk Sale July 5-6 in the community’s Town Centre.
Visitors can enjoy deep discounts, in-store promotions and giveaways from numerous Trilith retailers and restaurants.
When Is Trilith’s Super Sidewalk Sale?
Trilith’s Super Sidewalk Sale takes place Saturday, July 5 and Sunday, July 6.
Just in time for the holiday weekend, guests are invited to explore discounts, in-store promotions and giveaways from a variety of Trilith’s locally owned businesses.
Throughout the weekend, during regular store hours, visitors can shop exclusive offers at participating retailers including The Funky Shack, 180 Pure Home, SOZO Yoga, Scholar & Scribe, Curator and Native Collective.
From handcrafted goods and wellness experiences to home décor and curated fashion, the Super Sidewalk Sale offers shoppers a chance to discover the charm and creativity of Trilith’s retail community.
Check Out These Freebies
Sweet incentives will add to the fun all weekend long. On Saturday, the first 50 guests to visit Woodstone Bakery & Café between 12–2 p.m. will receive a free cookie, and the first 50 visitors to Honeysuckle Gelato between 2–4 p.m. can enjoy a complimentary cup of gelato.
On Sunday, Hero Doughnuts will treat the first 50 guests arriving between 12–2 p.m. to a free glazed doughnut. Offers are limited to one per person and only available while supplies last.
“We are excited for another year of the Super Sidewalk Sale bringing our community together,” said Elizabeth Moghal, Town at Trilith event manager. “This is a great opportunity to support our local purveyors and the many wonderful boutiques and small businesses Trilith has to offer.”
Final Word
The town of Trilith, Georgia, is located in Fayetteville, Fayette County, just south of Atlanta
It is adjacent to Trilith Studios, a major film and television production facility, and is part of a 235-acre master-planned residential and mixed-use project. It is surrounded by rural Georgia’s wildflowers, forests, and farmlands, offering a blend of urban accessibility and natural scenery. The specific address for key locations in Trilith, such as the Town Stage, is around 125 Shepperton Way, Fayetteville, GA 30214.
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Waffle House has announced that it has removed the 50-cent surcharge that it enacted last winter.
In a June 2 message on social media, the chain restaurant said, “Egg-cellent news…as of June 2, the egg surcharge is officially off the menu. Thanks for understanding!”
The 50-cent surcharge on all egg items was imposed due to rising egg prices caused by the ongoing bird flu outbreak.
The surcharge took effect on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025, so that means any Waffle House in Atlanta has higher eggs nows. In fact, the surcharge is in effect at all of the company’s more than 2,000 U.S. locations.
In a statement, the restaurant chain attributed the price increase to the highly contagious virus, which has significantly impacted the chicken population and led to an egg shortage. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, more than 13 million hens have been lost or culled since December due to the outbreak.
“Consumers and restaurants are being forced to make difficult decisions,” Waffle House Inc. said in its statement.
Over the past year, the average price of a dozen eggs in the U.S. has surged by 50%, with costs rising even more sharply since November, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
“While we hope these price fluctuations will be short-lived, we cannot predict how long this shortage will last,” the statement read.
Shooting a movie on a tight budget is entirely feasible with affordable, high-quality equipment.
Evaluate your needs and see if an older model will meet your requirements. That’s just one way you can buy film gear that is affordable. There are more.
In this article, we’re going to go over some of the best equipment you need for filmmaking.
If you set out to make the film, you need to be aware that it’s going to take some money — but you don’t have to be rich. You just need cheap filmmaking equipment.
The Panasonic G85 is a mirrorless camera with 4K video, good in-body stabilization, and access to affordable Micro Four Thirds lenses, making it ideal for beginners. The Canon T7i is a reliable DSLR with Full HD 1080p and a flip-out screen, great for narrative shoots. Alternatively, a recent smartphone (e.g., iPhone 12 or later) with apps like Blackmagic Camera or MotionCam Pro can suffice for ultra-low budgets, offering 4K video with decent quality.
Tip: Buy used from reputable retailers like MPB or Adorama for savings, or rent a higher-end model like the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K (~$1,300) if your budget allows.
Lenses ($100–$500)
Recommendation: Sigma 18–35mm f/1.8 ($400) or a 50mm f/1.8 prime lens ($100–$200).
Why: A fast prime lens like the 50mm f/1.8 offers a cinematic shallow depth of field, perfect for narrative films. The Sigma zoom provides versatility for various shots. For smartphones, detachable lenses like Moment lenses (~$100) can enhance creative options.
Tip: Rent lens packages for specific shoots to save money, as lenses are often more critical than the camera body for achieving a professional look
Best Cameras For Filmmaking
Filmmakers and many video content creators use 4K, 5K or even 8K cameras to product high-quality work. The camera and camcorder market has evolved quite a bit over the past 20 years, making movie-quality work possible with portable cameras that don’t cost much.
How Much Does A Good Movie Camera Cost?
You can expect to spend between $300 to $5,000 for a decent 4K video camera. Of course, it depends on the specifications you need and what you’re trying to do.
With the popularity of Youtube content producers, podcasters and vloggers, buying a good camera has become a necessity.
Why: A sturdy tripod ensures stable, professional-looking shots, especially for static scenes or smooth pans/tilts. Look for a fluid head for smoother movements. These budget options are durable and compatible with most cameras, including smartphones.
Tip: For dynamic shots, consider a budget gimbal like the Zhiyun Smooth 4 (~$100) for smartphones or lightweight cameras, but a tripod is more essential for beginners.
Why: Audio is critical, and built-in camera mics are often poor. The Rode VideoMic GO is an on-camera shotgun mic that’s easy to use and improves sound quality significantly. A lavalier mic like the Audio-Technica is affordable and great for dialogue or interviews, especially for solo filmmakers. For better control, pair with a Zoom H1n audio recorder (~$100).
Tip: Use headphones (e.g., Sony MDR-7506, ~$100) to monitor audio during recording, as many budget cameras lack headphone jacks.
Why: Good lighting elevates your film’s look. A basic LED lighting kit provides soft, adjustable light for indoor shoots. A reflector is a versatile, ultra-cheap tool for enhancing natural light, especially outdoors in Atlanta’s summer sun.
Tip: In Atlanta’s July heat (average high ~90°F), avoid heavy lighting setups for outdoor shoots; rely on reflectors or battery-powered LED panels for portability.
Why: 4K video eats up storage quickly, so you’ll need high-speed SD cards (at least 64GB) and an external hard drive for backups. Transfer footage nightly to free up cards, especially for multi-day shoots.
Tip: Always carry at least two extra SD cards to avoid running out of space on location.
Video Editing Software ($0–$100)
Recommendation: DaVinci Resolve (free version) or Adobe Premiere Pro (~$20/month with student discount).
Why: DaVinci Resolve’s free version offers advanced editing and color grading, ideal for beginners. Premiere Pro is industry-standard but pricier. Both are compatible with footage from budget cameras or smartphones.
Tip: Use a decent laptop (e.g., with at least 16GB RAM) for smooth editing, as Atlanta’s film community often relies on co-working spaces or home setups for post-production.
Camera Bag ($50–$150)
Tip: Atlanta’s film locations (e.g., Trilith Studios or downtown areas) may require frequent travel, so prioritize lightweight, portable bags.
Why: A sturdy, weather-resistant bag protects your gear during transport, crucial for Atlanta’s humid summer weather. Ensure it fits your camera, lenses, and accessories.
Final Word
Atlanta is the #1 place for movie making today, but that doesn’t mean you need to be tied to Tyler Perry Studios. You can actually make a film in Atlanta with cheap filmmaking equipment.
Georgia has been a sough-after location for TV productions. Projects from CBS, NBC, HBO, BET and more are slated to shoot in the metro area in the coming months.
With more than 900 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.
There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.
Onlookers in Cobb County, Georgia, were struck with fear on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, when they looked in the sky and saw what looked like gray clouds swirling above them.
Metro Atlanta had been getting heavy rain of late along with alerts about possible hail and yes, tornadoes.
Was That a Tornado in Cobb County?
According to meteorologists, what occurred that day in Cobb was not a tornado, but what is known as a “scud cloud.”
A scud cloud, also known as pannus cloud or fractus cloud, is a low-hanging, ragged cloud formation often seen beneath other clouds, particularly during thunderstorms.
They are frequently mistaken for funnel clouds or tornadoes due to their appearance and movement, but scud clouds are harmless and lack the organized rotation of those more dangerous formations.
Cowboy State Daily meteorologist Don Day says in Wyoming, scud clouds are frequent.
“When you get into a thunderstorm situation, there’s a lot going on at the base of those clouds,” Day is quoted as saying. “You can get these little vortices that will spin off the base of a cloud and take a piece of cloud with it. Scud clouds are basically pieces that have broken off larger clouds.”
Appearance and Formation:
Scud clouds are typically low-hanging, ragged, and detached from the main cloud base.
They form when warm, moist air rises and condenses at lower altitudes than the main cloud base, often due to mixing with cooler air descending from the storm.
This condensation can create the appearance of swirling or rotating, especially when they are pulled upward into the storm’s updraft.
Scud clouds can be associated with rain or precipitation, but they are not inherently dangerous.
Distinguishing from Funnel Clouds and Tornadoes
The key difference is the lack of rotation. Scud clouds, while sometimes appearing to spin, lack the organized, cyclonic rotation of a funnel cloud or tornado.
Scud clouds are also generally more ragged and less defined than the smooth, cone-like shape of a funnel cloud.
Final Word
No, thst wasn’t a tornado. It was a scud cloud. They are often found near the base of the main cloud but are not connected to a visible wall cloud (a rotating cloud base from which tornadoes can develop).
Comments Off on Was That a Tornado in Cobb? What To Know About Scud Clouds
One-hundred new Georgia laws just went into effect on July 1 as part of the state legislature and Gov. Brian Kemp’s efforts to keep up with tax codes, cybersecurity, safety concerns and more.
The staff at AtlantaFi.com took the time to go through the 20 most significant laws taking effect. The full list can be found on the Georgia General Assembly’s website.
While over 100 new laws take effect on July 1, 2025, some of them are more impactful — according to public scrutiny and media coverage — than others.
Top 20 Laws That Went Into Effect in Georgia on July 1
Here are the top 20 new laws taking effect in Georgia on July 1, 2025:
Bill Number
Law Title/Description
Key Details
Source
HB 111
Income Tax Cut
Lowers Georgia’s flat income tax rate from 5.39% to 5.19%, with plans to reach 4.99% by January 2026.
HB 136
Expanded Child Tax Credit
Increases child and dependent care tax credit and introduces a $250 credit per child under age 6.
SB 55
Fair Pay for People with Disabilities (Dignity and Pay Act)
Prohibits employers from paying individuals with disabilities less than the federal minimum wage.
SB 79
Fentanyl Eradication and Removal Act
Increases mandatory minimum sentences and fines for fentanyl trafficking, with penalties starting at 4 grams.
SB 244
Wrongful Conviction Compensation Act
Establishes compensation for wrongfully convicted individuals ($75,000 per year of imprisonment) and allows recovery of attorney fees if a prosecuting attorney is disqualified for misconduct.
HB 175
Enhanced Background Checks for Early Education
Requires comprehensive background checks, including fingerprint checks and searches of child abuse and sex offender registries, for early care and education programs.
HB 208
Specialty License Plates
Provides two free license plates for disabled veterans and introduces new specialty plates (e.g., Shepherd Center, Georgia Veterans Service Foundation, Southern University, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, black bass conservation).
SB 1
Riley Gaines Act of 2025
Requires schools to designate sports teams as male, female, or co-ed based on biological sex at birth, banning transgender students from competing on teams not matching their birth gender. Also mandates gender-designated restrooms and changing areas.
SB 17
Ricky and Alyssa’s Law
Mandates mobile panic alert systems in all K-12 public schools, connecting directly to emergency services with real-time digital mapping.
HB 428
IVF Protection
Guarantees the right to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and defines it in Georgia law.
HB 340
Distraction-Free Education Act
Bans cellphone use by public school students in kindergarten through eighth grade during the school day.
HB 582
Georgia Survivor Justice Act
Allows domestic violence survivors to present evidence of abuse during sentencing, potentially reducing sentences, and permits resentencing for those already incarcerated.
SB 241
Human Composting Legalization
Legalizes organic human reduction (composting human remains into soil) as an eco-friendly burial alternative.
HB 296
Digital Driver’s Licenses
Legalizes digital driver’s licenses on smartphones, with a two-year preparation period for police to scan them. Physical licenses still required until July 2027.
HB 266
Military Retirement Tax Exemption
Exempts military veterans from paying income tax on retirement income.
HB 53
Veterans Cemetery Burial Eligibility
Expands eligibility for burial in Georgia’s veterans cemeteries.
HB 156
Vertiport Regulation
Allows the state to plan for future drone and air-taxi ports (“vertiports”).
HB 164
Heavier Trucks on Local Roads
Permits trucks up to 84,000 pounds (4,000 pounds heavier) on non-interstate roads.
HB 233
Official State Stew and Sugarcane Syrup Day
Designates Brunswick stew as Georgia’s official state stew and the fourth Friday in November as National Sugarcane Syrup Day. Also bans companies owned by certain foreign countries from state contracts.
HB 454
Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund Act
Creates a grant fund to preserve historic battlefields in Georgia.
Final Word
Again, not all laws are alike. Some have sparked controversy and others have gone over quite well with the public.
Some laws, like the Riley Gaines Act, have sparked controversy, with supporters citing fairness in sports and critics warning of discrimination against transgender youth. Others, like IVF protection and wrongful conviction compensation, have broad bipartisan support.
Other laws taking effect include changes to judicial salaries (HB 85), simplified lien advertising for self-storage facilities (HB 131), and increased education funding (HB 371). These were not included in the top 20 due to lower public impact.
Are you in the mood for some ice cream this weekend? The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival is once again happening in the city’s largest park.
If you’re looking for a cool place for some cool treats? The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival will take place at Piedmont Park in Midtown.
Come out to Piedmont Park in the heat of the summer and cool off with some ice cream at this festival.
Atlanta Ice Cream Festival: Everything You Need To Know
Historically, attendees have been able to come to the festival and enjoy delectable local ice cream, gelato, and more, while celebrating the season with games, activities.
When Is The 2025 Atlanta Ice Cream Festival?
The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival is set for Saturday, July 5, 2025 in Midtown’s largest park. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival is still slated to be held at Piedmont Park in Midtown. Here’s a map to help you find it.
This festival is one of the premiere outdoor events in Atlanta this year. Held in Atlanta’s prime venues, festival season spotlights the best of the city.
Whether you prefer neighborhood events or huge festivals, all ages will be accommodated when it comes to food, live entertainment and more. The best part? Many of Atlanta festivals are FREE.
The Fourth of July is Friday, July 4, 2025 and that means all around Atlanta, Georgia, it’s going to be a red, white and blue type of event-filled weekend and holiday.
You don’t have to be in Atlanta proper to enjoy the festivities; surrounding cities will also be getting in on the fireworks!
Metro Atlanta July 4 Celebrations
Here are some of the metro Atlanta Fourth of July events you may want to check out.
Stone Mountain Fourth Celebration
The Fantastic Fourth Celebration features a Music Across America Drone & Light Show followed by a fireworks finale at 9:30 PM each night. Voted the “Best Place to See Fireworks in Atlanta” by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, this event includes family-friendly attractions like the Scenic Railroad and Summit Skyride during the day. Tickets are required for the light show and fireworks, with early arrival (before 5 PM) recommended due to limited parking. On July 4, the park may reach capacity, and no re-entry is allowed.
Location: 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA.
Cost: Fireworks and light show tickets range from $5–$35; park attractions may require additional fees.
City Springs, Sandy Springs
Details: The Stars & Stripes Fireworks Celebration starts at 6 PM with food trucks, live music, and a fireworks display at 9:30 PM. This family-friendly event offers ample green space for blankets and chairs. Check the City of Sandy Springs website for parking and event schedule details.
Location: City Green, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, GA.
Cost: Free admission.
Six Flags Over Georgia
Celebrate the Fourth of July in Austell at Six Flags Over Georgia. The Coca-Cola Fourth of July celebration actually runs from July 3-6 and features rides like Dare Devil Dive and The Great American Scream Machine.
Event Dates: July 3-6
Best View: Near SUPERMAN: Ultimate Flight and JUSTICE LEAGUE Battle for Metropolis
Once the sun goes down, the sky lights up nightly with the best fireworks show in Atlanta. Buy tickets.
Underground Atlanta 4th Of July Block Party
Come downtown to the 4th of July Block Party at Underground Atlanta. This event runs from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. and is the perfect place to celebrate the holiday with your friends and family. Underground Atlanta: 50 Upper Alabama Street Atlanta, GA 30303.
Ponce City Market
Want to stay in Midtown? Come on out to The Roof at Ponce City Market to take in The Fourth! Happening July 4, The Roof will be hosting their annual Fourth of July party from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. There will be an array of entertainment for the whole family, from hot dogs and gameplay at Skyline Park to dinner at 9 Mile Station.
Apharetta residents are invited to come out and sit under the stars to watch the fireworks at dusk at Wills Park (11925 Wills Road, Alpharetta, GA 30009). Families are encouraged to bring picnic food.
Dunwoody’s Fourth of July Parade will travel 2.7 miles down the city’s main corridors. More than 32,000 spectators are expected this year. This year’s theme will be “Parade of Stars,” and will kick off along Mt. Vernon and circle around the Dunwoody Village Parkway into Dunwoody Village. Viewing will start on the west side of Jett Ferry on Mt. Vernon.
Decatur July 4 Celebration And Pied Piper Parade
Decatur will celebrate the Fourth with its Pied Piper Parade as it makes its way through the city’s downtown on July 4 at 6 p.m.. Gather friends and family, ride your bike, walk or skate in this community parade – it’s for anyone and everyone! Neighborhoods and organizations are encouraged to make floats and join the fun too. And don’t forget your red, white and blue!
The City of Marietta’s 4th In The Park Celebration begins July 4, at 10:00 a.m. at Glover Park and includes a parade, free live concerts, arts and crafts show, food, carnival games and fireworks finale.
10:00am Let Freedom Ring Parade
10:00am thru 9:00pm Festival – Arts & Crafts, Kid’s Zone, Festival Food, Free Concerts
12:00pm Concert Featuring Scott Thompson
2:00pm Bell Ringing Ceremony
2:30pm Atlanta Concert Band
7:00pm Concert Featuring TULANI
8:00pm to 9:30pm Savannah Jack
FIREWORKS SHOW AT DARK
Final Word
Of course, there are many more local celebrations of Independence Day. You might want to check out the Stone Mountain Laser Show, which will have a blast for five straight nights, culminating on July 4th.
We all like to bar hop and check out the latest parties and festivals from time to time, but there’s nothing like enjoying some of the best restaurants are as well as doing some shopping and people-watching at some of the area’s best malls.
Atlanta has just what you need, not just today but every weekend. From exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene to taking in a beautiful park greenspaceor even checking out the hidden gems, Atlanta has some of everything.
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are.
Routine (4-6 weeks) and expedited (2-3 weeks) services. Photos only at Downtown location.
Fulton County Clerk – North Service Center
7741 Roswell Road Ste 253, Atlanta, GA 30350
Recommended (Walk-ins accepted until 3:45 PM)
Passport application processing
Routine (4-6 weeks) and expedited (2-3 weeks) services. No on-site photos.
Fulton County Clerk – South Service Center
Details not specified in sources
Recommended (Walk-ins accepted until 3:45 PM)
Passport application processing
Routine (4-6 weeks) and expedited (2-3 weeks) services. Contact for details.
Atlanta Passport Agency
230 Peachtree St NW, Suite 1000, Atlanta, GA 30303
Yes (No walk-ins without appointment)
Same-day passport for urgent travel (within 14 days or 28 days with visa needs)
Requires proof of urgent travel. Open Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-3:30 PM. Call 1-877-487-2778 to schedule.
Georgia State University Passport Services – Atlanta Campus
25 Park Place, Old SunTrust Building, Floor SB, Mailroom, Atlanta, GA 30303
Yes (Appointments preferred)
Passport applications, passport photos for renewals (DS-82), no DS-82 processing
Does not process DS-82 renewals (must be mailed). Photos available for a fee.
USPS Locations (Various)
Multiple locations in Atlanta (e.g., check USPS website for specific addresses)
Yes (Online scheduler or kiosk)
First-time passport applications, passport photos
Routine (8-11 weeks) and expedited (3-5 weeks) services. Check specific locations for hours.
The Passport Office (Private Expediter)
Downtown Decatur (near Dekalb Superior Court), Atlanta, GA
Appointments or walk-ins (same-day with proof of travel)
Same-day or 48-hour passport services, new passports, renewals, replacements
Requires proof of travel for same-day service. Contact for appointment or virtual options.
Passport Express (Private Expediter)
Roswell, GA (specific address not listed, contact for details)
Appointments preferred (24/7 answering service)
Expedited passports (3-5 weeks or faster), new passports, renewals, replacements
Can process in 24-48 hours for urgent needs. Call (770) 594-2256 for details.
Ambassador Passport and Visa Services (Private Expediter)
Atlanta, GA (contact for specific address)
Appointments recommended
Expedited passports (as fast as 24 hours), visa services
Over 20 years of experience. Contact 800-826-4558 for urgent services.
Notes:
Fulton County Locations: Ideal for routine or expedited processing. Appointments are prioritized, but walk-ins are accepted until 3:45 PM. Passport photos are only available at the Downtown location for $15. Payment for application fees must be by check or money order to the U.S. Department of State; processing fees ($35) can be paid by debit/credit.
Atlanta Passport Agency: Best for urgent travel needs (within 14 days or 28 days if a visa is required). Appointments are mandatory, and proof of travel (e.g., flight itinerary) is required. Same-day service is available for eligible cases.
Georgia State University: Suitable for first-time applicants or those needing photos for renewals, but DS-82 renewals must be mailed. Check their website for appointment availability.
USPS Locations: Many post offices in Atlanta offer passport services, but processing times are longer (8-11 weeks for routine, 3-5 weeks for expedited). Use the USPS online scheduler to find locations and book appointments.
Private Expediters (e.g., The Passport Office, Passport Express, Ambassador Passport and Visa Services): These are ideal for urgent needs, offering faster processing (24-48 hours or same-day with proof of travel). Fees are higher, and services include new passports, renewals, and replacements. Contact directly for pricing and appointments.
Recommendations: For non-urgent applications, use Fulton County or USPS locations and apply early (several months in advance). For urgent needs, contact the Atlanta Passport Agency or a private expediter like Passport Express. Always verify requirements and book appointments in advance to avoid delays.
What Do You Need To Apply For A Passport?
Here’s what you need:
Evidence of U.S. citizenship
Photo ID
Application
How Long Does It Take To Get A Passport?
The time it takes to get a passport really just depends. Typically it will take six to eight weeks. But the State Department lists the following processing timeframes:
Routine: 4-6 weeks (or 8-11 weeks at USPS)
Expedited: 2-3 weeks (or 3-5 weeks at USPS)
Expedited at Agency: As little as 3 days, but there are very limited appointments you can get.
Same-day service is available only at the Atlanta Passport Agency or through private expediters for urgent cases.
If you choose to expedite it, you can expect your passport in two to three weeks, but they will charge you a fee.
Where Can You Take Passport Photos In Atlanta?
CVS Passport Photos: Pictures are available in select CVS Pharmacy locations in metro Atlanta for $14.99.
Walgreens Passport Photos: Walgreens offers passport photos cost $14.99 at select locations. Please contact your local Walgreens for details.
Costco Passport Photos: Costco offers passport photos for around $5, which makes it one of the cheapest options.
Rite-Aid Passport Photos: You can get passports for $8.99 at Rite-Aid. Contact your local Rite-Aid for details.
Once you get your passport, you should be ready for your trip. Make sure you have found the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale.
Final Word
Is your passport up for renewal? It may be getting close to expiring and that means that you have some decisions to make. The U.S. State Department says that there are major delays in getting passports and renewals.
If you’re in Atlanta, you may be wondering where you can go and what you can do.
Getting your passport may seem like a lot of red tape, but it’s one of the most necessary tasks you can do if you enjoy traveling outside the United States.
If you want to save time, call one of the businesses that sell passports to see if there’s a line or not before you go there.
Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the world’s busiest, is so accessible.
Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interesting in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
