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Daytime temperatures in Atlanta have been averaging about 90 degrees of late, triggering a heat advisory from city and state officials. Now, more than ever, it’s important that you stay inside to keep yourself cool.
If you’re wondering how to do that, this article will show you how.
How Can I Overcome The Heat This Summer?
If you have elderly neighbors or loved ones, check on them frequently to make sure they are staying out of the heat. Now let’s get started.
1. Stay Hydrated
Jopwell / Pexels
Make sure you drink plenty of water. When you’re outside in the heat, your body will sweat. This fluid needs to be replenished by taking in water. Humid conditions will make you perspire even more. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a water bottle or jug with you at all times.
How Much Water Should You Drink In Summer?
Regardless of the season, a person should drink about eight 8oz glasses of water a day on average. This will also keep you hydrated when it’s hot and humid.
One way you can always stay hydrated is to keep a water bottle on you.
Pictured: 1-Gallon Aquafit Water Bottle
Here are some excellent water bottles you can use to stay hydrated:
2. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing
Another way you can stay cool in the hot weather is by wearing clothing that doesn’t stick to your arms, legs and torso. The body’s temperature has a tendency to increase when clothing is form-fitting.Opt for loose clothing in the warmer months like halter tops and cotton garments.Casual Halter Tank Top Sleeveless ShirtPleated And Sleeveless Tank Top Halter TopBuy Now3. Stay In Well-Ventilated Areas
Don’t go to places that have bad ventilation. Not only is this not wise in the era of COVID-19, but you’ll likely burn up.If you can, try to stay under the fan. You’ll be surprised by how much of a breeze can be generated between a doorway or a ceiling fan or one in the window.4. Take A Lukewarm Shower
Photo by Caique Silva: Pexels Nothing cools the body like lukewarm water. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to bathe or shower in cold water to reduce your body temperature. Lukewarm water will not only do the trick just fine, but it will be more pleasant for you.Another benefit to using lukewarm water? It can help relieve such stiffness in your muscles.If you can’t take a shower in the middle of the day (kind of hard to do that at work) you can sponge your head, neck and limbs for a similar soothing effect.Here are some showerheads that can give you different stream options for maximum relaxation:Pictured: High-Pressure Luxury ShowerheadThere are also handheld options and those with adjustable streams.
5. Keep Heat Out Of Your Home
Photo credit: Rowan Heuvel via Unsplash If you enjoy letting the sunlight penetrate your home’s interior, the heat will follow. To mitigate overheating your home, make sure you:- Close the blinds
- Shut the shades
- Close all windows and curtains
You can also opt for lighter-colored curtains, which will reflect heat rather than absorb it.Last Word
If you’re preparing to go outside in the summer heat, you should have a plan to stay cool. Heat stroke is a major threat to people right now, regardless of their age. To help you beat the heat, this article will show you how to keep cool amid Atlanta’s hot temperatures.
Beating the heat is a priority in the summer. Thankfully, there are some ways you can manage it without risking your safety.For a bonus tip, you can open the windows during a time when the bugs aren’t out. Not only will this keep your home cool, but your energy bill will go down as well.Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
Multiple reputable survey websites allow you to earn money online, with earnings varying based on the platform, the number of surveys completed, and the time invested.
These websites pay you real money (and in some cases, points that you can redeem into gift cards) to do surveys.
In this article, we’ll discuss several of the top survey sites that allow you to earn cash.
Are Survey Sites Legit Places To Make Money?
The survey sites that we will consider all are great resources to build extra income. You won’t get rich by any stretch of the imagination, but what you earn will supplement your income.
Many survey sites conduct market research for diverse clients across several different major industries. They use the information you input to make their products and services better.
- Swagbucks
- Google Opinion Rewards
- Toluna Influencers
- Inbox Dollars
- MyPoints.com
Swagbucks
If you want to do more than just answer surveys for money, Swagbucks is the ideal website for you. At Swagbucks.com, you can earn cash by watching short videos, search the web and more.
You can also earn gifts cards from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target and more from using the site.
Is Swagbucks Legit And Safe?
Swagbucks is a rewards program that allows yo to earn points and get cash back by doing different tasks online. instead of being a scam, Swagbucks is a great way to earn extra cash by doing things online.
Google Opinion Rewards
Google Opinion Rewards is an app that pays you to help improve Google’s many products and services. Once you download it, you can see how to fill out surveys about different products.
The way the site works is that you earn credits from filling out surveys related to Google services. You can then convert the credits into cash.
Is Google Opinion Rewards Legit
Google Opinion Rewards is a Google product itself, so it’s as legit as they come.
Like most survey sites, Google Opinion Rewards won’t pay you much. Users can earn roughly between $0.10 and $1.00 per survey completed. The more questions you answer, the more you can earn.
Toluna Influencers
When it comes to surveys, Toluna Influencers is one of the best sites to try out. The surveys on the site will generally take between 15-20 minutes.
The Toluna surveys begin with introductory questions to gauge whether you are the correct demographic. Depending on how you answer will determine if your answers will be counted in the survey.
Is Toluna Influencers Legit?
You may be wondering if Toluna Influencers is a legitimate website and not a scam. Once you sign up for the site, you will see that it is for real.
Inbox Dollars
Inbox Dollars is on online rewards club that pays you via PayPal for completing various tasks on their website.
If you choose to try InboxDollars.com, you’ll find that it is a viable resource for generating income. It will take some time before you actually make a buck, but when you do, the money is 100% real.
Is Inbox Dollars Legit And Safe?
InboxDollars.com is a safe-to-use website that pays users for their time and effort. They even are offering a $5 just to sign up.
My Points
MyPoints.com is a website that allows you to earn points for shopping and buying the things you need and want.
The website is currently offering $10 Amazon and Visa reward cards for those who sign up.
MyPoints.com features several types of surveys on topics like automobiles, fashion, travel, to home and garden.
Is MyPoints.com Legit?
If you’re worrying about whether My Points is a legitimate site, you should know that it very much it. As far as pay, how much you earn depends on how many paid surveys you attempt and complete.
Each online survey has a different payout, with some offering as much as $50. Most will pay less, but also take less time.
Conclusion
If you want to make money online, it’s easier than ever right about now. Thankfully, we’re living in a time when you can actually generate income from the comfort of your home.
Filling out surveys online can earn you a small fortune if you keep at it consistently.
To start making money, all you have to do is register with an email address, create a password and an account on the respective website of your choice.
You can generate cash from your home, work or even in between destinations from your phone, laptop or tablet. What’s not to like?
Of course, there are other ways to earn extra income. You can do it pretty fast or take your time and gradually earn income.
Interested in other ways to save or make money? Check out our Money Section:
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Atlanta has it’s share of cool spots, diverse neighborhoods and a solid job market, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding employment, but more on that later.
Just about equally important (not really) is that you’re going to have to support one of Georgia’s many professional sports teams. That means you’ll be expected to purchase gear from the Braves, Falcons or Hawks.
The first thing you need to do is:
- Transfer your driver’s license
- Transfer your vehicle registration
- Register to vote
Where To Live In Georgia
If you prefer a rural environment, South Georgia is a short distance from the coast and Florida beaches. But the economy is not as diverse, as you might imagine.
You could also opt to live in North Georgia, where the mountains dominate the landscape. It’s very beautiful up there and sprawl is starting to lure young families to the area in droves.
North Georgia also has its share of lakes and other beautiful natural areas that will put you in constant vacation mode.
Here are the best places to live in Georgia.
Where To Live In Atlanta
If you plan on moving to Atlanta, what you need to know is… We Full.
No, seriously, metro Atlanta has plenty of houses for sale or rent, but the traffic is pretty crazy. If you choose to rent a home or apartment, it’s a good idea to get renter’s insurance.
One of the infrastructure wonders that you’ll appreciate (or dread) is Interstate 285, which is a loop around the city.
I-285 is 66 miles around, according to the Georgia Department of Transportation.
While the freeway touches Atlanta and DeKalb counties, it technically does not enter Cobb or Gwinnett counties, the two other major metro Atlanta jurisdictions.
Here are the best places to live in metro Atlanta.
How To Survive Atlanta Traffic
Atlanta traffic will take some getting used to. The traffic perennially ranks as one of the worst in the nation and there are a few reasons for that:
- The drivers are from all across the country
- Atlanta’s highways are built like race tracks
- Nobody really knows where they’re going
READ: How To Survive Atlanta Traffic (Safely)
Once you begin driving around the city and learning some landmarks, you’re going to want to know where to eat.
Atlanta has some good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South. All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Here are some options:
- Where to eat in Atlanta
- The best Cajun-style restaurants in Atlanta
- Best date night restaurants you have to try
You’re also going to need an apartment for starters. Most people who relocate to the area rent an apartment before a home.
How To Move Into An Apartment In Georgia
Here are some steps you need to be successful getting an apartment in Georgia and the Atlanta area.
The first thing you need to do is look for apartments that don’t do credit checks on potential tenants. That way, it’s easier to find a place.
You’re also going to want to entice the landlord by offering to pay more upfront or even every month.
After you’ve gotten a place to live, you’ll want to get a job (if you don’t already have one). With most people, they have a job, but want a better one.
How to rent an affordable apartment in Atlanta.
Where To Find A Job In Georgia
Although Georgia is full of good jobs, it may be hard to find one. That’s especially the case if you don’t have any networking groups or friends and family to support you.
What you need to do is make a list of jobs that you want and employers you want to work for.
If you have your resume together, it’s time to apply for jobs.
Final Thought
We’ve gone over a lot of stuff, but moving to Georgia shouldn’t intimidate you. It’s actually one of the best places to live in America.
The population of metro Atlanta continues to grow year by year. If you’re thinking of moving to the Georgia’s biggest city, you should do your homework.
If you enjoy beautiful weather that never gets too cold, hills, mountains and Southern hospitality, Georgia is the place to be.
Up Next: Things To Do In Atlanta Outside
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Atlanta has some of its best festivals during this time of year.
This weekend, the Bourbon & Brisket Festival returns to The Battery Atlanta on Saturday, June 21st, from 12 PM – 8 PM!
The Bourbon & Brisket Festival: What To Know
The Bourbon & Brisket Festival is FREE for the whole family! Enjoy an incredible day of BBQ, bourbon, live music, and fun—all for a great cause!
What to Expect:
- Delicious Brisket & BBQ from top local vendors
- Bourbon Tastings & More
- Live Music Performances (see schedule below)
- Splash Pad & Family-Friendly Activities
- Retail Vendors & Local Restaurants
Who’s Performing at the Bourbon & Brisket Festival?
- Georgia Satellites
- Bad Medicine: Bon Jovi Experience
- The Band Waleska
- Hello My Name Is
- School of Rock
The Battery Atlanta | June 21st | 12 PM – 8 PM
Rain or Shine | Open to the Public | All Ages Welcome!
Where Is the Bourbon & Brisket Festival Being Held?
The festival is being held at The Battery Atlanta at 800 Battery Avenue NE Atlanta, Ga., 30339. Here’s a map to help you find it.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/800+Battery+Ave+SE,+Atlanta,+GA+30339/@33.890574,-84.4696919,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x88f5104df8b8f755:0x7db662557da06128!8m2!3d33.890574!4d-84.4696919!16s%2Fg%2F11l2w94rtg?utm_campaign=ml-sul&g_ep=Eg1tbF8yMDI1MDYxNl8wIOC7DCoASAJQAg%3D%3DFinal Word
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September 27, 2025 is National Fishing and Hunting Day. In Georgia, that on that day you can fish for free!
As you know, it’s against the law to fish without a license in most states. The reason is because fishing is a regulated activity due to species endangerment as well as lake supplies.
For a limited time though, you can fish without a license on select days in Georgia.
When Are Georgia’s Free Fishing Days?
This year, Georgia’s free fishing days are on the following dates:
- may 31, 2025
- June 7, 2025
- September 27, 2025
Those three days are when you can bring the kids, buddies or family out on the water and catch all the fish your heart desires!
What Are Some Great Places To Go Fishing in Georgia?
The Peach State has many famous fishing holes that people have caught nice catches at. Here are a few of our favorites.
- Lake Oconee
- Lake Lanier
- Lake Allatoona
- Lake Seminole
- Golden Isles.
- Lake Hartwell
- Clarks Hill Lake
- Chattahoochee River
- Flint River
Check out more places to go fishing in Georgia.
If you love being outside, there are many outdoors activities you can enjoy in our great state. Here are some of the best things to do in and around North Georgia. And here’s where to go fishing around Atlanta. More From AtlantaFi.com:
- How To Get A Georgia Hunting License
- 10 Adventurous Things To Do Around Atlanta
- 10 Places To Take Great Instagram Photos
So you’ve landed a pretty good job, but for you to stay, you need to make more money. It’s time to have that talk with your boss.
In this article, we’ll discuss some tailored salary negotiation tips to help you approach your boss to ask for a raise.
These tips are informed by my experience as a supervisor for a major media company and my up-to-date understanding of negotiation practices:
Salary Negotiation Tips
Research Market Rates Thoroughly
Why it matters: In big cities like Atlanta, salaries can range from $22.97/hour to $163,000/year, but these are starting points.
Knowing the market rate for your role and location ensures you don’t undervalue yourself. For example, Glassdoor reports a median Customer Success Manager salary of $84,506/year, with a total pay range of $105K-$187K, depending on experience and company.
How to do it: Use sites like Glassdoor, Payscale, or LinkedIn Salary to benchmark roles. Check the web results—e.g., companies like Buffer or GitLab publish transparent remote salary guides. If it’s a remote job, consider the employer’s headquarters location or employee distribution if available, as this can influence pay scales.
Tip: Cross-reference with the job titles and ranges for a particular job you’re interested in (e.g., Operations Coordinator: $54,500-$95,700) to set a realistic target.
Establish Your Value Before Negotiating
Why it matters: Employers pay for what you bring to the table. Doing what you can to prove your value can justify a higher offer—e.g., for a Customer Success Manager role ($109K-$163K), highlight past success in driving customer retention or revenue.
How to do it: Prepare specific examples of achievements (e.g., “Increased customer satisfaction by 20% in my last role”). Tailor this to your job description or the one you’re applying for.
Tip: Avoid mentioning personal financial needs (e.g., mortgage, debt) as negotiation leverage, as these typically come off as unconvincing to recruiters.
Don’t Accept the First Offer
Why it matters: 54% of candidates don’t negotiate, potentially leaving money on the table. For instance, a $70K-$75K Technical Operations Associate offer could be nudged higher with the right approach.
How to do it: Express gratitude, then counter with a range based on your research (e.g., “I’m excited about the role. Based on my experience and market data, I was hoping for a range of $75K-$80K. Could we explore that?”). The key is to avoid early internal concessions.
Tip: If the salary is fixed, negotiate for other benefits (e.g., remote work flexibility, bonuses).
Use the Salary Range as a Starting Point
Why it matters: Many job postings, for instance, a 100K-$120K Support Experience Coordinator role, provide ranges. Targeting the higher end of a band is appropriate as you can grow into the role within a year.
How to do it: Aim for the upper half of the range if you exceed the job’s requirements. If the lower end is offered, ask what it would take to reach the higher end (e.g., performance metrics).
Tip: If no range is given (e.g., Remote Medical Scheduling Specialist), propose one based on similar roles.
Leverage the Full Compensation Package
Why it matters: If salary negotiations stall, other perks can offset the offer. The LinkedIn article suggests considering benefits like health insurance, stock options, or extra vacation days.
How to do it: Ask about the total compensation package early. For example, if the job is for a Care Coordinator Associate ($22.97-$33.05/hour) offer is low, inquire about signing bonuses or remote work stipends.
Tip: Be prepared to compromise—e.g., accept a slightly lower salary for a robust benefits package.
Practice Your Pitch
Why it matters: Confidence comes with preparation. It’s a known fact that practicing reduces anxiety during real negotiations.
How to do it: Role-play with a friend or record yourself. Focus on articulating your value and handling pushback (e.g., “We can’t go higher than $75K”).
Tip: Time your negotiation after receiving the offer but before accepting, as recommended by LinkedIn.
Be Ready to Walk Away
Why it matters: If the offer doesn’t meet your minimum (e.g., below $54,500 for a job like Operations Coordinator), it’s better to decline than settle. The Harvard PON article warns against self-sabotage in negotiations.
How to do it: Set a personal minimum based on your research and life goals. Politely decline if unmet: “I appreciate the offer, but I’ll need to pass as it doesn’t align with my current expectations.”
Tip: Leave the door open for future opportunities by staying professional.
Final Word
Demand for remote roles remains high thisyear, potentially giving you leverage. However, companies may adjust salaries based on cost-of-living differences across remote worker locations.
As always, inflation and labor market conditions could influence salary offers. Stay updated about the job market and adjust your expectations.
If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
The only thing better than ice cream is free ice cream — and that’s exactly what’s in the shopping cart at your local Kroger.
Kroger is giving away 92,000 pints of free Kroger Brand ice cream nationwide to celebrate the first day of summer. Visit a participating Kroger store or check the Kroger app/website for a digital coupon to claim your free pint.
How To Get Free Ice Cream at Kroger
To get free ice cream at Kroger, visit FreeKrogerIceCream.com starting at noon ET on Friday, June 20, 2025. You can download a single-use digital coupon for a free pint of Kroger Brand ice cream, including new Summer in a Pint flavors or classics, while supplies last.
Redeem the coupon at participating Kroger stores from June 20 through July 4, 2025. You’ll need a Kroger account to clip the coupon, so sign up if you don’t have one. Act fast, as coupons may run out quickly!
Where Are the Kroger Locations in Atlanta?
- 3871 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30319
- 2685 Metropolitan Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30315
- 725 Ponce De Leon Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306
- 3330 Piedmont Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30305
Final Word
Ice cream aside, Atlanta has many places where you can get sweet treats. Check out our Atlanta Dessert Guide.
Also, if you want to stay up on local food deals. Read our Guide to Atlanta Food Specials.
Waffle House offers flexible schedules, including full-time and part-time options, as well as day, night, weekend, and weekday shifts. This is ideal for students, parents, or those with other commitments.
If you want to get a job at Waffle House, the eatery has many positions that may be a fit for you.
Is It Easy To Get A Job At Waffle House?
You may think it’s easy to get a job at Waffle House, but the truth is that it’s just like any other place of employment There has to be a need.
A quick look at Waffle House job postings around the Atlanta area shows that there is a nearly constant need for good help.
How To Apply At Waffle House
To apply at Waffle House, go to their Careers Page and you’ll see two categories of jobs:
Management Positions
For management jobs, you can make up to $35 an hour in some locations. These jobs typically cover management of the store and supervisory positions. The titles are Manager Trainee, Unit Manager, District Manager and Division Manager.
Here are some features of Waffle House management jobs:
- 3-Month Training Program
- Stock Ownership
- Annual Stock Options Granted – based on % of your compensation
- Career Stock Options Granted – at hire and with each promotion
- Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, Vision, And Life Insurance for you and your family
- Vacation – three 10-day vacations each year
- Paid Maternity Leave – 6 Weeks (8 Weeks for C-Section)
Once you click on the Apply Management button, you’ll need to give out some personal information such as your first and last name, Social Security number and the state you want to work in.
Hourly Positions
For hourly positions, you don’t have to enter your Social Security number. All you have to do is put in the city and state where you want to work.
There’s no need to apply for multiple Waffle House locations; once your application is submitted, it will be shared with neighboring locations.
It’s not easy to get a job at Waffle House, although if the particular location you’re applying at needs the help, if you can fit the schedule, it’s likely that you’ll be hired.
How Much Do You Make In Tips At Waffle House?
Since a server will see so many customers, it’s easy to make anywhere from $5 to $15 off each table. So they will make that on top of their hourly wage.
In Georgia, minimum wage is $5.15 an hour, so if they work a 10-hour shift, a server will make an excess of $50 plus another $50 in tips if they only get $5 per table. That’s more than $100 in one day.
Obviously, if they get more than that per table, they could pull in more than $100 a day.
Final Word
A lot of people jokingly want to know if for Waffle House interviews, they ask you whether you can fight or not. While it’s true that many a fracas has been had late at night in Waffle House, it’s not a requirement nor is it recommended to fight on the job.
If you want to work at Waffle House, the key is to always be professional. And it doesn’t hurt if you know your way around a kitchen.
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There are plenty of interstates that you should show due caution on when traveling, but Interstate 285, better known as I-285, or better yet, 285, is another animal.
That’s just one of several Atlanta interstates that you may be have to drive on when traveling in and through metro Atlanta.
The traffic perennially ranks as one of the worst in the nation and there are a few reasons for that:
- The drivers are from all across the country
- Atlanta’s highways are built like race tracks
- Nobody really knows where they’re going
It’s the latter one that makes Atlanta traffic so stressful. Anyhoo, if you’re here you’re going to have to learn how to drive through the traffic.
Avoid Distractions
- Georgia has a hands-free law—don’t use your phone while driving. Use Bluetooth or voice-activated systems for calls or navigation.
- Stay focused on the road, as Atlanta’s traffic can change suddenly (e.g., accidents or debris).
Handle Aggressive Drivers Calmly
- Atlanta ranks high for aggressive driving incidents. If someone tailgates or cuts you off, stay calm and don’t engage.
- Let aggressive drivers pass rather than competing for space. Use the right lane if you’re driving slower than traffic.
How To Drive On 285 (Safely) In Atlanta
285 is a loop that encircles Atlanta. It is approximately 63.98 miles.
If you’re trying to really make up some time to get to where you’re going around Atlanta, you’ll encounter 285 — but you don’t have to be afraid.
When driving on 285, don’t be on a hurry. I know it’s like a race track.
It’s best to travel in the middle lanes of 285, that way you won’t be accidentally take an exit or be in the fast lane.
If you want to see where the traffic is, download the WSB-TV traffic app for real-time road information. You can also get the Waze app or Google Maps.
Atlanta Express Lanes: What You Need To Know
G-DOT introduced the I-85 express lanes (Hot lanes) on the northside a few years ago around metro Atlanta. HOT stands for High Occupancy Toll because it costs money.
The lanes stretch from Chamblee Tucker Road, just south of I-285, to Old Peachtree Road in Gwinnett County.
Who can use Hot lanes in Atlanta toll-free?
The HOT lanes are for those who register, including three or more person carpools, motorcycles, emergency vehicles, and Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFV) with the proper AFV license plate (does not include hybrid vehicles).
If you have three or fewer occupants, including solo drivers, you can pay to use the Express Lanes.
Here are the registered vehicles that are exempt from Express lane tolls:
- Transit vehicles
- Carpools with three or more occupants
- Motorcycles
- Emergency vehicles
- Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFV) with the proper AFV license plate (does not include hybrid vehicles)
How to get a Peach Pass in Atlanta
All vehicles, including those designated as “toll-exempt,” must be registered on an active Peach Pass account and have a Peach Pass transponder mounted inside or on the vehicle to use the Georgia Express Lanes.
You can sign up for a Peach Pass account online by clicking here or contact the Customer Service Center.
New to metro Atlanta? Watch this video on how Peach Pass works?
When is the best time to travel through Atlanta?
Because the Atlanta rush hour is virtually an all-day thing, you may find it best to travel through Atlanta after 8 p.m. The best time in fact may be between 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. on week days.
On weekends, it’s best to get on the roads early, like 6 to 7 a.m. That way, you’ll beat the normal weekend traffic, which starts around 7ish.
Here Are 3 Ways To Deal With Atlanta Traffic
Driving in Atlanta’s traffic, known for its congestion and aggressive drivers, requires focus and strategy. Here’s how to stay safe, based on practical tips and insights from available data:
Carpool
In metro Atlanta, it’s very easy to sign up to car pool: Do you need help finding a carpool partner. Sign up at GeorgiaCommuteOptions to find a commute partner.
Stay Alert and Defensive
- Atlanta’s roads, especially I-285 and I-75/85, are notorious for heavy traffic and sudden slowdowns. Watch for brake lights and erratic lane changes.
- Keep a safe following distance (at least 3 seconds in good conditions, more in rain or heavy traffic).
- Scan mirrors frequently to anticipate aggressive drivers or tailgaters.
Guaranteed Ride Home
In metro Atlanta, you can get a Guaranteed Ride Home if an unexpected event makes getting to your place of residence improbable.
Guaranteed Ride Home promises up to five free rides home or to your car, by taxi from work each year if an unexpected event occurs.
1. Download the application, then email, fax or mail it to G-Dot. Sign Up for GRH.
Call 1-877-942-6784 (locally: 404-656-4270) for questions or to schedule a ride.
Take MARTA, it’s SMARTA
Yes, taking MARTA really is smarter. The train commute may take a big longer for some people, but what it takes up in time it gives back in stress and comfort.
The rail network is comprise of four service lines that travel in all four compass points: the Red, Gold, Blue, and Green Lines.
Atlanta rail: How much does MARTA fare cost?
If you want to ride the rail in Atlanta, The MARTA fare is $2.50 for a one-way trip.
Machines in the MARTA Stations take exact cash or credit cards. If you don’t have a Breeze Card ($2), which is reloadable, you must get a or a $1 disposable paper ticket.
Children
Children 46 inches and under can ride MARTA for free. Limit two children per paying adult
Senior Citizens, Disabled Riders and Medicare Recipients
$1.00 (view details)
MARTA Mobility Paratransit
$4.00 (learn more)
What To Know About Driving Around I-285
Driving safely on Atlanta’s I-285, the 64-mile perimeter highway circling the city, demands extra caution due to its heavy traffic, frequent accidents, and complex interchanges. Here’s a concise guide to navigating I-285 safely, drawing on practical tips and insights:
- Stay Defensive and Focused
- I-285 is notorious for congestion, aggressive drivers, and sudden slowdowns. Keep a 3–4 second following distance and scan mirrors constantly for tailgaters or lane-weavers.
- Avoid distractions—Georgia’s hands-free law prohibits phone use. Use Bluetooth for navigation or calls.
- Watch for debris or disabled vehicles, common on I-285’s shoulders.
- Know High-Risk Areas
- Spaghetti Junction (I-285/I-85 northeast): Complex ramps and merging traffic; stay in the correct lane early.
- I-75/I-285 Interchanges (northwest and southeast): Heavy truck traffic and frequent backups; expect delays.
- GA-400 to I-85 South (top end, north side): Congested during rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM); plan alternate routes if possible.
- Crash data from Georgia DOT shows I-285 as a hotspot, with over 3,000 crashes annually in recent years.
- Time Your Drive
- Avoid peak hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) when traffic slows to a crawl, increasing rear-end collision risks.
- Use Waze, Google Maps, or Georgia 511 (dial 511 or visit 511ga.org) for real-time traffic and accident updates.
- Check for construction zones, often near I-20 or I-75 interchanges, which can reduce lanes.
- Drive Strategically
- Stay Right Unless Passing: Use right lanes for slower travel or exiting; left lanes are for faster traffic but can be aggressive.
- Signal early and check blind spots before lane changes—drivers may not yield.
- Maintain a consistent speed (posted limits are 55–65 mph) to avoid antagonizing faster drivers or causing slowdowns.
- Watch for merging trucks, especially near I-20 and I-75; give them space.
- Handle Weather Carefully
- Rain makes I-285 slick, especially on curves or older pavement sections. Reduce speed, use headlights, and increase following distance to 5–6 seconds.
- Fog or heavy rain can reduce visibility near wooded areas—use fog lights if equipped.
Final Word
In addition to driving safely, you should always keep an emergency kit (first aid, water, flashlight) in your car in case of breakdowns or long traffic delays.
If you’re in an accident, move to the shoulder if safe, call 911, and exchange information with other drivers.
Read more AtlantaFi.com stories:
Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!
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Midnight Market ATL is one of the premiere food events in Atlanta — and it’s happening this weekend. Interested in going? Read on.
What Is Midnight Market ATL and When Is It Held?
Midnight Market ATL is a late-night food festival held at Atlantic Station in Atlanta, designed for foodies aged 21 and older who love to eat, drink, and dance. You can purchase tickets here.
It features over 40 food vendors offering small plates (many priced at $8 or less, with at least one $5 option per vendor), showcasing a variety of international cuisines.
Where is Midnight Market ATL Being Held?
Midnight Market ATL is being held at 1380 Atlantic Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30363. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Where: Atlantic Station, 1380 Atlantic Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30363
When: Friday, June 20
What: Kick off the weekend with live music and a vibrant night market featuring local vendors, food, and drinks. The Midnight Market ATL continues on Saturday, June 21, for more late-night fun.
Cost: Free entry; bring cash for vendors.
The event also includes 40 local artisans, free roller skating, live DJs, and additional activities like games. It typically occurs over one or two nights, with the 2025 event scheduled for June at the Pinnacle Lot. Tickets are required, and attendees are encouraged to bring their appetite, crew, or a date.
Final Word
Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!
