Category: Recreation

Have you ever felt like Atlanta needed a beach?Well, the nearest beach to Atlanta, Georgia, may be closer to you than you think.

Yes, the city is landlocked, but if you get in your vehicle and can endure a 25-50 minute ride, you can enjoy some great Georgia beaches near Atlanta.

Here Are The Best Beaches In Georgia

In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about Georgia’s beaches.

Quick Links:

• Where Are The Best Beaches In Georgia?
• What Cities In Georgia Have Beaches?
• What Is The Nearest Beach To Atlanta?
• Interactive Map: Beaches Near Atlanta

The closest legitimate beaches may not be within eyesight of the concrete jungle that is Atlanta, but that doesn’t mean we can’t take a road trip to enjoy a quick getaway — and we’ve got a winner on our shores.

With traveling in mind, here are some great Georgia islands to check out:

Tybee Island

Tybee Island aka Savannah Beach, is a rustic getaway spot 18 miles away from Savannah. The beach’s famously preserved history has made it a tourist destination in recent years.

Visitors love to walk the three miles of uninterrupted sand, featuring salt marshes with birds and wildlife unique to the Georgia coast.

Jekyll Island

If you’re enchanted with the natural beauty of undeveloped beachfront, Jekyll Island, the smallest of barrier islands in the state, is a paradise. Visitors can enjoy a host of wildlife-center activities, such as horseback riding and turtle habitat tours. As a bonus, you can visit the historic Jekyll Island Club Hotel, a 19th-century winter retreat for the rich.

St. Simon Island

Fans of historic structures have been flocking her for years because of St. Simon’s historic lighthouse, which began operating six years after the Civil War ended. Other preserved structures include Bloody Marsh and several antebellum buildings.

St. Simons has also become a shopping and dining mecca as new eateries have moved in.

Cumberland National Seashore

Georgia’s largest barrier island features huge swaths of marchland and pristine maritime forests across its nearly 10,000 acres of protected wilderness.

Visitors can tour the very spots where wealthy industrialists vacationed. Cumberland Island is also home to more than 9,800 acres of congressionally designated wilderness.

Little St. Simon Island

This little 10,000-acre island features seven miles of beach and 20 miles of wilderness trails for the explorer types.

If exclusive lodgings are your fancy, check out the the Lodge at Little St. Simon’s Island, a 30-guest gem accessible strictly by 10-minute boat ride from the mainland.

Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier does indeed have a beach. Many people from metro Atlanta like to rent boats and tour Lake Lanier, but people can enjoy a refreshing swim there as well.

Read about the surreal history of Lake Lanier.

Lake Lanier is basically built around parks, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, themed restaurants and designated swimming areas.

Lake Allatoona

Lake Allatoona is a popular tourist spot located in Acworth near Proctor Landing Park.

There’s a swimming beach on site, where people can also park and reserve picnic pavilions. The park is located at 5120 Allatoona Drive, Acworth.

Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee is a relatively new lake in central Georgia. The lake was built in 1979 as a reservoir stemming from the Wallace Dam holding the Oconee River.

Lake Oconee has a small beach area frequented by people from the nearby cities of Eatonton and Greensboro.

What Cities In Georgia Have Beaches?

Here are the cities in Georgia with beaches. For the beaches in Glynn County, New Brunswick, Georgia is the closest city:

• Cumberland Island — Cambden County, Georgia
• East Beach — Glynn County, Georgia
• Glory Beach — Glynn County, Georgia
• Sapelo Island — McIntosh County, Georgia
• Jekyll Island — Glynn County, Georgia
• St. Simons Island — Glynn County, Georgia

What Is The Nearest Beach To Atlanta?

The closest beach to Atlanta is Tybee Island. It is 267 miles away. If you’re interested in driving there, here are the driving directions:

• Get on I-75/I-85 South
• Follow I-75 South to I-16 East to Montgomery St. in Savannah
• Use any lane to take exit 167B for Montgomery Street toward Savannah/Civic Center/Downtown
• Follow E President St, Islands Expy and US-80 E to 10th Terrace in Tybee Island

Interactive Map: Beaches Closest To Atlanta

Final Word

The temperature outside is perfect for a little fun in the Georgia sun, and what better place to have that than at the beach.

The best beaches in Georgia are close to metro Atlanta. And these spots will be packed come Memorial Day, summertime and other holiday periods.

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Midtown boasts a wide range of restaurants, from upscale steakhouses to cozy bistros, international cuisines, and trendy vegan spots. An added bonus? A lot of them are near MARTA locations.

Public transportation in Atlanta can get you to your job, the hospital, the mall, so why not your favorite restaurant?

Here Are The Best Atlanta Restaurants Near MARTA

We’re going to show you some of the best Atlanta restaurants near MARTA so you can ride and eat.

Alma Cocina

 191 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 968-9662

Alma Cocina is one of Midtown Atlanta’s favorite restaurants for Mexican-inspired fare. It is located at 191 Peachtree Tower.

How to get there: Alma Cocina is nearest to the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

Busy Bee

810 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314 (404) 525-9212

Busy Bee is one of the best soul food restaurants in Atlanta, not to mention a favorite of Joe Biden. 

How to get there: The eatery is a quarter of a mile from the Ashby MARTA Station.

Chicken+Beer

Concourse D, Gate D5, Atlanta, GA 30337 (404) 209-3905

Chicken + Beer continues to make believers out of passengers at the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

How to get there: Take the MARTA train into Airport Station.

Cuts Steakhouse

60 Andrew Young International Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30303  (404) 525-3399

Cuts Steakhouse caters to a lot of visitors to the city, cultivating a foreign following that brings patrons back for more.

How to get there: Only a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

Fox Bros. BBQ

1238 DeKalb Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 577-4030

One of Atlanta’s favorite barbecue restaurants is a short distance from public transit. 

How to get there: Take the green line train to the Candler Park MARTA station.

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

231 Peachtree Street Northwest A-05 The Mall at, Atlanta, GA 30303

Gus’s is a big reason people from the suburbs come into downtown Atlanta to eat. The famous hot chicken is worth it!

How to get there: Only a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

The Iberian Pig

121 Sycamore St, Decatur, GA 30030 | (404) 371-8800

This iconic restaurant on the Decatur Square is known across the Southeast for its classic take on tapas.

How to get there: It’s literally feet away from the Decatur MARTA station.

The Lawrence

905 Juniper St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309  (404) 961-7177

The Lawrence restaurant in Midtown has become a go-to spot for a good meal and creative cocktail.

How to get there: 

Mangos Caribbean Restaurant

806 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30310 | (404) 500-2851

Mangos Caribbean Restauranthas quickly become a top spot for jerk chicken, roti and other West Indian food in the West end.

How to get there: Get off at the West End MARTA Station and cross Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard.

McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant

190 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 521-1236

Mccormick and Schmick’s is a well-known seafood chain known for their happy hours. This is a favorite place for sports fans and the after-work set.

How to get there: Get off at CNN Center / GWCC Station in downtown Atlanta.

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

Embassy Suites Hotel, 267 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 (404) 223-6500

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse is a fine dining restaurant that specializes in thick steaks cooked a variety of ways.

How to get there: Get off at CNN Center / GWCC station in downtown Atlanta.

Sear

265 Peachtree Center Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303(404) 586-6134

Sear, located inside the Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta, offers the opulence and style to help you impress that special someone.

How to get there: Only a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint

200 Peachtree St. NW L05, Atlanta, 404-230-5853

Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint continues to be a perennial favorite of tourists and visitors to the city. The food is great and the live music is excellent.

How to get there: Only a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

South City Kitchen

1144 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309  (404) 873-7358

South City Kitchen’s menu is one of the most celebrated in the Southeast. And it’s relatively close to a MARTA Station.

How to get there: Get your walking shoes on. Get off the train at the Midtown MARTA Station.

Sun Dial

210 Peachtree Street Northwest, Atlanta, GA 30303  (404) 589-7506

The Sun Dial atop the Westin Hotel offers brilliant views of the city and is probably the most romantic ambiance in downtown Atlanta.

How to get there: Only a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

Final Bite

Fine dining in Atlanta doesn’t have to be off the beaten path. You can find some of the best Atlanta restaurants near MARTA.

 Atlanta has so much to do that you need a curated guide to help you sort through it all. Make sure you subscribe to our #ATLHaps newsletter that gives you a weekly tab of Atlanta events you don’t want to miss.  

If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.

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Atlanta offers a variety of fishing spots, from urban lakes to nearby reservoirs and rivers, catering to anglers of all skill levels.

In this article, we’re going to show you where you can go fishing in metro Atlanta. You can even take the kids!

Before you bait a hook, you need to have your paperwork in order. The first thing you need if you want to go fishing is a fishing license in Georgia.

How Much Is A Fishing License In Georgia?

Annual fishing or hunting licenses good for 365 days from its purchase date cost $15 each for state residents. You can get a discounted short-term license spanning from one to 10 days for  residents and non-residents.

A basic one day fishing license for non-residents is only $10.

Can I Buy A Fishing License At Walmart?

You can buy a freshwater fishing license at your local Walmart, if it has a Sports & Outdoors Department. It costs $10 for residents and $25 for non-residents for freshwater.

Where Can You Fish In Georgia?

Many fishing spots in Georgia are on private property. If you want access, remember to follow these practical steps in etiquette:

• Always know when you cross onto private property
• Always ask for permission to enter private property
• Always ask for permission to fish on private property

With that being said, Georgia also has many places to fish that are open to the public. When it comes to finding fish holes, here are the places you can fish in metro Atlanta:

Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier has many nice areas where you can fish. You can do it in a boat or on the shore. Many people from metro Atlanta like to rent boats and tour Lake Lanier, but people can enjoy going out on the water as well.

Lake Lanier is basically built around parks, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, themed restaurants and designated fishing areas.

Lake Allatoona

Lake Allatoona is a popular tourist spot located in Acworth near Proctor Landing Park. It’s a great place to go fishing.

Along with a lot of places to fish, the lake also has a swimming beach on site, where people can also park and reserve picnic pavilions. The park is located at 5120 Allatoona Drive, Acworth.

Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee is stocked with some of the most diverse fish in Georgia. It is a relatively new lake in central Georgia. The lake was built in 1979 as a reservoir stemming from the Wallace Dam holding the Oconee River.

Bull Sluice Lake

Bull Sluice Lake is another fishing spot that is safe to Atlanta long the Chattahoochee River in Roswell, Georgia. The lake is part of a greenspace spread out over 673 acres adjacent to the Morgan Falls Dam.

Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center

Charlie Elliot Wildlife Center is a nature preserve located near Mansfield, Georgia, United States. Named after Charles Newton Elliott, the nature preserve has 6,400 acres of forests, lakes, and fields, which are managed by Georgia Department of Natural Resources

Final Word

If you like to fish, there are places around Atlanta and other parts of Georgia that are ideal fishing spots that you need to know about. Boat safety is a priority though, so make sure you have a license if you fish in a boat.

The state has everything from freshwater lakes, saltwater lakes and various sizes of ponds stocked with fish.

It doesn’t matter if you’re an expert fisherman or a novice angler, metro Atlanta has some great places to fish.

Fishing is a fun activity and one of the best things to do in Georgia with kids.

There’s nothing quite like slammin’ barbecue for lunch and dinner. A new entry into the Atlanta market is going to be downright delicious.

Pittmaster John Lewis is opening his new Atlanta restaurant soon in Atlanta’s Ansley Mall, bringing Central Texas-style barbecue with it.

In a Facebook post last year, the eatery posted this message:

Sending out the smoke signal! We’re thrilled to announce that Lewis Barbecue will open an Atlanta property next year. This will be our third outpost and first in the Peach State and we can’t wait to bring smoked brisket and ice-cold beers just off the Beltline.

We’re setting up shop in Ansley Mall and while we still have a way to go with construction, we’re hoping to launch in 2025. In the meantime, we’ll be announcing some pop-ups in the area and can’t wait to get involved in the ATL community soon.

What To Expect From the Menu at Lewis Barbecue

Lewis, who will be serving up his signature brisket, pork spareribs, pulled pork, turkey, and hot guts sausage, complemented by sides such as potato salad, collard greens, and fries cooked in tallow.

The restaurant will also feature a full bar and desserts like banana pudding. This marks Lewis Barbecue’s first Georgia location.

Where Is Lewis Barbecue Located at Atlanta?

Lewis Barbecue is located in Ansley Mall at 1544 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30324. Here’s a map to help you find it.

Final Word

Atlanta’s BBQ scene offers a variety of regional styles, from tangy, vinegar-based Carolina sauces to sweet, tomato-based Georgia-style ribs.

Restaurants like Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, Heirloom Market BBQ, and DAS BBQ serve everything from pulled pork and brisket to smoked wings and ribs, appealing to diverse tastes. This variety, highlighted in Yelp reviews and X posts, allows BBQ joints to cater to both purists and those seeking innovative twists, like Korean-inspired BBQ at Heirloom. Check out the best BBQ joints in Atlanta.

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What’s in a name? Well it depends. With June here, the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season has officially begun.

The perennial storm season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, uses a predetermined list of names maintained by the World Meteorological Organization. 

The list for 2025, recycled from 2019 with one replacement (Dexter for Dorian due to its retirement after the devastating 2019 hurricane), includes 21 names. 

Hurricane Season: What Are the Named Storms for 2025?

These names are assigned to tropical storms or hurricanes when they reach sustained winds of at least 39 mph. Here is the full list of named storms for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season:

– Andrea
– Barry
– Chantal
– Dexter
– Erin
– Fernand
– Gabrielle
– Humberto
– Imelda
– Jerry
– Karen
– Lorenzo
– Melissa
– Nestor
– Olga
– Pablo
– Rebekah
– Sebastien
– Tanya
– Van
– Wendy

If more than 21 named storms occur, which is rare (only happening in 2005 and 2020), a supplemental list of names will be used, starting with Adria.

The names Van and Wendy are notable as they have never been used for Atlantic storms since the list’s inception in 1983.

Forecasts predict an above-average season, with 13–19 named storms expected, based on projections from NOAA, Colorado State University, and other meteorological agencies.

Read up on the best generators to buy.

The summer is coming and so is that beach body you’ve been working on. Time to hit the beach.

And what do you wear to the beach? A bikini!

In this article, we’ll go over some of the best two-piece bikinis you can wear to the beach.

Here Are the Best Bikinis To Wear This Season

Continue Reading…

Atlanta’s neighborhoods are the lifeblood of the city. Whether you prefer the bustling city life in Midtown, the historic charm of Inman Park, or the family-friendly atmosphere of Brookhaven, your neighborhood choice affects your daily experience.

What Neighborhood Should You Live in in Atlanta?

Choosing the right neighborhood in Atlanta depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and priorities. If you work in downtown Atlanta, that would have some bearing on where you’ll want to live. If you live out in the ‘burbs, then things will be different.

Atlanta has several neighborhoods known for their high property values and luxurious amenities. If you’re thinking about relocating or moving to Atlanta, you’ll need to know about them.
Some of the most expensive neighborhoods include:

Buckhead

Often referred to as the “Beverly Hills of the South,” Buckhead features upscale homes, high-end boutiques, and exclusive dining options.

As of 2024, average home prices in the Buckhead section of Atlanta are as follows:

• Median Listing Home Price: Approximately $599,900
• Median Sold Home Price: Ranges around $625,000 to $702,243 depending on the month and specific areas within Buckhead.
• Average Sale Price: Reached around $1,714,416, a notable increase from previous years.

Check out the best things to do in Buckhead.

Brookhaven

Although it’s a city and not a neighborhood, Brookhaven is known for its suburban feel with proximity to Georgia’s largest city. Brookhaven boasts large homes and a vibrant community atmosphere.

The average home prices in the Brookhaven section of Atlanta are approximately:

• Median Sale Price: Around $678,000.
• Median Listing Home Price: About $680,000.
• Average Home Value: Approximately $692,283.

Check the cool things to do and see in Brookhaven.

Virginia-Highland

A trendy neighborhood characterized by its historic homes and vibrant social scene, Virginia-Highland attracts those seeking a mix of charm and modern living.

As of 2023, the average home prices in the Virginia-Highland section of Atlanta are approximately:

• Median Sale Price: Around $775,000, which represents a decrease of about 20.1% compared to the previous year.
• Median Listing Price: Approximately $987,500.
• Average Home Value: Approximately $881,775, showing a slight increase of about 4.0% from the past year.

Druid Hills

Renowned for its classic architecture and lush greenery, Druid Hills is home to many historic houses and a prominent golf club.

The average home prices in the Druid Hills section of Atlanta are approximately:

• Median Sale Price: Around $820,000, reflecting a slight increase of 3.2% from the previous year.
• Median Listing Price: Approximately $900,000.
• Average Home Value: About $686,890, showing a growth of around 1.7% over the past year.

Inman Park

As one of Atlanta’s first suburbs, Inman Park features stunning Victorian homes and is celebrated for its parks and cultural events.

As of 2023, the average home prices in the Inman Park section of Atlanta are approximately:

• Median Sale Price: Around $1,150,000.
• Median Listing Price: Approximately $1,199,000.
• Average Home Value: About $968,000, indicating a slight increase from previous years.

Midtown

Combining urban living with luxury, Midtown offers high-rise condominiums and proximity to cultural institutions and parks.

The average home prices in the Midtown section of Atlanta are approximately:

• Median Sale Price: Around $650,000.
• Median Listing Price: Approximately $698,500.
• Average Home Value: About $600,000, reflecting an increase compared to previous years.

Check out the best things to do in Midtown.

Morningside-Lenox Park

This neighborhood is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and family-friendly atmosphere.
These neighborhoods are not only known for high real estate prices but also for their amenities, schools, and community involvement.

The average home prices in the Morningside section of Atlanta are approximately:

• Median Sale Price: Around $1,190,000.
• Median Listing Price: Approximately $1,299,000.
• Average Home Value: About $1,045,000, showing a steady increase in recent years.

Final Word

Atlanta home prices can vary significantly based on specific neighborhoods and other factors, so it’s advisable to consult local real estate listings for the most current data.

Different areas have varying safety records. And Atlanta is made up of zones. Researching neighborhoods helps you find a community that feels secure and welcoming, which is essential for your peace of mind.

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We heard you were a movie lover. That’s good news. The 2025 Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) has begun throughout the city. The multi-weekend event is one of the best festivals in Atlanta.

2025 Atlanta Film Festival: Everything You Need To Know

The Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF), now in its 49th year, is one of the largest and longest-running film festivals in the United States, taking place from April 24 to May 4, 2025.

Organized by the Atlanta Film Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, it’s a premier celebration of cinema in the Southeast, showcasing a diverse range of independent, international, animated, documentary, and short films.

The festival is Academy Award-qualifying in three short film categories: Narrative Short, Documentary Short, and Animated Short, making it a significant platform for filmmakers aiming for Oscar consideration.

Atlanta Film Festival Screenings This Year

ey Movie Screenings at the 2025 Atlanta Film Festival

1. Opening Night: Color Book (Thursday, April 24, Plaza Theatre)
   • Details: Directed by Atlanta native David Fortune, this heartfelt drama follows a Black father (Will Catlett) and his son with Down syndrome (Jeremiah Alexander Daniels, NAACP Image Award nominee) on a journey to an Atlanta Braves game. Shot entirely with a local Atlanta crew, it’s a love letter to the city, capturing underrepresented parts like MARTA stations.
   • Significance: Kicks off the festival with a Georgia-connected film, highlighting local talent and authentic storytelling. Fortune, named one of Variety’s 2025 Directors to Watch, will attend with cast members.
   • Why Attend: A powerful, emotional narrative with strong Atlanta roots, perfect for those seeking local and diverse stories.
2. The Games in Black & White (Saturday, April 26, Rialto Center for the Arts)
   • Details: A documentary by George Hirthler and Bob Judson, exploring how Atlanta secured the 1996 Summer Olympics, featuring University of Georgia football legend Billy Payne and civil rights icon Andrew Young, both expected to attend. Includes appearances by figures like former Mayor Shirley Franklin and Martin Luther King III.
   • Significance: A special presentation celebrating Atlanta’s historical impact, with a focus on local figures and the city’s Olympic legacy.
   • Why Attend: Ideal for history buffs and those interested in Atlanta’s global influence, with a chance to see prominent local figures.
3. Closing Night: Friendship (Saturday, May 3, Plaza Theatre, 7:00 p.m.)
   • Details: An A24 comedy written and directed by Andrew DeYoung, starring Paul Rudd and Tim Robinson, about a suburban dad’s obsession with his charismatic new neighbor.
   • Significance: A high-profile closing night film with Hollywood star power, blending humor with indie sensibilities.
   • Why Attend: Perfect for fans of comedy and mainstream indie films, offering a fun, star-studded finale.
4. The Surfer (Date TBD, Plaza Theatre or Tara Theatre)
   • Details: A marquee screening starring Nicolas Cage, this film promises a bold narrative, though specific plot details are not fully outlined in available sources.
   • Significance: Features a major Hollywood name, appealing to audiences who enjoy high-energy performances and indie flair.
   • Why Attend: Cage’s involvement ensures a memorable cinematic experience for fans of intense, character-driven stories.
5. Ricky (Date TBD, Plaza Theatre or Tara Theatre)
   • Details: Directed by Rashad Frett, this marquee screening highlights another standout from the festival’s diverse lineup, though specific details are limited.
   • Significance: Part of ATLFF’s commitment to showcasing emerging filmmakers and diverse voices.
   • Why Attend: A chance to discover fresh talent and support independent cinema.
6. Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted (Date TBD, Plaza Theatre or Tara Theatre)
   • Details: A documentary marquee screening, focusing on the eclectic musician Swamp Dogg, offering a unique look at his life and work.
   • Significance: Appeals to music and documentary fans, showcasing ATLFF’s diverse programming.
   • Why Attend: A quirky, engaging doc for those interested in music history and offbeat stories.
7. Red Clay (Wednesday, April 30, Tara Theatre)
   • Details: A 22-minute short film co-written and co-produced by Atlanta’s Omar Epps and rapper 2 Chainz, focusing on a character, Nook, navigating a future beyond his mother’s addiction. Both Epps and 2 Chainz are expected to attend.
   • Significance: A Georgia-connected short with local celebrity involvement, emphasizing social issues and personal struggles.
   • Why Attend: Offers a chance to see Atlanta-based stars and engage with a socially relevant narrative.
8. Withdrawal (Wednesday, April 30, Plaza Theatre)
   • Details: A world premiere directed by Atlanta’s Aaron Strand, this film tells the story of a co-dependent couple’s heroin addiction in reverse, reflecting the director’s personal experience with substance abuse.
   • Significance: A bold, local world premiere addressing heavy themes with a unique narrative structure.
   • Why Attend: Ideal for those who appreciate raw, personal storytelling and innovative filmmaking.
9. Come See Me in the Good Light (Sunday, April 27, 5:30 p.m., Tara Theatre)
   • Details: Directed by Ryan White, produced by Jessica Hargrave (both Atlanta natives), this film is a homecoming for the filmmakers, who have been friends since childhood. Specific plot details are not fully provided, but it’s noted for its local ties.
   • Significance: A Georgia-connected feature, offering a personal narrative and a chance to celebrate Atlanta’s creative community.
   • Why Attend: A great pick for supporting local filmmakers and enjoying a story with deep Atlanta roots.
10. Sustainable Fashion Short Films (Date TBD, Plaza Theatre)
    • Details: A collaboration with Atlanta Sustainable Fashion Week, featuring short films about sustainable fashion, followed by a fashion show and after-party.
    • Significance: Combines film with fashion and sustainability, offering a unique, interdisciplinary experience.
    • Why Attend: Perfect for those interested in fashion, sustainability, and innovative short films, with a fun social component.

Key Details:

• Dates and Venues: The 2025 festival runs for 11 days, primarily at the Plaza Theatre and Tara Atlanta, with additional screenings at the Limelight Theater.
• Programming: ATLFF presents approximately 150–175 films, selected from over 8,000 submissions representing 110+ countries. About 90–95% of the program comes from submissions, with a focus on inclusivity, spotlighting filmmakers of color, LGBTQ+ films, women and gender non-conforming filmmakers, and those from the American South. In 2024, 49% of selected films were directed by women or gender non-conforming filmmakers, 59% by BIPOC directors, and 24% by Georgia filmmakers. Genres include experimental films, music videos, comedies, horror, sci-fi, and more.
• Notable Features:
  • Georgia Film Awards: Two juried awards (Georgia Feature and Georgia Short) celebrate local filmmakers. Georgia-based directors can submit films shot in the state at a discounted fee by emailing GA@atlantafilmfestival.com for a discount code.
  • Creative Conference: Held April 29–May 2, 2025, it offers panels, workshops, and case studies for filmmakers and enthusiasts, covering topics from career development to industry networking.
  • Academy Award Qualification: Winners of the Best Narrative Short, Best Documentary Short, and Best Animated Short jury awards qualify for the respective Oscar categories. Notable past success includes Ray McKinnon’s The Accountant, which won an Oscar in 2002 after qualifying at ATLFF.
  • Marquee Screenings: High-profile screenings, such as Lionsgate’s Shadow Force with Kerry Washington in attendance, blend Hollywood star power with indie cinema.
• History and Impact: Founded in 1976 as the Atlanta Independent Film & Video Festival by IMAGE Film & Video Center (now Atlanta Film Society), ATLFF has grown from a grassroots initiative to a globally recognized event. It has premiered works by filmmakers like Spike Lee, whose first film, Last Hustle in Brooklyn, screened at ATLFF, and others like Robert Rodriguez and David O. Russell. The festival has been named one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker magazine and “Best Film Festival” by Creative Loafing and Atlanta Magazine.
• Community and Networking: ATLFF attracts over 28,000 attendees and 300+ filmmakers, offering opportunities to engage with industry professionals from distributors like A24, Netflix, and Magnolia. Events include Q&As, awards ceremonies, and workshops, fostering connections between filmmakers and audiences.
• Submission Process: Films are submitted via FilmFreeway, with deadlines ranging from early (June) to extended (November). Feature films must not be publicly released online or on VOD before the festival, while short films available online are considered case-by-case. Georgia premieres are preferred.
• Ticketing and Membership: General tickets are available online via Eventive, and Atlanta Film Society memberships offer festival access, exclusive screenings, and discounts. For ticketing inquiries, contact boxoffice@atlantafilmfestival.com or call (470) 296-0170

How To Get A Badge To ATLFF

ATLFF passes & Individual Tickets to each event are available for purchase at atlantafilmfestival.com.

Explore Your Atlanta

There are some 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. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown often has something cool going on!

The fun is just starting. Are you a beer drinker? You also may want to visit a craft brewery in the city.    

  Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend!

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