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With Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) seeing average delays of 30-45 minutes—and some stretching over an hour—due to air traffic control shortages from the U.S. government shutdown, we know that travelers are doing all they can to keep it together. You can do it!
In this article, we’ve compiled proven tips from FAA experts, Delta Air Lines, and local travelers.
These strategies can save you time, stress, and money as you navigate the world’s busiest airport. Print this out or save it to your phone before heading to Concourse T!
Arrive Early—Way Earlier Than Usual
Why? Staffing cuts mean longer security lines and gate changes. TSA recommends three hours for domestic flights and four hours for international from ATL.
Pro Tip: Use the ATL SkyTrain to zip between terminals (it runs every 2 minutes). Park in the hourly deck near Domestic Terminal for quickest access—avoid the daily lot unless you’re staying overnight.
-Traveler Hack: Maria Gonzalez, the teacher we spoke to yesterday, suggests grabbing Chick-fil-A in the Atrium upon arrival: “It beats terminal food lines later!”
2. Download Apps & Enable Alerts NOW
Must-Have Apps:
Delta App | Real-time gate changes & rebooking | 80% of flights covered; free lounge access alerts |
FlightAware | Live tracking for all airlines | Delay predictions based on ATL ARTCC data |
ATL Airport App | Security wait times & SkyTrain status | MARTA connector schedules |
FAA Airport Status | National shutdown updates | Push alerts for ATL-specific ground stops |
Quick Set-Up: Turn on notifications 24 hours before your flight. Check for “Ground Delay Program” warnings—ATL’s are spiking 53% this week.3. Pack Smart for the Long Haul
Essentials in Your Carry-On
- Portable charger (outlets are packed)
- Neck pillow & eye mask (delays hit evenings hardest)
- Snacks & water bottle (refill stations everywhere)
- $20 cash for vending machines (cards glitch under stress)
ATL Bonus: Concourse F has free charging stations & quiet zones. Families: Head to the Kidspace play area in Terminal S—it’s a delay-buster.
4. Know Your Airline Rights & Perks
Delta (ATL’s Big Dog): Meal vouchers for delays >3 hours; free rebooking if >2 hours late. Call 800-221-1212 or use kiosk help.
- Other Airlines: United/Southwest offer similar—check bags free if rebooked. No fault? Still get $10 snack credit under DOT rules.
- Shutdown Special: Airlines for America says all carriers are waiving change fees through November 1. Text “DELAY” to your airline for instant updates.
- Local Alert: Georgia AG Chris Carr’s office reports a 20% spike in travel complaints—file at consumer.ga.gov if denied perks.
5. Alternative Routes to Dodge the Chaos
Ground Options: MARTA’s red/gold line from downtown to ATL = 15 minutes, $2.50. Skip rideshares (Uber surge pricing up 40%).
Flight Swaps: Consider Spirit or Frontier for cheaper reroutes to Orlando/Tampa—fewer delays on budget carriers right now.
Backup Plan: If flying out, drive to Chattanooga (CHM) airport—1.5 hours north, lighter traffic. Or Greenville (GSP), SC—2 hours east.
Holiday Heads-Up: Book backup trains via Amtrak’s Crescent (ATL to NYC) now—seats filling fast with flyers bailing.Final Word
Traveling is much more a hassle than it used to be. Patience is key, but preparation wins. Check atl.com/delaytracker before you leave home. Over 200,000 passengers cleared ATL yesterday despite hurdles— you can too!
If you’re thinking about traveling abroad, make sure you get your passport, as soon as you can.
To save money, look for the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale. To keep costs down, use these travel hacks to save money and time.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport 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 interested in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
- How to Travel For Less On Your Next Trip
- How To Get A Cheap flight Out Of Hartsfield Airport
- Strategies That Work: How To Save On Travel
- 10 Travel Hacks That Save You Time And Money
*Stuck in line? Snap a photo and tag @Atlantahappenings for real-time shoutouts. Safe travels, Peach State! Email tips@tjohnson@atlantafi.com.
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Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is not only the world’s busiest, but it’s one of the most affordable. (Yes, its parking fees are below what many regional airports charge). You’d think it was an expensive airport, but you can save money if you know how.
In this article, I’ll show you how to fly out of Hartsfield-Jackson airport for less.
How To Get A Cheap Flight At Hartsfield In Atlanta
Really the only airline with a real hub at Hartsfield, is Delta Air Lines, which is based in Atlanta. But there are other airlines that have made flights out of Atlanta a major focus. They are:
- Frontier Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
Here’s how to get cheap flights out of Hartsfield: Instead of Kayak or Expedia, Use Google Flights.
- How To Track Airfare With Google Flights Price Alerts
- How To Set Filters On Google Flights
- Use Google Flights Explore
Be aware that some of the flights you see will be for economy or basic economy fares, so you’ll want to watch that.
1. How To Track Airfare At Hartsfield
You can track the prices of your airfare by setting up Google Flights price alerts. Here’s how to set up a price alert:
To do that, put in your origin and destination airports and add the dates you’d like to travel. You’ll see a Track Prices button that you can toggle and it will send you emails as prices fluctuate.
2. Use Google Flights Filters
To get the flight that you want, you can use an array of filters on Google Flights.
- Bags
- Stops
- Airlines
- Price
- Times
- Connecting Airports
3. Don’t Know Where To Go? Use Google Flights Explore
The secret to snagging low fares from ATL? Flexibility and foresight. Data shows Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are the cheapest days to fly out, often 13% less than weekend jaunts, thanks to lighter business crowds. For domestic trips, book in September – the sweet spot for deals on routes to New York or Miami, where you might score round-trips under $100. International flyers, target August bookings for Europe or the Caribbean.
Pro tip: Ditch Kayak or Expedia for Google Flights – it tracks price drops and alerts you to the best windows, like 34-86 days out for Delta routes to JFK, potentially saving 25%. And don’t sleep on off-peak times: Midday flights (10 a.m.-3 p.m.) can dip 15% lower than red-eye or morning rushes. Tools like Hopper or Skyscanner can predict these dips with eerie accuracy.
The beautiful thing about Google Flights, is that you can use Google Flights Explore to find cheap flights out of Atlanta.
The key to finding a good price is not have any destination in mind. Let Google Explore show you the cheapest airfare and you can score a great deal.
To use Google Explore, type in your home airport (you can put Atlanta or ATL), and leave the departure box blank. Once you search, the Google Flights Explore map will show you all the cheap flights that you can fly to from Atlanta.
Once you book your travel on Google Flights, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip knowing that you took advantage of one of the great ways to save money.
Consider Carry-On Bags
Baggage fees can devour $60 round-trip on budget carriers, but at ATL, you can outsmart them. Carry-on only? Most airlines (including Delta) let you for free – just measure that roller at 22x14x9 inches.
For checked bags, Delta SkyMiles cardholders get their first one gratis, saving up to $70 per round-trip.Seating? Skip paying $20-50 for “preferred” spots; use the app’s free seat map post-check-in.
And for families, the international terminal’s security lines are a ghost town compared to domestic – breeze through in half the time, no CLEAR subscription needed (though the $78 annual pass shaves minutes during peaks).
Ground Game: MARTA Over Uber, Park Like a Local
Getting to ATL shouldn’t break the bank – a taxi or Uber from Midtown runs $40-60, but the MARTA Red or Gold line zips you from Five Points for just $2.50, door-to-door in 20 minutes.
It’s cleaner, faster, and ad-free – perfect for bleary-eyed early flights.Parking pros: Reserve spots via the ATL app for $9-14 daily in the Hourly Deck, beating walk-up rates by 20%.
Economy lots? As low as $7/day if booked ahead. Pro hack: Drop off at the Ground Transportation Plaza and shuttle in for free, dodging terminal traffic.
Cards in Your Wallet: Turn Everyday Spends into Free Flights
Nothing beats credit cards for ATL savings – especially Delta-focused ones. The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card waives the first checked bag and offers a $120 resale credit for partners like CLEAR, with a welcome bonus of 50,000 miles after $3,000 spend (enough for a round-trip to NYC).
For broader play, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card earns flexible points transferable to Delta, plus a $50 annual hotel credit – ideal for layovers.Budget option: Capital One Venture Rewards nets 75,000 miles after $4,000 spend, wiping out a domestic fare outright.
Always pay in full to avoid interest, and compare via sites like NerdWallet for 2025 perks.In a city where skies are always calling, these tweaks can turn a $500 weekend getaway into a $350 steal.
ATL’s chaos is part of the charm – but with a little strategy, your next takeoff won’t lighten your load. Safe travels, Atlanta; the runway’s yours.
How Cheap Are Flights From Atlanta Right Now?
- Atlanta to New Orleans – $83
- Atlanta to Las Vegas- $142
- Atlanta to Miami – $58
- Atlanta to New York – $92
Now it’s time to make sure your travel packing list is in order. 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.
More From AtlantaFi.com:
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As the world’s busiest airport and Delta Air Lines’ global headquarters, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport stands to benefit from the carrier’s cautiously optimistic outlook for the holiday travel rush, even as third-quarter profits dipped amid higher costs and softening demand.I
In its latest earnings release, Delta reported total operating revenue of $15.4 billion for the September quarter, a 2% increase from the prior year, driven by strong demand for premium cabins and loyalty program perks.
Delta Forecasts Strong Holiday Season
However, pre-tax income fell to $1.3 billion from $1.6 billion a year ago, with net income dropping to $1.0 billion and adjusted earnings per share at $1.50, down from $2.10.
The airline pointed to moderated travel demand and elevated expenses as key factors, partially offset by a 5% surge in premium revenue from Delta One and First Class seats – a segment that’s increasingly popular among business travelers routing through Atlanta.
Looking ahead, Delta forecasts flat to 2% revenue growth for the December quarter, with capacity at its Atlanta hub expected to rise 2-3% year-over-year, prioritizing international routes that connect the city to global markets.
The airline industry has had to deal with customers’ pulling back amid inflationary pressures in the early part of the year.
Top 5 U.S. Airlines: Trailing Twelve Months Net Income
The top five major U.S. airlines by revenue—Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Alaska Airlines—have shown varied profitability over the trailing twelve months ending June 30, 2025. Here’s a look:
Airline TTM Net Income (USD) Delta Air Lines $4.49 billion United Airlines $3.31 billion American Airlines $567 million Southwest Airlines $392 million Alaska Airlines $313 million This expansion could mean more flights and jobs for the 30,000-plus Delta employees based in metro Atlanta, bolstering the local economy during peak season.
The company also highlighted its “Win on the Wings” initiative, investing in employee training and AI-powered personalization to enhance customer experiences – potentially reducing delays at ATL and improving on-time performance, which hit record highs this quarter.
What Is Delta’ws Win on the Wings Initiative?
At the heart of the carrier’s latest strategy is the “Win on the Wings” program – a multifaceted operational excellence push designed to streamline flights, slash costs, and empower the 30,000-plus Delta workers calling metro Atlanta home.Launched as part of Delta’s broader transformation playbook, “Win on the Wings” isn’t just corporate jargon; it’s a targeted effort to make every takeoff and landing more efficient, sustainable, and employee-friendly.
The initiative sets ambitious goals: a 20% reduction in aircraft turnaround times and a 10% drop in fuel costs, achieved through smarter routing algorithms and greater adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
For ATL – Delta’s bustling super-hub handling over 1,000 daily flights – this could translate to fewer delays for passengers rushing to catch connections to Europe or the Caribbean, and a greener footprint for the world’s busiest airport.
But the real wings under this program belong to Delta’s frontline teams. A key pillar involves cross-training for ground crew, equipping ramp agents, mechanics, and baggage handlers with versatile skills to handle peak-season chaos more nimbly.
This builds on Delta’s $1 billion, three-year pledge to upskill its entire 80,000-employee workforce in digital tools and customer service mastery, fostering leadership and retention in a high-turnover industry.
Final Word
For Atlanta’s traveling public and tourism sector, the news underscores a resilient aviation giant navigating economic headwinds while doubling down on premium perks and tech upgrades. Full-year capital spending remains on track at $3 billion, with free cash flow projected to top that figure, signaling long-term stability for the Peach State’s flagship carrier.
More From AtlantaFi.com:
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What if you could plan your vacation and save money in the process? Keep reading to find some great travel hacks.
What Travel Hacks Can Allow Me To Save Money?
This article is going to show you some of the best ones we’ve been able to find on social media (Twitter) so that you can utilize them into your travel routine. But first, you don’t want to miss some ways to make your trip better.
Holiday Travel: Should You Fly? 5 Ways To Save On Your Next Trip International Travel Checklist Atlanta Travel Guide: How To Navigate And Save How Can You Make Traveling Fun?
To tell the truth, traveling can be a nightmare, especially in the COVID era. To make it a more enjoyable experience, see if you can make a game out of your trip.
Keep score of the many travel tips you can come up with and how it saves you time or money. Also, make sure you tip the skycap, shuttle bus driver or anyone who helps you.
Also, be observant, polite and speak to people in your destination city. You’d be surprised how much more fun your trip will be.
Try This Google Flights Hack
Want to find cheap flights, but you aren’t particular about the destination? Try this with Google Flights.
Search For Flights Online In Incognito Mode
This is an old hack you may have forgotten about: If you’re searching for flights online, be sure to do so in incognito mode, so that the site won’t be able to factor in your past activities when it comes to pricing.
Carry Your Lotions In A Lens Case
You know that lens case that you’re carrying? Yes, the empty one. Why not use it to store away your lotions?
Bring Your Own Sauce To Spice Up Airplane Food
Use A TV To Charge Your Phone
Some TVs are compatible with USB cords, which is a great thing if your charger doesn’t fit the hotel hotel.
Buy A Plug Extender
If you’re going to a foreign country, it’s good to have a plug extender so you can keep your devices charged.
Dab An Essential Oil Before Wearing A Mask
This is a great tip for travelers who need to wear a mask for a long period of time.
Cords In Your Glass Case
This Twitter user has an ingenius way to save space while traveling.
Use Your Shower Cap As A Shoe Bag
Last Word
One of the best ways to spend your time and money is by traveling. What if I told you that you could save a lot of money during your getaways?
Do you love traveling but are tired of losing money every time you take a trip? Travel-hacking is the way to go!
While it’s always fun to travel, the expenses related to booking a trip seem to always be a bummer. But what if you could plan your vacation and save money in the process? Keep reading to find some great travel hacks.
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.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport 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.
More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
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Traveling and saving money doesn’t have to be exclusive of each other. With the cheap fares we’re seeing in Atlanta right now, it’s entirely possible to do both!
In this article, we’ll go over some effective ways to find low-cost airfare.
Book These Cheap Fares From Atlanta, Georgia
Cheap fares are in the order of the day right now for Southwest and a few other airlines.
Flights From Atlanta: New Orleans, NY, LA For Cheap
If you’re flying out of Hartsfield, here are some cheap flights you might not want to pass up. These are current as of July 2025.
From Atlanta Nonstop Airfare Starting From To Austin, TX Yes $99 To Baltimore / Washington, D.C. Yes $79 Chicago (Midway) Yes $79 Los Angeles Yes $99 New Orleans Yes $69 New York (LaGuardia) Yes $99 Oakland, CA Yes $99 San Diego Yes $99 Tampa Yes $49 Philadelphia Yes $79 See other dates on Southwest’s nationwide sale HERE.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
Cheap Frontier Fares From Atlanta
Frontier Airlines is also running a sale out of Atlanta. Some one-way flights as as cheap as $39 (for Den members) and $49 (non-Den members). If you’re interested in flying Frontier, see the latest cheap fares here.
Frontier Airlines’ Year-Round Subscription
Frontier Airlines’ all-you-can-fly subscription plan allows you to pay one fee for unlimited flights within the year. The price of the Go Wild! Plan is now $799 for the first year and will auto-renew for $1,999 in the second year unless you cancel.
Needless to say, you can save a lot of money if you plan to fly a lot in the coming year. Book now though because Frontier just may raise the prices!
Before Your Trip…
Do You have a Travel Bag That Works?
There are good travel bags and there are bag travel bags. You’ll want one that fits the size of carry-on and checked bags.
Buy
Here are some other travel bags with high reviews:
- Women’s Pink Weekender Travel Bag
- Plambag Canvas Duffle Bag
- Samsonite Checked Medium Bag
- Puma Men’s Contender Duffle Bag
- Rockland 19 inch Tote Bag
Final Word
Know the best times to book cheap flights. What we’re seeing now from Southwest is just a preview. Airfare prices are about to drop as more airlines battle for your vacation dollars.
Cheap flights in and out of Atlanta, Georgia, used to be as rare as a unicorn, but that’s not been the case of late. The major airlines have advertised some affordable low fares over the past couple weeks. All you have to do to take advantage is search for cheap fares.
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. If you’re a Southwest fan, here’s how to save money with their Low Fare Calendar. There are some rare sales going on right now in the airline industry. If you’re traveling out or into Atlanta, these cheap flights are hard to pass up. More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
- How not to get kicked off a Delta flight
- How to get a cheap flight out of Hartsfield Airport
- Delta is hiring 1,000 flight attendants
Up Next: Atlanta Travel Guide
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Delta Airlines will launch a daily non-stop flight between Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Grenada’s Maurice Bishop International Airport, starting December 20, 2025.
The flight departs Atlanta at 9:40 AM, arriving in Grenada at 3:15 PM. The return flight leaves Grenada at 4:30 PM, arriving in Atlanta at 8:50 PM. Bookings are now available.
Does Delta Offer Daily Flights To Grenada?
Delta will begin daily flights to Grenada on Dec. 20, 2025.
In anticipation of Delta Air Lines’ upcoming daily nonstop service from Atlanta to Grenada, the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) hosted a three-part event series in Atlanta designed to spotlight the destination’s culture, luxury offerings, and warm hospitality.
The GTA’s week of activations successfully engaged top-tier travel advisors, media, and members of Atlanta’s influential Grenadian diaspora.
The festivities began on Monday, June 9, with an immersive Mixology Masterclass at Breakfast at Barney’s, one of Atlanta’s most iconic brunch destinations.
The evening was led by Afiya Neckles, Marketing Manager for Clarke’s Court Distillery in Grenada, and introduced guests to a curated tasting experience featuring Grenada’s world-class Clarke’s Court Rums and a newly launched spice-flavored Grenada Cocktail Spice Syrup.
Guests—ranging from Atlanta’s top influencers and mixologists to members of the diaspora—were the first to try the debut signature cocktail, Spice Isle Rocks, inspired by Grenada’s vibrant flavors and cocktail culture.
Momentum continued on Tuesday, June 10 with the Launch Soirée at Rock Steady Atlanta, an upscale Afro-Caribbean venue that set the perfect stage to bring a true taste of Grenada to the heart of Atlanta. The evening fostered meaningful connections between Grenadian tourism partners and key members of Atlanta’s travel industry, cultural scene, and diaspora community.
Attendees included Deputy Consul General Kerry Frank; executives from Vacation Express, Sandals Resorts, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Blue Diamond Resorts, and Mount Cinnamon Beach & Wellness Resort; and influential Atlanta-based figures such as Pinky Cole (Slutty Vegan), Derrick Hayes (Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks), and Anila Sajja from Married to Medicine. The City of Atlanta was also well represented, including Philana Williams, Director of Film, Entertainment & Nightlife from the Mayor’s Office.
The activation series concluded on Wednesday, June 11 with a Travel Advisor Training & Seminar at The Capital Grille Buckhead, offering top-producing travel advisors an in-depth look at Grenada’s hotel offerings and signature experiences. Presentations from Sandals’ Lisa Blake, IHG’s Heidi Nowak, Vacation Express’ Soalcris Bolton and Mooring Grenada’s Kay Millner Kitchens reinforced the island’s appeal to luxury, family, and experiential travelers. Attendees left energized and inspired, with several advisors winning stays at premier Grenadian resorts including True Blue Bay, Six Senses La Sagesse, Silversands Grenada, and Royalton Grenada, Autograph Collection.
“These Atlanta activations served as a powerful reminder of what makes Grenada so special—our people, our culture, and the genuine warmth we bring to every experience,” said Randall Dolland, Chairman of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “The upcoming launch of Delta’s daily nonstop service marks more than just a new route—it represents a gateway to deeper connections, greater opportunity for our people, and a more immersive travel experience for those seeking something truly special in the Caribbean.”
Final Word
If you’re thinking about traveling to Grenada, make sure you get your passport, as soon as you can.
To save money, look for the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale. To keep costs down, use these travel hacks to save money and time.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
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If you fly often or or for many days, one thing you likely won’t be able to avoid is airline baggage fees.
On a round-trip domestic flight with American Airlines, skipping a checked bag saves $80 ($40 each way). For budget carriers like Spirit, savings could be $88–$98 round-trip if fees are $44–$49 per bag.
To save money, look for the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale. To keep costs down, use these travel hacks to save money and time.
By packing within carry-on and personal item limits, you can save $20–$200 per trip, especially on airlines like Spirit, Frontier, or American. However, budget carriers may charge for carry-ons, so compare fare inclusions.
Here Are Airline Baggage Fees for 2025
- Bag Fees: Fees listed are for domestic U.S. flights and may increase for international routes or specific destinations (e.g., American Airlines charges $35 for the 1st bag to Canada/Caribbean/Mexico). Prepaying online often reduces costs. Spirit and Frontier fees vary significantly by route and when paid (cheapest at booking, highest at gate).
- Southwest Exception: Southwest used to allow two free checked bags (up to 50 lbs, 62 in), making it unique among major U.S. carriers. That’s no longer the case. Southwest now charges for checked bags unless you qualify for exceptions.
- Weight Limits: Most airlines cap checked bags at 50 lbs and carry-ons at 40 lbs (except Hawaiian at 25 lbs for carry-ons). Spirit and Frontier have stricter 40-lb limits for checked bags. Overweight fees typically range from $100–$200.
Below is a table detailing the baggage fees and size restrictions for the 10 largest U.S. airlines, based on recent data for domestic flights within the U.S. The information reflects standard fees for economy class passengers, with notes on exceptions where applicable. Fees are per person, one-way, unless otherwise stated, and size limits are in linear inches (length + width + height).
Airline 1st Checked Bag 2nd Checked Bag 3rd Checked Bag Checked Bags Max Size Carry-On Bags Max Size Personal Items Max Size American Airlines $40 ($35 if paid online) $45 $200 62 in, 50 lbs 22 x 14 x 9 in (45 linear in) 18 x 14 x 8 in Delta Air Lines $30 $40 $150 62 in, 50 lbs 22 x 14 x 9 in (45 linear in) 17 x 13 x 8 in United Airlines $40 ($35 if prepaid) $45 ($40 if prepaid) $150 62 in, 50 lbs 22 x 14 x 9 in (45 linear in) 17 x 10 x 9 in Southwest Airlines Free Free $125 62 in, 50 lbs 24 x 16 x 10 in 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 in Alaska Airlines $35 $45 $150 62 in, 50 lbs 22 x 14 x 9 in (45 linear in) 17 x 13 x 8 in JetBlue Airways $35 $45 $150 62 in, 50 lbs 22 x 14 x 9 in (45 linear in) 17 x 13 x 8 in Spirit Airlines $44–$49 (varies by route) $44–$49 $99–$150 62 in, 40 lbs 22 x 14 x 9 in (45 linear in) 18 x 14 x 8 in Frontier Airlines $44–$49 (varies by route) $44–$49 $99–$150 62 in, 40 lbs 24 x 16 x 10 in 18 x 14 x 8 in Hawaiian Airlines $30 $40 $150 62 in, 50 lbs 22 x 14 x 9 in (45 linear in), 25 lbs 17 x 13 x 8 in Allegiant Air $20–$45 (varies by route) $20–$45 $50–$75 80 in, 50 lbs 22 x 16 x 10 in 17 x 10 x 9 in Final Word
If you’re thinking about traveling abroad, make sure you get your passport, as soon as you can.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport 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 interested in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
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Travel arrangements being what they were, sometimes you only have one day or even part of the day. In downtown Atlanta, Georgia, that’s plenty of time.
In this article, I’ll tell you what to see and do in 24 hours in downtown Atlanta.
If you’re situated in downtown Atlanta, the city is designed to get you around quickly. Make sure you’re dressed for the weather though. Here’s your itinerary for Atlanta in a day.
Your 24-Hour Itinerary For Downtown Atlanta In A Day
You’re in Atlanta for the day, what are some things to do? We want to get into some things, but not spend too much money. In fact, we want to do cheap things to do in Atlanta.
First off, you may want to ride a scooter to get from Point A to B in downtown Atlanta. Your main options are Bird scooters and a new option, Spin. Let’s get started at 6 a.m. and see what we can do:
Visit the SkyView Atlanta Ferris Wheel
Why It’s Cool: Get breathtaking views of the city from this giant Ferris wheel, especially beautiful at night. The ferris wheel costs around $15 for adults and is open seven days a week.
Discover History at the APEX Museum
Why It’s Cool: This museum focuses on African American history and contributions, shedding light on Atlanta’s rich cultural heritage.
Take a Tour of the World of Coca-Cola
Photo credit: Youtube.com Why It’s Cool: Learn about the history of Coca-Cola, see memorabilia, and taste over 100 international flavors at this interactive museum.
Ride MARTA
Find a MARTA station and get on the train. If you’re downtown, you can take the train to either 5 Points or Peachtree Center. Here’s a MARTA map to help you see where you are.
Once you get off the train, time to go to one of the most recognizable places in Atlanta…
Go To Waffle House In Downtown Atlanta (Or Any Waffle House)
Photo credit: Youtube.com Waffle House is the unofficial start of the day for thousands of people around metro Atlanta. Here’s how many Waffle Houses are in Atlanta.
Once you get something Scattered, Covered and Chunked, you should be ready to tackle Atlanta with confidence.
You’re going to want to walk off some of those grits and eggs. Why don’t you go to Woodruff Park.
Visit Woodruff Park
If the greenery at Woodruff Park doesn’t do it for you, the daily chess game will. You can be a spectator of a wonderful chess game between strangers and the regulars that show up at the park.
Ride The Peachtree Trolley
Take a ride on the Peachtree Trolley in downtown Atlanta. The trolley will take you around the downtown district for 90 minutes and give you stories for all the monuments and landmarks. Book a tour here.
Tickets are $31 for an adult and $16 for a child.
After the tour, you’re going to be hungry. Now, it’s time to eat…
Lunchtime in Atlanta
A lot of factors are at play when it comes to where to eat in Atlanta for lunchtime. For instance, if a restaurant is jam-packed at noon, then it’s not going to work: You’re on the clock.
You need a place that can get you in and out, and that place changes everyday, actually every hour. Here are some options:
- Best hot chicken restaurants in Atlanta
- Best fried chicken in Atlanta
- Best seafood restaurants in Atlanta
- Best Caribbean restaurants in Atlanta
You could opt to check out one of the spots in Peachtree Center or along the corridor behind the Healey Building.
Once you enjoy your meal, you’ll want to slow it down a bit. Rest up in a stationery place to catch your breath, so to speak. Time for a matinee.
Go To The Park
Now, it’s time to get active again: Atlanta is full of accessible green spaces close to public transportation and the main corridors of Midtown and downtown. Here are some of the BEST Atlanta parks.
Visit The MLK Center
Photo credit: YouTube.com Perhaps the most famous site in Atlanta, the MLK National Historical Park comprises the birthplace of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., his family church and tomb where he and wife Coretta Scott King are buried. Across the street, the family’s longtime religious home, Ebenezer Baptist Church, continues to thrive. 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312.
Where To Eat For Dinner In Atlanta
If you want to know where to eat in downtown Atlanta, there are plenty of options. Here are some lists that you can use to influence your decision:
- Best soul food restaurants in Atlanta
- Best places to get tacos in Atlanta
- The best chicken and waffles in Atlanta
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
After dinner, if you’re ready for a nightcap, you can venture to some places that have live music or spoken word.
If you want to really get down, Atlanta’s clubs always turn up. See the hottest ATL nightclubs this week and what’s going on.
Kat’s Cafe: Live Music, Food, Drink, Good Times In Midtown Atlanta
Explore Atlanta At Your Own Pace
Let’s say you have one whole day in Atlanta, Georgia. Perhaps you’ve got a layover or drove into town on a business trip and you’ve got 24 hours to spend. Can you do it all in a day? Well, most of it.
First, to find all the good things happening in Atlanta this weekend, 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.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
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The daily grind can catch up to you — unless you take some vacation time for yourself. The good news is that you can get away from Atlanta to just about anywhere.
Exploring new places and cultures can broaden your perspective, inspire creativity, and teach you new things.
This article will show you the U.S. cities in the Southeast that are travel-ready.
Weekend Getaways From Atlanta: Supply List
There are a few things you’ll need to pack to make our quick trip successful.
Once you’ve got the items you need, it’s time to think about traveling. If you’re hitting the road, make sure your car has what it needs.
If you’re flying, read our guide on how to find cheap fares.
Top Weekend Getaways From Atlanta
Did somebody say weekend getaway? Let’s take a digital tour around the South, shall we?
Charleston
Driving distance From Atlanta: 4 hr 37 min (307.0 mi) via I-20 East and I-26 East
Cheap Fares — Mid August: Southwest Airlines: Airfare from $245
Photo credit: Dylan Mullins / Unsplash Charleston, South Carolina is only a four-hour drive from Atlanta and it’s worth the ride.
Top Charleston events this Year:
- Charleston Bluegrass Festival
- Low Country Cajun Festival
- Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival
Savannah
Driving distance From Atlanta:3 hr 49 min (248.3 mi) via I-75 South and I-16 East
Cheap Fares — Mid July: Delta Air Lines: Airfare from $199
Photo credit: Jessica Furtney / Unsplash Savannah, Georgia is only a four-hour drive from Atlanta and has many cool things to do.
Top Savannah events this Year:
- Savannah Hemp & Arts Festival
- Tybee Wine Festival
- Savannah Jazz Festival
Houston
Driving distance From Atlanta: 11 hr 33 min (792.9 mi) via I-10 West
Cheap fares — Early August: Frontier Airlines: Airfare from $78
Houston and Nola are sister cities in a way. Both of them are right off Interstate 10 and both are filled with people from New Orleans (a joke)!
Things To Do & See In Houston:
- Houston Zoo
- Galveston Beach
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
- The Galleria
- Sam Houston Park
Augusta
Driving distance From Atlanta: 1 hr 54 min (136.9 mi) via I-20 East
Cheap fares — Mid August: Frontier Airlines: Airfare from $88
Photo credit: Todd Trapani / Unsplash One of the most popular tourist spots in the South, Augusta has a rich music heritage (James Brown) and is known for cultural sports events (the Masters).
Here are some things to do and see in August:
- Augusta Craft Beer Festival
- Elijah Beach
- Hickory Know State Park
- Papa Joe’s Banjo-B-Que Music Festival
- Westobou Festival
Jacksonville
Driving distance from Atlanta: 5 hr 6 min (345.6 mi) via I-75 South
Cheap fares — Late July: Frontier Airlines: Airfare from $106
Photo credit: David Masemore / Unsplash Jacksonville, Florida is a eight-hour drive from Atlanta. If you start at 1 p.m, you’ll be in city limits by 6 p.m., just in time for dinner.
Here are some things to do and see in Jacksonville:
- Jacksonville Jazz Festival
- Neptune Beach
- Atlantic Beach
- Summer Volksfest
- Jacksonville Caribbean Festival
With COVID still a factor, many travelers are playing it safe by choosing to travel closer to home for the fall.
Find Cheap Flights From Atlanta
Before you decide on which city you’re going to, I’d strongly suggest that you search for cheap fares. The best sites to find affordable fares are:
Final Word
Based on this information, you should ask yourself should you fly for the holidays. If you choose to, remember to always look for the cheapest fares.
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.To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport 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. More Articles Like This:Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
- How Not To Get Kicked Off A Delta Flight
- How To Get A Cheap flight Out Of Hartsfield Airport
- Strategies That Work: How To Save On Travel
Up Next: Atlanta Travel Guide
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Parking rates at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) are increasing, effective May 1, 2025, the airport says.
The new rates will significantly raise costs, in some cases nearly tripling them. For example:
- South/North Hourly Decks: From $3/hour ($36/day max) to $10/hour ($50/day max on Day 1, $75/day thereafter).
- International Hourly Deck: From $3/hour ($36/day max) to $10 for the first hour, $15/hour thereafter ($70/day max on Day 1, $100/day thereafter).
- Daily Parking: From $19/day to $30/day.
- Economy Parking: From $14/day to $20/day.
- International Park-Ride: From $14/day to $30/day.
ATL’s assistant general manager, Tyronia Smith, stated that even with planned parking rate increases, ATL’s parking rates would remain “one of the lowest in the country” for daily parking compared to similarly sized airports.Reasons for the Increase:
- Economic Conditions: Airport officials cite a 34% rise in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the Atlanta metropolitan area since the last rate adjustment in 2017, necessitating updates to align with inflation.
- Operational Costs: Parking-related operational expenses have increased significantly.
- Infrastructure Investments: The airport has taken on new debt to fund parking facility modernization and construction, with annual debt service projected at $25.5 million in fiscal year 2025 and expected to grow. Projects include replacing North and South parking decks and adding facilities like the ATL West Deck and Sullivan Road Park-Ride lot.
- Maintaining Competitiveness: Despite the hikes, ATL claims its rates remain competitive compared to other major U.S. airports and off-site parking providers, aiming to ensure a safe, convenient, and reliable experience.
Why Are Parking Rates Going Up at Hartsfield?
Parking rates at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport are increasing due to several factors outlined by airport officials.
The primary reasons include rising operational costs and significant investments in parking infrastructure. Since the last rate adjustment in 2017, the Consumer Price Index for the Atlanta area has risen by approximately 30%, and parking-related operational expenses have grown.
Additionally, the airport has taken on new debt to fund modernization projects, with annual debt service projected to reach $25.5 million in fiscal year 2025 and expected to increase further over the next decade.
A key project is the $530 million South parking deck, which will add about 7,700 spaces and is set to be completed by summer 2026 to accommodate events like the World Cup.
These rate hikes, effective May 1, 2025, are intended to align pricing with economic conditions, support ongoing and future infrastructure improvements, and maintain competitiveness with other major U.S. airports and off-site parking providers, airport officials said.
Final Word
Airport parking aside, travel to and from Atlanta is booming. Boutique shops, unique galleries, and retail options add to Midtown Atlanta’s charm for those looking to shop local or find unique items.Downtown Atlanta is a hub for tech companies, startups, and corporate offices, giving it an energetic, innovative vibe.
