Downtown or Midtown

Question

Hello, We will be in Atlanta next month for one night, flying in domestic and out international.

We have a reservation at the American Hotel, chosen for its proximity to Peachtree Marta station.

Having now read some of the posts on this site, it would seem Midtown might be preferable. Home2Suites is adjacent to Midtown Marta and could be an option.

When making the original booking I hadn't considered safety to be an issue. Is one area safer than the other, in terms of walking around at night? Would we have better access to restaurants in Midtown? Thanks in advance.

Answer

Both Downtown and Midtown Atlanta have their own advantages for a short stay, especially when considering safety, convenience, and dining options. Since you’re flying in domestically and leaving internationally, proximity to Marta and accessibility to the airport and main attractions are important factors.

Safety Considerations:

Downtown: The area around Peachtree Center and the American Hotel is generally safe in the daytime, especially near major tourist spots. However, some parts of Downtown can feel less secure at night, especially away from well-lit streets and main thoroughfares.
Midtown: Midtown is considered safer for walking at night. It has a vibrant residential and business community, with more people out in the evenings, making it feel more secure for solo walks or short strolls.

Dining and Nightlife:

Downtown: Offers restaurants mostly near major hotels, the CNN Center, and Centennial Olympic Park. Options are decent but more limited compared to Midtown, especially for casual evening dining.
Midtown: Midtown provides a wider variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, particularly along Peachtree Street and nearby streets. You’ll find everything from upscale Southern cuisine to casual international fare, plus trendy bars and coffee shops.

Transportation and Convenience:

Both locations have good access to Marta. Downtown is a hub with multiple stations and connections to the airport and key attractions. Midtown Marta station is also well-connected and convenient for a short stay.
If you plan to explore more of Atlanta’s cultural scene in a short time, Midtown has the High Museum of Art, Fox Theatre, and Piedmont Park within walking distance, making it attractive for one-night visitors.

In summary, if your priority is safer streets at night and better evening dining options, Midtown may be preferable. Downtown is closer to some tourist hubs and Marta lines but can feel quieter and less safe after dark. Either location will work well for a short visit, but Midtown offers a slightly more vibrant, walkable experience for an overnight stay.

Downtown or Midtown

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