Suggestions for solo female visitor

Question

I’m going to a 3-day convention w/ my husband at the Georgia World Congress Center in mid-March and staying at the new Signia by Hilton. I’ll have 2 and 1/2 days to see Atlanta on my own while he’s at the conference.

Looking for suggestions for sites or things to do, preferably walkable from the hotel. So far, I have both the Center for Civil and Human Rights and Centennial Park on my list (not interested in the Aquarium, Coca Cola World).

For any suggestions that are not walkable, I’d be open to taking public transportation if it’s pretty quick & also safe. How is the MARTA system?

Also, are there any good restaurants close to our hotel or does this area shut down at night? Safer to plan on eating dinner at the hotel?

Thank you.

Answer

It sounds like you have a great trip planned to Atlanta! The Georgia World Congress Center is in a prime location, and there are plenty of things to do within walking distance, along with options for short public transport rides if you'd like to venture a bit farther. Here's a breakdown of suggestions based on your interests and preferences:

Walkable Attractions Near Your Hotel:

Since you mentioned you'll be staying near the Georgia World Congress Center, you're in a central part of Atlanta, so you’ll have access to some great attractions within walking distance. Here are some suggestions:

The Center for Civil and Human Rights: As you already have this on your list, it's an excellent choice! The Center is an inspiring and interactive museum that provides powerful exhibits on the Civil Rights Movement and global human rights issues. It’s about a 10-minute walk from your hotel and offers a meaningful experience.
Centennial Olympic Park: Another good spot you’ve mentioned, it’s just a short walk from the hotel. It’s a large public park created for the 1996 Olympic Games. You can stroll through the park, visit the Fountain of Rings (a popular photo spot), and enjoy the outdoor space. The park is usually safe, especially during the daytime.
Georgia State Capitol: If you’re interested in history and architecture, the Georgia State Capitol is a beautiful building, and it’s located about 10 minutes on foot from your hotel. You can take a guided tour to learn more about Georgia’s history and government.
World of Coca-Cola (just for a quick visit): Though you mentioned not being interested in the World of Coke, if you change your mind, it’s nearby and offers an immersive experience about the iconic brand, with free soda tastings at the end of the tour.
SkyView Atlanta: If you enjoy great views of the city, the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel is a fun, relaxing activity. It’s located in Centennial Park and gives you a nice view of downtown Atlanta and the surrounding areas.

Things to Do a Little Further Out (Public Transportation Options):

If you’re up for a bit of exploration and don’t mind a short MARTA ride (which is safe and relatively easy to navigate), here are a few recommendations that are a bit farther from the hotel:

Piedmont Park: This large urban park is perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic. It's located a bit farther away, but you can take MARTA from the Five Points Station to the Midtown Station (only about 2 stops). Piedmont Park is great for people-watching, relaxing, or even visiting the Atlanta Botanical Garden if you have time.
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park: Located in the Sweet Auburn District, this park is home to Dr. King’s childhood home, the Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the King Center. It’s a meaningful place to visit if you’re interested in American history and civil rights. You can get there by taking a MARTA ride to the King Memorial Station.
The Atlanta BeltLine: If you enjoy walking, the BeltLine is a former railway corridor that has been transformed into a vibrant walking/biking trail with art installations, parks, and trendy neighborhoods. You can access the BeltLine from the Ponce City Market area or the Old Fourth Ward. You can take MARTA to the Ponce de Leon Station and walk from there.

Restaurants Near the Hotel:

There are several excellent dining options near the Georgia World Congress Center, so you won't need to eat at the hotel unless you prefer to. Here's a list of some great places within walking distance:

Ray’s in the City: A popular seafood restaurant located in downtown Atlanta. It's only about a 10-minute walk from your hotel and has a variety of seafood options, as well as steaks and salads.
The Spence: A modern American restaurant known for its upscale comfort food. It’s also within walking distance and offers a great atmosphere for a solo diner.
Legal Sea Foods: For a more casual seafood experience, Legal Sea Foods is located nearby and offers fresh seafood, including their famous clam chowder and lobster rolls. It’s a great option for a laid-back meal.
Alma Cocina: If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, Alma Cocina offers delicious and fresh Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas. It’s located just a short walk away from your hotel and has a vibrant atmosphere.
STK Atlanta: If you’re in the mood for a more upscale dining experience, STK is a modern steakhouse located near your hotel. It’s a trendy spot with great food, perfect for a solo dinner if you want something lively.

Safety and Getting Around:

MARTA is Atlanta’s public transit system, and it’s generally safe to use during the daytime and early evening, especially in the more central areas. It's a convenient way to get to attractions like Piedmont Park, the King Center, or the BeltLine. The MARTA system consists of buses and trains, and the trains are quick and easy to navigate. For a solo female traveler, just be cautious late at night and avoid empty train cars or bus stops if possible. If you're traveling after dark, Uber or Lyft is a good alternative for safety and convenience.

Conclusion:

During your free time, you’ll have plenty to explore within walking distance of your hotel. The Center for Civil and Human Rights and Centennial Olympic Park are excellent starting points, and if you're up for a little bit of public transportation, Piedmont Park and the Martin Luther King Jr. Historical Park are worth visiting as well. As for dining, there are many great restaurants within walking distance, so you won’t have to eat at the hotel unless you prefer it. MARTA is a quick and convenient way to get around if you want to explore further, and Atlanta is generally safe for solo travelers, especially during the day. Enjoy your time in Atlanta!

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