1st time in Atlanta- Single mom and daughter

Question

We won’t have a car. Traveling the last week of July. Top priorities- aquarium, civil rights museum, zoo, Carter library.

We are not used to big cities and I’d prefer to Uber when possible.

We are on a pretty tight budget. Has anyone stayed at a Sonder property? Wondering if the Sonder Midtown might be a good central location. Is this a safe enough area to walk around?

Reviews are so mixed in some saying they felt unsafe and it is sketchy and others having no issues.

Thank you!!

Answer

It sounds like you have a great trip planned! Atlanta is a wonderful city with a lot to offer, and it’s great that you’re already thinking about how to get around and what accommodations would work best for your family.

Regarding your accommodation choice, Sonder Midtown is located in a relatively central area of Atlanta, making it a good base for exploring the city's attractions. The location is convenient for visiting popular spots like the aquarium, Civil Rights Museum, zoo, and Carter Presidential Library, though some of them may require a short Uber ride or public transportation to get to directly.

As for safety, the area around Sonder Midtown can be a bit mixed. Some parts of Midtown Atlanta are bustling and lively, especially during the daytime, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions nearby. However, like many larger cities, there are areas within Midtown that can feel less secure at night or in certain parts of the neighborhood. It's good practice to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking too late at night, and use Uber or other transportation options when possible, especially after dark.

Reviews for Sonder properties can indeed be mixed, but many guests have had positive experiences. It's worth noting that Sonder typically offers well-maintained, modern accommodations, but customer experiences can vary based on specific properties and individual expectations. If you do decide to stay at Sonder Midtown, you can reach out to their customer service for clarification on any safety concerns or ask for tips about the area specifically. You can also check for updated reviews closer to your travel dates for a more accurate snapshot of the current situation in that area.

Regarding your planned itinerary, here are some additional thoughts:

Georgia Aquarium: The Georgia Aquarium is one of the best in the country, and it's easily accessible by Uber or public transport from most parts of Midtown. It's a great choice for both adults and children, with many interactive exhibits and breathtaking animal displays.
Civil Rights Museum: The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is an essential stop in Atlanta. It’s an immersive museum that provides a powerful and educational experience. It's located near Centennial Olympic Park, which is also a nice area to walk around during the day.
Zoo Atlanta: The zoo is located in Grant Park, which may require a short Uber ride from Midtown. It’s a great zoo with a wide variety of animals and exhibits. It's also in a beautiful park area, so you can enjoy a stroll after visiting the zoo.
Carter Presidential Library: The Carter Presidential Library and Museum is another excellent stop. It's in a more residential area, but still easily accessible via Uber or public transit. The museum has interesting exhibits about President Jimmy Carter's life and his presidency.

Since you're traveling on a tight budget, consider checking for discounted admission days or special deals for each of these attractions. You may also find a City Pass for Atlanta, which can save you money on admission fees for major attractions. Additionally, using public transportation like MARTA can help save on Uber costs during the day, especially if you're traveling to nearby destinations like the zoo or museums.

Finally, as for walking around Midtown during the day, it’s generally a good area to explore, with lots of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Just remember to stay aware of your surroundings, and if you're feeling uncertain about walking in certain areas at night, Uber is a safe and reliable option to get around.

Wishing you a wonderful and memorable trip to Atlanta with your daughter! Let me know if you have any other questions.