Stone Mountain State Park by Public Transportation

Question

Hello!

I am going to Atllanta for a couple days. I will use one day to visit DT Atlanta and the next day (a Friday) to go to Stone Mountain. I prefer not to drive, I am on a budget and I have the whole Friday to reach Stone Mountain and see the park. I was wondering if there is anyway to use MARTA or any other transport to get there. I am sure it will take time, and it is not straightforward, but I am willing to explore. Thanks!

Answer

Visiting Stone Mountain State Park from downtown Atlanta using public transportation is definitely possible, though as you mentioned, it will take some time and a bit of planning. Here’s how you can get there using MARTA and other public transit options:

1. Take MARTA to the End of the Blue Line The first step is to take MARTA's Blue Line (East-West Line) from downtown Atlanta. You'll board the train at a central station like Five Points or Peachtree Center, and travel east toward the Indian Creek station, which is the last stop on the Blue Line.

2. Transfer to Bus 120 or Bus 156 Once you arrive at the Indian Creek station, you can transfer to a MARTA bus that goes to Stone Mountain Park. The most common buses are:

Bus 120: This bus will take you directly to the Stone Mountain area and make stops around the park, including the entrance.
Bus 156: Another option that may take a slightly different route but will still get you close to the park.

3. Bus Ride to Stone Mountain Park The bus ride from Indian Creek to Stone Mountain Park takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day. Buses run regularly, but it's always a good idea to check schedules in advance to ensure you’re not waiting too long.

4. Total Travel Time Altogether, your trip from downtown Atlanta to Stone Mountain Park by MARTA and bus will likely take around 1.5 to 2 hours one-way, depending on wait times for the train and bus. This means you should allow plenty of time for your visit, especially if you plan to explore the park thoroughly.

Cost: MARTA fares are affordable, with a one-way fare costing around $2.50 for the train and a similar price for the bus. A round trip will be about $10-$12 in total, which is a budget-friendly option.
Alternative Option - Uber or Lyft: If you're not keen on taking multiple forms of transit, you could use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to take you directly from downtown Atlanta to Stone Mountain Park. While this will be more expensive than public transit, it could save you time and convenience.
Check Schedules: Make sure to check MARTA's website or use the MARTA mobile app for updated schedules on the day of your trip. Bus schedules might vary depending on the time of day.

While it's a bit of an adventure, taking public transportation to Stone Mountain can be a great way to see the local area without the hassle of driving. Enjoy your visit!