I am getting nervous

Question

I have been reading about the traffic challenges in Atlanta and really sad - it is putting me off visiting! Coming from Australia, heading from Tennesee to Orlando and atm feeling like I should travel back to Nashville (from Dollywood - who doesn't love Dolly!) and fly to Orlando rather than drive and spend a couple of days in Atlanta. Convince me I am being silly!

Answer

I completely understand your nerves! Driving in a new city, especially one known for heavy traffic like Atlanta, can definitely feel daunting. But let me help you take a step back and see the bigger picture—there's a lot to love about Atlanta, and with a little planning, you can easily avoid the worst of the traffic.

First, here’s why you shouldn't let the traffic hold you back:

Time of Day Matters: Atlanta’s traffic can indeed be frustrating during rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM), but outside of these times, traffic is manageable. If you plan to explore the city during the day, traffic is generally lighter, and you'll have a much smoother ride.
Atlanta’s Attractions Are Worth It: While traffic can be a challenge, the city's attractions are incredibly worth it. From the Georgia Aquarium, which is one of the largest in the world, to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Atlanta offers a deep cultural experience that's hard to replicate. If you're into art, the High Museum is a must-visit, and if you’re a foodie, the food scene in Atlanta is fantastic.
Public Transport Options: You don't necessarily have to drive everywhere in Atlanta. MARTA (the city’s public transit) is an excellent and affordable way to get around the city. The MARTA train connects you to many key attractions, including downtown, Midtown, and the airport. If you're nervous about driving, just hop on MARTA and leave the traffic behind!
Easy Access to Parks and Nature: Despite being a large city, Atlanta has plenty of green spaces and parks, such as Piedmont Park, which is perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic away from the hustle of the city. The Atlanta BeltLine, a former railway corridor, is now a trendy area for walking, cycling, and checking out cool restaurants and art installations.

Now, for a few strategies to make your visit easier:

Stay Central: If you’re concerned about the traffic, staying in a central area like Midtown or Downtown will allow you to walk to many attractions and reduce the need to drive. Both areas have hotels with good access to MARTA and are close to major sites like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and Centennial Olympic Park.
Consider Off-Peak Travel: Try to plan your visits to major attractions during off-peak hours. Most attractions open early, so arriving right when they open (9 AM) will allow you to enjoy the sights before the crowds and traffic hit. Plus, you’ll be back in the car during a less busy time.
Use Rideshare Services: Uber or Lyft are great ways to get around without worrying about parking or navigating through traffic. Plus, rideshare drivers are usually very familiar with the best routes to take to avoid traffic jams.

Lastly, Atlanta is a big city, but it’s also a friendly one. People are incredibly welcoming and, once you experience the southern charm and hospitality, it’s easy to forget about the traffic frustrations. So don't let your worries about driving keep you from experiencing all that Atlanta has to offer. It’s worth the stop, and with a bit of planning, you can have a wonderful time exploring without the stress!

And hey, if you really decide it's just not for you, flying from Nashville to Orlando instead of driving through Atlanta is always an option—but you’d miss out on all the amazing history, food, and culture Atlanta has to offer!

I am getting nervous

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