Thanksgiving visit

Question

We plan staying 4 days in Atlanta at Thanksgiving time. Planning to do Stone Mountain, Botanical Gardens and downtown (Football college hall of fame). I need help on best place to stay that would be somewhat centrally located.We will have a car. Budget max $250/night. Also looking for a place to eat traditional Thanksgiving dinner for family.

Thanks in advance.

Answer

For your 4-day visit to Atlanta during Thanksgiving, you’ll have a great time exploring the city and its attractions, and finding a centrally located place to stay will make your trip even more enjoyable. Here's a detailed guide to help with your accommodation and Thanksgiving dinner plans:

Accommodation Suggestions:

Since you’ll have a car and want to be centrally located, staying in Downtown, Midtown, or the Buckhead area would be ideal. These neighborhoods are well-connected and close to major attractions like Stone Mountain, the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and the College Football Hall of Fame. Your budget of $250 per night is reasonable for these areas, and you should be able to find several options that offer both comfort and convenience.

Holiday Inn Express Atlanta Downtown: This is a budget-friendly option right in the heart of Downtown. It's close to the College Football Hall of Fame, Centennial Olympic Park, and other major attractions. It offers comfortable accommodations with free breakfast, parking (additional cost), and convenient access to public transportation.
Drury Inn & Suites Atlanta Midtown: This hotel is located in Midtown, providing easy access to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Piedmont Park, and other attractions. It offers free breakfast, free evening drinks, and an indoor pool. The location is perfect for getting around the city without too much hassle.
Hyatt Centric Buckhead Atlanta: Situated in Buckhead, this hotel is just a short drive from Downtown and Stone Mountain. It offers upscale amenities, and while it may be a bit more luxurious than other options, you may be able to find good deals in the off-season, keeping you within budget.
Staybridge Suites Atlanta Perimeter Center East: Located near Perimeter Mall, this hotel offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, free breakfast, and evening socials. While it’s not in the heart of Downtown, it’s a more affordable option with easy access to major highways.

Thanksgiving Dinner Options:

For a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, many restaurants in Atlanta offer special holiday menus. Here are a few recommendations for places that serve a Thanksgiving feast:

Glenn’s Kitchen: Located in Downtown, Glenn’s Kitchen offers a Thanksgiving Day buffet featuring all the traditional dishes, from turkey and stuffing to pumpkin pie. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it's perfect for families looking for a classic holiday meal.
The Rotisserie Shop: Located in Midtown, this local gem offers a great family-friendly Thanksgiving menu. It’s known for its rotisserie chicken, but they also serve classic holiday meals with all the sides. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a more casual but delicious option.
Atlanta Marriott Marquis: The Marriott offers a Thanksgiving Day brunch with all the traditional dishes, including turkey, stuffing, and a variety of desserts. The restaurant inside the hotel is a great option if you're looking for something upscale with an extensive spread.
City View Restaurant: Situated atop the Glenn Hotel, this restaurant offers a breathtaking view of the city skyline along with a Thanksgiving buffet featuring all the staples of a classic holiday meal. It's a good choice if you're looking for a fine-dining experience with a great view.
Bone’s Restaurant: If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Bone’s in Buckhead is one of Atlanta’s top steakhouses. While they don’t have a traditional Thanksgiving menu, they do offer a fantastic variety of steak and seafood, which could be a unique alternative to the typical turkey dinner.

Things to Do:

During your visit, aside from Stone Mountain and the Botanical Garden, here are some more family-friendly activities in and around Atlanta:

Georgia Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world, the Georgia Aquarium is a must-see for families. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and marine animal displays, and you can easily spend a few hours here.
Atlanta History Center: The Atlanta History Center in Buckhead offers engaging exhibits on the Civil War, Southern history, and much more. It’s a great place to explore, especially if you enjoy museums.
High Museum of Art: For art lovers, the High Museum of Art in Midtown is a fantastic option. It’s home to diverse collections, and it offers special holiday programs and activities for kids.
Ponce City Market: For shopping, dining, and entertainment, Ponce City Market is a great place to explore. The rooftop amusement park offers mini-golf and rides, while the food hall has a wide variety of options.

Final Thoughts:

Four days in Atlanta during Thanksgiving sounds like a great plan! Staying within Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead will keep you close to the main attractions, and there are plenty of excellent dining options for your Thanksgiving dinner. Be sure to make reservations for Thanksgiving dinner well in advance, as many restaurants get booked up quickly during the holiday season. Enjoy your time in Atlanta!

Thanksgiving visit

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