Weds Jan 22nd arriving from SXM St Maarten on Delta.

Hello, My husband, who has bad knees, and I are arriving 5 pm this Weds via Delta from SXM to ATL. Our very first time at ATL. I have looked at other posts. We need a hotel near airport to get 10 a.m. flight, Thurs the 23rd, on Delta to PVD. I'm overwhelmed by where to stay and which part of the airport we will fly into and out of. Think my husband will be better off with assistance (wheelchair). Any advice would be much appreciated.

It sounds like you have a tight connection between flights, and I understand that it can be overwhelming, especially when you’re unfamiliar with Atlanta Airport (ATL). First, don’t worry about navigating the airport—ATL is large but well-designed for travelers, and there are plenty of resources to help you get to where you need to go.

For your situation, I recommend staying at a hotel near the airport to ensure a smooth transition from your evening arrival to your morning flight. Since you’ll be flying Delta on both legs, you’ll likely arrive at Terminal South (Terminal 2) and depart from there as well. Delta operates primarily out of Terminal South (for domestic flights), so it’s convenient to stay in a hotel close by for easy access to your departure gate.

Regarding your husband's knee issues, Delta provides wheelchair assistance for passengers with mobility challenges. You can request this assistance at the time of booking your flight or directly with the Delta customer service desk at ATL. They can help you navigate between terminals and get to your gate without any stress.

Here are some hotel options near ATL that are highly rated, convenient for airport access, and offer shuttle services to the terminals:

  • Atlanta Airport Marriott: This is a top choice for convenience, located just a few minutes away from the terminals. The hotel offers a free 24-hour shuttle service to and from the airport, and it’s a good option for anyone looking for comfort and easy access. It’s known for its helpful staff and accessible amenities, which could be beneficial for your husband’s needs.
  • Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel: Connected to the SkyTrain, which directly links to Terminal South, this hotel is one of the most convenient options. The SkyTrain runs 24/7 and is fully accessible. The hotel also offers a free shuttle service to the terminals. It’s a modern, well-reviewed hotel with everything you need for a comfortable stay.
  • Hyatt Place Atlanta Airport South: This hotel is affordable, comfortable, and offers free airport shuttles every 30 minutes. The rooms are spacious, and they also provide breakfast, which can be convenient for your morning flight. It’s a good option if you’re looking for something a bit more budget-friendly while still being close to the airport.
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Atlanta Airport: Just minutes from the airport, the DoubleTree offers a free shuttle to the terminals. It’s a great option for comfort, and the hotel’s well-known for providing extra services to assist with accessibility. They also give a warm cookie at check-in, which is a nice little touch after your flight!

Once you arrive at ATL, if you’ve arranged wheelchair assistance with Delta, their staff will meet you at the gate and escort you to baggage claim, through security (if needed), and to your next gate. Just make sure to contact Delta in advance or let them know when you arrive that you need assistance, and they’ll take care of the rest.

If you have time when you arrive at the hotel, you can also check in, have a light dinner, and relax before your flight the next morning. These hotels are close enough to the airport that you won’t have to worry about missing your morning flight. The shuttles run frequently, and it only takes a few minutes to reach the terminals.

In summary, I recommend booking a hotel close to ATL with a shuttle service, such as the Atlanta Airport Marriott or Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel. Make sure to request wheelchair assistance for your husband, and you should have an easy, stress-free experience at ATL. Enjoy your trip, and safe travels!


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