Hotel Apartments/hotels around O4W/MIDTOWN

Question

Hey all,

So, I will soon be spending some weeks in the Carter President Library for Archive Research (I'm an academic from a broad). I don't know Atlanta; from what I saw, it has some not-so-nice places to stay at night.

I am looking for a hotel or apartment in that area, but I'm a bit worried about where to stay.

I saw that there is a Sonder not so far away (near the Emory Hospital), but the Street View seems kind of sketchy. Is it true? Or am I just worrying too much?

I also saw an aparthotel at the Old Ponce Market. I was wondering how the areas around O4W are? is it safe to go alone? Take the bus? Regarding hotels, I also saw something interesting about Parkway Drive but some mixed reviews about the area.

Would love any pointers regarding areas not to go to and where to go.

Also if you have any recommendations regarding the area...

thanks

Answer

It’s great that you’ll be spending time in Atlanta for your research! Atlanta is a vibrant city with a lot of history and culture, but like many large cities, it has neighborhoods that vary in terms of safety, convenience, and character. Let me break down some of the areas you're considering, as well as offer some general guidance on where to stay and what to avoid.

Old Fourth Ward (O4W): This area has undergone a lot of gentrification in recent years and is generally considered to be quite safe, especially around popular spots like the Ponce City Market. The neighborhood has a mix of older buildings and newly renovated ones, with lots of trendy bars, restaurants, and shops. However, like any urban area, there are pockets that can feel a little sketchier. It’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings when walking at night, but overall, O4W is a lively and up-and-coming area with lots to explore. You can take public transportation or even walk around the area, but I’d recommend taking extra caution after dark, particularly around less busy streets.
Midtown: Midtown is one of the safest and most popular areas in Atlanta, offering a mix of cultural attractions, restaurants, and bars. It's a business district, but also residential, and has a lot to offer for those looking for both convenience and comfort. Hotels in Midtown tend to be higher-end, but the area is generally very walkable, and there’s a lot of public transit available. If you're looking for a safe and easy place to stay with lots of amenities, Midtown is an excellent choice.
Emory Hospital Area: The area near Emory Hospital can feel a bit more residential, but it also has a mix of office buildings and apartment complexes. While there may be some areas that feel less polished, it is largely a safe and quiet part of town. As with any urban area, you might find some streets that seem quieter or less developed, but overall it’s a convenient area for someone who needs to be near Emory or downtown. Street View can sometimes make a neighborhood look different than it feels in real life, so it’s worth checking it out in person if possible.
Parkway Drive Area: This neighborhood is a bit more hit-or-miss in terms of safety and comfort. While it’s relatively close to popular areas like Midtown, some parts of Parkway Drive have mixed reviews, with concerns about safety in certain areas. It's best to do more research or check with locals to see if you feel comfortable in that particular part of the city, especially if you plan to be walking alone or taking public transport late at night.

Overall, here are a few tips to help guide your stay:

Avoiding less desirable areas: Areas around the west side of downtown (like Vine City or parts of West End) are often considered less safe, especially after dark. While some of these areas are gentrifying, they can still have higher crime rates in certain pockets.
Public Transport: The MARTA system is a convenient way to get around, and areas near MARTA stations, especially in Midtown, are generally safe. However, be cautious when using public transportation late at night or in less crowded areas. If you’re traveling with valuable equipment or research materials, it’s a good idea to keep them secure.
General Safety: Atlanta is a large, diverse city, so like any urban environment, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and try to avoid walking alone in unfamiliar, quieter parts of the city after dark.

In terms of recommendations, here are a few areas to explore while you're in Atlanta:

Atlanta BeltLine: The BeltLine is a network of parks, trails, and transit options connecting various neighborhoods in Atlanta, including O4W and Midtown. It's a great place for a walk, and there are plenty of great restaurants and bars along the route.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park: A must-see for history buffs, the MLK Jr. Park is located near downtown and offers insights into the life and legacy of one of Atlanta’s most important figures.
Piedmont Park: This large, beautiful park is located in Midtown and is great for walking, picnicking, and outdoor activities. It’s one of the nicest spots in the city to relax and enjoy nature.

In conclusion, while there are definitely areas in Atlanta to be cautious about, Midtown and O4W are generally safe and convenient for a visitor. The area around Emory and the Ponce City Market is also a solid option if you're looking for a mix of safety and local flavor. Just keep your wits about you, and you'll likely have a wonderful stay in Atlanta!

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