Thursday night 7pm from the airport by Marta alone

Question

Hi, Is it safe to ride marta alone at 7 pm from the airport to Peachtree Center then walk to The Westin Peachtree Plaza? Thursday night? :)

Answer

Taking MARTA from the airport to Peachtree Center and walking to The Westin Peachtree Plaza is generally safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your comfort and safety, especially when traveling alone in the evening.

First, let’s break down the different parts of your trip:

MARTA from the Airport: The MARTA train from the airport to Peachtree Center is a popular and efficient route, and 7 pm is a typical time when trains are still busy, though not overly crowded. The Blue and Green lines (which both stop at the airport) run frequently, and the ride is about 15-20 minutes. The airport station is well-lit, and MARTA staff are present in the station during operational hours. That said, like any public transit system, it’s always a good idea to stay alert, especially when traveling alone in the evening.
Walking to The Westin Peachtree Plaza: Once you exit at Peachtree Center Station, the walk to The Westin Peachtree Plaza is only a few blocks (approximately a 5-minute walk). This part of downtown Atlanta is relatively busy, with hotels, restaurants, and office buildings, so you won’t be alone. The area around Peachtree Center is well-traveled, and you should feel safe walking, but as with any city, it's wise to remain aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. Stick to well-lit streets, and if you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to ask for directions or assistance from staff in the area.

Here are a few safety tips for traveling alone in Atlanta at night:

Stay in well-lit, busy areas: Stick to major streets and avoid isolated or poorly lit side streets. Peachtree Street is one of the main thoroughfares, so you’ll be on a major, well-lit route to your hotel.
Be aware of your surroundings: Keep your phone handy and stay alert to what’s happening around you. Don’t get distracted by your phone or other devices while walking.
Trust your instincts: If something feels off or you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to ask someone for help or take a different route. MARTA also has emergency call buttons in the stations, should you need assistance.

Overall, MARTA is a good option for getting from the airport to downtown Atlanta, and the area around Peachtree Center is generally safe for walking, especially if you’re in the main tourist corridor. It’s normal to see other travelers and pedestrians at this time of evening. That being said, it’s always best to stay aware, and if you have any concerns, you can also consider using a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft for the last part of the trip, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or feel uneasy about walking at night.

Safe travels, and enjoy your stay in Atlanta!