Help with location and transportation

Question

We just decided on a last-minute trip. We will be there from 06/02-06/04. Two of our party are going to an event on 06/03 at Mercedes Benz Stadium, and two are going to Truist Park the same night. We are trying to decide which area would be best to stay in? Would it be best to stay within walking distance of the Mercedes Benz and the other two commute to Truist or vice versa? Is the downtown area near Mercedes walkable to hotels and safe, as we would have to walk a bit further due to costs and availability right near the stadium? If we stay near Truist, I was looking at either Hampton or VRBO apartments nearby, but a few reviews mentioned drug use smells around, so I wasn't sure if they were safe or not. I was thinking of staying near one location so that at least two people can walk back to the hotel after the event, and the other two can commute. Or would it be better to stay in the middle somewhere? Thanks for any advice.

Answer

It sounds like you're trying to find a good balance between convenience, cost, and safety for your trip. Both Mercedes Benz Stadium (home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United) and Truist Park (home of the Atlanta Braves) are popular venues with their own unique advantages, and staying in the right area can make a big difference in terms of transportation and walkability. Here are some factors to consider based on your situation:

Location Near Mercedes Benz Stadium (Downtown Atlanta)

The area around Mercedes Benz Stadium is located in downtown Atlanta. This area is generally walkable, especially if you stay within a mile or so of the stadium. Some of the hotels around the stadium include:

Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center – This is one of the best options if you want to stay right near Mercedes Benz Stadium. It’s within walking distance to the stadium and other downtown attractions. The area around the hotel is usually busy with tourists and event-goers, and the hotel itself is highly rated.
AC Hotel by Marriott Atlanta Downtown – This hotel is also close to Mercedes Benz Stadium and offers a more modern option with easy access to the stadium. The area is walkable, though, as with any downtown area, it's always good to remain aware of your surroundings at night.
The Westin Peachtree Plaza – Located a little further from the stadium but still walkable, this hotel is an iconic part of Atlanta’s skyline and offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to downtown attractions.

Walkability and Safety in Downtown Atlanta

While downtown Atlanta has made strides in improving safety and walkability in recent years, some parts can feel a bit sketchy, particularly late at night. However, if you're staying in well-trafficked areas close to the stadium, you’ll generally be fine. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid wandering too far from the main crowds around the event. It's always a good idea to check current safety reports or ask locals for the most up-to-date advice.

Staying Near Truist Park

If you're considering staying near Truist Park, you'll be in the Cumberland area, which is a little further from downtown but still has some solid hotel options. You mentioned concerns about safety in this area, particularly regarding reports of drug use smells. If you’re looking for a more secure option, here are a couple of choices:

Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta Galleria – This is one of the most popular hotels near Truist Park. It’s located in the Cumberland area, which has a mix of residential and commercial properties. The hotel is generally safe, but as with any area, it's good to stay cautious when walking late at night.
The Battery Atlanta (near Truist Park) – The Battery is a newer development right next to Truist Park that includes hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's a very lively area, especially on game days, and staying here gives you easy access to the stadium without the need for a long commute.

If you're worried about some of the reviews mentioning drug-related issues, it may be a good idea to read more recent reviews or try to contact the property directly to ask about specific concerns. You could also consider looking into vacation rentals (VRBO) around The Battery or other nearby areas for more options, but make sure to check reviews carefully before booking.

Commuting Between Locations

Given that two of your group will be attending events at Mercedes Benz Stadium and the other two at Truist Park, staying somewhere in between could be a good solution. The Midtown area is centrally located and provides easy access to both venues by public transport or a short drive. Here are some options:

Midtown Atlanta Hotels – Hotels in Midtown, such as The Georgian Terrace Hotel or Hotel Midtown Atlanta, provide a central location with easy access to public transit or a short Uber/Lyft ride to either stadium. Midtown is a vibrant neighborhood with lots of restaurants, shops, and bars, making it a great option for both walking and commuting.
Stay Near MARTA Stations – If you want to be able to use public transportation to travel between the stadiums, staying near a MARTA station (like Five Points or Peachtree Center) could be helpful. You can take MARTA to Mercedes Benz Stadium easily, and then use a short Uber/Lyft to get to Truist Park, or use public transit to connect both venues.

Final Consideration: Cost and Convenience

Considering the logistics, I’d recommend staying near Midtown if you prefer a balance between both venues. You can have two people walk to Mercedes Benz Stadium and take public transport or an Uber/Lyft to Truist Park. Staying in Midtown also gives you access to restaurants, shops, and other attractions in the city, making it a more enjoyable experience. If you’re only focused on convenience to a single venue, then staying close to the respective stadium might be better, but be mindful of the safety concerns in the surrounding areas.

Hope this helps with your decision-making! Enjoy your time in Atlanta!