Airport to Midtown Atlanta (Staybridge Suites)

Question

Hi all,

I am flying internationally from Australia via San Francisco (transfer only) to Atlanta GA. Will land on a Friday night around 5pm in Atlanta in late June. I have never been to Atlanta. Hotel is Staybridge Suites Midtown Atlanta. I plan to collect a Breeze card for Marta transport whilst I am in the airport at Atlanta. There is no hotel shuttle/pick up service. Am I best to use the Marta subway or Bus or airport shuttle or uber or taxi to get to my hotel? I am assuming 5-7pm on Friday night is a busy time for traffic congestion but also not sure how safe travelling the subway with luggage is at this time? Many thanks for your advice.

Answer

Welcome to Atlanta! There are several transportation options available from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to Staybridge Suites Midtown Atlanta. Considering the time of day (late Friday afternoon) and the fact that you’ll have luggage, here are a few suggestions to help you decide on the best method of transport:

1. MARTA Subway (Most Cost-Effective) MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) offers a convenient and affordable option. The subway is a direct route from the airport to the Midtown area, with a stop near your hotel. Here's how you can use MARTA: - From the airport, you’ll catch the Gold Line (Northeast line) toward Doraville. - Get off at the Midtown Station (about a 15-minute ride). - From Midtown Station, Staybridge Suites is about a 10-minute walk (0.5 miles) to the hotel. You can either walk or take a short Uber if you prefer not to walk with luggage. - Pros: Cheap (approximately $2.50 for a one-way fare), quick, and easy to navigate. - Cons: The walk from the Midtown station to Staybridge Suites might be a bit long with luggage, especially if you're tired after a long flight. MARTA can be crowded at rush hour, but the train is generally safe for travelers, and there’s a dedicated luggage area.

2. MARTA Bus (Less Convenient for Luggage) You could take a MARTA bus, but this option is typically less convenient with luggage. If you opt for a bus, you would need to check schedules and routes that go directly to the Midtown area, but the train is usually faster and more direct. - Pros: Low cost, though generally not the best option with luggage. - Cons: The bus could be slower, especially during rush hour, and less convenient with heavy bags.

3. Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) (Convenient, but More Expensive) If you're looking for a door-to-door, hassle-free experience, taking a taxi or rideshare like Uber or Lyft is your best bet. The ride from the airport to Staybridge Suites will typically take around 20–30 minutes depending on traffic (and it will likely be busy due to the time of day). Expect to pay around $35-$45 for a standard Uber or taxi ride. - Pros: Very convenient, no need to worry about transfers or walking. You’ll be dropped directly at the hotel. - Cons: Traffic in Atlanta can be heavy, especially during rush hour (5-7pm), which could result in delays. It’s also more expensive compared to MARTA.

4. Airport Shuttle (Least Preferred) Although some hotels offer airport shuttle services, Staybridge Suites Midtown does not. You would have to rely on the airport's shared shuttle services, which are not always the most reliable or fast. This option could take longer and might not directly take you to your hotel, requiring an additional transfer. - Pros: Relatively inexpensive, but not ideal for a straightforward trip to your hotel. - Cons: Can be slower and less direct than MARTA or Uber, especially if waiting for other passengers.

### Summary of Recommendations:

MARTA Subway: Cheapest and relatively quick. Ideal if you're comfortable walking from Midtown station to your hotel. Great option if you're traveling light.
Taxi/Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Most convenient, but can be expensive and subject to traffic delays. Best for door-to-door service with luggage.
Airport Shuttle: Least recommended option due to possible delays and transfers.

In conclusion, I would recommend the MARTA subway as the best option for its affordability and convenience, especially if you don't mind the short walk from the Midtown station to Staybridge Suites. It’s safe, easy to use, and you’ll avoid the hassle of traffic congestion. However, if you prefer a more comfortable and direct option, Uber or Lyft would be a great choice, just keep in mind the potential traffic during peak hours.