Walking from Botanical Gardens to Midtown

Question

I'm interested in seeing the Atlanta Botanical Gardens "Garden Lights, Holiday Nights" Christmas week. I believe that in past years, the event started at 5:00. I don't drive. Would it be safe for a female to walk from the gardens to a midtown hotel around 7:00 or 7:30pm? I'm asking because it looks like it would involve a walk through part of Piedmont Park, and I don't know if it will be dark and desolate at that time of evening. I walk 9 miles a day, so distance doesn't matter - I just don't want to put myself at risk of being mugged, etc.

Answer

Walking from the Atlanta Botanical Garden to Midtown at 7:00 or 7:30 PM can be a feasible option, but there are a few important things to consider regarding safety and convenience. While the distance is not a problem for you (as you walk 9 miles a day), there are a few factors that may impact your experience.

Here’s what you need to know:

Piedmont Park: The walk through Piedmont Park is a bit of a mixed bag. While Piedmont Park is generally safe, it can get a little quieter and darker as you head further into the park during the evening. The park does have well-lit areas, but some parts may feel desolate, especially during colder months when fewer people are around. This could be a concern, especially as the park can feel empty after sunset.
Safety: Midtown is generally a safe area, particularly around the Botanical Garden and the more popular spots. However, like any major city, it’s best to remain aware of your surroundings. At night, it’s always a good idea to stick to well-lit areas, and avoid shortcuts through less trafficked places. If you feel uncomfortable walking through the park, consider staying on the streets, which are better lit and have more foot traffic.
Alternative transportation options: If you are concerned about walking through darker areas or prefer not to walk through Piedmont Park, you can always use public transportation (MARTA) or a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. The Botanical Garden is close to MARTA’s Midtown Station, and it would be relatively easy to take a bus or a short ride to your hotel in Midtown.
Timing: The timing you’re looking at (7:00-7:30 PM) is during the winter, so it will likely be dark. If the "Garden Lights, Holiday Nights" event ends at 9:00 PM, walking alone in the dark for an extended period could be uncomfortable, especially if you're walking through an area that may not be well-lit or busy. If you’re not familiar with the area or feel unsure about the walk, it may be best to take a safer, more comfortable option like a rideshare.

### Recommendations:

If you're comfortable with it and stick to the well-lit, populated parts of Piedmont Park, walking could be an option, but do stay cautious and aware of your surroundings.
If you’re concerned about safety, consider a short Uber or Lyft ride for the peace of mind and to avoid walking through darker parts of the park.
If you're looking for a slightly safer and more convenient option, public transportation (MARTA) could be a good choice, as it would get you directly to Midtown in a safe and efficient way.

In summary, while it is generally safe to walk from the Botanical Garden to Midtown, your comfort and safety should be your top priority. If you're not comfortable walking through the park at night, or if you’re concerned about dark, quiet spots, consider taking an Uber or Lyft to ensure a stress-free and safe experience.

Walking from Botanical Gardens to Midtown

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