MARTA rapid transit is the fastest and cheapest way to reach downtown Atlanta from the airport.

About Downtown Atlanta

Downtown Atlanta is the commercial and governmental center of the American South, anchored by landmarks that tell the story of a city that rose from the ashes of the Civil War to become a global metropolis. Centennial Olympic Park, built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, serves as the central gathering space surrounded by major attractions including the Georgia Aquarium (the largest in the Western Hemisphere), the World of Coca-Cola, and the College Football Hall of Fame.

The area around Peachtree Street — Atlanta\'s main thoroughfare — contains the city\'s tallest buildings and corporate headquarters, reflecting Atlanta\'s role as the economic engine of the Southeast. The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood preserves Dr. King\'s birth home, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and his tomb, making it one of America\'s most important civil rights pilgrimage sites.

Downtown Atlanta is also a major convention destination, with the Georgia World Congress Center and AmericasMart hosting massive events year-round. The food scene has evolved significantly, with areas like Sweet Auburn Curb Market and the emerging South Downtown district offering everything from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative chef-driven concepts.

Nearby Landmarks

Georgia Aquarium World of Coca-Cola Centennial Olympic Park MLK Historic Site

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $30-40 (flat rate)
Time 20-30 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $20-30
Time 20-30 minutes

Rideshare pickup at Ground Transportation Center, lower level

Train (MARTA Red/Gold Line)

Cost $3
Time 20 minutes
Frequency Every 10-15 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

Take MARTA Gold Line from Airport Station to Five Points Station (8 stops)

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $30-40 (flat rate) 20-30 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $20-30 20-30 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Train $3 20 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

MARTA rail runs until approximately 1:00 AM (1:30 AM on weekends). After that, taxis and Uber/Lyft are available 24/7 at the airport ground transportation center. The flat taxi rate from the airport to downtown is approximately USD 30. Downtown Atlanta is quiet late at night outside of event days — Uber is more reliable than street hails after midnight.

Luggage Tips

MARTA trains have open floor plans with space for luggage, but can be crowded during events (especially during conventions and Falcons/Hawks game days). The airport MARTA station is inside the terminal — follow the signs from baggage claim. Five Points station has elevators. For heavy luggage, the escalators at Peachtree Center station can be more convenient.

Accessibility

Atlanta Airport and all MARTA stations are fully ADA compliant with elevators, tactile strips, and audio announcements. MARTA trains have designated wheelchair spaces. Downtown Atlanta's newer sidewalks meet ADA standards, though older areas around Sweet Auburn have some uneven pavement. The Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and MLK Historic Site are all wheelchair accessible.