Heading to the Atlanta airport soon? You’re in good company! Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) claims the title of busiest airport in the world, with over 104 million passengers making their way through its concourses last year.
With around 2,100 arrivals and departures each day, Atlanta is a frequent destination and connection point for many global travelers. Here, you’ll enjoy world-class dining, unique shops, restful spots to relax, unique amenities, and more.
In this post, discover insiders’ tips to navigate Hartsfield-Jackson smoothly. Whether Atlanta is your final destination or just a stopover – this is your guide to the best of the Atlanta airport and beyond!
Our favorite things to do in the Atlanta Airport & during a layover:
- Eat at local restaurants with airport outposts, like Ecco and El Taco
- Treat yourself with a massage at Be Relax Spa or a nap at MinuteSuites
- Grab a bagel at Goldberg’s or a doughnut at Krispy Kreme
- Pick up an Atlanta-themed souvenir or gift
- Venture outside the airport during a layover for the #1-rated Atlanta tour!
In this post, you’ll find:
- How to get to and how to navigate around Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson airport
- Atlanta airport parking options, nearby hotels, and helpful travel tips
- The best places to eat and drink at Hartsfield-Jackson
- Atlanta airport spots to relax and recharge
- The history of the Atlanta airport, including who Hartsfield-Jackson was named after
Atlanta Airport: Ultimate Guide for Travelers
Navigating Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Atlanta’s airport terminal spans 156 acres and 192 gates. In fact, around 286,000 passengers move through the airport every day! Learn how to navigate through Hartsfield-Jackson like a pro with the tips and guidance below.
Getting To & From Atlanta’s Airport
Hartsfield-Jackson is in the south part of the city, 10 miles from Downtown Atlanta. There are a number of ways to get there, including:
- MARTA (Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority): purchase a MARTA pass and take a MARTA Red or Gold line train south to Airport Station.
- An airport shuttle
- A ride-sharing option like Uber or Lyft
- Taxicabs
- Rental cars from the airport’s on-site rental car center
- Driving to the airport and parking (see below)
Keep in mind: Atlanta’s roads can be busy, especially during rush hour! Be sure to plan buffer time to account for traffic.
Atlanta Airport Parking
Atlanta’s airport is conveniently located off of interstates 75, 85, and 285. With 30,000+ public spaces, parking options are ample! Choose from North & South Domestic Covered Parking, Economy Parking, Domestic Park-Ride, ATL West Deck, Park ATL Select, Gold Reserve Parking, designated spots for disabled passengers, EV charging stations, and a cellphone lot for brief waits during pickup.
In our experience, Domestic Park Ride is a convenient and budget-friendly option. For $10 per day (at time of publishing), you can park in an uncovered lot on airport property. Then, look for the nearby airport shuttle that takes passengers directly to both the North and South terminals. While not required, we love to bring a few dollars to tip the driver – especially if they’re helping with your bags!
Find official Atlanta airport parking maps and Current Lot Statuss here. You can also find information about parking rates, advance reservations, EV charging, and more.
Hartsfield-Jackson Terminals & The Plane Train
Hartsfield-Jackson has two main terminals: the Domestic Terminal and the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal. Domestic flights leave from Concourses T, A, B, C, and D. International flights leave from Concourses E and F. View a map of the airport concourses here.
To move between concourses, hop aboard the “The Plane Train!” This indoor tram moves passengers between airport destinations. Be sure to hold onto the railing and your bags, especially when the train starts and stops! While the train is designed for most passengers to stand, you can find seats at the end of train cars.
Feel like stretching your legs? You can also walk between concourses, with moving sidewalks to assist. The airport’s signage notes a 5 minute walk between each concourse. In our experience, it can be a bit longer – especially if you stop to browse the airport’s collections of artwork and curated exhibitions along the way!
Accessibility Resources & Nursing Pods in the Atlanta Airport
The airport’s Accessibility webpage shares resources and information for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other passengers who may require assistance.
First and foremost, Hartsfield-Jackson notes the airport is “free of any architectural barriers to people with disabilities” and shares that all airport restroom facilities are equipped for wheelchair access. Airport representatives are available to provide wheelchair assistance, and Hartsfield-Jackson encourages reserving a wheelchair directly through your airline ahead of your flight.
You can find an ADA & Special Services Map of the airport online showing areas such as the sensory room, service animal relief areas (in each concourse), adult changing station (Concourse F – family restroom, departure level), wheelchair charging stations, and more.
If you have questions about accessibility or medical needs, the TSA Cares phone line can provide assistance during scheduled hours, within 72 hours of your scheduled flight.
Traveling with a nursing little one? Find private Mamava nursing pods near Gates B5, D34, F5, and T7. The airport also offers unisex family restrooms in the Domestic Terminal arrivals lobby and throughout each concourse.
Atlanta Airport Food & Drink Options
With 160+ spots to grab a bite, Hartsfield-Jackson won’t leave you hungry! Below are a few of our favorite spots. Explore a wide variety of other options on the airport’s dining page!
Bantam + Biddy | Concourse C
Across several Atlanta-area locations, Bantam + Biddy serves up a family-friendly menu featuring Southern favorites. Try vegetarian chili, crispy chicken wings, fried green tomatoes, pimento cheese, and roast chicken. When in Atlanta!
Ecco | Concourse F, Level 2
Head to Ecco for modern European cuisine beloved by Atlanta locals. Choose from cured meats and cheeses, pastas, flatbreads, and more. Don’t miss out on the fried goat cheese with honey and black pepper!
Goldberg’s Bagel Company & Deli | Concourse A
Goldberg’s is Atlanta’s destination for fresh-made bagels and egg sandwiches, potato latkes, Reuben sandwiches and other deli favorites!
Grindhouse Killer Burgers | Concourses D & T
Burger lovers, rejoice! Local spot Grindhouse offers delectable burgers (including vegetarian options), fries, and sides. Perfect for the kids, or anyone who wants a quick and easy bite.
One Flew South | Concourse E
Looking for a unique and elegant airport dining option? One Flew South offers “travel-inspired provisions” and proclaims itself “the first upscale dining experience at the world’s busiest airport.”
Papi’s Cuban Grill | Concourse T
In the mood for cuban sandwiches and coffee? Papi’s has you covered! Try the mariquitas (fried plantais), taco platters, sandwiches, and more. Plus, vegetarian options are clearly marked!
Paschal’s | Concourse B
Experience a piece of Atlanta’s history at Paschal’s! This spot serves up delicious Soul Food, with its original location opened in 1947.
The restaurant’s founder, Robert Paschal, was known for supporting the Civil Rights movement in Atlanta, with Paschal’s being one of the few Black-owned restaurants at that time.
The Varsity
An iconic Atlanta meal! The Varsity serves up burgers, dogs, fries, and the famous Frosted Orange shake.
Coffee Shops & Sweets
Go ahead and get yourself a little treat – you deserve it!
- Caribou Coffee (Concourses A & E)
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Concourses A, D, T)
- Dunkin’ Donuts (Concourses A, B, T)
- Krispy Kreme Doughnuts (Concourse C)
- Piece of Cake (Concourse A)
- Starbucks (Concourses C, F, T, Domestic Terminal, International Arrivals)
Familiar Chain Restaurants – A Few of the Many Options!
- Arby’s (Concourse E)
- Bojangle’s (Concourse T)
- Buffalo Wild Wings (Concourse D, Mezzanine)
- Burger King (Domestic Terminal)
- Chick-fil-A (Concourses A & C)
- Chipotle (Concourse D)
- Five Guys Burgers & Fries (Concourse C)
- McDonald’s (Concourses A & E)
- Panda Express (Concourse E)
- Subway (Concourses E & T)
- Taco Bell (Domestic Terminal)
Shopping & Stores at Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta’s airport is filled with shops to pick up a souvenir, gift, or travel necessity. Here are a few noteworthy spots to grab that last-minute item!
Travel Necessities, Gifts, & Books
Find a wide variety of souvenirs, Atlanta merch, travel necessities, and books at shops like the 11 Alive Travel Store in Concourse B, All ATL in Concourse D, ATL Luggage & Gifts in Concourses C & D, Atlanta Daily World in Concourses B, C, & D, and many others.
Cosmetics Shops for a Quick Pick-Me-Up
Need a last-minute makeup item? Head to the 24-hour Benefit vending machine in Concourse E! Other options include Kiehl’s (Concourses B & F) Kylie, L’Occitane (Concourse A), MAC (Concourses A & F), and more.
Clothing Stores
Pick up a new piece (or swap out a spill!) at shops like Brooks Brothers (Concourse E), Johnston & Murphy (Concourse D), SPANX (founded by Atlanta’s own Sara Blakely!) (Concourse E), and more.
Jewelry Stores for a Special Gift
Need a special gift for someone you love? Browse fine crystal jewelry, watches, and more at Swarovski in Concourse E. Or, explore Brighton in Concourse A.
Duty Free Shops
Head to Duty Free Americas in Concourses E and F to buy duty-free products for international travelers.
Relax, Lounge, & Browse Artwork at the Airport
Have some time on your hands? Unwind and recharge in these lounge areas. Plus, browse the airport’s impressive art collection for creative inspiration!
Be Relax Spa
Treat yourself to salon and spa services at Be Relax Spa in Concourse B. It’s the perfect way to unwind before your flight or between flights!
The Barber Shop Salon
Get a haircut and/or shave at The Barber Shop Salon in the Domestic Terminal, near North Baggage Claim.
The Chiroport
If you’ve been hunched over, slumped in a plane seat, or just need a good reset, head to The Chiroport in Concourse A for chiropractic services.
Delta Sky Club
Delta Sky Club Members and those who qualify can find Delta Sky Club locations in all concourses of Hartsfield-Jackson airport. Look on Delta’s website for a list of locations and details.
Art & Culture: Explore Airport Exhibitions!
Art from a previous Hartsfield-Jackson airport exhibition by South-Korean-born figurative ceramic artist Kyungmin Park.
Hartsfield-Jackson airport aims to “integrate art into the daily fabric” of its operations. As a result, Atlanta’s airport is a great spot to explore the artwork while you’re here!
The airport notes that their Airport Art program “commissions site-specific artwork, produces and curates rotating exhibits, and manages performances and artist programming. With over 1,000 artworks in one of the largest public art sites in the Southeastern U.S., there is plenty to explore.”
Much of this artwork can be found by strolling between concourses rather than taking The Plane Train. Our team members have also been delighted by violin and saxophone performances while waiting in the airport’s security lines, especially during the holiday season. At Hartsfield-Jackson, you never know what new artwork or performances you’ll find to inspire you during your travels!
What to Do on a Layover at Hartsfield-Jackson
Have a layover in Atlanta? Watch the 5-minute video below to discover our favorite ideas for a long layover at Hartsfield-Jackson!
Outside the Airport: Best Things to Do in Atlanta
Looking to experience the best of Atlanta? Look no further than the #1-rated “Tour & Activity” in city: Unexpected Atlanta Unexpected Atlanta walking tours! For nearly a decade, our local tour guides and historians have shared insider’s secrets and hidden gems with Atlanta’s residents and visitors.
With Unexpected Atlanta, you can expect to discover the most fascinating history and delectable food our city has to offer. Join us for a unique experience with your family, partner, or friends. We also offer private experiences for families and student groups, plus corporate and team building experiences!
Explore more of Atlanta our on our blog. You’ll find fun ideas for families, couples, coworkers, and friends to make the most of ATL! Plan your trip with the Ultimate 3-Day Atlanta Itinerary, savor the city with cooking classes, and more.
Hotels Near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
If you’re planning to stay near Atlanta’s airport, hotel options abound. Below are just a few hotels to explore, with many others in the area as well. We’ve grouped these options by hotel brand, so you can get those loyalty travel points!
IHG
- Staybridge Suites Atlanta Airport
- Holiday Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport – North
- Holiday Inn Express Atlanta Airport – College Park
- Hotel Indigo Atlanta Airport – College Park
Browse more airport-area IHG hotels here.
Marriott
- The Westin Atlanta Airport
- Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway
- Renaissance Concourse Atlanta Airport Hotel
- Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel
- AC Hotel Atlanta Airport Gateway
Hilton
More Atlanta Airport-Area Hotels
- MinuteSuites – Nap in the airport with a daybed sofa, sound masking system, and personal thermostat. Find MinuteSuites past airport security, in Concourses B, E, and F. Select locations also offer showers.
- Sonesta Atlanta Airport South
Travel Tips: Become an ATL Airport Pro!
- View Hartsfield-Jackson security wait times in real time with minute-by-minute updates!
- Access free Wi-Fi from virtually any location in the airpot through the SSID ATL Free Wi-Fi network.
- Find a Interfaith Airport Chapel in the Domestic Terminal (atrium, 3rd floor, pre-security) as well as Concourse E and Concourse F.
- Sign up for TSA Pre-Check® or CLEAR ahead of your trip to streamline your security experience.
- Check the TSA’s “What can I bring?” guide before traveling.
- Download apps for your airline, rental car company, and/or hotel to access information on-the-go, and/or save passes to your phone’s Wallet.
The History of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Did you know Hartsfield-Jackson has been the busiest airport in the world for 23 of the last 24 years? But, the origins of Atlanta’s airport began around a century ago, in the 1920s.
Initially an abandoned auto racetrack, the property was developed into an airfield in the late 1920’s. Called Candler Field, it was named for the landowners’ former family – which included Asa Griggs Candler, Coca-Cola founder and former Atlanta Mayor.
In 1929, the city bought the land and renamed it the Atlanta Municipal Airport. When Delta Air Lines moved its headquarters to Atlanta in 1941, the airport was already thriving. Delta’s arrival further bolstered airport operations. Many expansions and changes came in the following decades, including a new terminal in 1957 and the largest single terminal in the country in 1961.
After the passing of former Atlanta Mayor William B. Hartsfield in February 1971, the airport’s name changed to William B. Hartsfield Atlanta Airport. “International” was added later that year, commemorating the airport’s first international service.
In 1980, Atlanta opened the doors to the world’s largest air passenger terminal complex. Then, in 1988, the MARTA Airport Station opened, connecting passengers between the city of Atlanta and its airport. 1994 brought the new International Concourse E, the largest single international facility in the nation. Then, significant improvements were completed in 1996 ahead of Atlanta hosting the Centennial Olympic Summer Games.
In 2001, Atlanta’s airport saw a new fifth runway (the largest public works project in Georgia history), a new international terminal, and a rental car facility.
In 2003, the airport became Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, as it’s known today, to honor the late Atlanta Mayor Maynard H. Jackson.
Explore the history of Atlanta’s airport here and by reading the airport’s Fact Sheet.
Who was Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport named after?
Hartsfield-Jackson was named in memory of two former Mayors of Atlanta: William B. Hartsfield and Maynard H. Jackson.
William B. Hartsfield (1890-1971) was first elected Mayor in 1937. Serving as a law clerk prior to entering politics, Hartsfield is remembered as “one of the greatest mayors of Atlanta.” As a city alderman, he helped establish Atlanta’s airport and select its location. New Georgia Encyclopedia notes, “Hartsfield believed that Atlanta’s future lay in air transportation and took the lead in promoting it throughout his political career.”
Maynard H. Jackson (1938-2003) was the first Black person to serve as mayor of a major city in the South. Elected in 1973, Jackson was a lawyer and community leader who championed minority-owned businesses. New Georgia Encyclopedia notes that Jackson’s “crowning achievement as mayor was building the massive new terminal at Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport with significant minority participation, and in his own words, ‘ahead of schedule and under budget.'”
Whether you’re traveling through Atlanta, spending time here, or call our city home – we’re wishing you happy and safe travels.
To explore the best of the city, join us for a top-rated walking tour and other unforgettable Atlanta experiences. We hope to see you soon!
