What to Do During a Layover at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL)

A layover at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) can be a chance to relax, explore airport amenities, or venture into Atlanta if your layover is long enough. Planning your layover depends on its length, as well as the distance and travel time to nearby attractions.

Tip: Always return to the airport at least 1–2 hours before your next flight to allow time for security and any unexpected delays.

Inside ATL Airport: Dining, Lounges, and Amenities

Even if you stay inside the airport, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your layover.

Dining Options at ATL

Domestic Terminal

Concourse A

• Asian Chao
• Atlanta Hawks Bar
• Brioche Boree
• Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
• Goldberg’s Bagels
• Gordon Biersch
• Low Country

Concourse B

• Asian Chao
• Atlanta Bagel Co
• Coffee Beanery
• Freshen’s
• Proof of the Pudding
• Roast

Concourse C

• Famous Famiglia
• Krispy Kreme
• La Madeleine
• Links Grill
• Bantam & Biddy
• Baja Fresh
• El Taco

Concourse D

• 40/40 Bar
• Atlanta Braves All-Star Grill
• Chicken + Beer
• Fab Yo!
• Garbanzo
• Grindhouse Burgers
• Mustard Seed BBQ

Concourse E

• Blue Moon Brewhouse
• Nathan’s Famous
• One Flew South
• Piano Bar
• Sojourner’s Cafe
• Villa Pizza

Concourse T

• Atlanta Stillhouse
• Grindhouse Burgers
• Southern National Market
• Vino Volo

International Terminal

• Atlanta Bread Company
• Ecco
• Jekyll Island Seafood
• Maison Mathis
• One Flew South
• Relaxation & Lounges

The Club ATL Lounge – Open to all travelers for a day pass

• Airline-specific lounges: Delta Sky Club, American Airlines Admirals Club, United Club
• Minute Suites – Sleeping pods in Concourses B, E, and F for naps or longer breaks
• XpresSpa – Massages, facials, and relaxation treatments
• Airport Aviation Park – Walk and stretch before your flight

Leaving the Airport: Exploring Atlanta During a Layover

If your layover is 6 hours or longer, consider exploring Atlanta. The city offers museums, parks, entertainment, and shopping experiences.

Transportation Options from ATL

• MARTA Trains – Red and Gold lines connect directly to the Domestic Terminal
• International Terminal Shuttle – Free shuttle to Domestic Terminal Baggage Claim
• Tickets & Pricing:
  • All-day passes start at $9; buy via Breeze Card, MARTA On-The-Go App, or vending machines
  • Bus 191 – $2.50 per trip, runs every 10–20 minutes
  • Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) – Quick, direct, and convenient
    

Natural Attractions & Outdoor Spaces

• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Atlanta BeltLine
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Georgia Aquarium
• Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
• Constitution Lakes
• International Peace Fountain
• Reynolds Nature Preserve

Museums & Cultural Spots

• Children’s Museum of Atlanta
• Fernbank Museum of Natural History
• Delta Flight Museum
• High Museum of Art
• Illuminarium Atlanta
• Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum
• Atlanta Zoo
• Georgia Aquarium

Entertainment & Local Attractions

• World of Coca-Cola
• Highlight Sites Trolley Tour
• Hapeville Arts Alley
• Ponce City Market
• Porsche Experience Center Atlanta
• SkyPoint Mall

Layover Dining Options in Atlanta

• Atlanta-style BBQ, seafood, and international cuisine available near downtown and attractions
• Consider quick local favorites like Ponce City Market eateries or SkyPoint Mall dining

Layover Planning Tips

Luggage Management

• Checked bags usually transfer automatically if booked on the same airline.
• For separate airlines, retrieve and recheck luggage before venturing out.
• Offsite luggage storage services like Stasher or Bounce are available for convenience.
• Pack essentials in your carry-on: chargers, snacks, and entertainment.

Timing Your Trip

• Short layovers (1–3 hours): Stay inside ATL and enjoy lounges, dining, or airport amenities
• Long layovers (6+ hours): Explore Atlanta attractions, museums, parks, and local dining
• Always allow at least 1.5 hours to return to the airport safely

Family-Friendly Layover Ideas

• Airport play areas and lounges with kid-friendly amenities
• Visit Children’s Museum of Atlanta or Atlanta Zoo
• Explore Centennial Olympic Park or Atlanta Botanical Garden

Bonus: Atlanta Layover by Duration

Whether you stay inside Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport or venture into the city, planning ahead ensures a stress-free and enjoyable layover. Take advantage of airport amenities, nearby attractions, and convenient transportation options.