A Guide to Atlanta’s Budget-Friendly Options
Atlanta is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer visitors, but it can also be a bit expensive. However, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Atlanta on a budget. Here’s a guide to some of the city’s most budget-friendly options:
Accommodations
There are a number of affordable hotels and motels in Atlanta, especially outside of the downtown area. Some popular options include:
- Days Inn by Wyndham Atlanta Airport South
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta – Downtown
- Motel 6 Atlanta, GA – Airport
- Super Eight by Wyndham Atlanta/Marietta Six Flags
If you’re looking for something more unique, consider staying in an Airbnb or hostel. There are a number of options available in different neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Food
Atlanta has a diverse food scene, with options to suit all budgets. Here are a few budget-friendly restaurants to try:
- Mary Mac’s Tea Room: This Southern institution is known for its fried chicken and other classic Southern dishes.
- The Varsity: This Atlanta landmark is known for its chilli dogs and other greasy spoon favourites.
- Paschal’s: This historic soul food restaurant is known for its fried chicken and waffles.
- Taco Stand: This popular taqueria serves up authentic Mexican street food at affordable prices.
- Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q: This local barbecue joint is known for its smoked meats and sides.
If you’re looking to save even more money on food, you can also cook your meals in your hotel room or Airbnb. There are a number of grocery stores in Atlanta where you can buy fresh produce and other ingredients.
Activities
There are plenty of free or low-cost things to do in Atlanta. Here are a few ideas:
- Visit Centennial Olympic Park: This park, constructed for the 1996 Summer Olympics, is now a significant tourist attraction in Atlanta. It features a number of free attractions, including the Fountain of Rings, the World of Coca-Cola Museum, and the SkyView Ferris wheel.
- Explore the BeltLine: This former railway corridor has been converted into a multi-use trail that’s perfect for walking, biking, and running. It also features a number of public art installations and parks.
- Visit Piedmont Park: This large park in Midtown Atlanta is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It features walking trails, a lake, and a dog park.
- Visit the High Museum of Art: This world-class museum offers free admission on the first Friday of every month.
- Catch a show at the Alliance Theatre: This professional theatre company offers a variety of affordable performances throughout the year.
In addition to the above, there are a number of other free or low-cost activities available in Atlanta, depending on the time of year. For example, the city often hosts free concerts and festivals, and many museums offer free admission on certain days of the week.
Transportation
Atlanta has a public transportation system, MARTA, which operates buses and trains throughout the city. Fares are relatively affordable, and you can save even more money by purchasing a day pass or weekly pass.
If you’re staying in the downtown area, you can also get around on foot or by bike. There are a number of bike rental shops in the city.
Tips for saving money
Here are a few additional tips for saving money on your trip to Atlanta:
- Purchase an Atlanta CityPASS: This pass gives you admission to five of Atlanta’s top attractions, including the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola Museum, and the CNN Center. You can save up to 40% on admission costs with the CityPASS.
- Take advantage of free admission days: Many museums in Atlanta offer free admission on certain days of the week. Check the websites of the museums you’re interested in visiting to see if they offer any free admission days.
- Eat at local restaurants: Local restaurants are often more affordable than chain restaurants.
- Cook your meals: Saving money on food when staying in a hotel or Airbnb is possible with a kitchenette.
- Use public transportation: Atlanta’s public transportation system is relatively affordable and can save you money on transportation costs.
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