Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the world’s busiest airport, having surpassed 100 million annual passengers in multiple years. The terminal complex covers more than 150 acres and has nearly 200 gates. Not surprisingly, it can be overwhelming, both for first-timers and seasoned travelers. But with a few insider tips, you can master ATL, whether you have a quick connection or a longer layover. Here are my top strategies for an airport that was my home base for nearly a decade.
Get a feel for the layout at ATL
The layout at ATL is fairly easy to figure out, with two main terminals. The Domestic Terminal sits on the western end, while the International Terminal (officially, the Maynard Holbrook Jackson Jr. International Terminal) is on the east.
Seven airside concourses (T, A, B, C, D, E, and F) spread across those terminals, housing gates, shops, and restaurants. Concourse T is directly connected to the Domestic Terminal, while A, B, C, and D are midfield concourses accessible from either terminal via the Plane Train or walkways. Concourse F is directly connected to the International Terminal, while Concourse E is a midfield concourse that’s also connected airside. Baggage Claim for domestic flights is on the lower level of the Domestic Terminal in both the North and South areas.
Here’s where it gets a little trickier. The Domestic Terminal splits into north and south sectors via an atrium. Delta Air Lines, whose hub is at ATL, occupies the entire south area with its own curbside check-in area and dedicated TSA PreCheck lobby on the lower level.
Several other domestic airlines, including United, Spirit and JetBlue, operate from the north sector. Heads-up for United passengers though, the carrier also has a dedicated baggage claim area on the lower level that’s accessible via escalators and elevators.
How to take public transportation to and from ATL
I highly recommend taking MARTA, the city’s above-ground rail system, to ATL. One of its major advantages is a direct airport stop, which lets you avoid Atlanta’s infamous traffic. The airport station recently completed a $55 million renovation, with new terrazzo flooring, platform pavers, and wall repairs, plus additional improvements to ceilings, lighting, and signage planned, and it’s now a much better travel experience.
MARTA’s network features north-south and east-west lines, with the red and gold lines accessing the airport as their southern terminus. You may need to transfer depending on your origin or destination. Sometimes it’s easiest to take a taxi or rideshare to a major station like Midtown or Five Points to avoid transferring, since trains typically run every 10-20 minutes, with weekends generally seeing 15-20 minute frequencies.
If you have a late arrival, keep in mind that MARTA rail service generally operates until around 1:00 am, though last train times vary by line and day, so check current schedules.
Tips if you’re traveling by car to or from ATL
ATL sits about 20 minutes south of Atlanta near several major interstates, but that’s based on normal traffic. Since Atlanta traffic can often be abnormal (notoriously bad, in other words), allow plenty of extra time if you’re using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. If you’re driving yourself or dropping off a rental, factor in even more time.
If you’re using a rideshare service (or being dropped off by a friend), I highly recommend the lower level instead of the upper Departures level, which can be crazy and chaotic. You’ll walk a bit farther to TSA checkpoints, but it’s worth it. There are also various bus services to and from ATL.
Also, remember that the domestic and international terminals have different addresses. The Domestic Terminal is at 6000 N. Terminal Pkwy., while the International Terminal is at 2600 Maynard H. Jackson Jr. Blvd. Make sure the right one is in your GPS to save yourself some stress.
Avoid airport parking if possible
Of course, sometimes you have to park at the airport. But with the South Economy Lot (about 3,000 spaces) closed for construction to build a new parking deck, parking can be more trouble than it’s worth at ATL. The new South Parking Deck Phase I is currently under construction, but until it’s done, I’d advise avoiding the parking hassle if you can.
How to get through security faster at ATL
Not surprisingly, security lines at ATL can be long, especially on peak travel days. This is the kind of airport where expedited security services like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR come in quite handy. CLEAR lanes are available in both terminals, but they don’t run 24/7, so check their hours online if you have an off-hours flight.
I also recommend checking the ATL website for security wait times on your departure day to better plan your arrival.
The Plane Train: Easy transit between concourses
The cleverly named Plane Train is the automated underground transportation at ATL on Level O, and it’s a cinch to get around the airport with it. It operates on a three-mile loop between the Domestic Terminal and Concourse F in the International Terminal. Since it departs approximately every two minutes (with a countdown timer, no less), you don’t have to worry about missing one.
Pro tip: Don’t confuse the Plane Train with the SkyTrain. The SkyTrain is the landside, above-ground train that connects ATL with the rental car center, the Georgia International Convention Center and nearby airport hotels including the Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway and Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway.
An art-filled walk between concourses
While the Plane Train is quick and convenient, I prefer to walk between concourses when I have enough time between connections, especially after a long flight. It’s nice to stretch the legs a bit, and you can enjoy some interesting art along the way. Highlights include Zimbabwean stone sculptures and an exhibit on Atlanta history. My personal favorite is “Flight Paths,” between Concourses A and B. It’s a remarkable installation that mimics a Georgia forest canopy with thousands of LED lights and ambient nature sounds.
Airport signs say it takes about five minutes to walk between each concourse. There are moving walkways, but in my experience, it usually takes longer, especially if you’re with kids or folks who move a little slower. Escalators and elevators are available at each stop.
Tips for families
One downside of ATL for families: it’s not especially kid-friendly. There currently isn’t a playground or dedicated play area where kids can burn off energy before a flight. Until that changes, your best bet is to let the little ones run around a bit in the walkways between concourses (just not on the moving walkways, of course). If you have a long layover, it’s a good idea to pack extra toys and books.
Enjoy one of the lounges at ATL
One way to escape the crowded concourses and gate areas at ATL: pass the time in one of the airport lounges. There’s a Delta Sky Club in every concourse, including Concourse E (across from Gate E15), but the one in Concourse B is particularly notable with capacity for 500 guests, a sommelier-curated wine list, and nice views of the Atlanta skyline.
Meanwhile, Priority Pass members can head to The Club at ATL in Concourse F. The lounge has a decent selection of food and drinks, a spacious layout and showers (which I can personally vouch for, they’re clean and convenient). However, if you’re not flying out of Concourse F, it’s a very long walk. I don’t recommend it unless you have a really long layover.
Dig into the dining options at ATL
ATL has strong dining options, with 163 food and beverage locations to pick from. Many are national chains, but I recommend seeking out spots that showcase Atlanta’s culinary scene, from classic Southern fare to fine dining. The airport keeps an updated online list, so check it before you fly.
If you’re craving a burger and fries, go straight to The Varsity, an Atlanta icon since 1928, with locations in Concourses C and F. Other great local choices include Bantam and Biddy (Concourse C) for Southern-style meals and Chicken + Beer (Concourse D), from superstar rapper Ludacris.
The International Terminal is home to some real gems. One Flew South (Concourse E) serves up sushi and Southern fare and consistently ranks among the best airport restaurants in the country. My personal favorite, Ecco (Concourse F), is an outpost of a beloved Midtown spot specializing in Italian food with a solid wine list. Plus, keep an eye out for a new food hall called Citizens Go planned for Concourse F, featuring brands like Umami Burger and Sam’s Crispy Chicken.
This KAYAK-commissioned article is presented as-is, for general informational purposes only, and may not be up-to-date. The opinions contained in the article are original to the author and reflect their authentic experience, which may vary significantly from the experience of others.
