Atlanta City Guide

Explore Atlanta through 50 audio stops covering the city's rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, world-class food scene, and iconic landmarks. From the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement to the modern BeltLine trail and Mercedes-Benz Stadium, this self-guided walking and driving tour reveals the layers of a city that has continually reinvented itself while honoring its past.

Atlanta is a city of layers — built on the ashes of the Civil War, shaped by the civil rights movement, and continuously reinventing itself as one of the most dynamic cities in the American South. This audio guide takes you through 50 carefully selected stops that reveal the full breadth of Atlanta's story, from its founding as a railroad terminus to its emergence as a global city preparing to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Your journey covers the historic Sweet Auburn district where Martin Luther King Jr. was born and raised, the neighborhoods along the transformative Atlanta BeltLine trail, the vibrant international food corridor of Buford Highway, and the architectural marvel of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Along the way, you will discover how Atlanta's diverse communities — African American, Korean, Ethiopian, Mexican, and many more — have shaped the city's culture, cuisine, and character.

Whether you are visiting for the World Cup, exploring Atlanta's civil rights heritage, or simply discovering one of America's most underrated food cities, this guide provides the local knowledge and historical context to make your experience richer and more meaningful. Each stop includes practical tips for getting around, where to eat, and what to see beyond the obvious attractions.

ACCESSIBILITY

Atlanta is generally accessible for visitors with mobility needs, though conditions vary by neighborhood. The Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail is fully paved, flat, and wheelchair accessible. MARTA stations have elevators and accessible platforms. Mercedes-Benz Stadium offers comprehensive ADA seating and services. Major attractions like the World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park are fully accessible. Some older neighborhoods have uneven sidewalks — downtown and Midtown are best for wheelchair users. Most restaurants and hotels comply with ADA requirements.

HOW TO REACH

Atlanta is served by Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the busiest airport in the world, located 10 miles south of downtown. MARTA rapid transit connects the airport directly to downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead in about 20 minutes for $2.50. Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) are widely available. For driving, Atlanta is at the intersection of three major interstate highways: I-75, I-85, and I-20. Within the city, MARTA rail and bus service covers major attractions. The Atlanta Streetcar connects downtown destinations. For the BeltLine and intown neighborhoods, walking, biking, and electric scooter rentals are excellent options.