How Far Is Atlanta From Six Flags Over Georgia? Your Local Guide to Distance, Routes, and Travel Time
If you’re in Atlanta, Georgia and wondering how far it is to Six Flags Over Georgia, the answer is: not very far at all.
Six Flags Over Georgia is located in Austell, just west of Atlanta, and is considered one of the closest major attractions to the city.
Quick Answer: Distance and Drive Time
- Distance from Downtown Atlanta to Six Flags Over Georgia:
About 10–15 miles, depending on your exact starting point. - Typical drive time:
15–25 minutes in light traffic, but it can stretch to 30–45 minutes or more during rush hour or peak park days.
Park Location
Six Flags Over Georgia
275 Riverside Parkway
Austell, GA 30168
It sits just outside the I-285 Perimeter, off I-20 West.
How to Get From Atlanta to Six Flags: Main Routes
If you’re starting in metro Atlanta, your route will usually involve I‑20 West, one of the main east–west highways.
From Downtown Atlanta (e.g., Five Points, Georgia State area)
- Head to I‑20 West.
- Continue on I‑20 W for about 10–12 miles.
- Take the exit marked for Six Flags Parkway / Riverside Parkway (commonly Exit 46).
- Follow the signs to Six Flags Over Georgia.
Approximate time:
- 15–25 minutes without heavy traffic.
From Midtown Atlanta (Georgia Tech, Atlantic Station area)
- Take I‑75/85 South toward Downtown.
- Merge onto I‑20 West.
- Stay on I‑20 W about 10–15 miles.
- Exit at Six Flags Parkway / Riverside Parkway and follow signs.
Approximate time:
- 20–30 minutes, depending on Midtown traffic.
From Buckhead
- Take surface streets or GA‑400 / I‑85 / I‑75 to reach I‑20 West via Downtown or the Connector.
- Continue on I‑20 West to the Six Flags exit.
Approximate time:
- 25–40 minutes, especially during morning or afternoon rush hours.
Distance and Time by Starting Area in Atlanta
Use this as a general, easy-to-skim guide. Times assume normal (not rush-hour) traffic.
| Starting Area in Atlanta | Approx. Distance to Six Flags | Typical Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown (Centennial Park) | 10–12 miles | 15–25 minutes |
| Midtown (Ponce/Peachtree) | 12–15 miles | 20–30 minutes |
| Buckhead (Lenox area) | 15–18 miles | 25–40 minutes |
| Airport (Hartsfield–Jackson) | 18–22 miles | 25–40 minutes |
| East Atlanta / Decatur | 18–22 miles | 25–40 minutes |
These are estimates; Atlanta traffic can change things quickly, especially on I‑20 and the Downtown Connector (I‑75/85).
What to Expect With Atlanta Traffic
Living in or visiting Atlanta means you’re probably familiar with rush-hour slowdowns. Those affect the drive to Six Flags, too.
Busiest Times on the Road
- Weekday mornings: roughly 7:00–9:30 a.m. heading into the city, and can still affect westbound I‑20.
- Weekday evenings: roughly 4:00–7:00 p.m., when many people are heading away from Downtown.
- Peak park days: weekends, holidays, and school breaks can add extra congestion near the Six Flags exit itself.
💡 Tip: If you want a smoother trip from Atlanta to Six Flags, aim to:
- Leave before 9:00 a.m. on weekdays, or
- Head out late morning to early afternoon on weekends, avoiding major sporting events or concerts in the city when possible.
Can You Get to Six Flags From Atlanta Without a Car?
Yes, but options are more limited compared to driving yourself.
MARTA + Bus/Rideshare
Six Flags Over Georgia is not directly on a MARTA rail line, but you can use a combination of MARTA and bus or rideshare:
- Take MARTA rail to a west-side or Downtown station (such as Five Points or Hamilton E. Holmes).
- From there, options often include:
- Bus connections that run toward the western suburbs (routes can change, so check MARTA for current service to the Austell area).
- Rideshare or taxi from the last station (commonly from Hamilton E. Holmes Station, which is relatively close to I‑20 West and the Six Flags exit).
Because schedules and routes can change, it’s wise to:
- Check MARTA’s current rail and bus maps.
- Review real-time schedules before you go.
- Plan for extra travel time compared with driving.
Walking or Biking?
For most visitors and residents:
- Walking from central Atlanta to Six Flags is impractical due to distance and highway infrastructure.
- Biking is possible for experienced cyclists using local roads, but the route includes busy corridors and is not typical for casual visitors or families heading to the park.
How Far Is Six Flags From Atlanta’s Airport?
If you’re flying into Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and going straight to the park:
- Distance: About 18–22 miles.
- Drive time: Roughly 25–40 minutes, depending on:
- Time of day,
- Route (often via I‑285 and I‑20 West), and
- Overall traffic conditions.
Many visitors:
- Pick up a rental car at the airport and drive directly.
- Or take a rideshare or taxi straight to the park or a nearby hotel.
Local Tips for Atlanta Residents and Visitors
Best Times to Leave From Atlanta
- Morning visits: Leaving before 9:00 a.m. can help you beat heavier traffic and lines at the park entrance.
- Afternoon or evening visits: Try to avoid leaving central Atlanta right at rush-hour peaks if you can.
Parking and Entry
Once you reach the Six Flags area:
- Expect clearly marked signs from I‑20 directing you to park entrances and parking lots.
- Build in a little extra time after you exit the highway for:
- entering the parking area,
- finding a spot,
- and walking or taking a tram to the front gate.
Staying Nearby vs. In the City
If you’re visiting Atlanta and planning multiple days at Six Flags:
- Staying in Atlanta: Gives you access to city restaurants, attractions, and nightlife, with a short drive to the park each day.
- Staying near Austell / Six Flags: May shorten your morning and evening travel time but gives you fewer in-city amenities right outside your door.
Key Takeaways
- Six Flags Over Georgia is very close to Atlanta—usually 10–15 miles from Downtown.
- Drive time is often 15–25 minutes, but can extend during rush hour or busy park days.
- The main route is I‑20 West, exiting at or near Six Flags Parkway / Riverside Parkway.
- Public transit from Atlanta is possible using MARTA rail plus bus or rideshare, but driving remains the most direct option for most people.
- Planning around Atlanta traffic patterns will make your trip from the city to the park smoother and more predictable.
This is what you can realistically expect when traveling from Atlanta to Six Flags Over Georgia, whether you live here or are just visiting the city.