How Far Is Locust Grove From Atlanta? A Local’s Guide to Distance, Driving Times, and Routes

If you’re in Atlanta, Georgia and planning a trip to Locust Grove, you’ll be glad to know it’s a relatively quick drive on the south side of the metro area—especially popular for outlet shopping, day trips, and visiting friends or family in Henry County.

Below is a clear breakdown of how far Locust Grove is from Atlanta, how long it typically takes, and what Atlanta residents and visitors should know before they hit the road.

How Far Is Locust Grove From Atlanta?

Straight-line distance:

  • About 30–35 miles southeast of Downtown Atlanta

Driving distance (most common route):

  • Approximately 35–40 miles from central Atlanta to Locust Grove, depending on your exact starting point

Most people in Atlanta travel to Locust Grove via I-75 South, which makes it a straightforward trip from:

  • Downtown Atlanta
  • Midtown
  • Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
  • Southside neighborhoods like Lakewood, Hapeville, and Forest Park

Typical Driving Time From Atlanta to Locust Grove

Here’s what the drive usually looks like under normal conditions:

  • From Downtown Atlanta to Locust Grove:
    About 40–55 minutes by car

  • From Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Locust Grove:
    Around 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic

  • From Midtown Atlanta to Locust Grove:
    About 45–60 minutes, especially if you’re traveling during peak commute hours

What Affects Your Travel Time?

Your actual drive time can vary based on:

  • Time of day
    • Morning rush (roughly 6:30–9:00 a.m.) and afternoon rush (about 3:30–6:30 p.m.) can slow you down on I-75.
  • Day of the week
    • Weekday evenings and Sunday afternoons can back up around shopping areas and key exits.
  • Accidents and construction
    • I-75 is a major corridor, so incidents can cause sudden delays, especially near the I-285 interchange and major exits in Henry County.
  • Weather
    • Heavy rain or storms around Atlanta often lead to slower highway speeds.

Planning a little extra time—10–20 minutes of cushion—is usually wise if you have a set arrival time in Locust Grove.

Main Route: Getting From Atlanta to Locust Grove

For most people in Atlanta, the fastest and most direct route is:

  1. Start from Downtown Atlanta (near the State Capitol or Five Points).
  2. Get onto I-75 South (often via the I-75/85 Connector heading south, then staying on I-75 where it splits).
  3. Continue on I-75 South through:
    • Hapeville / Airport area
    • Morrow
    • Stockbridge
    • McDonough
  4. Take Exit 212 (Bill Gardner Parkway) into Locust Grove.

From Exit 212, you’re essentially in Locust Grove—this exit is widely used for:

  • Local neighborhoods
  • Dining options
  • Supermarkets and gas stations

How Far Is Locust Grove From Major Atlanta Landmarks?

Here’s a quick reference for common starting points in the Atlanta area:

Starting Point (Atlanta Area)Approx. Distance to Locust GroveTypical Drive Time*Main Route
Downtown Atlanta (Five Points / State Capitol area)35–40 miles40–55 minutesI-75 South
Midtown Atlanta (Arts Center / Tech Square)38–42 miles45–60 minutesI-75/85 South → I-75 South
Buckhead (Lenox area)45–50 miles50–70 minutesGA 400 South → I-85 → I-75 S
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport30–35 miles30–40 minutesI-285 East or West → I-75 South
East Atlanta / Ormewood / Grant Park32–37 miles40–55 minutesI-20 or surface streets → I-75 S
Decatur (Downtown Decatur)38–45 miles45–65 minutesI-285 South → I-675 → I-75 S

*Drive times are approximate and can be longer during rush hour or heavy traffic.

Is Locust Grove Considered Part of Metro Atlanta?

Locust Grove is a city in Henry County, which is one of the south metro Atlanta counties. Many people who live in Locust Grove commute into Atlanta for work, school, or events.

In everyday conversation, people often describe Locust Grove as “on the south side of Atlanta” or part of the greater Atlanta area, even though it’s its own distinct city with its own local government.

For someone staying in Atlanta, a trip to Locust Grove usually feels like a short drive out of the city rather than a long-distance journey.

Transportation Options From Atlanta to Locust Grove

1. Driving (Most Common)

For Atlanta residents and visitors, driving is by far the most practical option.

  • Highway: I-75 South is the primary route.
  • Rental cars: Commonly picked up at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport or in-town rental offices.
  • Ride-hailing: Some people use ride-hailing services, but:
    • Costs can be higher because of the distance.
    • Return rides from Locust Grove back to Atlanta may take longer to match, especially late at night.

2. Public Transit

There is no direct MARTA rail or bus service from central Atlanta to Locust Grove.

Things to know:

  • MARTA Rail/Buses:
    The MARTA system mainly serves Fulton, DeKalb, Clayton, and parts of Gwinnett. It does not extend down to Locust Grove.
  • Regional Options:
    Some neighboring counties run commuter buses, but options into Henry County and specifically Locust Grove are limited and may not be practical for casual or one-time visits.

For most people in Atlanta, you’ll need a car (personal, rental, or ride-share) to get to Locust Grove conveniently.

What Locust Grove Is Known For (From an Atlanta Visitor’s Perspective)

While your main question is about distance, many Atlanta residents head to Locust Grove for specific reasons, including:

  • Outlet shopping
    Locust Grove is a popular outlet destination for people from all over the Atlanta area who want to shop at brand-name and discount retailers in one place.

  • Day trips and family visits
    Because it’s less than an hour away, it’s a manageable day trip from Atlanta, whether to see friends and family or check out the local area.

  • Quieter pace than in-town Atlanta
    People who live in the city sometimes head to Henry County communities like Locust Grove for a slower pace while still being within easy reach of Atlanta’s jobs and attractions.

Tips for Atlanta Drivers Heading to Locust Grove

Here are some practical pointers if you’re planning the drive from Atlanta:

  • 🕒 Avoid peak traffic if possible
    Try to avoid leaving Downtown or Midtown between 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. on weekdays, when I-75 South typically backs up.

  • ⛽ Fill up before or around the airport area
    There are plenty of gas stations between Downtown Atlanta and the airport area and then further down I-75 in Morrow, Stockbridge, and McDonough, so fueling up is easy.

  • 📍 Watch for the I-75/85 split
    As you head south from Downtown, stay alert for where I-75 and I-85 separate. You’ll continue on I-75 South all the way into Henry County.

  • 📱 Check traffic before you leave
    Using a navigation app to check for accidents or construction on I-75 South can save you time. Occasionally, an alternate route using I-675 (via I-285) can be more efficient from eastern parts of Atlanta or Decatur.

Summary: Distance and Travel Expectations

If you’re in Atlanta and wondering how far Locust Grove is:

  • Expect a 35–40 mile drive from central Atlanta.
  • Plan for about 40–55 minutes of travel time under typical conditions.
  • The main route is I-75 South, making the trip straightforward for most drivers.
  • Public transit from Atlanta to Locust Grove is not practical, so having access to a car is important.

For Atlanta residents and visitors, Locust Grove is close enough to feel like a quick trip outside the city, but far enough that you’ll want to plan around traffic on I-75, especially during busy commuter times.