How Far Is Newnan From Atlanta? A Local’s Guide to Distance, Drive Time, and Best Routes

If you’re in Atlanta, Georgia and wondering how far Newnan is—whether for a day trip, a commute, or visiting friends—you’re really asking two key questions:
How many miles is it, and how long will it actually take to get there?

Here’s a clear breakdown tailored to Atlanta-area travelers.

The Basics: Distance From Atlanta to Newnan

In simple terms:

• Distance (Downtown Atlanta to Downtown Newnan):
  About 38–40 miles one way
• Typical driving time (without heavy traffic):
  Around 40–50 minutes
• Main route:
  I‑85 South almost the entire way

Most people in the Atlanta metro area travel between the cities by car using Interstate 85, which makes the trip straightforward even if you’re not familiar with the south side.

How Long It Takes: Real-World Drive Times

Because this is Atlanta, traffic matters just as much as mileage. Your actual travel time can vary a lot depending on:

• Time of day
• Direction of travel (into or out of Atlanta)
• Weather and construction

Typical Drive Time Ranges

Rush hour hotspots are usually:

• Leaving downtown Atlanta and the connector area to get onto I‑85 South
• Around major interchanges, especially near the airport and I‑285

If you’re catching a flight or an appointment in Newnan, it’s wise to build in a buffer of at least 20–30 minutes during peak times.

Main Route: Driving From Atlanta to Newnan

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

From Downtown / Midtown Atlanta

1. Get on I‑75/85 South (the Downtown Connector).
2. Continue to the split and stay on I‑85 South.
3. Stay on I‑85 South for about 30–35 miles.
4. Take one of the Newnan exits, most commonly:
   • Exit 47 (GA‑34 / Bullsboro Dr) – for shopping, restaurants, and many hotels
   • Exit 41 (US‑29 / Newnan) – for more direct access to some local areas

From Buckhead, Midtown, or Downtown, this is usually the most direct choice.

From Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport

If you’re flying into Atlanta and heading straight to Newnan:

• Distance from the airport to Newnan: about 30 miles
• Typical drive time: 30–40 minutes in light traffic

Route is usually:

• Merge onto I‑85 South from the airport area
• Continue straight to the Newnan exits

Understanding the Distance From Different Parts of Metro Atlanta

Newnan is on the southwest side of the metro region. Your distance and time will change depending on where in Atlanta you’re starting:

• Downtown / Midtown Atlanta → Newnan
  ~38–40 miles | 40–60 minutes in typical conditions

• Buckhead / North Atlanta → Newnan
  You’ll add extra time just getting through or around downtown:
  ~45–50 miles | 50–75 minutes, depending on traffic

• East Atlanta (Decatur, East Lake, etc.) → Newnan
  You’ll usually head toward downtown and then South on I‑85:
  ~45–55 miles | Often around 1 hour or more in busy times

• South Atlanta neighborhoods (College Park, East Point, Union City) → Newnan
  You’re already on the south side, so it’s quicker:
  ~20–30 miles | ~25–40 minutes

If you live inside the perimeter (ITP), your biggest variable will be getting to I‑85 South smoothly. If you live outside the perimeter (OTP) on the south side, the drive is usually more predictable.

Is There Public Transportation From Atlanta to Newnan?

There is no direct MARTA train or bus that takes you from Atlanta to Newnan the way MARTA connects other closer suburbs. Newnan is in Coweta County, outside MARTA’s service area.

However, there are a few options to be aware of:

1. Driving + Park-and-Ride (for Commuters)

If you’re commuting toward Atlanta from the Newnan side or vice versa, you may see park-and-ride lots used for carpools or some regional services near the interstate. Availability and services can change, so it’s a good idea to:

• Check with Coweta County Transit (Coweta County offices in Newnan)
• Look for regional commuter information through the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) or the Atlanta Regional Commission

2. Coweta County Transit (Local to Newnan)

Within Newnan and Coweta County, there is usually some form of county transit service (often demand-response or limited fixed routes). This is more useful once you’re already in Newnan, not for getting there from Atlanta.

If you need details, you can contact:

• Coweta County Government – Transit / Transportation Office
  Newnan, GA (check the county directory or main switchboard for current numbers and schedules)

3. Rideshare, Taxi, or Private Shuttle

From Atlanta, Newnan is close enough that many people rely on:

• Rideshare services (app-based)
• Traditional taxi services
• Private shuttle or car services (especially from the airport)

These can be a practical option if:

• You’re flying in and don’t want a rental car
• You only need a one-way trip to or from Newnan

Because the distance is around 40 miles, the fare will usually be higher than an in-city ride, so it’s wise to check estimated pricing in advance.

Is Newnan a Realistic Day Trip From Atlanta?

Yes. For most Atlanta residents or visitors with a car, Newnan works very well as a day trip.

Why People Go From Atlanta to Newnan

Common reasons Atlanta locals and visitors make the drive include:

• Visiting friends or family in Coweta County
• Exploring historic downtown Newnan
• Attending events, sports, or youth activities on the south side
• Checking out neighborhoods for potential moves or commuting options
• Accessing medical, legal, or county services based there

A round trip from Atlanta to Newnan and back in a single day is very realistic as long as you:

• Plan around peak traffic, especially evening rush hour coming back toward Atlanta
• Give yourself enough cushion if you have appointments or reservations

What to Know If You’re Commuting Between Atlanta and Newnan

Some people do commute between Newnan and Atlanta—either daily or a few days a week. If you’re considering this, the distance and drive time are important to understand clearly.

Key Commuting Considerations

• Direction matters:
  Morning: Newnan → Atlanta can be slow as you approach the airport area and I‑285.
  Evening: Atlanta → Newnan can back up leaving the city.

• Weather and incidents:
  Rain, crashes, or construction on I‑85 South can add significant time.

• Flex time helps:
  If you can travel earlier or later than typical rush hour, you can often stay closer to the 40–50 minute range instead of an hour or more.

If you’re exploring a relocation, many people test the commute a few times at normal work hours to see what the real daily experience is like.

Quick Reference: Atlanta to Newnan at a Glance

Distance:

• About 38–40 miles from downtown Atlanta to downtown Newnan

Typical Drive Time:

• 40–45 minutes in light traffic
• 50–60+ minutes in rush hour or heavy conditions

Primary Route:

• I‑75/85 South from central Atlanta
• Stay on I‑85 South to Exit 47 or Exit 41 for Newnan

From the Airport:

• ~30 miles | ~30–40 minutes via I‑85 South

Transit:

• No direct MARTA service to Newnan
• Local transit is county-based in Newnan (Coweta County)
• Many travelers use cars, rideshare, or private shuttles

In practical terms, Newnan is less than an hour away from most of central Atlanta by car, making it close enough for commuting, day trips, and frequent visits—just be sure to factor in typical Atlanta traffic when you plan your timing.