Atlanta Airport Long-Term Parking: How to Choose the Best Option for Hartsfield-Jackson
Planning a trip through Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and need long-term parking? With one of the busiest airports in the world, Atlanta’s airport offers many parking options—both on-site and off-site—and the choices can feel overwhelming if you don’t park there often.
This guide breaks down where to park, how much to budget, how to get to your terminal, and what Atlanta locals typically do for multi-day or multi-week trips.
Key Long-Term Parking Options at Atlanta Airport (ATL)
At ATL, long-term parking falls into two main groups:
- On-airport parking (run by Hartsfield–Jackson)
- Off-airport parking (private lots and garages nearby, usually with shuttles)
For most travelers who live in or visit Atlanta, the on-airport options are:
- Economy Parking (North & South)
- Park-Ride Lots (typically Park-Ride A, C, etc., when open)
- Daily Parking Garages
- International Parking (Hourly & Park-Ride)
If you’re leaving your car for more than 24 hours, these are the areas to focus on.
Quick Comparison: Main Long-Term Parking Choices at ATL
Details can change, so always confirm current rates and availability with the airport before you go.
| Parking Area | Best For | Typical Distance to Terminal | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy (North/South) | Most popular long-term, value + convenience | Short walk or short shuttle | Good balance of price and proximity |
| Park-Ride Lots | Budget-conscious long trips (5+ days) | Shuttle only | Usually cheapest on-airport; great for vacations |
| Daily Garages (North/South) | Shorter long-term stays (2–4 days) | Walk to terminal via skybridges | More expensive but very convenient |
| International Park-Ride | International trips from Maynard H. Jackson Int’l | Shuttle to international terminal | Designed for international travelers |
| Hourly (Domestic/International) | Drop-offs, very short stays | Direct access to terminal | Not recommended for long-term (too expensive) |
Understanding the Layout: Domestic vs. International Parking
ATL is essentially two main sides:
- Domestic Terminal (North & South)
- Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal (Concourse F)
Where you should park long-term depends mainly on:
- Which airline you’re flying
- Whether your flight departs from Domestic or International
- How much you value cost vs. convenience
Domestic Terminal Parking (Most Common for Atlanta Travelers)
If you’re flying most major U.S. airlines (Delta domestic, Southwest, American, United, etc.), you’ll likely depart from the Domestic Terminal.
From there, you’ll see:
- North Daily Parking Garage
- South Daily Parking Garage
- Economy North & Economy South
- Access to Park-Ride lots via shuttle
These options work well for long-term parking when you’re gone for several days or longer.
International Terminal Parking
If you’re departing or returning through the International Terminal, you have:
- International Hourly Parking Garage (attached to the terminal)
- International Park-Ride Lot (long-term, with shuttle service)
If you live in the Atlanta area and your trip is fully international (departing and arriving at the international terminal), using the International Park-Ride or International Garage can save you time and avoid transferring between terminals with luggage.
On-Airport Long-Term Parking Options in Detail
1. Economy Parking (North & South)
Best for: Most travelers needing a good mix of price and convenience.
- Typically located near the Domestic Terminal
- You choose Economy North or South based on which side your airline uses
- Usually a short walk or shuttle ride to the terminal, depending on exact location and spot
Pros:
- Often cheaper than the Daily garages
- Faster access than far-off budget lots
- Familiar choice for many Atlanta residents
Consider if:
- You’re gone for 3–10 days
- You want to avoid long shuttle rides
- You’re comfortable rolling luggage a bit farther than the hourly/daily garages
2. Park-Ride Lots (A, C, and Others When Available)
Best for:Budget-focused long-term parking, especially for week-long or longer trips.
- Located farther from the terminals
- You park your car, then ride an airport-operated shuttle to the terminal
- Shuttles generally run regularly, but give yourself extra time
Pros:
- Usually the lowest on-airport rates
- Ideal if you’re traveling for a week or more
- Official airport shuttles that run to/from the terminal
Consider if:
- You’re okay adding 15–30 minutes to your airport arrival time for shuttle travel and waiting
- You want the reliability of official ATL parking, but at a lower cost
3. Daily Parking Garages (North & South)
Best for:Shorter long-term stays where convenience matters more than price.
- Attached to the Domestic Terminal
- Park, then walk into the terminal via bridges and walkways
- More expensive per day than Economy or Park-Ride
Pros:
- Very convenient access; no need for shuttles
- Covered parking in most areas, helpful for Atlanta’s heat and storms
- Popular with business travelers
Consider if:
- Your trip is 2–4 days
- You’re traveling with kids, lots of luggage, or mobility concerns
- You prefer in-and-out speed over saving each day on parking
4. International Terminal Parking
If your flight departs from or returns to the International Terminal, you’ll see:
International Hourly Parking Garage
Best for: Very short trips or pick-ups/drop-offs, not ideal for long-term.
- Directly connected to the International Terminal
- Very convenient, but daily costs add up quickly
International Park-Ride Lot
Best for:International trips with multi-day parking needs.
- Dedicated long-term lot serving the International Terminal
- Shuttle buses connect the lot to the terminal
- Better cost structure for multi-day stays than hourly options
Tip: If your flight returns to the Domestic Terminal but you parked at International, allow extra time to take the airport shuttle between terminals when you arrive back in Atlanta.
How Much Time to Allow When Using Long-Term Parking
Atlanta traffic and airport size can both add time. General guidance for Atlanta-based travelers:
- Domestic Terminal, Economy or Daily Garages:
- Arrive at airport 2 hours before your flight
- Aim to enter the parking facility 30–45 minutes before that (to find a space, walk/shuttle, and clear security)
- Park-Ride Lots or International Park-Ride:
- Add another 15–30 minutes for shuttle waiting and riding
- Peak times (early Monday mornings, holidays, major events):
- Consider adding at least 30 more minutes beyond your usual routine
If you’re driving from outside the Perimeter (I‑285), build in extra time for I‑75, I‑85, and I‑285 congestion, especially rush hours.
Paying for Long-Term Parking at ATL
Most official ATL parking locations accept:
- Credit and debit cards
- Some accept cash, but card is more common and faster
- Many lots use ticketed entry or license-plate recognition and pay-on-exit machines
To make exit smoother:
- Keep your entry ticket somewhere easy to reach
- Take note of which garage or lot and section you parked in
- Save your parking spot location on your phone (photo of the sign or a quick note)
Tips for Choosing the Right Long-Term Parking Option
Here’s how Atlanta travelers often decide where to park for long trips:
Trip length
- 1–2 days: Daily Garages or Economy, depending on your budget preference
- 3–7 days: Economy or Park-Ride for better value
- 7+ days: Park-Ride or off-airport lots to minimize total cost
Budget vs. convenience
- If you prioritize budget, look at Park-Ride or other lower-rate options.
- If you prioritize quick terminal access, consider Daily Garages or Economy.
Terminal you’re using
- Domestic-only trip: Park on the Domestic side (North or South) that matches your airline.
- International departure/return: Consider International Park-Ride or the international garage to simplify your arrival and departure.
Travel party
- Families with small children, seniors, or heavy luggage often appreciate shorter walks and fewer transfers—Daily or Economy lots can be worth the extra daily cost.
- Solo or light-pack travelers are usually more comfortable using shuttles and distant lots.
Directions and Location Basics for ATL Parking
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is located at:
6000 N Terminal Pkwy
Atlanta, GA 30320
Main airport information: (800) 897-1910 (commonly listed)
Basic driving guidance:
- From I‑85 Southbound:
- Exit toward Domestic Terminal for access to North/South Daily, Economy, and Park-Ride domestic lots.
- From I‑75 Southbound or Northbound:
- Follow signs for International Terminal / Maynard H. Jackson Jr. Blvd for International parking options.
- From I‑285:
- Use the Camp Creek Parkway or Riverdale Road connections depending on which terminal you’re aiming for, then follow airport signage.
Once near the airport, follow the overhead signs carefully; they are clearly marked for:
- Daily
- Economy
- Park-Ride
- Hourly
- International parking
Give yourself a few extra minutes the first time, as lane changes around the airport can come up quickly.
Off-Airport Long-Term Parking Around ATL
In addition to airport-operated lots, there are numerous private long-term parking facilities located near Hartsfield-Jackson, typically:
- Along Camp Creek Parkway
- Near Virginia Avenue, Best Road, and other roads around College Park and Hapeville
These generally offer:
- Shuttle service to and from the terminals
- Daily rates that can be competitive or lower than some on-airport options
- Options for covered or uncovered parking
Common considerations with off-airport parking:
- Shuttle frequency and travel time
- Hours of operation if you arrive or depart very late or very early
- Online booking vs. drive-up availability
If you live in the Atlanta area and take frequent trips, some private facilities offer loyalty programs or prepaid packages, which can be attractive if you’re not set on parking directly on airport property.
Safety and Security Considerations for Long-Term Parking
No parking facility is completely risk-free, but ATL’s official lots and many established off-airport facilities take common security measures, such as:
- Regular patrols
- Lighting in main drive lanes and pedestrian areas
- Fencing in many lots
To reduce risk and give yourself peace of mind:
- Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight
- Remove or hide GPS devices, bags, and electronics
- Lock your doors and, if possible, engage any security or alarm system
- Park in well-lit areas when available
If you return and find any issues, you can contact:
- Airport Customer Service / Information: (800) 897-1910 (commonly published)
- Local law enforcement onsite: the Atlanta Police Department Airport Precinct operates within the airport complex
Practical Tips Atlanta Travelers Use for Long-Term Parking
A few habits common among locals who fly often:
- Photograph your parking space: Take a quick phone photo of the level, row, and section. ATL garages and lots can feel similar, especially after a long trip.
- Note the lot name: Write down “Economy North,” “Park-Ride,” or “International Park-Ride” in a note on your phone.
- Keep your claim ticket safe: Store it in your wallet or a dedicated travel pouch.
- Build in a buffer: Atlanta traffic is unpredictable. Many regular travelers aim to be at the parking facility at least 2.5 hours before domestic flights and earlier for international or peak seasons.
- Check lot status before leaving home: If possible, verify whether certain lots are open or full so you don’t have to circle the airport looking for alternatives.
When Long-Term Parking Might Not Be Your Best Option
Even though this guide focuses on Atlanta airport long-term parking, some Atlanta-area travelers sometimes choose alternatives:
- Rideshare/taxi from intown neighborhoods (Midtown, Downtown, Buckhead) if the trip is short and parking costs would outweigh the convenience.
- MARTA + short rideshare or shuttle if you live near a MARTA station and want to avoid driving to the airport altogether.
- Getting dropped off by friends or family if they’re comfortable navigating the terminals and traffic patterns.
Still, for many people—especially those in the suburbs or outside Metro Atlanta—driving and using long-term parking remains the most straightforward choice.
By understanding how ATL’s long-term parking options are laid out, what each one costs in time and convenience, and how they connect to the Domestic and International Terminals, you can choose the option that best fits your budget, schedule, and comfort level whenever you fly in or out of Atlanta.