Atlanta Exposition Center: Your Guide to One of Atlanta’s Largest Event Hubs

The Atlanta Exposition Center is a major event complex in south Atlanta known for hosting large trade shows, conventions, expos, festivals, and specialty markets. If you live in Atlanta—or plan to visit for a specific show—this is one of the main places where big regional events take place.

This guide walks you through what the Atlanta Exposition Center is, where it’s located, what kinds of events it hosts, how to get there, and practical tips to make your visit smoother.

Where the Atlanta Exposition Center Is and How It’s Set Up

The Atlanta Exposition Center is located off Jonesboro Road SE, just outside the I-285 perimeter on the south side of the city. It’s near Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, making it convenient for out‑of‑town visitors.

There are actually two main buildings on site:

Both buildings are used for public and private events, so on any given weekend you might see a car show in one building and a regional expo in the other.

What Kind of Events Happen at the Atlanta Exposition Center?

The center is primarily known as a multi-purpose exhibition venue. Depending on the time of year, you may find:

• Consumer expos
  Home shows, travel expos, health and wellness fairs, and hobby or collector conventions.

• Trade and business events
  Industry trade shows, vendor fairs, and regional professional gatherings where businesses set up booths and displays.

• Specialty markets and sales
  Large indoor flea markets, seasonal warehouse sales, antique or collectible shows, and niche shopping events.

• Car, boat, and RV shows
  Big indoor spaces make it a popular place to showcase vehicles, recreational equipment, and outdoor gear.

• Cultural and community events
  Festivals, cultural exhibitions, church gatherings, and large banquets or celebrations.

Events are typically organized by outside promoters, not by the center itself, so schedules can change frequently. For the most accurate details, it’s best to check the specific event organizer’s information for dates, hours, and ticket policies.

Address and Basic Location Details

The Atlanta Exposition Center is generally referenced with this location:

Atlanta Exposition Center
Located near Jonesboro Road SE and I‑285
Atlanta, GA 30354

Because there are North and South buildings, event listings usually specify which side your event is in. When planning your visit:

• ✅ Confirm whether your event is in the North or South building
• ✅ Use that name when entering directions into your GPS
• ✅ Allow a few extra minutes to find the correct entrance and parking area

If you’re unsure which building your event uses, most organizers list that information on their event flyers, tickets, or websites.

Getting to the Atlanta Exposition Center

By Car

For most Atlantans, driving is the easiest way to reach the center.

• The complex sits just off I‑285 (the Perimeter) on the south side of the city.
• From downtown Atlanta, it’s typically a short drive down I‑75/85 south and then around to I‑285, depending on traffic.
• From Hartsfield–Jackson airport, it’s a relatively direct drive via I‑285 or local surface streets.

🅿️ Parking
Parking is generally on-site and surface-lot based. Some events may charge for parking, while others may include it in the ticket price. Costs and policies vary by event organizer, so it’s wise to:

• Check event materials about parking fees
• Bring cash and card, as payment methods may differ
• Arrive early for large shows or popular weekends, as lots can fill quickly

Rideshare and Taxi

If you don’t want to deal with parking, rideshare services and taxis are commonly used:

• Set your drop‑off to the correct building (North or South) if your app provides that option.
• After the event, expect a pickup wait if multiple shows are letting out at once.

Public Transit

Public transit access to the Atlanta Exposition Center area is more limited than in Midtown or Downtown:

• There is no MARTA rail station directly at the complex.
• Some MARTA bus routes may get you within a short driving distance, but you may still need a rideshare or taxi for the last portion.

If you rely on transit, plan ahead by:

• Checking MARTA bus routes and transfer options to the south side/I‑285 area
• Allowing extra time, especially if your event has a fixed start time

What It’s Like Inside: Layout and Amenities

The buildings at the Atlanta Exposition Center are designed for flexibility, so the look and layout can change drastically based on the event.

You can generally expect:

• Large open exhibition halls with concrete floors and high ceilings
• Rows of vendor booths, displays, or exhibits for trade shows and expos
• Concession-style food options, especially during larger events
• Restroom facilities spaced through or near the main halls
• Registration or ticketing areas near the main entrances

Some events bring in:

• Staging and seating for performances, presentations, or competitions
• Interactive areas, such as demo spaces, kids’ zones, or workshops

Because the center is often busy, it can get crowded and noisy during major shows, especially on Saturdays and holiday weekends.

Tips for Visiting the Atlanta Exposition Center

To make your visit smoother, especially for bigger expos or festivals, consider:

1. Check Event Details in Advance

Every event has its own rules and logistics. Look for:

• Hours and dates (some expos run only a single weekend)
• Ticket policies (online pre‑sale vs. at-the-door, cash vs. card)
• Bag policies and security checks
• Children’s entry rules and any age restrictions
• Accessibility details if you or someone in your party needs accommodations

2. Plan Your Timing

Traffic on the south side near I‑285 can be heavy, particularly:

• Weekday late afternoons into evening
• Weekend mid‑mornings when events open
• When multiple large events are scheduled in the same weekend

Aim to:

• Arrive early in the day for big sales or shows
• Build in extra time for parking and walking from the lot to the entrance

3. Dress and Pack Strategically

Because the facility is large and events often involve a lot of walking:

• Wear comfortable shoes
• Bring a light jacket if you get cold easily—large halls can feel cool at times
• Consider a small bag, backpack, or rolling tote if you plan to shop or pick up materials

Check the event’s rules before bringing:

• Outside food and drink
• Carts, strollers, or wagons
• Large bags or professional camera gear

4. Accessibility Considerations

The Atlanta Exposition Center is a modern event facility, and events typically provide:

• Ground-level access and entry ramps or wide doors
• Accessible restrooms
• Options for mobility devices within the main halls

If you need specific accessibility support (such as reserved seating for programs, sign language interpretation, or assistance at registration), contact the event organizer in advance rather than the building itself, since accommodations are usually managed by the group hosting the event.

Nearby Atlanta Landmarks and Areas

If you are coming in from out of town or turning your expo trip into a day out, you may want to plan around nearby areas:

• Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport – Just to the west, making same‑day in‑and‑out trips practical for air travelers.
• Downtown Atlanta – A straightforward drive north for access to attractions like Centennial Olympic Park, State Farm Arena, and the Georgia Aquarium.
• East Point, Forest Park, and Hapeville – Nearby communities with a range of dining and lodging options convenient to the Exposition Center.

Lodging and restaurant availability varies, so if you’re attending a multi‑day event, it helps to book a hotel near the airport or on the south side early, especially on busy convention weekends.

How the Atlanta Exposition Center Fits Into Atlanta’s Event Scene

Within metro Atlanta, the Atlanta Exposition Center is known as a workhorse venue for large‑scale, indoor, regional events. While places like the Georgia World Congress Center and Georgia International Convention Center handle many downtown and airport‑adjacent conventions, the Atlanta Exposition Center often hosts:

• Value-focused consumer shows
• Collector and enthusiast events
• Community festivals and markets
• Specialized trade shows that benefit from large, flexible space

For Atlantans, that means if there’s a big market, seasonal sale, or hobby expo in town, there’s a good chance it might be scheduled here.

Quick Checklist Before You Go

Use this short checklist to prepare for an event at the Atlanta Exposition Center:

• ✅ Confirm: North or South building
• ✅ Review: Event dates, hours, and ticket options
• ✅ Check: Parking cost and payment methods
• ✅ Plan: Best route considering I‑285 and south-side traffic
• ✅ Pack: Comfortable shoes, small bag, and any necessary accessibility items
• ✅ Verify: Bag, stroller, and camera policies for your specific event

With a little advance planning, the Atlanta Exposition Center can be an easy and convenient place to attend major shows, expos, and markets on Atlanta’s south side.