How To Drive To, From, and Around Atlanta, Georgia: A Local Guide

Driving to Atlanta, Georgia can be exciting, but it also comes with real-world considerations: traffic, highways, parking, and local rules that can surprise visitors and new residents. This guide walks you through what to expect when you drive to Atlanta, how to navigate once you’re here, and practical tips tailored specifically to the Atlanta area.

Getting to Atlanta by Car: Main Routes and Entry Points

Atlanta sits at the crossroads of several major interstates, which is why it’s often called a transportation hub of the Southeast. If you’re planning to drive to Atlanta, you’ll most likely arrive on one of these:

Major Interstates Leading Into Atlanta

• I-75

  • Runs north–south through the city.
  • Common if you’re coming from Macon, Tampa, or Florida (from the south) or Chattanooga and Tennessee (from the north).

• I-85

  • Also runs north–south, merging with I-75 through Downtown (the Downtown Connector).
  • Main route if you’re coming from Greenville, Charlotte, or the Carolinas (from the northeast) or Montgomery and Alabama (from the southwest).

• I-20

  • Runs east–west through Atlanta.
  • Primary route if you’re driving from Birmingham (west) or Augusta and South Carolina (east).

• I-285 (The Perimeter)

  • A large loop around Atlanta.
  • Used to get around the city rather than through its center.
  • Divided into quadrants by locals: Top End (north), Eastside, Southside, and Westside.

If you’re not familiar with Atlanta, many drivers find it easier to stay on I-285 to get to their general area, then exit toward their specific destination instead of diving straight into downtown traffic on the Downtown Connector.

When Is the Best Time to Drive Into Atlanta?

Traffic in Atlanta can be heavy, especially on weekdays. Timing your drive makes a significant difference.

Typical Rush Hours

• Morning: About 6:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
• Evening: About 3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

During these times, expect stop-and-go traffic on:

• The Downtown Connector (I-75/85)
• I-285 Perimeter
• Major surface streets like Peachtree Street, Ponce de Leon Avenue, and parts of Roswell Road, Moreland Avenue, and Cobb Parkway

💡 Tip:
If possible, plan your arrival in Atlanta midday (10 a.m.–2 p.m.) or later in the evening after the rush. This applies both to weekday commuters and weekend events, especially when big concerts or sports games are happening.

Driving Into Different Parts of Atlanta

Where you’re headed in Atlanta will shape the best route and experience.

Downtown Atlanta

Best for: Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, State Farm Arena, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Georgia State University

• Usually reached via the Downtown Connector (I-75/85).
• Traffic can be intense, especially near major events.
• Plenty of parking decks and pay lots, but they can fill up during games and conventions.
• Many streets are one-way, so use a GPS and pay close attention to signs.

Midtown Atlanta

Best for: Piedmont Park, Fox Theatre, Georgia Tech, restaurants and nightlife

• Also off the Downtown Connector, usually via exits like 10th/14th Street or 17th Street.
• Street parking exists but is often metered or limited; parking decks are more reliable.
• Traffic is busy but often slightly less hectic than Downtown during mid-day.

Buckhead

Best for: Lenox Square, Phipps Plaza, upscale dining and shopping

• Access via GA-400, Peachtree Road, or I-85.
• Heavy traffic around major malls, especially during weekends and holidays.
• Expect mostly paid parking decks at shopping centers and office buildings.

In-Town Neighborhoods (Eastside / Westside)

Areas like Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, West Midtown, and Grant Park are popular for dining and local culture.

• Often accessed from Freedom Parkway, Memorial Drive, Ponce de Leon Avenue, Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy, or Northside Drive.
• Streets are narrower and more residential; watch closely for pedestrians, cyclists, and scooters.
• Parking tends to be street-level, sometimes with neighborhood restrictions or time limits.

Key Things to Know About Atlanta Traffic

1. The Downtown Connector (I-75/85)

Locals often talk about “the Connector.” It’s the stretch where I-75 and I-85 combine through central Atlanta.

• Expect frequent congestion, lane changes, and short exits.
• Stay in the lane you need well in advance; exits can appear quickly.
• Use GPS with lane guidance whenever possible.

2. The Perimeter (I-285)

I-285 is how many drivers bypass the city core.

• The Top End (north side) between I-75 and I-85 can be one of Atlanta’s busiest stretches.
• Major interchanges:
  • I-285 & I-75 (Cobb Cloverleaf)
  • I-285 & GA-400 (near Sandy Springs)
  • I-285 & I-85 (Spaghetti Junction)

If you’re just passing through Georgia and don’t need to enter central Atlanta, staying on I-285 instead of cutting across downtown can simplify the drive.

3. High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) and Express Lanes

Around Atlanta, you’ll see HOV lanes and express lanes on certain stretches of I-75, I-85, and I-575.

• HOV lanes:

  • Usually require two or more people per vehicle (check posted signs).
  • Designed to move faster than regular lanes.

• Express lanes:

  • These are toll lanes, usually separated by barriers or special markings.
  • Payment is electronic; if you don’t have the proper setup, avoid entering them.

Always watch overhead signs carefully. Entering an express lane without proper access or crossing solid double lines can lead to fines.

Parking in Atlanta: What Drivers Should Expect

Parking rules vary widely depending on where you’re driving in Atlanta.

Common Parking Options

• Parking decks/garages – Found all over Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, and around major attractions.
• Surface lots – Near stadiums, event venues, and nightlife areas.
• Street parking – Available in many neighborhoods and commercial areas, usually with meters or posted time limits.

General Parking Tips

• In Downtown and Midtown, expect to pay for most convenient parking near attractions or offices.
• In residential neighborhoods, watch for permit-only zones and time-restricted spots.
• Event parking (sports, concerts, conventions) can jump in price and fill quickly. Arrive early if possible.

Helpful Contacts for Parking Questions or Concerns

If you have an issue such as a broken meter or parking citation in the City of Atlanta:

• Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT)
  Atlanta City Hall
  55 Trinity Ave SW
  Atlanta, GA 30303

For parking citations specifically, the address often associated with payment and disputes is:

• City of Atlanta Municipal Court
  150 Garnett St SW
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Phone: (404) 658-6940

Always check the information listed on any ticket or posted signage, as procedures and offices can change.

Navigating Around Town Once You’re Here

Driving within Atlanta can feel different depending on the area and time of day.

Common Local Driving Conditions

• Narrow neighborhood streets – Especially in older areas like Inman Park, Grant Park, and parts of Midtown.
• Frequent construction – Road work and building projects can cause detours, lane closures, and reduced speeds.
• Pedestrians, scooters, and bikes – High foot and scooter traffic in Midtown, Downtown, near colleges, and along the BeltLine.

Local Driving Habits to Be Aware Of

• Lane changing can be quick and frequent on major highways. Keep a safe following distance.
• Some drivers accelerate quickly at yellow lights. It’s important to obey signals and not follow risky behavior.
• Merging onto busy interstates like I-285 and the Connector can be fast-paced. Try to match speed safely and use turn signals early.

💡 Tip: Many visitors find it easier to park once and walk or ride transit in dense areas (Downtown, Midtown, near events) instead of jumping between short car trips in heavy traffic.

Driving to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson is one of the busiest airports in the world, and its road system is highly used.

Main Driving Routes to the Airport

• From Downtown / Midtown:
  • Take the Downtown Connector south and follow signs for ATL Airport / Domestic Terminal.
• From Southside / I-285:
  • Use I-285 to reach I-85 or Camp Creek Parkway, depending on your route and terminal.

Terminals and Access

• Domestic Terminal (North and South) – Most major U.S. airlines; separate pick-up and drop-off lanes.
• International Terminal (Concourse F) – Accessed from a separate entrance off I-75 (exit near Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal), not the same road as the main domestic terminal.

Allow extra time, especially:

• During early morning and evening peaks
• Before holidays
• When weather may cause flight delays or heavier traveler volume

Weather and Seasonal Considerations for Driving

Atlanta’s weather can affect road conditions differently throughout the year.

Heat and Summer Storms

• High heat can strain vehicles (check coolant, tires, and AC before a long drive).
• Afternoon thunderstorms are common in warmer months, bringing heavy rain and poor visibility. Reduce speed and increase following distance.

Winter Weather

Atlanta doesn’t see severe winter weather often, but when snow or ice does appear, roads can become hazardous quickly.

• Bridges and overpasses may ice first.
• Many local drivers are not accustomed to winter driving, and road crews may need time to treat surfaces.
• If icy conditions are forecast, consider delaying your drive in or around Atlanta until roads improve.

Important Local Agencies and Resources for Drivers

These official Atlanta-area agencies play a major role in roads, traffic, and enforcement.

Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS)

For driver’s licenses and driving tests if you’re moving to or living in Atlanta:

• DDS Customer Service Center – Atlanta (Downtown area)
  400 Whitehall St SW
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Phone: (678) 413-8400

There are additional DDS centers in neighboring areas (Decatur, Norcross, etc.) that Atlanta residents often use.

Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)

Manages interstate highways and many major roads in and around Atlanta.

• GDOT Headquarters
  One Georgia Center
  600 West Peachtree St NW
  Atlanta, GA 30308
  Main Phone: (404) 631-1000

City of Atlanta Police Department (APD) – Traffic-Related Concerns

For non-emergency traffic issues within city limits (such as minor collisions without injuries or to request an officer):

• Atlanta Police Department – Non-Emergency Line: (404) 658-6666
• Emergency (accidents with injuries, immediate hazards): 911

Quick Reference: Driving To and Around Atlanta

Driving to Atlanta, Georgia, doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a basic understanding of the city’s highways, typical traffic patterns, and parking options, you can plan your trip with more confidence—whether you’re visiting for a weekend, commuting daily, or moving here and getting used to Atlanta’s roadways.