Best Hotels Near Underground Atlanta: Where to Stay Downtown

If you’re searching for a hotel by Underground Atlanta, you’re really looking for a place that keeps you close to the heart of downtown: MARTA, State Farm Arena, Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, and the historic Underground Atlanta complex itself. This area works especially well if you want to walk or take transit instead of driving everywhere.

Below is a clear guide to where to stay near Underground Atlanta, what each area feels like, and how to pick the right spot based on your plans and budget.

Understanding the Underground Atlanta Area

Underground Atlanta sits in the core of downtown Atlanta, roughly around:

• Address: 50 Upper Alabama St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Nearby MARTA stations: Five Points (main hub), Peachtree Center
• Nearby streets: Pryor St, Central Ave, Alabama St, Wall St

Staying near Underground Atlanta usually means you’ll be within walking distance of:

• State Farm Arena
• Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
• Georgia World Congress Center
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Georgia Aquarium & World of Coca‑Cola
• Government buildings and business offices

If you want a central base to explore Atlanta, a hotel here can be very convenient.

Key Areas to Consider for Hotels Near Underground Atlanta

1. Directly Downtown (Closest Walking Distance)

These are the closest hotel areas to Underground Atlanta, typically a 5–15 minute walk.

What this area is like:

• Heavily urban, lots of foot traffic on weekdays
• Convenient to MARTA, buses, and major attractions
• Mix of older high‑rises, newer renovations, and event crowds on game/concert days

Who it’s best for:

• Visitors in town for conventions, conferences, or business
• Fans coming for Falcons, Hawks, United matches, or concerts
• Travelers who want to rely on public transit and walking

Pros

• 🚶 Very walkable to Underground Atlanta
• 🚉 Easy access to Five Points and Peachtree Center MARTA
• 🏙 Near most major downtown attractions

Cons

• Can be noisy and crowded on event nights
• Parking is often valet or paid garage only
• More “big-city downtown” feel than neighborhood charm

2. Centennial Olympic Park / CNN Center Area

This cluster is still near Underground Atlanta (often just a short walk or quick rideshare), but with more of a tourist‑oriented feel.

Nearby landmarks:

• Centennial Olympic Park
• College Football Hall of Fame
• World of Coca‑Cola
• Georgia Aquarium
• State Farm Arena

Who it’s best for:

• Families wanting attractions in walking distance
• Visitors who want greenspace and more dining options nearby
• Anyone splitting time between Underground Atlanta and the park/aquarium area

Pros

• Family‑friendly restaurants and attractions
• Pleasant park views and open spaces
• Still quite close to Underground Atlanta via a short walk or street route

Cons

• Often higher rates on busy weekends or large event days
• Heavy tourist foot traffic at peak times

3. South Downtown & Government District

South of Underground Atlanta, you’ll find more government buildings and offices and a growing mix of lofts, creative spaces, and some smaller hotels.

What to expect:

• Quieter at night and on weekends compared to the tourist core
• Close to Fulton County and City of Atlanta offices
• Good choice if you have business at courthouses or government centers

Pros

• Generally very close to Underground Atlanta
• Convenient for city and county offices
• Often competitive prices compared to high‑demand tourist blocks

Cons

• Fewer late‑night dining options right outside your door
• More commuter‑oriented vibe than entertainment-focused

How to Choose the Right Hotel Near Underground Atlanta

Consider Your Main Purpose

Ask yourself why you want to be near Underground Atlanta:

• Sports or concerts?
  Look for hotels walking distance to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium or State Farm Arena while still being close to Underground Atlanta. That way you can walk to both.

• Business or government visits?
  Prioritize hotels near City Hall, Fulton County Government Center, or offices along Trinity Ave and Central Ave, all a short distance from Underground.

• Tourism and sightseeing?
  You may prefer a hotel between Centennial Olympic Park and Underground Atlanta for easy access to both attractions and the historic district.

Think About Transportation

Being close to MARTA can save time and money, especially from Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Key stations near Underground Atlanta:

• Five Points Station:
  • Major transfer hub for Red, Gold, Blue, and Green lines
  • Closest to Underground Atlanta (just a short walk)
• Peachtree Center Station:
  • Surrounded by multiple hotels and food courts
  • About a 10–15 minute walk to Underground Atlanta depending on your route

If you:

• Don’t want to rent a car → Look for a hotel near Five Points or Peachtree Center.
• Plan to drive everywhere → Choose a hotel that clearly lists on‑site or connected garage parking and daily rates.

Safety & Comfort Tips in Downtown Atlanta

Like many big downtown areas, parts of downtown Atlanta can feel different during the day versus late at night.

Common, practical tips:

• Use well‑lit, busier streets when walking after dark.
• If you’re unsure about walking at night, use a rideshare or licensed taxi.
• Keep valuables out of sight, and use hotel safes when available.
• Check your hotel’s front desk hours and security measures (key‑card elevators, on‑site staff, etc.).

Visitors and locals often find downtown very workable when they plan their routes and stick to the main corridors, especially around events and business hours.

Quick Comparison: Hotel Areas Near Underground Atlanta

*Approximate walking times depend on exact hotel location and route.

Practical Details: Getting To and From Your Hotel

From the Airport to Downtown / Underground Atlanta

Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) connects directly to downtown by MARTA:

1. Take MARTA from the Airport Station (inside the airport) on the Red or Gold line.
2. Ride north to Five Points or Peachtree Center.
3. Walk, rideshare, or taxi to your hotel.

This route is popular for travelers who want to avoid surge pricing and downtown parking fees.

Driving and Parking Near Underground Atlanta

If you’re driving:

• Expect mostly paid garages or lots; true free parking is rare downtown.
• Many hotels charge a nightly parking fee (often added to your room bill).
• Event days at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena can make parking scarce and more expensive; arriving earlier often helps.

What to Look For in a Hotel Listing

When you compare hotels near Underground Atlanta, pay special attention to:

• Distance to MARTA – being a short walk from Five Points or Peachtree Center can simplify airport transfers and local travel.
• Event proximity – if you’re attending a game or concert, choose a hotel that lets you walk there safely rather than drive.
• Noise expectations – some people prefer to be right in the middle of the action; others may want a room facing away from main streets or higher floors.
• On‑site services – such as breakfast availability, 24‑hour front desk, and luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures.
• Refund and change policies – helpful if your plans depend on a scheduled event or meeting.

When a Hotel Near Underground Atlanta Makes the Most Sense

Choosing a hotel by Underground Atlanta is usually a good idea if:

• You want to be in the heart of downtown, close to transit, stadiums, arenas, and attractions.
• You’re attending something at the Georgia World Congress Center, State Farm Arena, or Mercedes‑Benz Stadium and prefer to walk.
• You’re comfortable with a busy, urban environment and value proximity more than a neighborhood feel.

If you’d rather have a quieter, more residential atmosphere, you might stay in areas like Midtown, Inman Park, or Virginia‑Highland and visit Underground Atlanta by MARTA or rideshare. But for maximum convenience to downtown landmarks, a hotel in or around Underground Atlanta is one of the most central choices in the city.