Hotels on Virginia Avenue in Atlanta: Your Practical Guide to Staying Near the Airport
Looking for hotels on Virginia Avenue in Atlanta usually means you want to be close to Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, have easy highway access, and still be within reach of downtown. Virginia Avenue in Hapeville/East Point, just west of the airport, is one of the main hotel corridors serving Atlanta flyers and road-trippers.
This guide walks through what to expect from hotels on Virginia Avenue, how the area is laid out, typical price and comfort levels, and smart tips for choosing the right place if you live in Atlanta, are visiting, or are helping someone plan a stay.
Why Virginia Avenue Is a Popular Hotel Strip
Virginia Avenue runs roughly east–west just north of the airport and connects to:
- I-85 (via Exit 73 – Virginia Ave)
- I-75 (a short drive east via side streets or I-85 connector roads)
- The airport rental car center and terminal area (usually via shuttle)
For many travelers, staying along Virginia Avenue means:
- Quick access to ATL without sleeping right next to runways
- A cluster of mid-range chain hotels (so you can compare options)
- Walking-distance restaurants and gas stations
- Easy rideshare pickup and drop-off
If you live in metro Atlanta, this area is commonly used for:
- Very early or very late flights
- Hosting out-of-town family who need to be “airport-close”
- Short work trips involving airport-related businesses in College Park, Hapeville, or East Point
The Layout: Where the Hotels Sit on Virginia Avenue
Most “airport hotels on Virginia Avenue” cluster around:
- Virginia Ave & I-85 (Exit 73) – East Point side
- Virginia Ave closer to Hapeville – slightly west of the Interstate
You’ll generally see:
- Northern side of Virginia Ave (East Point): Multiple chain hotels, fast-food options, some sit-down spots.
- Southern side / toward Hapeville: A mix of hotels, apartment complexes, and local businesses, plus access to downtown Hapeville.
Knowing which side you’re on matters for walking, crossing traffic, and how long it takes to drive back to the airport.
Typical Hotel Types on Virginia Avenue
When people search for “hotels on Virginia Ave Atlanta”, they’re usually looking at a mix of:
1. Traditional Airport Hotels
These are often full-service or near full-service properties with:
- Free or paid airport shuttles
- On-site restaurants or bars
- Meeting rooms and business centers
- Larger lobbies and sometimes a more “conference hotel” feel
They work well for:
- Business travelers
- Families who want an on-site restaurant or more amenities
- Locals who need a “park and fly” style setup (where you leave your car at the hotel during your trip, if offered)
2. Limited-Service & Mid-Range Chains
These are usually budget to mid-priced hotels with:
- Free Wi‑Fi
- Continental or hot breakfast (sometimes included)
- Smaller lobbies and more basic fitness centers or pools
- Lower room rates than full-service brands
These are popular for:
- Overnight layovers
- Road trips along I‑75/I‑85
- Travelers who plan to spend most of their time elsewhere in the city
3. Extended-Stay Options
Some properties near Virginia Avenue are geared more toward longer stays, with:
- In-room kitchenettes
- Coin or card laundry
- Weekly rate structures
These can make sense if:
- You are relocating to Atlanta and need a temporary base near the airport
- You are working on a short-term contract near College Park/Hapeville
What You Can Usually Expect in This Area
Hotels on and around Virginia Avenue often share a similar set of features and tradeoffs.
Common Advantages
Proximity to ATL Airport
Most hotels in this corridor are within a 5–10 minute drive to the terminal, depending on traffic and shuttle timing.Shuttle Service
Many Virginia Avenue hotels offer complimentary airport shuttles. Schedules vary—some run 24/7, others only during certain hours.Food & Essentials Nearby
You’ll usually be close to:- Fast food (burgers, chicken, coffee shops)
- Convenience stores or gas stations
- A few casual sit-down restaurants
- Pharmacy or basic retail a short drive away
Highway Access
Quick entry to I‑85 means you can go:- North to Downtown Atlanta (State Capitol, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Georgia State)
- North to Midtown (Georgia Tech, arts district)
- South toward Fayetteville, Peachtree City, or the south suburbs
Common Tradeoffs
Noise
Being close to an airport and major highway often means:- Some airplane noise
- Highway traffic sounds
- Busier surroundings
If you’re sensitive, it can help to request a higher floor away from the highway side, bring earplugs, or use a white noise app.
Not a “walk-around” Neighborhood in Every Direction
Certain pockets of Virginia Avenue are more car-dependent, designed around hotels and freeway ramps.
You can usually walk to a few restaurants, but it’s not a scenic, highly walkable “intown” neighborhood like Inman Park or Virginia-Highland.Primarily an Overnight/Transit Area
The vibe is more utilitarian: it’s convenient for flights and driving, not a primary sightseeing destination.
Quick Comparison: Why Choose Virginia Avenue vs Other Airport Areas?
Here’s a simple way to think about where Virginia Avenue fits among Atlanta’s airport-area hotel zones.
| Area Near ATL Airport | What It’s Like | When It Fits You Best |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Ave (East Point/Hapeville) | Cluster of mid-range hotels, easy I‑85 access, mix of food options | You want quick access to the airport and highways at a moderate price. |
| Airport Blvd / Camp Creek Pkwy | More retail (Camp Creek Marketplace), big-box stores, restaurants | You want lots of shopping and dining choices near your hotel. |
| Domestic Terminal Attached Hotels | Direct terminal access or people-mover access | You prioritize minimal transit time to your gate over cost. |
| Downtown/Midtown Atlanta | Urban atmosphere, attractions, dining, nightlife | You’re sightseeing and only need the airport once or twice. |
Virginia Avenue tends to be a good balance: cheaper than many downtown hotels, closer to the airport than Camp Creek for early flights, and with enough nearby amenities to be comfortable.
Getting From Virginia Avenue Hotels to Downtown & Around Atlanta
Even if you’re staying by the airport, you might still want to explore the city.
By Car or Rideshare
- To Downtown Atlanta: Often about 10–20 minutes, depending on traffic, up I‑85 North.
- To Midtown: Typically 15–25 minutes via I‑85 North.
- To Buckhead: Roughly 25–35 minutes, traffic-dependent.
Parking fees will vary by hotel. Some offer free parking; others charge a nightly fee, which can matter if you’re leaving a car for multiple days.
By MARTA (with a Short Connection)
Virginia Avenue itself is not directly on MARTA rail, but you can:
Take the hotel shuttle to the airport.
Enter Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport and walk to the MARTA Airport Station (at the Domestic Terminal).
Ride MARTA north to:
- College Park Station (for local bus transfers or access to downtown College Park)
- Five Points (downtown hub)
- Peachtree Center, Civic Center, Midtown, Arts Center, Lindbergh Center, and beyond
This is often the simplest transit route if you don’t have a car and want to get to central Atlanta.
How to Choose the Right Virginia Avenue Hotel for Your Needs
When comparing hotels along Virginia Avenue, it helps to think in terms of your priority: price, comfort, or convenience.
1. For Early Morning Flights
If your biggest concern is getting to your gate on time:
Look for documented shuttle hours that match your departure time.
Ask the front desk (by phone or online) about:
- First shuttle of the day
- Frequency (every 15, 20, 30 minutes?)
- Whether the shuttle goes to the Domestic Terminal, International Terminal, or both
Consider a hotel closer to the I‑85 on-ramp, which may shave off a few minutes of travel.
2. For Families
If you’re traveling with kids or multiple relatives:
Check whether the hotel offers:
- Free breakfast (can be a big savings)
- Larger suite-style rooms or sofa beds
- A pool (indoor or outdoor)
- Cribs/pack-and-plays upon request
Look at the room layout when booking—some Virginia Avenue hotels have interior corridors and larger lobbies that can feel more comfortable for families.
3. For Business Travel
If you’re coming in for a meeting, training, or nearby corporate offices:
Prioritize:
- Business center access (printing boarding passes, documents)
- Reliable Wi‑Fi
- Quiet floors or business-focused sections
- Meeting or conference room availability if you’re hosting a group
Check driving time to your specific office or facility in East Point, College Park, or Hapeville so you’re not surprised by rush-hour patterns.
4. For Budget-Conscious Travelers
To keep costs under control:
Compare nightly rates among several Virginia Avenue options—prices can swing based on:
- Weekday vs weekend
- Large events (conventions, games, concerts)
- Airline demand
Factor in:
- Parking fees (if any)
- Resort or facility fees (less common but worth checking)
- Whether breakfast is included
Sometimes a slightly higher rate at a hotel with free breakfast, free parking, and a shuttle can end up cheaper overall than a lower base rate with lots of small add-ons.
Safety, Parking, and Practical Tips
This corridor is heavily traveled by visitors but is still part of the urban fabric of metro Atlanta. A few grounded, practical points:
Safety Awareness
- Stick to well-lit routes between your hotel and nearby restaurants, especially at night.
- Keep valuables out of sight in parked cars.
- Use your hotel’s safe for passports, cash, or expensive electronics when possible.
- If you’re unfamiliar with the area, ask the front desk staff about recommended walking routes or nearby spots they suggest.
Parking Logistics
Many Virginia Avenue hotels offer:
- Self-parking lots
- Sometimes gated or controlled access
If you’re considering park-and-fly arrangements:
- Confirm how many days of parking are included.
- Ask where your car will be parked and whether it’s on-site or at a third-party lot.
Check-In/Check-Out Timing
Typical check-in is around 3:00–4:00 p.m., with check-out around 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
If you’re arriving from a red-eye flight or landing very early:
- You may want to request early check-in or book the night before so your room is guaranteed available.
If you have a late-night flight out of ATL, ask whether the hotel offers:
- Late check-out for a fee or as part of loyalty status
- Luggage storage at the front desk
Local Amenities You Might Use Near Virginia Avenue
While the focus here is hotels, most travelers end up needing a few practical services nearby.
Common nearby resources (within a short drive depending on your exact hotel):
- Gas stations & convenience stores – for fuel, snacks, and last-minute items before returning a rental car.
- Pharmacies – useful if you need over-the-counter medicine, toiletries, or quick prescriptions filled.
- Package shipping locations – helpful if your luggage is overweight and you’d rather ship items home.
- Car rental return at ATL – most major rental car companies in Atlanta operate from the Consolidated Rental Car Center (CONRAC) on airport grounds, accessible via the SkyTrain from the airport or short drives from Virginia Avenue.
Is a Virginia Avenue Hotel Right for You?
Choosing a hotel on Virginia Avenue in Atlanta makes the most sense when:
- Your top priority is airport convenience and easy Interstate access.
- You want mid-range pricing instead of higher downtown or Buckhead rates.
- You’re staying one to three nights and don’t need a neighborhood full of attractions right outside the door.
If you’re planning to deeply explore Atlanta’s neighborhoods, nightlife, or cultural sites, you may prefer splitting your stay—one night on Virginia Avenue before or after a flight, then a separate hotel in Downtown, Midtown, Old Fourth Ward, or Buckhead for the bulk of your visit.
But for early flights, tight connections, short business trips, or hosting visitors who simply need a reliable place to sleep near ATL, the hotels on and around Virginia Avenue are a practical, well-established option within the Atlanta area.