Pet-Friendly Hotels in Downtown Atlanta, GA: Where to Stay With Your Dog or Cat

Bringing your pet to downtown Atlanta is easier than many travelers expect. The city center has a growing number of pet-friendly hotels within walking distance of major attractions like Centennial Olympic Park, State Farm Arena, the Georgia Aquarium, and the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

This guide walks through the best areas in downtown to stay with pets, common pet policies, what to expect in fees and rules, plus nearby green spaces, vets, and practical local tips for traveling with animals in Atlanta.

How Pet-Friendly Is Downtown Atlanta?

Downtown Atlanta is compact, busy, and walkable, which makes staying with pets convenient if you plan ahead. You’ll find:

• A good number of pet-friendly hotels ranging from budget to upscale.
• Several pocket parks and plazas where you can walk your dog.
• Easy access to MARTA rail stations like Peachtree Center, Five Points, and GWCC/College Football Hall of Fame (note: pets on MARTA must usually be in carriers).

If you’re staying with a dog, you’ll want to think about green space access. If you’re traveling with a cat or small animal, you may care more about room setup and quiet than outdoor options.

Key Pet-Friendly Hotel Zones in Downtown Atlanta

1. Centennial Olympic Park & Convention Area

This area is ideal if you want to walk to:

• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• National Center for Civil and Human Rights
• State Farm Arena
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Streets like Marietta St NW, Baker St NW, Luckie St NW, and Andrew Young International Blvd NW are lined with hotels. Many national chains here accept pets, often with:

• A per-stay or per-night pet fee
• Weight limits (commonly around 40–75 lbs per dog, policies vary)
• Limits on the number of pets per room

Being near Centennial Olympic Park gives you access to a sizable green space for morning and evening walks.

2. Peachtree Center & Core Downtown

Around Peachtree St NE and Peachtree Center Ave NE, you’ll find high-rise hotels and covered walkways. This spot is convenient if you’re:

• Attending a meeting at Peachtree Center or nearby office towers
• Using the Peachtree Center MARTA Station
• Wanting quick access to both downtown and nearby Midtown

Green space is more limited right in the core, but you’re a short walk or quick rideshare from:

• Woodruff Park (Peachtree St SW & Auburn Ave NE)
• Hurt Park (Edgewood Ave NE & Courtland St SE)

3. Government & Castleberry Hill Edge

On the southwest side of downtown near Castleberry Hill and the government center, you may find a mix of loft-style spaces and hotels. This is useful if you want:

• Proximity to Mercedes-Benz Stadium
• A more artsy, neighborhood-style feel
• Slightly quieter streets compared to the Peachtree core

Sidewalks here are dog-friendly, but always pay attention to event days when streets can be crowded.

Typical Pet Policies in Downtown Atlanta Hotels

Policies vary by property, but many pet-friendly hotels in downtown Atlanta follow similar patterns. Always confirm directly with the hotel before booking, since rules can change.

Common Pet Rules

Most downtown properties that accept pets will:

• Allow dogs, and some also allow cats
• Charge a non-refundable pet fee (per stay or per night)
• Set a maximum number of pets per room (often 1–2)
• Have weight limits (sometimes 25–75 lbs; some are more flexible)
• Restrict pets from certain areas such as pools, fitness centers, and some restaurants
• Require pets not be left unattended in rooms, or left only if crated and reachable by phone

Typical Fees and Deposits

You’ll commonly encounter:

• A flat pet fee (for example, a set amount per stay)
• Or a per-night fee up to a certain maximum
• In some higher-end or extended-stay hotels, refundable deposits may also be required in case of damage

When comparing options, ask:

• Is this per room, per pet, or per night?
• Is any portion refundable?
• What counts as damage from the hotel’s perspective?

Quick Comparison: What to Check Before You Book

Use this simple checklist to compare pet-friendly hotels in downtown Atlanta:

Best Areas for Dog Walking Near Downtown Hotels

Even in a busy urban core, you can find places to stretch your dog’s legs.

Centennial Olympic Park

• Location: 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Large open lawns, paved walkways, fountains, and views of downtown
• Popular with locals, visitors, and sometimes events or festivals
• Dogs are generally allowed on leash; bring bags and be courteous around crowds

Woodruff Park

• Location: 91 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
• A central green space with walking paths and seating
• Good for a quick break if you’re staying near Peachtree Center or Five Points

Hurt Park

• Location: 25 Courtland St SE, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Recently revitalized, with open areas and seating
• Useful for shorter on-leash walks near Georgia State University area

Nearby Larger Parks (Short Drive or Rideshare)

If you have a car or don’t mind a short ride, you can access:

• Historic Fourth Ward Park – Greenspace and paths near the Eastside BeltLine.
• Piedmont Park (in Midtown) – One of Atlanta’s most popular parks; includes a dog park area off Monroe Dr NE.

These aren’t in downtown but are convenient if you’re staying there and want more room for exercise.

Getting Around Downtown Atlanta With Pets

Walking

Downtown sidewalks are generally walkable, but:

• Expect heavy foot traffic on event days near State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
• Be cautious of hot pavement in summer; Atlanta sidewalks can get very hot in the afternoon. 🥵
• Use shaded routes where possible, and consider early morning or late evening walks.

MARTA (Public Transit)

MARTA rail and bus service can be useful if you’re staying near:

• Peachtree Center Station
• Five Points Station
• GWCC/College Football Hall of Fame Station

Pets on MARTA typically must:

• Be in a secure carrier that you can hold on your lap or keep at your feet
• Not disturb other riders

Check MARTA’s most current pet policy before you ride, especially with larger dogs.

Rideshare and Taxis

Some rideshare drivers in Atlanta are comfortable with pets, especially small animals in carriers. To reduce issues:

• Note in the app that you’re traveling with a pet
• Bring a blanket or towel to protect the seats
• Keep leashes and carriers handy for quick entry and exit at busy curbs

Local Services Near Downtown for Pet Emergencies and Supplies

If you’re traveling, it helps to know where to go if something comes up.

Veterinary and Emergency Care

While many full-service veterinarians are clustered in Midtown, Westside, and surrounding neighborhoods, you can reach them quickly from downtown by car or rideshare. Two categories to look for:

• General veterinary clinics – For minor issues, vaccines, check-ups.
• 24/7 emergency animal hospitals – For urgent or after-hours care.

When you arrive in Atlanta, consider:

• Searching for an emergency vet near your hotel and saving the number in your phone.
• Asking your hotel front desk; many downtown hotels maintain a local vet and emergency list for guests.

Pet Supplies

If you run out of food, bags, or litter while in downtown Atlanta:

• Look for convenience stores or pharmacies along Peachtree St, Marietta St, and around Peachtree Center; some carry basic pet items.
• Larger pet supply stores are usually a short drive away in Midtown, Westside, or Old Fourth Ward.

Call ahead to confirm stock if you need something specific like a particular brand of food or medication.

Practical Tips for Staying in a Pet-Friendly Hotel in Downtown Atlanta

To make your stay smoother for you, your pet, and other guests:

Before You Arrive

• Confirm the pet policy in writing (email or reservation notes).
• Request a room on a lower floor or near an exit if nighttime potty breaks are likely.
• Pack:
  • Food, collapsible bowls, treats
  • A comfortable bed or blanket from home
  • Extra poop bags, wipes, and cleaning supplies
  • A secure leash, harness, and ID tags
  • Any medications and vet records

At Check-In

• Ask where the designated pet relief area is, if the hotel has one.
• Confirm:
  • Where pets are allowed (lobby, elevators, outdoor seating)
  • Quiet hours, especially if your dog tends to bark at noise in hallways

In the Room

• Do a quick sweep for dropped pills, small objects, or cords your pet might chew.
• Use a crate if your pet is used to one and you need to leave briefly.
• Keep the “Do Not Disturb” sign up while your pet is alone, and notify the front desk if there’s any chance staff might enter.

Around Downtown

• Keep your dog on leash at all times; downtown is dense and full of distractions.
• Carry water, especially from late spring to early fall when humidity and heat are high.
• Be mindful of loud sirens, construction, and crowds, which can startle nervous pets.

Choosing the Right Pet-Friendly Hotel in Downtown Atlanta for You

When comparing pet-friendly hotels in downtown Atlanta, anchor your decision around:

• Purpose of your trip: Business, convention, sports, sightseeing, or visiting family.
• Your pet’s temperament:
  • Calm pets may do fine in busy high-rise hotels near Peachtree Center.
  • Nervous or noise-sensitive pets may be more comfortable closer to parks or on quieter streets near Centennial Olympic Park or the stadium edges.
• Budget: Factor in pet fees as part of your nightly cost, not an afterthought.
• Access to green space: Especially important for dogs that need frequent outdoor breaks.

With a bit of planning around location, pet policies, and nearby amenities, it’s entirely possible to enjoy a comfortable stay in a pet-friendly hotel in downtown Atlanta, GA, while keeping your dog or cat safe, calm, and welcome in the city’s busy urban core.