Polaris Atlanta: Dining, Views, and What to Know Before You Go

If you search for “Polaris Atlanta”, you’re almost always looking for the iconic blue dome restaurant and lounge that used to revolve high above downtown Atlanta. Even though the space has gone through changes over time, it’s still one of the city’s most recognizable features and a common point of curiosity for residents and visitors.

This guide walks through what Polaris is (and was), its connection to downtown Atlanta, what you can realistically expect today, and nearby alternatives if you’re mainly interested in skyline views, cocktails, or special-occasion dining.

What Is Polaris in Atlanta?

Polaris is the name of the blue, spaceship-like dome perched on top of the Hyatt Regency Atlanta in downtown. It originally opened in the late 1960s as a revolving restaurant and lounge, giving 360-degree views of the city.

Over the decades, Polaris became:

• A landmark on the Atlanta skyline
• A special-occasion spot for anniversaries, proposals, and celebrations
• A symbol of the city’s Mid-Century Modern and civil rights–era history

The dome is located at:

• Hyatt Regency Atlanta
  265 Peachtree Street NE
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  (Downtown, on Peachtree between Baker St and Harris St)

Even people who have never gone inside usually know it as the glowing blue “UFO” downtown.

Is Polaris Currently Open?

The operating status of Polaris has varied over time. It has opened, closed, and been reimagined more than once, often as a lounge with small plates and cocktails rather than a traditional full-service revolving restaurant.

Because its status can change based on renovations, hotel decisions, or events, the most practical steps are:

• ✅ Call the Hyatt Regency Atlanta front desk to ask whether Polaris is currently open to the public.
  • Main phone: (404) 577-1234
• ✅ Ask:
  • “Is Polaris currently open?”
  • “What are the hours?”
  • “Do you need reservations, or is it first come, first served?”
  • “Is there a dress code?”

For locals, it’s common to double-check before heading down, especially if you’re planning a birthday, date night, or bringing out-of-town guests who specifically want the Polaris experience.

What Polaris Has Traditionally Offered

When operating, Polaris has typically focused on:

• Panoramic views of downtown Atlanta, Midtown, and sometimes out to Stone Mountain on a clear day
• Cocktails, wine, and beer in a lounge-style setting
• Small plates or light bites, sometimes featuring regional or locally sourced ingredients
• A retro-futuristic vibe, with design elements that nod to its 1960s roots

Over time, the emphasis has shifted away from being a full revolving restaurant and more toward being a view-focused lounge and bar. Some periods have been more food-forward, others more beverage- and event-focused.

Because this can evolve, it’s smart to ask:

• “Is Polaris serving full meals or mainly drinks and small plates right now?”
• “Is it mostly bar seating, tables, or a mix?”

That can help you decide if it fits what you have in mind—dinner, drinks before a show, or just a quick look at the view.

How to Get to Polaris in Atlanta

Polaris sits above the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, which is in the heart of downtown.

By MARTA

• Take MARTA Rail to:
  • Peachtree Center Station (most convenient), or
  • Civic Center Station
• From Peachtree Center, the hotel is roughly a 5–10 minute walk, mostly along Peachtree Street NE.

Tips:

• 🚇 If you’re coming from the airport, take the Gold or Red Line north and get off at Peachtree Center.
• The downtown area is walkable, but pay attention to your surroundings, especially at night, as you would in any major city.

By Car

• Use GPS for “Hyatt Regency Atlanta, 265 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30303.”
• The hotel offers valet parking; nearby self-parking garages and lots are also widely available, typically around:
  • Peachtree Street NE
  • Courtland Street NE
  • Baker Street NW

Parking rates can vary depending on:

• Special events (conventions, games at State Farm Arena or Mercedes-Benz Stadium)
• Time of day and day of week

It’s worth checking event calendars for downtown venues if you want to avoid peak traffic and parking surges.

What to Expect If You’re Able to Visit Polaris

If Polaris is open during your visit, here’s what Atlantans and visitors typically plan for:

Atmosphere

• Upscale casual – not overly formal, but a step above everyday wear
• A mix of:
  • Hotel guests
  • Local professionals in for a drink after work
  • Couples and small groups celebrating something special
• Often a quiet to moderately lively vibe, depending on day and time

Dress and Etiquette

While Polaris has not generally been a strict jacket-and-tie venue, many guests choose:

• Business casual or smart casual:
  • Button-down or blouse
  • Dress, skirt, or slacks
  • Closed-toe shoes or neat sandals

Tips:

• 🎯 Avoid sports jerseys, swimwear, and overly casual gym wear, especially in the evening.
• If you’re celebrating something formal (anniversary, proposal), dressing up a bit usually feels more natural in the space.

Timing Your Visit

Locals often aim for:

• Late afternoon / early evening to catch daylight and then watch the city lights come on
• Weeknights for a quieter, more relaxed experience
• Earlier in the evening on weekends to avoid crowds and potential wait times

Always check if:

• Reservations are recommended or required
• There are any private events that might limit public access on your chosen date

Accessibility and Special Considerations

Because Polaris sits atop a high-rise hotel, access typically involves elevators and internal hotel pathways.

If you or someone in your group has specific needs:

• Call Hyatt Regency Atlanta at (404) 577-1234 and ask:
  • “Is Polaris accessible for guests using wheelchairs or mobility devices?”
  • “Where is the best drop-off location for accessibility?”
  • “Are there any accommodations for vision or hearing needs?”

Downtown Atlanta generally offers:

• Sidewalk curb cuts
• Elevator access at MARTA stations
• Ramped access at major hotels and convention facilities

Still, construction and events can temporarily change optimal routes, so checking ahead is helpful.

If Polaris Isn’t Open: Similar Experiences in Atlanta

If you find that Polaris is closed during your dates, you still have several options in Atlanta for:

• Skyline views
• Elevated dining or drinks
• Special-occasion atmospheres

Below is a simple overview of common alternatives locals consider, all within the city of Atlanta:

Because openings, hours, and policies can change, it’s always best to:

• Search the venue name along with “Atlanta hours”
• Call ahead for reservation policies, age limits, and dress guidelines

Tips for Atlanta Residents Planning a Polaris-Themed Outing

If you live in Atlanta and you’re trying to plan something around Polaris:

1. Check the current status first.
   Before sending invites or making big plans, call Hyatt or check current hotel information.

2. Have a backup plan nearby.
   Downtown has plenty of options for drinks and dinner within walking distance, in and around:

   • Peachtree Street NE
   • Centennial Olympic Park area
   • Edge of Fairlie-Poplar historic district

3. Watch traffic and events.
   On nights with:

   • NBA games at State Farm Arena
   • NFL/MLS games or concerts at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
   • Conventions at the Georgia World Congress Center

   expect heavier traffic and more expensive parking. MARTA can be a good alternative.

4. Plan for photos.
   The blue dome itself is visible from various points around downtown. If your group is excited about pictures:

   • Arrive a bit early to take street-level photos of the dome.
   • Consider nearby spots with skyline backdrops if you want more variety.

What Visitors to Atlanta Should Keep in Mind

If you’re visiting Atlanta and Polaris caught your eye:

• See it as part of a broader downtown experience:

  • Centennial Olympic Park
  • The Georgia Aquarium
  • World of Coca-Cola
  • National Center for Civil and Human Rights

• Think in time blocks:

  • Afternoon: attractions and walking tours
  • Early evening: potential Polaris visit or another rooftop/lobby bar
  • Night: dinner nearby or a game/show, then back to your hotel or MARTA

• Use Peachtree Center Station as your transit hub.
  It puts you within a short walk of the Hyatt Regency Atlanta and many other downtown hotels and attractions.

Key Takeaways for “Polaris Atlanta”

• Polaris is the blue dome atop the Hyatt Regency Atlanta in downtown and has long been known as a view-focused restaurant and lounge.
• Its operational status can change, so you’ll want to call the hotel at (404) 577-1234 or check current hotel information before planning a visit.
• When open, expect:
  • Skyline views
  • Cocktails and small plates
  • An upscale casual atmosphere suitable for dates and special occasions
• If Polaris is not accessible during your time in Atlanta, there are plenty of nearby alternatives for skyline views, rooftop drinks, and memorable city experiences.

Planning around these details will help you make the most of Polaris Atlanta—whether you’re admiring it from the street, visiting the space itself, or choosing a similar high-up spot somewhere else in the city.