SkyLounge at The Glenn Hotel: A Local’s Guide to This Downtown Atlanta Rooftop Bar
If you’re looking for a rooftop bar in downtown Atlanta with skyline views, cocktails, and an easy walk from major attractions, SkyLounge at The Glenn Hotel is one of the best-known options. This guide walks through what to expect, when to go, how to get there, and how it compares to other Atlanta rooftop spots – all from an Atlanta-focused point of view.
Where SkyLounge Fits in Atlanta’s Bar Scene
SkyLounge is the rooftop bar on top of the Glenn Hotel, located in the heart of Downtown Atlanta, near CNN Center, State Farm Arena, and the Georgia World Congress Center.
It’s especially popular with:
- Pre- and post-game crowds heading to Hawks or Falcons games
- Convention and concert guests staying nearby
- Locals who want skyline views without going to Midtown or Buckhead
Unlike some high-energy nightclub-style rooftops, SkyLounge tends to lean more lounge than club: dim lighting, views, cocktails, and a relaxed but social atmosphere.
Location, Contact, and Practical Details
SkyLounge at The Glenn Hotel
110 Marietta Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30303
Located on the rooftop of The Glenn Hotel, downtown.
Phone (hotel main line, typically used for rooftop inquiries as well):
(404) 521-2250
Because hours and access can change with private events and weather, it’s wise to:
- Call ahead the day you’re going
- Ask the front desk if the rooftop is open to the public that evening
- Confirm age policy, dress expectations, and any cover or minimums for that night
Atmosphere and Vibe
What It Feels Like
SkyLounge is best described as a casual-upscale rooftop lounge:
- Outdoor terrace-style seating with city views
- Mix of small tables, lounge-style chairs, and standing room
- Music that’s noticeable but usually not so loud that you can’t talk
- Skyline views of downtown, including nearby high-rises and stadium lights on game nights
Compared with other Atlanta rooftop bars:
- More laid-back than some Buckhead party rooftops
- Usually less touristy than Midtown’s biggest rooftop attractions, but still popular with visitors staying downtown
- Feels date-friendly and group-friendly if you’re okay with a lively crowd on weekends
Crowd and Dress Code
The crowd varies by day and by what’s happening downtown:
- Weeknights: Hotel guests, business travelers, downtown workers, and some locals
- Weekends and event nights: Heavier mix of concertgoers, sports fans, and groups celebrating birthdays or nights out
Dress is generally smart casual:
- Jeans are common, but many people dress them up
- Sneakers are usually fine if neat
- Sports jerseys and very casual outfits appear on game days, but the overall look still leans slightly polished
If you’re heading up from a work event, conference, or dinner, business-casual attire fits right in.
Drinks, Small Bites, and What to Expect on the Menu
Menus can change, but you can typically expect:
Cocktails
- Signature cocktails with seasonal twists
- Takes on classic cocktails (old fashioneds, martinis, margaritas, etc.)
- A mix of spirit-forward drinks and lighter, fruit-forward options
Pricing aligns with central Atlanta hotel rooftop expectations – usually higher than a neighborhood bar, but similar to other rooftops in the city.
Beer and Wine
- A selection of bottled or draft beers, often including local and national options
- Wine by the glass and sometimes a small bottle selection
Food
SkyLounge often offers bar bites or small plates, rather than full meals. You might see:
- Shareable appetizers
- Light snacks (think something to pair with drinks, not a full dinner)
Because food options and serving hours change, check with the Glenn Hotel or ask when you arrive if you’re planning to eat there.
Best Times to Go
Timing for Views vs. Energy
Sunset and early evening are usually the sweet spot:
- You get both daylight skyline views and the city lights after dark
- Temperatures are more comfortable in spring and fall
- Easier to find a good spot before the bar fills on busy nights
Late nights on weekends can be:
- Livelier, louder, and more crowded
- Harder for large groups to find seats together
- Better for people-watching and a high-energy vibe
Seasonal Considerations in Atlanta
Atlanta weather shapes the rooftop experience:
- Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are often ideal: cooler evenings, good visibility, plenty of event nights
- Summer can be hot and humid earlier in the evening, but late nights can be pleasant; occasional pop-up thunderstorms can temporarily close the rooftop
- Winter evenings can be chilly on the rooftop; heaters may be used, but you’ll want a jacket
Getting to SkyLounge: Transportation and Parking
MARTA and Walking
SkyLounge is easily accessible by MARTA, Atlanta’s rail system:
Nearby stations:
- GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Line) – a short walk
- Peachtree Center Station (Red/Gold Line) – also walkable through downtown streets and skybridges
If you’re staying downtown or near Centennial Olympic Park, SkyLounge is typically walkable from many hotels and attractions.
Driving and Parking
If you’re driving:
- Hotel valet at The Glenn Hotel is often available, typically at a higher cost
- Nearby parking decks and surface lots around Marietta Street and Centennial Olympic Park Drive can be more budget-friendly, especially if you’re already paying for event parking
On major event nights (Falcons, Hawks, big concerts, conventions):
- Expect heavier traffic
- Consider parking once and walking to both your event and SkyLounge
- Give yourself extra time if you’re trying to meet friends at a specific hour
Reservations, Lines, and Private Events
Do You Need a Reservation?
Policies may change, but as with many Atlanta rooftops:
- Walk-ins are often allowed, especially for smaller groups
- Reservations or group arrangements may be encouraged or required for larger parties or special occasions
Because SkyLounge is tied to a hotel, it’s common for:
- Private events, receptions, or buy-outs to occupy the space entirely
- Sections of the rooftop to be reserved for groups
Calling ahead can help you avoid showing up to a closed-for-private-event rooftop.
Capacity and Waits
On busy evenings:
- There may be a wait to go up if the rooftop reaches capacity
- Hotel guests sometimes get priority access, but this can vary
If you want a more relaxed experience:
- Aim for earlier in the evening, especially on Fridays and Saturdays
- Consider weeknights when there isn’t a major game or concert next door
Who SkyLounge Is Best For
SkyLounge at The Glenn Hotel works especially well if you:
- Want a rooftop bar near State Farm Arena or Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Are staying downtown and prefer not to travel to Midtown or Buckhead for a night out
- Like a lounge feel with views rather than a full-on club environment
- Are hosting out-of-town visitors and want an easy, Atlanta-feeling spot with skyline views
It may be less ideal if you’re:
- Looking for the cheapest drink specials in the city
- Hoping for a quiet, almost empty bar late on a big event night
- Wanting a sit-down full meal on the rooftop (you’ll likely want to eat elsewhere first)
Comparing SkyLounge to Other Atlanta Rooftop Options
Here’s a simple way to see how SkyLounge fits into the broader Atlanta rooftop bar scene:
| Feature | SkyLounge at The Glenn Hotel | Typical Midtown/Buckhead Rooftops |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Downtown, near arenas & convention center | Midtown or Buckhead business/entertainment areas |
| Vibe | Lounge-style, casual-upscale | Ranges from ultra-lounge to club-like |
| Crowd | Mix of locals, hotel guests, event attendees | More local nightlife and after-work crowds |
| Views | Downtown skyline, stadium lights | Broader city views, sometimes more elevated |
| Best Use | Pre/post game or concert, showing off downtown | Destination night out, bar-hopping |
| Transportation | Very MARTA/walk-friendly for downtown visitors | Often easier with rideshare or driving |
For many Atlantans, SkyLounge is a go-to downtown rooftop when plans already center around the nearby venues.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
A few Atlanta-specific tips to make your night at SkyLounge easier:
- Check the event calendar: If there’s a major performance or game nearby, expect larger crowds and make plans accordingly.
- Confirm rooftop access the day of your visit, since private events and weather sometimes limit public entry.
- Plan your route: If you’re using MARTA, look up the last train times so you aren’t rushed at the end of the night.
- Bring a backup plan: Have a second nearby spot in mind (another bar, hotel lounge, or nearby restaurant) in case the rooftop is full or closed.
- Dress for the rooftop: It’s outdoors, so think about wind, heat, or cooler temps, depending on the season.
With a bit of planning, SkyLounge at The Glenn Hotel can be a convenient, scenic way to enjoy Atlanta’s downtown skyline, especially if your plans already bring you to the heart of the city.