Atlanta Symphony Orchestra: Your Guide to Atlanta’s Premier Music Experience

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) is one of the city’s cultural anchors and a must-experience for anyone who loves live music in Atlanta. Whether you’re planning a special night out, looking for a family-friendly concert, or just curious how it all works, this guide walks you through what to expect, where to go, and how to make the most of a visit.

Where the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Performs

Most ASO performances take place at:

Atlanta Symphony Hall
1280 Peachtree St NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
(inside the Woodruff Arts Center in Midtown)

This location puts you in the heart of Midtown Atlanta, surrounded by restaurants, museums, and other arts venues.

Getting there and parking

MARTA:

• Take the Red or Gold Line to Arts Center Station.
• From there, it’s a short walk to the Woodruff Arts Center and Symphony Hall.

Driving & Parking:

• The Woodruff Arts Center parking garage is the main option.
• Nearby surface lots and garages along Peachtree and West Peachtree are also commonly used, especially for sold-out performances.

Tip: Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes early to find parking, pick up tickets, and settle in without feeling rushed.

What the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Is Known For

The ASO is known in Atlanta and beyond for:

• High-caliber classical performances featuring symphonies, concertos, and choral works.
• A Grammy-recognized recording history (particularly in choral and orchestral repertoire).
• Strong connections with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chorus and the ASO Youth Orchestra programs.
• A balance of traditional classical, contemporary works, and popular programming (film music, Broadway, holiday shows, and more).

For Atlanta residents, the ASO often serves as an introduction to live orchestral music and a reliable option for special occasions, date nights, and family outings.

Types of Concerts You’ll Find

The ASO season usually runs from fall through late spring, with additional summer and special programs. While names of series can change, you’ll typically find:

1. Classical subscription concerts

These are the core symphony programs, often on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday evenings. They typically include:

• A main symphony (e.g., Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Mahler)
• A featured soloist (piano, violin, or another instrument)
• Shorter orchestral works or contemporary pieces

These concerts are ideal if you’re looking for the full classical experience in a traditional concert setting.

2. Pops and special events

The ASO also presents lighter, more casual programs, which may include:

• Movie music (scores from Star Wars, Harry Potter, etc.)
• Broadway and jazz-inspired programs
• Tribute concerts featuring music from iconic artists or decades

These can be especially appealing if you’re bringing someone new to the symphony or want a less formal, more familiar program.

3. Holiday and seasonal concerts

Around major holidays, you’ll often see:

• Holiday pops concerts
• Choral programs with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chorus
• Family-friendly matinees

Atlanta families often make these part of their annual holiday traditions, especially those close to Thanksgiving and December holidays.

4. Family & education concerts

These shorter, accessible programs may feature:

• Interactive introductions to orchestra instruments
• Kid-friendly themes and narration
• Earlier start times and relaxed atmospheres

They’re designed to introduce children and younger audiences to live orchestral music without the length or formality of a full evening concert.

Tickets, Seating, and Pricing Basics

Ticket options vary based on the performance, seat location, and demand, but here’s how it usually works:

Ways to buy tickets

• Online or by phone: Through the Atlanta Symphony Hall / Woodruff Arts Center box office.
• In person: At the Woodruff Arts Center box office at 1280 Peachtree St NE.

Box office hours and policies can change, so it’s best to check current details before heading over.

Seating layout

Atlanta Symphony Hall generally offers:

• Orchestra level: Closest to the stage; popular for immersive sound and direct view of the musicians.
• Mezzanine and Balcony: Elevated views, often with good sightlines and a broader audio perspective.
• Accessible seating: Reserved areas for patrons with mobility needs, typically available on each level.

📝 Tip: For a first visit, many Atlanta concertgoers prefer front mezzanine or mid-orchestra for a clear view of the conductor and musicians.

Price considerations

Pricing typically depends on:

• Performance type (a major guest artist or special event can cost more)
• Day and time (weekend evenings may be higher than weekday nights or matinees)
• Seat location (closer to the stage generally costs more)

Residents sometimes choose subscription packages for multiple concerts, while visitors usually opt for single-event tickets.

Dress Code and Concert Etiquette

Unlike some people imagine, the dress code is usually flexible and approachable:

• Common choices: Business casual, smart casual, or simple “night out” attire.
• More formal outfits: Sometimes seen at opening nights or gala-style concerts but not required.

Basic etiquette Atlanta audiences typically follow

• Arrive early: Latecomers may be held outside until a natural break in the music.
• Silence phones: Turn off or silence devices and avoid screen glow during performances.
• Applause timing:
  • Generally, audiences clap at the end of a full piece, not between individual movements.
  • If you’re unsure, you can follow the lead of the rest of the hall.
• Food & drink: Policies may allow drinks in certain containers but usually not noisy wrappers or full meals inside the hall.

For many Atlanta newcomers, that first ASO concert is a chance to learn these norms, and staff are typically used to helping first-time visitors feel comfortable.

Making a Night of It in Midtown

Because the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra is located at the Woodruff Arts Center, it’s easy to build a full evening around your concert.

Nearby attractions

All within walking distance or a short drive:

• High Museum of Art (part of the same campus)
• Colony Square with indoor and outdoor dining options
• Restaurants and bars along Peachtree St NE and 14th St
• Piedmont Park a bit further east, if you want a pre-concert stroll

Many locals plan:

1. A pre-concert dinner in Midtown
2. A stroll to Symphony Hall
3. A post-concert dessert or drink nearby

Planning ahead helps avoid last-minute food and parking stress, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

The ASO and Woodruff Arts Center typically offer services to help make performances more accessible and comfortable:

• Accessible seating for wheelchairs and mobility devices.
• Elevator access to upper levels.
• Support staff to assist with seating, directions, and basic questions.

If you or someone in your group has specific needs, it’s wise to contact the box office in advance to confirm what’s available for your chosen performance.

Atlanta Symphony Youth and Community Programs

The ASO is also deeply involved in music education and community outreach around Atlanta.

Youth and student opportunities

Programs may include:

• Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra performances and auditions.
• Student ticket discounts for certain concerts.
• Educational concerts and resources for local schools.

Families living in the Atlanta area often see these programs as a way to:

• Introduce children to classical music.
• Support young musicians who might be considering school bands, orchestras, or private lessons.

If you have a child interested in music, checking the ASO’s educational offerings can provide local, high-level opportunities without leaving the city.

Quick Reference: Planning Your Visit

Experiencing the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra gives you a direct connection to one of the city’s most established arts institutions. Whether you live here or are just visiting, planning ahead for tickets, transportation, and timing will help you relax into the music and enjoy one of the most refined yet accessible things to do in Atlanta.