Mention Atlanta and people immediately think of peaches, heat, and—thanks to Donald Glover—lemon pepper wings from J.R. Crickets (ordered "wet," if you're in the know). But there’s much more than that. In fact, "Hotlanta," its most popular nickname, pays tribute to all the fun stuff you can do in the city—from picnicking in Piedmont Park to sampling pineapple and melon Fanta at the World of Coca-Cola museum and cooling down with frosés at the Hotel Clermont’s rooftop bar. Oh, and if you’re worried about traveling with children, don't be. ATL is home to the Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta, where the kid-friendly activities include family yoga. Read on for our expert tips on experiencing Atlanta like a local, and how to make sure you have everything you need while you’re there.
When it comes to packing, it’s all about the right bag for the right job. If you’ve been making do with a beat up old duffle or an ancient carry-on with a sticky wheel, you’ll be amazed at how a new bag makes travel so effortless. Every smart traveler should have three key pieces of luggage: a weekender bag for quickie getaways, a carry-on suitcase for week-long trips, and a larger suitcase for longer stays or travelers that overdo it on souvenirs. (Guilty!) For a weekender, we’re fans of the Away Everywhere bag. This little dynamo has separate pockets for your laptop, pens, reading materials, and phone, plus a waterproof umbrella compartment—genius when you visit a rainy destination. For a one-week trip, it’s hard to beat Away’s Carry-On—it changed the suitcase game with an ejectable battery for phone charging, smooth spinner wheels, and a lifetime warranty. And for any trips lasting two weeks or longer, go for the Travelpro Platinum Elite. There’s a reason flight crews swear by this luggage brand. This checked bag has gliding spinner wheels, a telescoped handle, and two-inches of zippered expansion. Consider yourself packed.
Every packing hurdle is made easier with this trio of travel gear. Got a hotel room or cruise ship cabin with little counter space? This hanging toiletry bag will give you elbow room at the sink plus provide dedicated pockets for all your creams, gels, and sprays. Hang it on the bathroom door or over the towel rack to keep everything upright, protected, and in place. If you have an issue with overpacking—who doesn’t?—then packing cubes are a game-changer. This four-piece set will keep all your things, from underpants to electronics, organized and condensed, saving you precious suitcase space. And rather than depend on the freebie toiletries at the hotel (that harsh hotel soap will zap all the moisture from your skin), bring your own tried-and-true toiletries in these TSA-approved squeeze bottles.
Only travel amateurs get on a flight without bringing the essentials. A sleep mask not only blocks out cabin lights—it provides the privacy you need to get some Zs. The Trtl travel pillow is a travel editors’ favorite for keeping your neck and head comfortable as you nod off. And Comrad compression socks’ moisture-wicking technology keeps feet comfy and protects you from deep vein thrombosis. (Yikes!) Fly like a pro with these packing essentials.
There’s no single look that defines Atlanta; the city’s many neighborhoods have a distinct aesthetic to call their own. If you’re hanging out in Buckhead, you’ll notice clothing skews preppy, complete with designer labels and matching handbags. Then there’s the Old Fourth Ward, where you can experience some of the city’s historic sites alongside its emerging street art scene. When dressing for OFW, we opt for outfits that are bright and bold, with vintage flair sprinkled in. At the end of the day, though, all that matters is that you own whatever look you decide to rock.
Women’s Outfits
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THE 3 PAIRS OF SHOES YOU’LL NEED FOR EXPLORING ATLANTA
We’re not gonna lie: to get around Atlanta is to get around by car. That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of hiking trails and bike paths to enjoy on foot—just plan on getting from point to point in a vehicle. The plus side of all that sprawl is that Atlanta is a place where you can have a little fun with your footwear. For the days spent kayaking the Chattahoochee River or exploring Centennial Olympic Park, aim for something comfortable and cushioning. If you’re planning on checking out some of the museums and restaurants in Inman Park, go with a stylish shoe that you can comfortably walk in. Round out your shoe wardrobe with a dressy option to wear at one of Atlanta’s nightlife spots. Below, our faves for each category.
Any Atlanta native will tell you that while it can get cold during the winter, for the most part the weather is pretty temperate all year round. That being said, this is one trip where you can feel free to leave your shearling-lined parkas and snow boots at home. Another important note to remember is that you’ll be in a big metropolis. So while you can choose to pack your own bug spray, bandages, and first aid kit, you don’t need to. A 24-hour CVS, Walgreens, or other drugstore will never be too far. Save that suitcase space for local goodies such as peanut brittle from Miss Ds New Orleans Pralines and Popcorn or a candle Atlanta-based beauty brand Little Barn Apothecary.
THE *ONE THING* WTP EDITORS ALWAYS PACK FOR ATLANTA
Atlanta is the sort of place where, should you forget your swimsuit, you’ll find yourself dashing to Target to pick up a cheapie on day one. We say, avoid the in-a-pinch purchase by bringing solid swimwear that you actually love. Even if you’re visiting outside of prime pool season, there are year-round swimming pools at most Atlanta hotels—from the luxurious Four Seasons in Midtown to the budget Country Inn & Suites by the Atlanta Braves ballpark. Even the historic Atlanta landmark, The Georgian Terrace Hotel, housed in a handsome 1911 Beaux-Arts building, has a rooftop pool with stunning panoramic city views to enjoy when the weather is nice. —WTP Editors
The nickname Hotlanta takes on new meaning when it comes to weather in Atlanta. The good news is that you are pretty much guaranteed to get some sort of sun every month of the year—even in November or December. The bad news is that with the sun comes heat, humidity, and heavy rainfall at random. Typically when it rains, it’s short and intense. For this reason, locals typically stash an umbrella or raincoat somewhere in their car. Summer months mean high temperatures that barely seem to cool after the sun sets. Even winter can see some unusually daytime high temps, though we still a warm coat or jacket for the chilly evenings. Scroll on for a breakdown of what to pack for every month of the year.
JANUARY
Plan for day temps between 37° F and 46° F
Temps will drop near 22° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 22 inches of precipitation in January
What to Wear in Atlanta in January: This is typically the coldest month of the year—bundle up with a warm coat and accessories.
Temps will drop near 30° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 19 inches of precipitation in March
What to Wear in Atlanta in March: Temperatures start to rise this month. Pack for sunny days and cooler nights. Bring along your favorite casual footwear.
Temps will drop near 36° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 23 inches of precipitation in April
What to Wear in Atlanta in April: The upward temps continue in April, though with a higher chance of precipitation. Make sure you’re rain-ready with a compact umbrella and a jacket that repels wind and rain.
Temps will drop near 63° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 14 inches of precipitation in June
What to Wear in Atlanta in June: Temperatures can hit the mid-eighties in June. Make sure your suitcase is full of easy-fitting tees, shorts, and dresses—and your dopp kit contains high-SPF sunscreen.
Temps will drop near 69° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 2 inches of precipitation in September
What to Wear in Atlanta in September: Atlanta’s summer is still full throttle throughout September. Keep clingy clothes at bay and stick to cottons and linens. Pack your comfiest open-toed shoes while you’re at it.
Temps will drop near 43° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 22 inches of precipitation in October
What to Wear in Atlanta in October: October’s the time to start sprinkling in layerable pieces, like open-front dusters for ladies and bomber jackets for men.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PACKING FOR ATLANTA
1. What to wear to see sports in Atlanta (the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Hawks, or Atlanta Braves)
If you’re cheering on the Atlanta Falcons (football), Hawks (basketball), or Braves (baseball), then you’re going to want to keep things easy and effortless. A great pair of leggings and a cute top is the perfect way to achieve chic game-day style.
Nothing says “Go team!” like some official merch. You’ll feel like a local in vintage-style NFL gear—plus it makes a fun souvenir for remembering the game. Win win.
2. What to wear to Six Flags Over Georgia or the Georgia Aquarium
When looping on super-coasters and braving frontier-style mining trains, comfy and non-restrictive clothing is essential. Same goes for trying to see the some 100,000 creatures at Georgia Aquarium—one of the largest in the world. These are excursions that call for ultra-soft tees and relaxed shorts (especially if you’re planning an aquarium sleepover among dolphins, stingrays, and reef sharks).
A 95-foot free fall and tasty theme park food call for stretchy pants. Layer on comfort and style with a pair of joggers, a denim jacket, and a crewneck T-shirt.
3. What to wear to get artsy at the High Museum of Art of the Atlanta Contemporary Museum
A day spent touring the exhibition halls at the High Museum or Atlanta Contemporary arts center means a chance to play with your wardrobe. Spruce things up with a printed jumpsuit and spicy suede sandals (whose stacked block heels stay comfy gallery after gallery).
Classic chinos made from Japanese twill and a pajama-like cotton-blend shirt make the perfect mix of casual and chic. Just the thing to wear while checking out Kara Walker’s large-scale cut paper installation and then grabbing a cold brew at nearby Octane Coffee.
4. What to wear to go shopping in Atlanta
Atlanta’s shopping scene ranges from antique emporiums to funky, upscale warehouse (Ponce City Market, Krog Street Market) to large outdoor malls (Atlantic Station) anchored by national department stores. Wear a fun frock that’s easy to take on and off in the dressing rooms, slip-on-and-off shoes, and a jean jacket to combat the intense AC.
A simple tee-and-jeans combo makes the perfect canvas for browsing at upscale Buckhead Atlanta (land of Tom Ford and Moncler) or Phipps Plaza.
5. What to wear to be out in nature in Atlanta visiting the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Chattahoochee River, or Piedmont Park
Whether you’re smelling colorful blooms and walking through woodlands at the Atlanta Botanical Garden or kayaking the Chattahoochee River, you’ll feel prepared in slouchy pants and a stretchy tank.
Joggers and a hoodie make walking, biking, or scooting (Birds, Limes, and JUMPs are scattered about) through Piedmont Park a breeze. Parents with young kids should visit the park’s Playscapes playground, designed by Isamu Noguchi as a way to make sculpture a functional part of daily life.
What are some good bars/restaurants in Atlanta?
Atlanta’s food scene has been booming for years; the cosmopolitan city is arguably the foodie capital of the Southeast. If you’re in Old Fourth Ward, go full southern with a plate of pork chops and cheese grits at The Mercury, one of the many food options at Ponce City Market. Afterward, take a digestive stroll along the BeltLine, a railway corridor-turned-walking path (Atlanta’s answer to the High Line in New York). While in historic Inman Park (thought to be Atlanta’s oldest neighborhood), stop by Bartaco for duck tacos and margaritas or Ticonderoga Club, a basement cocktail bar/Asian-influenced American restaurant with an ever-changing menu. In Westside, we love the neon-lit, tucked-away Little Trouble for Tokyo-inspired nibbles and drinks; Bocado for mouth-watering burgers and cocktails; and The Optimist, an oyster bar with crudos, wood-roasted fish, and a Saturday-night raw bar happy hour. Our favorite Buckhead spots include Umi Sushi (plan ahead for this one—scoring a reservation here is no easy feat) and the French Bistro Niko; the chicken biscuits and spicy Bloody Marys make Buttermilk Kitchen worth the 10-minute drive. Don’t miss Babette’s Cafe, a local institution for French food, if you’re going to the Little Five Points area.
I’m planning on renting a car in Atlanta. What is parking like?
Parking can be tricky in Atlanta, so it’s always a good idea to research ahead of time to avoid driving around in circles for a spot. Make sure to download the ParkMobile app.
I want a night on the town. What does nightlife look like in Atlanta and where should I go?
Atlantans take their nightlife seriously. Those wanting to party hard head to the city’s high-end, multi-room dance clubs like The Havana Club and CosmoLava; those wanting a chill evening gather on O-Ku’s rooftop bar for sake cocktails, sushi, and (hopefully) a glorious sunset. Other offerings include themed drag shows at Lips and all-night dance parties at Johnny’s Hideaway.
How safe is it to walk in Atlanta at night?
Atlanta is 100 percent a driving city—not because of safety issues, but rather because of distance. Things are fairly spread out, so even if you’re just trying to grab dinner and then head to a bar for drinks, you’re going to want to grab an Uber.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the world’s busiest airports—how can I make sure my belongings stay safe?
As always, keep an eye on your carry-on bags and luggage at all times. Be sure to zip up purses and backpacks after you open them, and keep cards extra safe by storing them in some sort of RFID-blocking case.
