Atlanta, Georgia, isn't your typical Southern U.S. city. This state capital is known for integrating Southern customs into the many different cultures that thrive there and the variety of fun and interesting experiences available for the curious visitor. Some of the most fascinating places to visit include the Georgia Aquarium, Dr. Martin Luther King Historic Site, and Atlanta Botanical Garden, and there are plenty more and lots of cool neighborhoods to check out. But it's not always easy for tourists to find the best and most convenient lodging for their trip. Thankfully, we have a few suggestions that'll work whether you're traveling with kids, with friends, or by yourself.
MzB, an Atlanta native, hosts tours focused on Black history and civil rights, exploring the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and events and sites that have played an important role in the life of the city and country. As the birthplace and burial grounds of the great civil rights leader, Atlanta is full of cultural museums and centers that tell the stories not only of Dr. King Jr. and the 1960s Civil Rights Movement but also the complicated history of Atlanta from the Civil War to today. But what interests MzB as much as this story is the equally rich and important present and future of this cosmopolitan, diverse, and great city of the South. She's also an Airbnb hostess and passionate about showing visitors the best that Atlanta has to offer. MzB thinks it says something about Atlanta that, "No matter where you go in the city, you're likely to see some type of celebrity or famous person. I saw Clint Eastwood at a nail shop that they were scouting for a movie. In line at a gas station, Jermaine Dupri was standing right behind me."
Describing what makes Atlanta so wonderfully inviting and why she enjoys hosting guests from all over, MzB explained some of the perks of calling it home. She told Wide Open Roads, "Living in Atlanta, there's always something to do, whether it's a concert, event, or a show. You can go to the Selfie Museum or catch a Braves game... The food is delicious. We have such a variety of food, but of course, when you're in the South, you have to eat soul food. You can get some of the best soul food in the country here in Atlanta from certain restaurants that are owned by celebrities and famous people. And the nightlife in the city is also amazing. There are so many areas that you can go to that have different kinds of bars, clubs, and lounges.
As a majority Black city, many of the great experiences and opportunities in Atlanta are driven by the city's diversity. Right next to Dr. King's church and memorial is an affluent Black neighborhood filled with not only successful businesses, but also an energetic nightlife. MzB said, "It's interesting because I do the Dr. King History Tour on Auburn Avenue, which is actually parallel to Edgewood Avenue. And Edgewood Avenue holds a strip of local Black businesses, but also the nightlife district of Black Wall Street," referring to the pocket of taverns, lounges, and nightclubs in the area holding all kinds of entertainment.
"I love the fact that we went to the World Series celebration two weeks ago, and it was such a sense of community," she continued, expounding on how the city erupted after the Braves won this year's World Series. "People were excited about the championship and being out and about, just really doing something that we could only do in Atlanta."
So whether you want a history lesson, to run into a celebrity, a night out on the town, or a combination of the three, consider staying in one of these Airbnbs that are located in specific, noteworthy areas. And according to MzB, wherever you decide to stay in Atlanta, there will always be something amazing to do.
1. Lenox Midnight Dream
Right in the heart of Atlanta lies this classy apartment that works hints of yellows into its modern look. Its high windows allow plenty of light in so that you can open your blinds to start a fresh day of exploring the city. Although the vacation rental only has one bedroom, it comes with an extra queen air mattress to help house up to four guests. You'll have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, two smart TVs, a kitchen, in-house washer and dryer, and free parking. You'll also have access to the complex's pool if you're looking to take a dip to cool down from the summer humidity. The space is also centrally located, meaning you'll be a close distance to everything in town. For: Family of four with tweens and teenagers who want to do "cool" activities
2. Charming Candler Park Bungalow
This capacious, treehouse-like studio apartment is located within walking distance of Candler Park and provides plenty of space for up to three guests to stay overnight. Taking up the entire second floor, the Airbnb boasts 21-foot ceilings and tall windows that make the place look even more open than it may initially seem. It comes with a kitchenette, washer and dryer, Wi-Fi, and a TV, and if you're planning to travel with the whole family, this place is a smart option to book. It also comes with features such as a travel crib, high chair, baby safety gates, and outlet covers. You'll have access to the porch and the backyard, where you can lounge around on the deck or relax in the hammock that hangs underneath the pergola tree. For: New families traveling with their kid for the first time and want an easygoing vacation
3. Smooth Landing "Suite" Getaway
If you're looking for a romantic hideaway, then check out this private place just minutes from the Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport. This groovy space provides an idyllic atmosphere for you and one other, featuring a lavish king-sized bed, an intimate soaking tub, comfy love seat sofa, and small dining area. You'll have your own private entrance on the side of the main house, and there's also free parking on the premises. It's the perfect Atlanta Airbnb to book if you don't want to be near all the busyness downtown, but still want to explore all the different cultural attractions the city offers. Located on a quiet residential street, this rental unit is also perfect to check in to if you want to be undisturbed during your trip. For: Couples who are less interested in being close to the sights and more interested in being close to each other in a little luxury
4. Big City Casita
The East Atlanta Village is one of the coolest and most hip neighborhoods for artists and young professionals to explore, and this Airbnb rental is a great choice to book if you and three other friends plan to do so. This artsy casita offers a main bedroom, guest suite, living room, fully equipped kitchen, and an inviting front porch to hang out in. You'll be near some of the city's best hotspots in Glenwood Park, Reynoldstown, and Cabbagetown with a plethora of amazing eateries and pubs to visit. The Beltline, the city's most popular attraction, is also nearby this residential home and is known for "where Atlanta comes together." There you'll find Piedmont Park, Tiny Doors ATL, Skyline Park, and Krog Street Market. For: Small group of friends looking to explore the city's hotspots
5. Stylish Sanctuary
Hosted by the same superhost who manages the casita, this tiny house is also located in the same area right in the heart of Cabbagetown. The fun Airbnb is made for up to four guests and provides a lively, but cozy atmosphere with its classic furnishings and pinches of warm colors. Its open living space presents an upstairs sleeping loft that holds a queen-sized bed, living room with a queen-sized pull-out sofa, kitchen, and patio area for all its guests to enjoy each other's company. There's also an option to rent the additional main house that is located at the front of the property, in case your party has more than six guests. For: Solo trips, group trips, or romantic getaways looking to be near the city's hotspots with the option to stay in
6. Luxury Midtown Unit
Choose this classy and refreshing Airbnb if you want to explore the Midtown Atlantic Station area. Atlantic Station is a favorited neighborhood to walk around in Midtown with restaurants, shopping, and entertainment around every corner. You'll also be right across the street from the breathtaking Foundry Park at Millennium Gate Museum, a great place to learn more about the city's history and behold its significant architectural pieces. The rental space is open and inviting with its grey-scale color scheme emphasizing the bright yellow touches placed throughout, and it serves as the perfect area to rest and relax in after wandering through the city. For: Small group of friends or families that want to explore one of Atlanta's top neighborhoods and be near some of the city's historic sites.
7. The Trendy Oasis
If you're looking for another rental for a romantic vacation in the city, then check out this apartment in the Old Fourth Ward of downtown Atlanta. Just 15 minutes away from all the popular attractions including the Beltline, Georgia Aquarium, Coca Cola Arena, State Farm Arena, and more, this Airbnb is in a great spot so that you can plan an easy date night out. The chic space also provides the perfect atmosphere for an intimate night in if that's what you and your one other are in the mood for. It offers a kitchen, TV, in-house washer and dryer, Wi-Fi, access to the complex's gym and pool, and board games to keep you comfortable and entertained if you don't feel like going out. But if you do choose to wander around the city, you'll also be near the Ponce City Market, Fernbank Museum, Edgewood Avenue, Lenox Mall, and Atlantic Station. For: Couples who want to be near most of the attractions all around the city.
8. Modern Loft in Buckhead
If you're looking for a great view of Atlanta's skyline, then this trendy loft in Buckhead is for you. Located in a newly renovated high rise, this snazzy space is open, inviting, and fun. Filled with stainless steel amenities and pops of brightly colored decor, the lavish place is perfect for small parties of up to four people. Inside, you'll have a full kitchen, fast Wi-Fi, a queen bed, an extra air mattress, and two smart TVs with Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Netflix and Roku. You'll also have access to the complex's gym, pool, and game room to use for your own leisure. So whether you decide to go out and explore or stay in and relax, this might be the best Airbnb for you to choose. For: Small group of friends looking to enjoy Atlanta's nightlife with the option to have an eventful night in instead.
9. Midnight Getaway
This stylish apartment is perfect for those who are ready to take on the city's nightlife. With its location only ten minutes away from the Mercedes Benz Stadium, the State Farm Arena, the Convention Center, the Coca Cola Factory, and much more, you'll be near everything for when you want to go shopping, go out to eat, or find some entertainment. The night-themed space presents a vibrant, but mellow ambience for its guests, so even if you want to have a night in, you'll have a cool place to hang out and relax. The Airbnb has a TV, Wi-Fi, an in-house washer and dryer, and a balcony with a lovely courtyard view. You'll also have access to the complex's swimming pool. For: Small group of friends who are looking for a night out on the town.
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