Cheap Car Hire Atlanta Georgia USA
Atlanta: Where Southern Charm Meets Modern Innovation
Welcome to Atlanta in the beautiful State of Georgia – a city brimming with southern charm, captivating historic significance, and an undeniably vibrant energy. Known as the 'City in a Forest' due to its lush tree-lined streets, Atlanta is a sprawling metropolis with a rich cultural heritage, where the spirit of the Civil Rights Movement meets modern innovation. Whether you're in town to explore its historical landmarks, experience its famed hospitality, or savour the food scene, Atlanta is a city that never stops surprising. With Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport just a short drive from downtown, hiring a car is the best way to navigate this dynamic city and explore its surroundings. Atlanta’s cityscape blends modern sleek towering skyscrapers downtown with the old green, residential neighbourhoods that sprawl outwards to the fringes. It’s a city of contrasts, where you can have a gourmet meal at a trendy restaurant one moment, and the next, be soaking in the soulful sounds of a local jazz bar.
Driving in Atlanta
Atlanta is home to one of the busiest airports in the world, but once you touch down on the runway, you’re not far from the hire car pick up point. Simply collect your luggage, and then it’s off to get your car keys to hit the road behind the wheel. With your own ride, you’re in the perfect position to dive into all the city has to offer from a drive north into the heart of downtown to see why Atlanta is one of the most exciting cities in the South. Start your journey at Centennial Olympic Park, a lasting legacy of the 1996 Summer Olympics, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, catch a concert, or cool off in the Fountain of Rings. Just a stone’s throw away is the Georgia Aquarium, the largest in the whole of the United States of America, where you can walk through glass tunnels and marvel at a variety of sea life. For history buffs, The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park provides a poignant look at the life and work of the civil rights leader, and a visit to his childhood home and church offers a deep connection to the soul of this city. Beyond downtown, Atlanta’s sprawling neighbourhoods have distinct personalities. Head to Midtown for a dose of culture – here, you'll find the High Museum of Art with its impressive collection of American and European art, or explore the Atlanta Botanical Garden for a peaceful walk among lush greenery. The city’s charm continues as you drive through Ponce City Market, a trendy hub housed in a historic building that offers everything from shopping to dining and rooftop views of the Atlanta skyline. Not far from the city, Stone Mountain Park provides an escape into nature. This enormous granite dome offers scenic views of the entire metro area, and you can hike up or take a cable car to the summit. For something even more serene, drive to Atlanta’s BeltLine, a 22-mile loop of walking and biking trails that connects neighbourhoods, parks, and public art installations, giving you a completely different perspective of the city.
Once you’ve soaked in the buzz of the city, it’s time to hit the open road. Hiring a car lets you easily explore the surrounding regions, from the picturesque North Georgia Mountains to the historic charm of towns like Athens where there are fascinating moments and museums. With most attractions located within a short drive of one another, Atlanta’s rental car options cater to every kind of traveller. If you’re planning to stay close to the city, consider a smaller vehicle like a compact or economy car to make parking easier, especially in areas like Midtown or Buckhead.
Parking is readily available at most major attractions, and many hotels in the city offer free parking for their guests. However, if you plan to venture out on longer road trips to nearby towns or natural parks, an SUV or sedan is perfect for added comfort and space. The possibilities are endless for a road trip from Atlanta, making your car hire an essential part of your journey. Head northeast to North Georgia, where winding roads lead to beautiful vineyards, stunning waterfalls, and quaint mountain towns like Helen. The area is perfect for outdoor activities – from hiking in the Chattahoochee National Forest to touring the Cabbage Patch Kids BabyLand General Hospital. If you're into antiques, don’t miss Blairsville’s antique shops, which provide a nostalgic trip back in time. A couple of hours south of Atlanta, you’ll find Macon, home to the Georgia Music Hall of Fame and a deeply-rooted connection to soul and jazz.
If you’re looking for an all-American road trip, consider driving to beautiful, charming Savannah. Just about a four-hour drive from Atlanta, the city is a dream for lovers of quaint Southern charm. Here, cobblestone streets, centuries-old oak trees, and Spanish moss draped over historic homes make for an unforgettable backdrop. As you cruise down to the coast, enjoy the beaches of Tybee Island, where the surf meets the serene shores.
Tips and FAQs
While Atlanta’s extensive road system is fairly easy to navigate, the city is known for its traffic, especially during rush hour. The Interstate 285 Beltway circles the city and provides access to most of the major neighbourhoods and surrounding areas, but it can get crowded quickly. When you’re out and about, make sure to check live traffic updates, and try to avoid driving during peak times if possible. If you’re venturing out to more scenic spots, like the mountains or the coast, be sure to fill up your tank at one of the many convenient gas stations scattered around the city before hitting the highways. Choosing the right rental car in Atlanta depends on your style and your planned adventures. If you're staying in the heart of the city, a compact car is a great choice to zip around Atlanta’s downtown. However, for longer journeys or exploring nature reserves, an SUV will give you the comfort and space you need for longer drives. The good news is, with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport offering an array of rental car options, your pre-book hire car can be waiting for you as soon as you land.
Atlanta, USA
Population: 498,715 (Greater Atlanta: Over 6 million)
Annual Visitor Figures: Over 53 million
Average Summer Temperatures: 32°C (90°F)
Average Winter Temperatures: 7°C (45°F)
Time Zone: GMT -5 (Eastern Standard Time), GMT -4 (Daylight Saving Time)
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