Atlanta Airport: Best Places To Sleep Over

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the world's largest travel hubs, with two terminals and seven concourses. While the airport does not have dedicated sleeping areas, there are a few good spots travellers have reported. These include the PlaneTrain level between Concourses A and B, and the mezzanine level in Concourse F, near the Club at ATL, which has some sofas. If you're looking for more comfort and privacy, Minute Suites rents sleep cabins by the hour in Concourses B and T, and there is also a hotel inside the airport.

Sleeping in the airport vs nearby hotels

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the world's largest travel hubs, with a constant stream of travellers passing through its two terminals and seven concourses. While the airport is open 24 hours, sleeping there is not always ideal. The terminals tend to be bright, noisy, and cold, and there are no dedicated sleeping areas or rest zones.

If you're looking for a place to rest your head, there are a few options within the airport, as well as a range of nearby hotels. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each to help you decide.

Sleeping in the Airport

The most comfortable spots to sleep in the airport are airside, in Concourses E and F, and the International Terminal. Here, you'll find comfortable chairs and loveseats that can be pushed together to form makeshift beds. Concourse D also has chairs that can be pushed together, and there's a quiet area with sofas near the Club at ATL on Concourse F's mezzanine level. The PlaneTrain level between Concourses A and B also offers a carpeted area that's relatively quiet and suitable for sleeping.

However, the airport's seats often have armrests, and it can be challenging to find mobile charging points, depending on your concourse. The airport does offer free unlimited WiFi, but other amenities like showers are limited to VIP lounges and Minute Suites.

If you plan to sleep in the airport, it's recommended to bring a sleep mask, noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs, and some warm layers. You may also want to ask airport staff about blanket availability, as they sometimes provide them to stranded travellers.

Minute Suites

Minute Suites offers private suites within the airport, located in Concourse B (near gates B16 and B24), the central atrium of Concourse E, and between gates F2 and F4 in Concourse F. These suites provide a more comfortable and private sleeping environment, with fold-out sofa beds, pillows, linens, and access to entertainment and WiFi. They can be booked by the hour or overnight, making them a convenient option for travellers with layovers or flight delays. However, reviews indicate issues with noise, cleanliness, and unsatisfactory service, so it may not be the best choice for a longer stay.

Nearby Hotels

There are several hotels near the airport that offer comfortable accommodations and convenient access. Some hotels, like the Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway, AC Hotel by Marriott Atlanta Airport Gateway, and Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel, are just a short ride away via the free SkyTrain. Others, such as the La Quinta by Wyndham Atlanta Airport North, Drury Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport, and Holiday Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport North, provide complimentary shuttle services for their guests.

These hotels typically offer amenities like fitness centres, free WiFi, and daily housekeeping. Reviews for these hotels vary, with some travellers praising the cleanliness and convenience, while others note inconsistencies in housekeeping and service quality.

In summary, sleeping in the airport is possible but may not be the most comfortable option. Minute Suites offer a step up in privacy and comfort but have received mixed reviews. Nearby hotels provide the most traditional accommodation experience, with the added benefit of easy airport access, making them a good choice if your budget allows.

Comfortable spots to sleep in the airport

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the world's largest travel hubs, with two terminals and seven concourses. While the airport does not have dedicated sleeping areas, there are still some comfortable spots where you can get some rest. Here are some of the best places to sleep in the airport:

Concourse E and F, and the International Terminal

Concourse E and F, and the International Terminal are said to have the most comfortable spots to sleep in the airport. Here, you will find comfortable loveseats and chairs that you can push together to make a pseudo-bed. This area tends to be quieter and more private, making it ideal for sleeping.

The PlaneTrain Level between Concourses A and B

The PlaneTrain level between Concourses A and B offers a carpeted area where you can spread out. Look for the rainforest-themed art installation with ambient wildlife noise and dim lighting—it's much quieter and more sleep-friendly than other parts of the airport.

Concourse D, Mezzanine Level

At the mezzanine level of Concourse D, you will find chairs that you can push together to create a makeshift bed. This can be a good option if you're looking for a place to rest in the airport.

Concourse F, Mezzanine Level, near the Club at ATL

The mezzanine level of Concourse F, near the Club at ATL, is another quiet and private area. Here, you will find some sofas where you can get some rest.

Minute Suites

If you're looking for added privacy and comfort, Minute Suites offers sleep cabins for rent by the hour in Concourses B and F. Each suite comes with a daybed, fresh pillows and blankets, smart TV, free Wi-Fi, and an Amazon Alexa sound-masking system. Showers are also available at specific locations for an additional cost.

The Atrium

The Atrium is a large circular area with seating and food spots. It is located before the security checkpoints, so it may be more accessible if you have checked baggage. This area tends to stay open 24/7, but it may not be as quiet or comfortable as other spots in the airport.

Where to find food and drinks in the airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a large airport with plenty of food and drink options. However, it's worth noting that the dining options are spread across different concourses, and none of them are open 24/7. Here is a guide to help you navigate and find something to eat or drink during your time at the airport:

Concourse T (Tango)

For a unique bourbon experience, Atlanta Stillhouse (T14) offers themed bourbon flights, barbecue, cocktails, and whiskey. If you're craving bagels, Goldberg's Bagel Company & Deli (T12) has a variety of options, including cream cheese and deli sandwiches. For a classic burger joint, try Grindhouse Killer Burgers (T11 and D30), which also has sweet potato fries and shakes.

Concourse A (Alpha)

Sports fans can catch a game and enjoy cocktails at Atlanta Hawks Bar and Grill (A34). For European-influenced dishes and a wide variety of beers, there's BeerCode Kitchen & Bar (A3). LowCountry New Southern Cuisine (A Centerpoint) offers Southern staples like fried steak and catfish po'boy sandwiches. For something sweet, Piece of Cake (A Centerpoint) has a variety of cakes and cupcakes.

Concourse B (Bravo)

Celebrity chef Bobby Flay brings his gourmet burgers to Bobby's Burger Palace (B26). Fresh to Order (B Centerpoint) offers healthy options like salads and sandwiches. Paschal's (B Centerpoint) is an Atlanta classic, serving Southern staples like fried and baked chicken. SweetWater Last Cast Bar & Grill (B31) offers casual bites and some of SweetWater's most popular brews.

Concourse C (Charlie)

The Concourse C Food Court has several options, including Bantam + Biddy for fried chicken, Great Wraps, Krispy Kreme, and Savannah's Candy Kitchen. The Original El Taco (C14 and Concourse F Mezzanine) serves up Tex-Mex favourites. Pecan Bar (C6) offers Southern-inspired dishes like barbecue brisket and smoked turkey with a full bar. Sweet Georgia's Juke Joint (C42) puts a twist on Southern food with sandwiches, fried chicken, and fish.

Concourse D (Delta)

40/40 Bar (D Centerpoint) is a sports bar and lounge owned by rapper Jay-Z, offering a variety of cocktails. Atlanta Braves All-Star Grill (D8) is the place to go for pub food and a relaxed atmosphere. Chicken + Beer (D5) is owned by rapper Ludacris, serving dishes like chicken and waffles, and offering local craft brews.

Concourse E (Echo)

One Flew South (E Centerpoint) is a renowned airport restaurant, offering exceptional Southern fine dining and sushi. It has been nominated twice for outstanding service by the James Beard Foundation. Sojourner's Bar & Grill (E8) serves Caribbean and Southern specialties, cocktails, and wine.

Concourse F (Foxtrot) and International Terminal:

Ecco (F Mezzanine) offers a European-style menu with panini, pizzas, pastas, and meat and cheese boards. Jekyll Island Seafood Company (F9) showcases the flavours of the Georgia coast.

Atrium:

There are several dining options in the Atrium, including A Bar and Grill, Auntie Anne's, Burger King, IHOP Express, Popeye's, Starbucks, Taco Bell, and TGI Fridays.

24-Hour Options:

The only 24-hour food and drink options are vending machines scattered throughout all concourses.

Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a casual meal, or a fine dining experience, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has something to offer for every taste and preference.

How to book a sleep pod

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has four Minute Suites locations where you can book a sleep pod. These are located in:

• Concourse B near Gate B16
• Concourse B near Gate B24 (shower facility only available here)
• Concourse E (Atrium at the top of the escalators)
• Concourse F near Gate F6

You can book a sleep pod by downloading the Go Mobile App, which is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. After downloading the app, follow these steps:

• Select Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• Select Minute Suites
• Select the number of hours needed

You can also book by calling (404)-975-3941 or emailing [email protected].

The cost is determined per suite rather than per individual, and the pricing strategy was adjusted in January 2024 to reflect current market conditions. Here is a breakdown of the pricing details:

• Initial Hour: $55
• Additional Time: $13.75 for every 15 minutes beyond the first hour, up to the second hour
• Extended Stays: $11.25 for every additional 15 minutes from the third hour onwards, up to 8 hours
• 7-Hour Stay: $335
• 8-Hour Stay: $380
• 24-Hour Option: $450
• Overnight Flat Rate: $195 for an overnight stay booked between 9 pm and midnight

It is important to note that Minute Suites has a strict cancellation policy. For hourly reservations, a full refund is only available if the cancellation occurs at least 3 hours before the scheduled arrival time. Cancellations made less than 3 hours before arrival will not be eligible for a refund. For overnight stays, cancellations must be made at least 12 hours before the scheduled arrival to qualify for a refund.

What to do if you're stuck in the airport overnight

Spending the night in an airport is never ideal, but sometimes it's unavoidable. If you're stuck in Atlanta Airport overnight, here are some tips to make your stay a little more comfortable:

Finding a Place to Sleep:

Firstly, it's important to note that Atlanta Airport is open 24 hours a day, so you won't be asked to leave. The most comfortable places to sleep seem to be located airside, in Concourses E and F, and the International Terminal. Here, you'll find comfortable chairs and loveseats that you can push together to make a makeshift bed. If you're travelling with your family, the sofa beds in Minute Suites can accommodate an adult and two children.

If you're looking for a quiet spot, head to the PlaneTrain level between Concourses A and B. This carpeted area has ambient wildlife noises and dim lighting, making it more conducive to sleep than the bright, noisy terminals. Another quiet option is the mezzanine level of Concourse F, near the Club at ATL, which has some private sofas.

Staying Warm:

The terminals tend to get cold overnight, so it's a good idea to come prepared with warm layers. You can also ask airport staff about blanket availability—they sometimes hand them out to stranded travellers.

Food and Drinks:

There are no 24-hour food options inside the airport, aside from vending machines. However, if you find yourself in Concourse A, there is a 24-hour McDonald's.

Comfort and Entertainment:

If you're looking for added comfort and entertainment, you can pay to access one of the first-class lounges. These lounges offer additional amenities such as showers and designated rest zones.

Security and Safety:

It's important to prioritise your safety when sleeping in an airport. Stay in well-lit, busy areas near other travellers. Keep your valuables hidden, and if you're a deep sleeper, consider padlocking your bag to something or sleeping with your bag against a wall.

Freshening Up:

If you want to freshen up before your flight, there are shower facilities available inside the Club at ATL and Minute Suites.

Frequently asked questions