We are planning a weekend in Atlanta. Is underground the best place to stay and what about the HoJo Plaza Suite Hotel. It looks nice but is this the best plan? Thought about trying buckhead but would like walking distance to attractions.

Hi--
Staying at the Underground?? NOOOOOO! I haven't been down there at night in several years because it's gotten to be more like a gang hangout than a fun place to go. It's not doing well as a shopping or dining venue, so you'd be bored staying in that part of town and I'm not sure you'd want to be walking around there at night.

Midtown and Buckhead are much better options. Atlanta is very spread out and we're very reliant on cars. MARTA is an option for you but as public transportation, it's not as convenient as you would expect a city of this size. (It's great for getting to/from the airport,sporting events and concerts!)

What attractions are you thinking about? Do you like going out at night to clubs? There's lots of good eating options in both B'head and Midtown as well as clubbing. Let us know what you're looking for and we can give more specific advice.

Debbie

Debbie

Another vote to stay in Midtown or Buckhead, using a hotel that has easy MARTA train access. That way you can go downtown to check out the sights (World of Coca-Cola, CNN, Centennial Park, etc.) and also ride MARTA to other attractions, such as the High Museum. While Underground continues to have some appeal and is a safe daytime destination, there are panhandlers outside which detract from its appeal, and certainly don't add to a safe feeling at night, IMO. Please look at MARTA's site, www.itsmarta.com, so you can plan your visit using the MARTA train. While the weekend may give some respite to the business traffic, the confusing signage around town (Peachtree what?) can get a visitor lost in a hurry, and unfortunately ATL residents' auto manners aren't quite what they used to be. As Debbie mentions, let us know what you'd like to do, and we'll try to help with your plans.

I recently stayed at the Wyndham in Midtown. Very nice--some great restaurants nearby and you can walk to the Marta to get downtown.

Thanks to all the knights in shining armor! We didn't have a clue but will stick to buckhead. Really, we are open to anywhere within a couple of hours of the city. Not looking for clubbing just good dining and a "nothing" kind of weekend. Can you suggest some restaurants that are notable and won't break the bank? We are not into trendy but don't mind spending money for a really good dining experience.Leaving tonite 10-3 and not very prepared. Thanks SO much!

Not far from Buckhead, east on Roswell Rd. to 1-285 you have: Hals on Old Ivy, Landmark Diner, Food 101, Horseradish Grill, La Paz, Landmark Diner, 10 Degrees South, Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Brooklyn Cafe, to name just a few that are "notable".

Actually its north on Roswell Rd.

And theres only one Landmark Diner and it can be hit or miss. Sad to say but I would "miss" Underground. Never did get "above ground" so to speak!

Just a suggestion but the mountains are only about 1 hr away; they can be spectacular this time of year. Lots of "country sights" and scenery.

Stay far far far far away from Underground Atlanta, nothing to see.

If you are looking for some places to eat in Midtown, try South City Kitchen(love the fried chicken), Silver Skillet on 14th if you want a good down home breakfast, Loca Luna-beautiful outdoor area but have great tapas and fun music.

You mentioned that you were not into trendy, head down to the Virginia-Highlands, very laid back area, fun shops and smaller bars and great restaurants. Nothing trendy and clubby down there. Just a walk around area. Some restaurant suggestions would be Highland Tap is nice for a steak, La Tavola for lighter Italian.

Buckhead is clubby and trendy at night, can get VERY annoying with the traffic. I suggest if you want a calm weekend, stay away from there.

Everything can be accessible by cab or Marta...

If you stay in Midtown, Einstein's or Joe's on Juniper are good for a lunchtime burger or sandwich. Another fun place for lunch is downtown Decatur, which is easily accessible by MARTA train. Try the beers at Brick Store Pub. To check out Midtown info, go to http://www.atlanta-midtown.com/

Dining:

For live jazz, something unique,
Try Dante's Down The Hatch in Buckhead
(spendy so bring cash)
Sit on the ship, ask for table 113
Make reservation...
____
for steak and potatoes kind of guys and girls that love salad bars
Try Fogo De Chao... Brazilian steak house, all you can eat... Imagine good looking (well most) guys dressed in gancho pants carrying swords of delicious meats... they come to you, slice off some fresh onto your plate..
Truly brilliant and always a good time... on Piedmont Road in Buckhead, off of Peachtree Road.

Hidden restaurants around midtown
in between 5-7th streets on Peachtree Street. Behind 805 peachtree find spice, cavu, and an ice cream and coffee shop called ORANGE.

Other areas to check out...
Virginia Highlands
Little Five Points