With just a few months left before the World Cup takes center stage in Atlanta, we’re getting ready for tons of tourists and visitors to the ATL. And while we LOVE our visitors, of course, lots of people wish they could experience a city like a local when they’re visiting… let us help you do just that. Keep scrolling for some tips and tricks to experience the ATL like a true ATLien while you’re here for the Cup!
What are some dead giveaways that you’re a tourist in Atlanta?
Like we said, there’s nothing wrong with being a tourist! Come do all the touristy things in the city (they’re FUN! That’s why we recommend them to tourists!) But if you want to blend in as a local, here are some things you should avoid… since they give you away!
- We don’t call it Hotlanta here… in fact, it’s a little joke we have about tourists when they call it Hotlanta.
- Matter of fact, we don’t call it Atlanta, really either. We say Atlanna (without the second T,) and if you’re born and raised here, you say Alanna… no Ts at all.
- You’ve gotta allow for traffic. ESPECIALLY during the World Cup! Atlanta is known for our traffic, and we always build in extra commute time to get to events on time. Use Waze because traffic can change drastically… really quickly.
- And speaking of traffic, Atlanta really isn’t a honking city, like Chicago or NYC. We know traffic’s bad. Just pay attention and no one will honk at you.
- It’s HOT and humid here. Don’t come outside dressed in tons of layers and not expect to be sweaty in five minutes.
Okay, what are some things I should do?
Atlanta is a VIBRANT city, and if you want to experience it like a true local, there are so many things you’ve gotta check out.
- First of all, shop local! Atlanta is a city of entrepreneurs and hustlers. Forget chain businesses and go for local spots instead. Here are some of the many, many, many cool local spots to try:
- We really are that serious about lemon pepper… everything. Atlanta is the city of lemon pepper, and while we most notably make lemon pepper wings (TRY THEM WHILE YOU’RE HERE!), we’ve also got lemon pepper everything else (yeah, even matcha. And it’s GOOD too!)
- You’ll meet the coolest people while you’re here, so talk to us! Like we said, Atlanta is a city of hustlers. Most people have side gigs and creative endeavors. Always keep an eye out around the city: an incredible musician will pop up on the Beltline, a local festival will show a super cool play, people will vend hand-made, beautiful jewelry at pop-ups. We’re also a friendly bunch, (this is the south, after all) and we love to talk about our side-hustles.
- Utilize MARTA! While you’re here, use our public transit system, MARTA. It’s not nearly as big as the New York Subway, so you don’t have to worry about figuring out how to ride. It’s VERY straightforward. And the best part? When it’s time for the World Cup, there’s a station that’s just a 5-10 minute walk from the stadium, too. You don’t have to worry about parking, paying a driver, or traffic that way! And a one-way ticket is just $2.50!
- Check out the Beltline. The Beltline is Atlanta’s 22-mile walking path that circles the city. And it’s such a wonderful way to experience the culture and community here. You can stop in shops that line the Beltline, grab a coffee, walk with friends, exercise, skate, see all kinds of wacky and beloved local legends, enjoy street art… and so much more!
- Respect the city. If you really want to feel like a true ATLien, then enjoy everything our city has to offer, and respect it while you do! We love sharing our city with visitors, as long as you respect us, too!
See you in Atlanta for the World Cup! We can’t wait to see ya!
