If you’re facing a long layover and wondering about things to do at Atlanta Airport, you’ll find that Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is well set up for passing the time. While there isn’t a single headline attraction, the airport’s size means plenty of food, shopping, and ways to stay occupied — or at least reasonably comfortable — between flights. With good transit access and long concourses to explore, most travellers can make a layover here feel manageable rather than tedious.
1. Eat
Eating is one of the easiest ways to fill time at Atlanta Airport, and the food options are spread throughout every concourse. Alongside familiar chains, you’ll find several restaurants with local ties that offer a taste of Atlanta or the South. Chick-fil-A, founded in Georgia, is a popular quick stop for its chicken sandwiches and sweet tea. For something more substantial, Chicken + Beer, created by Atlanta chef Kevin Gillespie, focuses on Southern comfort food and craft beer. One Flew South, an airport location of a respected Atlanta restaurant, offers a more polished menu with Asian-Southern influences that appeals to travellers looking for a sit-down meal. You’ll also find plenty of cafés, bakeries, barbecue, and international options, making it easy to grab a snack or a full meal regardless of where you’re departing.
2. Lounge
Because the airport is so busy, finding a quiet place to sit or work in the general terminal areas can be difficult. Several airport lounges offer a calmer environment with more comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and refreshments, and some are open to travellers regardless of ticket class through day passes or memberships. Availability and access rules vary by lounge, and some locations also offer showers, which can be helpful during long layovers. Our Atlanta Airport Guide details the locations and amenities – some even offer shower facilities!
3. Check out Atlanta’s art and music scene
Throughout the terminals, the airport features permanent and rotating art installations, part of a long-running public art program. Live music performances by local musicians are also regularly held in the Atrium, offering a low-key way to pass time if you happen to be nearby.
4. Venture into the city
For longer layovers, heading into Atlanta is a realistic option thanks to the airport’s direct connection to MARTA, the city’s rail system. Trains run straight from the airport to downtown and midtown, avoiding the unpredictable traffic Atlanta is known for. With around five hours, you could ride MARTA to the Arts Center area to visit the High Museum of Art or enjoy some time outdoors at the nearby Atlanta Botanical Garden. On longer layovers, popular stops include the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. All are accessible via MARTA, though you’ll want to allow extra buffer time to return through security. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Atlanta.
5. Shop
Shopping at Atlanta Airport is extensive, with many stores repeated across concourses so you’re rarely far from one. In addition to bookstores, newsstands, and travel-essential shops, there are several well-known brands such as Coach and Pandora, along with duty-free stores in international areas. Travellers looking for something regional often stop at Savannah’s Candy Kitchen, which sells Georgia-made pralines, fudge, and other Southern sweets that make easy gifts or snacks for the flight. Skincare and wellness shops like L’Occitane and Kiehl’s are also common, useful for picking up lotions or travel-size products to combat dry cabin air.
6. Hit the spa
If you want to unwind or treat yourself, head to XpresSpa. Two locations (Concourse C and E) offer foot and leg massages, sinus and stress relief treatments, mani/pedis, waxing, and facials.
7. Surf the Web
Stay connected to friends and family, update your social media accounts or surf the internet courtesy of the airport’s free unlimited WiFi.
8. Sleep
Many travellers manage to get some rest overnight at Atlanta Airport, though conditions can be bright, noisy, and cold. Eye masks, earplugs, and extra layers are strongly recommended. Travellers often report the International Terminal and Concourse F as having more space and slightly quieter conditions than other areas, though comfort depends heavily on time of day and passenger volume.
For more privacy, you can rent sleep cabins by the hour at Minute Suites in Concourse B. There you will find private rooms with a daybed, soundproofing, and a quiet space to rest, work, or nap. The cabins can be rented by the hour and are a popular choice for long layovers or missed connections. Use Promo Code SIASUITES to save 15% off a Suite Rental or Overnight Stay when you book online.
Traditional airport hotels are also available nearby, most with shuttle service or access via the ATL SkyTrain. Full details are listed in our Atlanta Airport Guide.
Updated 13 January 2026
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Atlanta Airport. Visit our Atlanta Airport Guide for more details on airport services and facilities, including nearby airport hotels, luggage storage, showers, transportation into the city, and more.