The capital of Georgia has played a significant role in US history, from the 19th century Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement during the middle of the last century. This makes it an international point of interest, along with many modern commercial developments. Attractions popular with visitors include the High Museum of Art, Piedmont Park, the Botanical Garden, Fox Theatre, the CNN building, The World of Coca-Cola, Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The city was recently named one of 2022’s Best of the World Destinations (for cultural and historic achievements) by National Geographic Travel.
Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
The art deco-style Four Seasons stands out on the horizon at 186-meters in height – even among a sea of skyscrapers – with its notably pyramid-shaped cap. It also stands out as the only five-star hotel in Midtown, a prize it’s held since the early 1990s. 53 stories house 244 guest rooms, the second-floor Park 75 restaurant, a fifth-floor terrace restaurant with a private garden, Bar Margot (with an enviable collection of vinyl), a heated indoor saltwater pool beside an outdoor sun terrace, a boutique spa, a fitness suite with a Peloton bike and a carefully curated art collection.
Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead
Designed by Robert AM Stern, this landmark building in a fancy neighbourhood has 127 guest rooms, a sprinkling of which have balconies. Of its 42 storeys, two are occupied by the spa, which includes an indoor pool, an outdoor terrace and a relaxation zone with some separate areas for men and women. There are traditional English elements at the Waldorf, such as the formal afternoon tea and inner sanctum garden area, which wouldn’t seem out of place in the Home Counties. The upmarket cuisine in the cafe and bar takes on a French feel, however. Children are made most welcome and get to choose an item from the toy wagon on arrival.
Ritz Carlton Atlanta
The recently rebranded Ritz Carlton Atlanta celebrates Southern culture in its food, decor and events. Take part in a bourbon tasting, peruse the range of vintage photography adorning the walls, listen to live music at the Lumen Bar and tuck into some fine, aged steak at AG. You can also grab breakfast and a micro-roasted coffee at Jittery Joe’s and upgrade to Club Level for superior lounge access. The venue has 444 rooms, all of which have been newly renovated to include feather beds with Italian Frette® linens, terry or lightweight robes, technology butler services, an honour minibar and a 55-inch flat-panel HDTV.
The Whitley A Luxury Collection Atlanta
This Marriott hotel is in Buckhead, a graceful, yet cosmopolitan property on Peachtree Road. Public areas feature oil paintings and oversized lit fireplaces, with the Trade Root Restaurant and Lounge, a glittering ballroom, the Founders Room a boardroom and a tranquil award-winning spa being among the spaces available for use. 507 guest rooms are designed to create a sense of haven, with calming, timeless furnishings, high ceilings and featherbeds made up with 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets. Book The Whitley Suite to also have a dining room with a butler’s pantry, a grand piano and a billiards table.
W Atlanta Downtown
If you’re looking for the trendiest, most remarkable spot in town, check into the W. Highlights here include an urban-style spa located on the 16th floor, the signature restaurant Local Motives, an underlit 22-ft rooftop pool with a bar and views of the cityscape (dreamy for swimming by day and magical for partying by night), as well as dramatic art installations throughout the property. Atlanta itself has been the inspiration for the bedroom interiors, incorporating Makassar wood, glossy acrylics and hues of mulberry, indigo and teal. The WOW suites offer an extra level of sass, but all rooms come with the brand’s own W Beds, plush pillows and ultra-luxe duvets.
The St Regis Atlanta
A city centre resort, this is both five-star and AAA Five Diamond certified. The 40,000 square foot Pool Piazza (incorporating a cafe, bar and a fireplace for winter months) stands at the centre, with an LA meets French Riviera vibe. St Regis has two further bars, including The Garden Room restaurant and a spa. Guests staying here receive the hallmark St. Regis Butler Service, where every need is anticipated for an elevated experience around the clock. And its 182 guest rooms provide the luxury home-from-home feel, with marble bathrooms and iPad controls.