Sleeping in Atlanta Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving over 100 million passengers annually. This sprawling airport boasts seven concourses (T, A, B, C, D, E, F), each connected by the Plane Train, an efficient underground people mover.

With a wide array of amenities including dining options, lounges, and even Minute Suites sleep pods, ATL is designed to handle a massive volume of travelers while providing comfort and convenience. However, knowing the best places to rest during your layover can make your experience significantly better. Here’s a detailed guide to help you find the best spots to rest based on the length of your layover.

Short Layovers (30 mins – 1 hour)

For short layovers, it’s best to stay near your gate and avoid trying to sleep. Use this time to stretch, grab a quick snack, or simply relax at your gate. ATL has ample seating and charging stations to keep you comfortable while you wait for your next flight.

Best spots:

• Near your departure gate: Look for rows of chairs without armrests, especially in Concourse F, which offers some comfortable seating options and is generally quieter.
• Power outlets: Many seating areas near gates have power outlets, so you can charge your devices while you wait.

Standard Layovers (1 – 3 hours)

For layovers between one and three hours, you have more flexibility to find a comfortable spot to rest.

Best spots/facilities:

• Minute Suites (Concourse B): These suites offer a private place to sleep, work, or relax. Each suite is equipped with a daybed sofa, pillows, fresh blankets, a workstation, and access to Wi-Fi and television. Perfect for a brief respite without leaving the airport.
• Concourse F Mezzanine: Known for its comfy sofas, this area provides a quieter environment. It’s a bit chilly, so bring a jacket or blanket.

• Description: The mezzanine level of Concourse F offers comfortable padded sofa chairs and a relatively quiet atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a quick nap.
• Why it’s suited: The padded chairs provide comfort for short-term rest, and the mezzanine’s quieter environment helps in getting a bit of shut-eye without too many distractions.
• Note: It can get cold, so bring a jacket or blanket.

Extended Layovers (3 – 6 hours)

For longer layovers, finding a place to lie down and catch some sleep becomes more critical.

Best Facilities/spots:

Minute Suites

• Location: Concourse B, near Gate B16
• Description: Minute Suites provide private, comfortable sleeping pods that offer a quiet and secure place to rest without leaving the secure area.
• Why it’s suited: These suites are perfect for longer rests due to their privacy and comfort. You can lie down, relax, and even catch up on work if needed.
• Note: Booking ahead is recommended due to limited availability.

Concourse E

• Location: Near Gate E12 and E10
• Description: Concourse E offers several benches without armrests and quieter corners, making it a good spot for longer rest periods.
• Why it’s suited: The availability of armrest-free benches allows travelers to stretch out more comfortably, essential for naps that last a few hours.
• Note: Bring earplugs and an eye mask to counteract noise and lighting.

Long Layovers (6 – 12 hours)

For layovers up to 12 hours, comfort and amenities become essential.

Best spots:

• Minute Suites (Concourse B): These suites are perfect for a longer layover, providing a quiet, private place to sleep with amenities such as nap time, a workspace, and shower facilities. They offer a flexible booking period, making them ideal for long layovers.
• Plane Train Level between Concourse A and B: There is an art installation with a softer, dimmer light that creates a conducive sleeping environment. It’s a bit noisy, but earplugs can help.
• Concourse F: Location: Near the ATL Club. Sofas and quiet areas around the mezzanine level provide a restful environment.
  • Why it’s suited: The combination of comfort and quiet makes it a great spot for longer naps or resting periods. The sofas are particularly conducive to extended rest.
  • Note: Despite being quieter, some areas may have a cold draft. Suitable for a longer nap.

Concourse A: Location: Near Gate A16

• Description: Spacious seating areas with less foot traffic during the night, providing a peaceful spot for a few hours of uninterrupted sleep.
• Why it’s suited: With fewer people around during the night, this concourse offers a quieter place to rest without frequent interruptions.
• Note: Cold temperatures and frequent announcements can be an issue. Dress warmly and use earplugs.

Overnight Layovers (12 – 24 hours)

For overnight layovers, finding a secure and comfortable spot is crucial.

Best spots:

• Minute Suites (Concourse B): For an overnight stay, these suites are the best option within the airport. You get privacy, comfort, and amenities such as a daybed, fresh bedding, and wake-up calls to ensure you don’t miss your flight.
• Concourse F Mezzanine: With comfy sofas and less foot traffic, this is one of the best spots for an overnight stay. Bring warm clothing and possibly a travel blanket.
• Atrium (Domestic Terminal): IHOP and Burger King are open 24 hours, offering food options throughout the night. The seating areas here are comfy, but it can be bright and noisy.

Nearby Hotels with Free Shuttle

For those who prefer more privacy and comfort, several nearby hotels offer free shuttle services to and from the airport:

1. Hilton Atlanta Airport: Offers a free shuttle service to the domestic terminal every 30 minutes from 4:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
2. Atlanta Airport Marriott: Provides a free shuttle every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day.
3. Hyatt Place Atlanta Airport-North: Offers a free shuttle service available 24 hours a day.
4. Holiday Inn Atlanta Airport South: Free shuttle service to and from the airport every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day.
5. Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Airport: Provides a free shuttle service running every 20 minutes, 24 hours a day.

Practical Tips for Sleeping at ATL

1. Bring Earplugs and an Eye Mask: Essential for blocking out noise and light, especially in busy terminals.
2. Dress in Layers or Bring a Blanket: The airport can be cold, particularly at night.
3. Utilize Charging Stations Early: Power outlets can be in high demand, so charge your devices as soon as possible.
4. Check Security Checkpoint Hours: Ensure you know when and where to access the secure areas to avoid being stuck landside.
5. Book Minute Suites in Advance: These private sleeping pods offer the best rest solution but have limited availability.

By following these recommendations, you can find the best places to rest during your layover at Atlanta Airport and ensure a more comfortable and restful experience.