Atlanta Sightseeing Bus Tour

Explore Atlanta in 5 Hours with a Guided Bus Tour

The Atlanta Sightseeing Bus Tour offers a rundown of the city’s most notable landmarks and neighborhoods in just 5 hours. Priced at $69.99 per person, this tour provides a great way to see Atlanta’s top sights in comfort, with a climate-controlled coach, professional guide, and driver ensuring a smooth experience. The tour is highly recommended, with 92% of reviews suggesting it’s worth booking.

Starting at 9:00 am from 231 Peachtree Rd NE, the tour is ideal for those looking for an efficient introduction to Atlanta. While lunch is not included, there’s ample time at the Ponce City Market for a meal, and the entire trip is accessible for travelers with moderate physical fitness. This is perfect for first-time visitors or those seeking a comfortable, informative overview of Atlanta’s most important sites.

Key Points

• 5-hour guided bus tour covering Atlanta’s highlights
• Visit Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site with a 45-minute on-foot tour
• Enjoy viewing mansions in Buckhead during a quick pass-by
• Explore Krog Street Market and Ponce City Market with time for lunch
• Pass by Centennial Olympic Park, Swan House, and Margaret Mitchell House
• Includes a guide, driver, and air-conditioned transportation

Starting Point at Peachtree Road for a Prompt 9:00 am Departure

The tour departs from 231 Peachtree Rd NE in Atlanta at 9:00 am, setting the stage for a full day of sightseeing. The meeting point is convenient, and the group size is limited to 20 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is advised.

The climate-controlled coach ensures comfort regardless of the weather, making this tour suitable from early spring to late fall. Bookings are typically made about 10 days in advance, which is ideal for planning ahead during busy travel seasons.

Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site on Foot

A central highlight of this tour is the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. The on-foot 45-minute tour takes visitors through key locations within the site, including Ebenezer Baptist Church and Martin Luther King Jr.’s tomb. This stop provides a close-up view of the landmarks significant to the civil rights movement.

The visit is free of charge, making it an excellent educational stop. The guide shares commentary throughout, enhancing understanding of the history and importance of each site. Many appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs and explore on foot, even during a busy tour day.

Pass By the Elegant Mansions of Buckhead

While the tour does not include a detailed visit to Buckhead, it passes by the Swan House during the Buckhead Mansion Tour segment. The short 2-minute drive-by offers a glimpse of the stately mansions and luxurious homes characteristic of this upscale neighborhood.

This quick drive-by allows guests to appreciate the grandeur of Buckhead’s architecture without requiring extra time or walking. For those interested, this area is notable for its stately estates, often associated with Atlanta’s affluent lifestyle.

Discover the Buzz of Krog Street Market and Ponce City Market

The tour makes stops at two popular markets: Krog Street Market and Ponce City Market.

Krog Street Market offers a brief 10-minute opportunity to browse local vendors and get a feel for Atlanta’s food scene. It is a famous food hall housed in a converted warehouse, perfect for a quick snack or coffee.

Ponce City Market features a 30-minute stop for lunch, giving visitors a chance to sample local cuisine or relax before continuing the tour. This stop is highly valued, as many find it an excellent spot for a meal in a vibrant, historic setting.

Drive Along the Atlanta BeltLine and View Iconic Sites

The tour includes a 15-minute walk along the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, a popular urban trail offering views of the city’s art installations and green spaces.

While the walk is brief, it gives a taste of Atlanta’s efforts to combine urban development with outdoor recreation. The pass-by of the Swan House and Margaret Mitchell House during the drive allows for visual appreciation of Atlanta’s historic architecture and literary heritage.

Highlights of the Tour’s Landmarks and Neighborhoods

Throughout the 5 hours, the guide provides commentary on Atlanta’s key landmarks, including the Centennial Olympic Park, built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, and the Margaret Mitchell House, where the famous author lived and wrote “Gone with the Wind”.

The drive through affluent Buckhead offers a glimpse of stately mansions, showcasing Atlanta’s upscale residential area. The balance of on-foot visits and drive-bys allows for a varied experience suited to those preferring comfort and efficiency.

Practical Aspects and Included Features

The air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver and guide ensures a comfortable and informative journey. The guide shares commentary throughout, making each stop meaningful with historical insights and local stories.

Lunch at Ponce City Market is not included in the price, giving flexibility for guests to choose their preferred meal options. The tour operates rain or shine, and moderate physical fitness is sufficient to enjoy the on-foot portions comfortably.

Customer Feedback and Guide Performance

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 779 reviews. Many praise guide Don and Pam for their knowledge, entertainment, and friendly demeanor.

Several reviewers emphasize how guides like Amanda and Jay are excellent ambassadors for Atlanta, sharing entertaining stories and local knowledge. Some minor criticisms include the suggestion for microphones during the tour to ensure all participants hear clearly, especially in larger groups.

Overall Value and Suitability

This guided bus tour offers great value for those wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed overview of Atlanta’s most notable spots. The combination of on-foot visits and drive-bys delivers a well-rounded experience while avoiding long walks or strenuous activity.

It is especially suitable for visitors who prefer comfort and informative narration, as well as families or groups seeking a time-efficient introduction to Atlanta. The price point of $69.99 combined with the extensive itinerary makes this a cost-effective option for most travelers.

The Sum Up: An Efficient and Informative Tour of Atlanta

The Atlanta Sightseeing Bus Tour combines key landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural sites into a compact 5-hour experience. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those short on time, delivering entertaining commentary, stunning views, and easy access to major attractions.

While the tour involves brief on-foot exploration and drive-bys of upscale neighborhoods, many appreciate the balance of comfort and content. Guides like Don, Pam, Amanda, and Jay receive praise for their expertise and friendly attitude, enhancing the overall experience.

This tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see Atlanta’s highlights without the hassle of navigating alone. It’s a reliable choice for anyone seeking a well-organized, informative introduction to Atlanta’s sights and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s moderate physical activity and short walks make it suitable for children, especially with attentive supervision.

How long is the on-foot walking?
The on-foot portion at the Martin Luther King Jr. site lasts about 45 minutes. The walk along the BeltLine takes approximately 15 minutes.

Are meals included?
No, lunch at Ponce City Market is not included, giving guests flexibility to choose their own dining options.

What is the group size limit?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions; the coach is climate-controlled, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Bookings are typically made about 10 days in advance, but last-minute availability may vary depending on demand.

Are there any physical requirements?
A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, as some walking is involved but no strenuous activity is required.

What landmarks will I see?
Major highlights include Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Centennial Olympic Park, Swan House, Margaret Mitchell House, Krog Street Market, and Ponce City Market.

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is approximately 5 hours, including stops, walking, and driving.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by Atlanta Sightseeing Bus Tours.