Centennial Olympic Park is the undeniable gravity center of downtown Atlanta. If you're staying here, you're basically at the 50-yard line of the city's tourism, sports, and business ecosystems. But here is the thing: most people just pick the first big-name tower they see on a booking map and end up walking way more than they expected—or missing out on the secret rooftop views that actually make an Atlanta trip feel special.
Choosing the Right Centennial Park Atlanta Hotels for Your Vibe
Location is everything, but "near the park" is a relative term when you’re lugging a suitcase. Honestly, you've got to decide if you want to be literally on the grass or just a short jog away.
The Heavy Hitters on the Park Perimeter
If you want to walk out the front door and immediately hit the park’s brick pathways, the Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park is the king of the hill. It recently finished a massive renovation in late 2024 and early 2025, and they even changed their name from "Omni CNN Center" to reflect that the park is the real star now. The North Tower has 600 rooms that feel way more modern than the old corporate vibes, with nightstands that look like vintage luggage. Plus, they have these specific themed suites—like the Georgia Aquarium Suite—that are kinda wild if you're traveling with kids who want to feel like they’re sleeping under the sea.
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Just a block over, Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park is the go-to for families. It’s an all-suite setup, which basically means you don't have to share a bed with your toddler. Their free made-to-order breakfast is a local legend in the hospitality world, but be warned: the elevators can get a bit "cozy" during a big Falcons home game or a massive convention at the Georgia World Congress Center.
The New Kid: Signia by Hilton Atlanta
The Signia by Hilton Atlanta is the massive new player that opened its doors in 2024. It’s technically attached to the Georgia World Congress Center, but it’s just a four-minute walk to the park. This place is huge—nearly 1,000 rooms. If you’re a wellness nerd, this is your spot. They have an entire floor dedicated to "recovery," including a beauty bar and a salt-water skyline pool. Their Italian restaurant, Capolinea, is actually good enough that locals come here for dinner, which isn't always true for hotel restaurants.
Why Boutique is Usually Better (If You Can Find It)
A lot of travelers get sucked into the "big box" hotels because they're easy to see from the highway. But honestly? You might be missing the soul of the city.
The Glenn Hotel, Autograph Collection is a perfect example. It's a converted office building from the 1920s. It feels boutique because it is boutique. The rooms are a bit smaller because of the historic architecture, but the SkyLounge on the roof is arguably the best place in the city to see the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel lit up at night.
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Then there's the Hotel Phoenix at Centennial Yards, which just opened in December 2025. It’s part of that massive $5 billion "Centennial Yards" redevelopment. It sits at Mile 0, which is where the railroad that started Atlanta actually ended. It’s got this refined industrial style that feels very "New South." If you want to be part of the latest chapter of the city, this is where you book.
Proximity Cheat Sheet
- Closest to the Aquarium: Hyatt Place Atlanta / Centennial Park or the Embassy Suites.
- Closest to Mercedes-Benz Stadium: Signia by Hilton or the Omni.
- Best for Concerts at The Tabernacle: AC Hotel Atlanta Downtown (it’s basically next door).
- Best for Business Travelers: Hyatt Regency Atlanta (that iconic blue dome) or the Hilton Atlanta.
The Secret "Walking Distance" Reality
Atlanta is not a walking city, despite what the "0.4 miles away" labels tell you. The hills are real. If you stay at the Westin Peachtree Plaza—the famous cylindrical glass tower—you are technically very close to the park. However, you're going to be walking up a significant incline on the way back. It’s a workout.
If you're on a budget, Aloft Atlanta Downtown or the Holiday Inn Express & Suites are solid. They’re a few blocks north of the park. You save $100 a night, but you're walking past a few empty lots and parking decks. It’s safe, but it’s not "scenic."
What Most People Get Wrong About Booking Here
People often forget that Centennial Park is a valley. Most hotels sit on the ridges around it. This is great for views but tricky for mobility. Also, parking prices downtown are absolutely eye-watering. You're looking at $45 to $60 a night for valet at places like the Marriott Marquis. Honestly, if you can take MARTA (the train) from the airport to the Peachtree Center or Dome/GWCC stations, do it. You'll save enough for a fancy dinner at Ruth's Chris (which is conveniently inside the Embassy Suites).
Another thing: check the event calendar. If there is a massive conference or a playoff game, prices for Centennial Park Atlanta hotels don't just go up—they triple.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Stay
- Check the Mercedes-Benz Stadium schedule. If there’s a game, book the Signia or Omni months in advance or avoid them entirely to escape the crowds.
- Verify the renovation status. If you book the Omni, specifically ask for a "renovated North Tower room" to ensure you get the 2025 upgrades.
- Download a ride-share app. Even if you’re "close," Atlanta’s humidity in the summer turns a 10-minute walk into a sweat-fest.
- Book the SkyLounge at The Glenn for a Friday night if you want the best park views without paying for a park-view suite.
- Use MARTA. Take the Gold or Red line to Peachtree Center for the easiest access to the hotel cluster without paying for a $50-a-day parking spot.
The reality is that Centennial Park has transitioned from a 1996 Olympic relic to a high-end luxury district. Staying here puts you at the heart of the action, provided you know which tower fits your actual needs instead of just clicking the cheapest rate.