How to Kill Time at Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport

Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport representatives boast that Hartsfield is currently the busiest airport in the world. During flight delays or in-between flights travelers can enjoy themselves in the 225,000-square-foot, three-story atrium that is part of the terminal building. The atrium is covered with a 75-foot-wide glass dome, which soars 40 feet above the floor. Bring your camera.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Travel Clocks
• Athletic Shoes
• Travel Clothes
• Travel Kits
• Travel Pillows
• Paperback Books
• Travel Magazines
• E-mail Accounts
• Travel Services
• Cameras
• Athletic Gear
• Travel Games
• Telephone Calling Cards
• Cameras

1. Figure out how much free time you will have. Check to see whether your flight is late and whether it will arrive/depart in Concourse A, B, C, D, E or T.

2. Sit underneath the dome, and relax while you decide what you want to do in the atrium.

3. Consider dining at any of a variety of eateries or, if it is the afternoon, listening to a pianist on the main floor of the atrium.

4. Shop at the specialty stores, but keep in mind that you may have to check in or mail larger purchases (see Warnings, below).

5. People-watch.

6. Visit the interfaith chapel on the main level.

7. Dine instead, or again, at any of numerous eateries in the concourses. You will need to take the "people-mover" (see Tips, below).

Tips & Warnings

• Look for transportation mall signs in the terminal to get to the "people-mover" train that will take you to your concourse. Note that it is faster to walk if you are going to Concourse A.
• Periodically check the arrival or departure monitors located throughout the airport for any changes pertaining to your flight.
• Always have a good paperback in your carry-on bag to help keep time moving during unavoidable delays in terminals and aboard airplanes.
• If you are departing on a flight, you must check in at your gate at least an hour before the flight, longer on international flights. Check with your airline.
• Keep in mind that many airlines have new carry-on restrictions and that you may have to check in larger purchases or have them shipped.

[jayscorner]

on 5/24/2009 Be careful, remember the atrium is outside of security, you need to plan carefully to allow yourself enough time to get back inside the secured area.

on 8/23/2006 In the tunnel between terminals, it is .188 miles between terminals and overall between Terminal T and E it is .912 miles. I found it a good way to exercise between flights.

on 11/22/2005 Do not make interstate long distance calls on the pay phone using your credit card. "PHONE 1," which operates at the Delta Terminal, charges a $24.00 connection fee for all and any connections!