Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is one of the world’s busiest hubs, but if you’re flying into Peachtree DeKalb Airport (PDK), you’re at a smaller regional facility. Whether you have a short connection or a longer layover, Atlanta offers vibrant culture, Southern hospitality, and plenty of ways to spend your time between flights.
Before You Leave the Airport
Quick Facts
- Language: English
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
- Time Zone: Eastern Time (ET)
- Getting Around: Rental cars, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or public transit available
Getting to Atlanta from PDK
Peachtree DeKalb Airport is located about 15 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. Here are your main transit options:
| Option | Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 20-30 min | $15-25 | Quick trips to nearby areas |
| Rental Car | Varies | $40-80+/day | Longer layovers, flexibility |
| Public Transit | 45+ min | $2.50 | Budget-conscious travelers |
For specific transit details and current schedules, visit the PDK Airport website.
What to Do During Your Layover
Short Layover (2-4 Hours)
With a short connection, focus on staying near the airport or exploring nearby neighborhoods:
- Grab a meal: Eat at the airport food court or nearby restaurants. Remember: airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city prices.
- Rest: Find a quiet corner to relax, or use a lounge day pass if available through your airline.
- Quick walk: Stretch your legs around the terminal or nearby airport grounds.
- Shopping: Browse airport shops or nearby retail areas.
Medium Layover (4-8 Hours)
You have time to explore nearby areas without rushing back:
- Perimeter Center: Shopping and dining complex about 10 minutes from PDK.
- Dunwoody: Charming suburb with restaurants, shops, and parks.
- Buckhead: Atlanta’s upscale neighborhood with shopping, dining, and galleries (20-30 minutes away).
- Eat in the city: Save money by dining outside the airport – Atlanta has excellent Southern cuisine, BBQ, and diverse international options.
Long Layover (8+ Hours)
With extended time, consider exploring more of Atlanta:
- Downtown Atlanta: Visit the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, or Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
- Midtown: Explore museums, galleries, and the Atlanta BeltLine (a converted rail corridor with parks and trails).
- Rest: Book a hotel room for a few hours or check SleepingInAirports.net for airport sleeping options.
- Luggage storage: Use Bounce or Stasher to store bags near the airport ($5-10/bag/day) – much cheaper than airport lockers.
Quick Layover Tips
- Download offline maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable.
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle and fill it after security. Staying hydrated helps manage jet lag.
- Use a Wise or Revolut card: Get the best exchange rates without airport currency counter markups.
- Share your location: If exploring solo, let a trusted contact know where you’re going.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave PDK airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave PDK airport during a layover. However, always factor in security screening time when calculating if you have enough time. As a general rule, you need at least 6+ hours total layover time to comfortably leave the airport, explore, and return (1 hour for + 2-3 hours to return and clear security + exploration time). For domestic connections, budget 60 minutes before departure when returning to the airport.
What is there to do at PDK during a layover?
At PDK, you can rest in the terminal, shop, or dine at airport restaurants. For longer layovers, explore nearby Perimeter Center (10 minutes), Dunwoody (nearby suburb), or venture into Atlanta proper to visit the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Midtown museums, or the Atlanta BeltLine. Eat in the city rather than at the airport to save money – airport food is 2-3x more expensive.
How long of a layover do I need at PDK?
For domestic connections, 60 minutes is sufficient if you’re staying in the airport. For international departures, budget 2.5-3 hours. If you want to leave the airport and explore, aim for at least 6+ hours total layover time to account for security, travel time, and exploration.
Is there luggage storage at PDK?
For luggage storage options, use third-party services like Bounce or Stasher, which partner with local businesses near PDK. These cost $5-10 per bag per day and are much cheaper than airport lockers. Book online before your arrival for the best rates.
Make the Most of Your Layover
Whether you have a quick connection or extended time in Atlanta, planning ahead makes all the difference. Download offline maps, check transit options, and decide whether to explore the city or rest at the airport. Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have and what’s realistic for your layover.
Ready to plan your layover? Use the Yopki layover calculator to get personalized recommendations based on your flight times and preferences.