G

Georgia Institute Of Technology College Of Architecture

Atlanta, United States Of America

Georgia Institute of Technology College of Architecture Visiting Guide

Atlanta Historical Site
Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Midtown Atlanta, the Georgia Institute of Technology’s College of Architecture—now part of the College of Design—is a distinguished center for architectural education, innovation, and cultural engagement. Since its founding in 1908, the college has grown into one of the largest and most influential units at Georgia Tech, deeply impacting the city’s built environment and the broader architectural field. Visitors are welcomed into a dynamic campus that juxtaposes historic structures with cutting-edge facilities, including digital fabrication labs, collaborative studios, and vibrant exhibition spaces.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a prospective student, or a cultural traveler, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to plan your visit: from hours and tour details to accessibility and Midtown Atlanta’s nearby attractions. Those unable to visit in person can explore the college through virtual tours and online galleries, ensuring broad access to its legacy and ongoing innovation.

For the most current visiting hours, tours, and events, refer to the official Georgia Tech College of Architecture and College of Design websites (Georgia Tech College of Architecture, Georgia Tech College of Design).

Table of Contents

History and Significance

Established in 1908 as the Department of Architecture, the college has evolved through significant periods of growth and innovation, reflecting shifts from Beaux-Arts traditions to modernist and technological approaches. Its alumni, such as John Portman, have left a lasting mark on Atlanta with landmarks like the Hyatt Regency Hotel and Peachtree Center.

Today, the college is known for its interdisciplinary programs in architecture, industrial design, urban planning, music technology, and sustainable building. It serves as a living laboratory, fostering both academic excellence and community impact (Georgia Tech Archives).

Visitor Information: Hours, Admission, and Accessibility

Main Location:
East Architecture Building, 245 Fourth Street NW, Atlanta, GA

Visiting Hours:

  • Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

Admission:
Free entry to public areas and exhibitions. Certain events or workshops may require advance registration or tickets.

Accessibility:
All buildings are ADA-compliant, with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Visitors needing special accommodations should contact visitor services in advance.


Tours and Events

Guided Tours:

  • Offered Wednesdays and Saturdays at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM
  • Include overviews of the college’s history, notable projects, student work, and campus architecture
  • Reservations are recommended (book a tour)

Virtual Tours:
For those unable to visit in person, immersive virtual tours and online galleries are available via the college’s website.

Special Events:
The college hosts public lectures, design exhibitions, and symposia year-round. The annual Solar Decathlon and guest speaker series are highlights. Check the events calendar for up-to-date listings.


Campus Setting and Navigation

Located within Georgia Tech’s 400-acre urban campus, the College of Architecture is easily accessed from Atlanta’s Midtown district. The 5th Street Bridge connects Tech Square, a bustling hub with shops and eateries, to the heart of campus.

Navigation Tips:

  • Public Transit: The MARTA Midtown and North Avenue stations are 10–15 minutes away by foot (College Confidential).
  • Parking: Visitor parking is available near Tech Square and the Clough Learning Commons (Georgia Tech Parking).
  • Maps: Interactive campus maps and self-guided tour resources are available online.

Architectural Highlights and Facilities

  • Architecture East and West: Interconnected buildings with collaborative studios and exhibition areas.
  • Hinman Research Building: A renovated mid-century landmark focused on research and innovation.
  • Digital Fabrication Lab: Equipped with 3D printers, CNC machines, and advanced tools.
  • Exhibition Spaces: Rotating displays of student and faculty work in architecture and design.
  • Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design: A showcase for sustainable architecture and learning.

Access to some facilities may require prior arrangement; public exhibitions and common areas are open to all visitors (College Confidential).


Engaging with the Academic Community

The college’s culture is open and collaborative, with frequent public lectures, critiques, and exhibitions. Visitors can enhance their experience by arranging meetings with faculty or students in advance or by attending scheduled events (Georgia Tech Admissions).


Visitor Amenities and Nearby Attractions

Dining and Shopping:
Tech Square and Midtown offer diverse restaurants, cafes, and the Barnes & Noble Bookstore for Georgia Tech merchandise.

Accommodations:
The GT Hotel and Conference Center is on campus, with additional hotels in Midtown within walking distance.

Recreation and Green Spaces:
Explore the EcoCommons, Tech Green, and student recreation facilities for relaxation and community events.

Nearby Landmarks:

  • High Museum of Art: Renowned for art and design exhibitions (Access Atlanta).
  • Piedmont Park: 180-acre urban park hosting events and festivals.
  • Fox Theatre: Historic theater offering performances and tours.
  • Atlanta BeltLine: Multi-use trail connecting neighborhoods (Discover Atlanta).
  • College Football Hall of Fame: Interactive museum near campus (Rambler Atlanta).
  • Margaret Mitchell House: Historic home of the “Gone with the Wind” author (The Tourist Checklist).

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Reserve guided tours in advance, especially during peak periods (Georgia Tech Admissions).
  • Confirm visiting hours and parking options before arrival (Georgia Tech Visitor Info).
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Use MARTA for easy transit from the airport and around the city.
  • Check event calendars for public lectures and exhibitions.

Safety and Accessibility

Georgia Tech maintains a safe, well-patrolled campus. Photography is welcome in public areas, but please seek permission for images of individuals or private spaces. Visitors with disabilities are encouraged to contact the college in advance to arrange necessary accommodations (Georgia Tech Admissions).


Midtown Atlanta: Cultural and Historical Sites

Located in one of Atlanta’s most vibrant neighborhoods, the college is surrounded by attractions that celebrate the city’s architectural and cultural heritage:

  • Arts: High Museum of Art, Museum of Design Atlanta (Discover Atlanta)
  • Parks: Piedmont Park, Atlanta BeltLine (Access Atlanta)
  • Historic Sites: Fox Theatre, Margaret Mitchell House

Explore these sites to enrich your visit and gain deeper insight into Atlanta’s dynamic urban landscape.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an admission fee to visit the College of Architecture?
A: No, admission is free; special events may require tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours run throughout the year and should be reserved in advance.

Q: Is the campus accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, all facilities are ADA-compliant.

Q: Can I attend lectures or exhibitions?
A: Many events are open to the public; check the events calendar for details.

Q: Where can I find parking?
A: Visitor parking is available near Tech Square and other campus locations; fees may apply (Georgia Tech Parking).


Conclusion and Visitor Tips

A visit to the Georgia Tech College of Architecture immerses you in over a century of educational excellence, cultural innovation, and architectural heritage. Free admission, accessible facilities, and engaging tours make it an ideal destination for anyone interested in design or Atlanta’s history. To enhance your experience, plan ahead by reserving tours, checking event schedules, and exploring Midtown’s rich array of attractions.

Download the Audiala app for interactive tours and follow Georgia Tech College of Architecture and College of Design on social media for the latest updates.



Visit The Most Interesting Places In Atlanta

1105 West Peachtree
1105 West Peachtree
1180 Peachtree
1180 Peachtree
999 Peachtree
999 Peachtree
Academy Of Medicine
Academy Of Medicine
|
  All Saints' Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
| All Saints' Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
Alliance Theatre
Alliance Theatre
Americasmart
Americasmart
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Antico Pizza
Antico Pizza
Antioch Baptist Church North
Antioch Baptist Church North
Apex Museum
Apex Museum
Atlanta Biltmore Hotel And Biltmore Apartments
Atlanta Biltmore Hotel And Biltmore Apartments
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Atlanta City Hall
Atlanta City Hall
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center
Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum
Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum
Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium
Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium
Atlanta History Center
Atlanta History Center
Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Atlanta Silverbacks Park
Atlanta Silverbacks Park
Atlanta Symphony Hall
Atlanta Symphony Hall
Atlanta Union Station
Atlanta Union Station
B. Mifflin Hood Brick Company Building
B. Mifflin Hood Brick Company Building
Bank Of America Plaza
Bank Of America Plaza
Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus
Basilica Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus
Bass Furniture Building
Bass Furniture Building
Besharat Museum Gallery
Besharat Museum Gallery
Big Bethel Ame Church
Big Bethel Ame Church
Bobby Dodd Stadium
Bobby Dodd Stadium
Brookwood Hills
Brookwood Hills
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
Carnegie Building
Carnegie Building
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Cathedral Of Christ The King
Cathedral Of Christ The King
Center For Puppetry Arts
Center For Puppetry Arts
Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University
Cnn Center
Cnn Center
College Football Hall Of Fame
College Football Hall Of Fame
Consulate-General Of Japan, Atlanta
Consulate-General Of Japan, Atlanta
Crum & Forster Building
Crum & Forster Building
Delta Flight Museum
Delta Flight Museum
Donna And Marvin Schwartz Center For Performing Arts
Donna And Marvin Schwartz Center For Performing Arts
Dramatech
Dramatech
Edward C. Peters House
Edward C. Peters House
Elbert P. Tuttle United States Court Of Appeals Building
Elbert P. Tuttle United States Court Of Appeals Building
Emory University
Emory University
Emory University Hospital Midtown
Emory University Hospital Midtown
Fairlie-Poplar
Fairlie-Poplar
Federal Reserve Bank Of Atlanta
Federal Reserve Bank Of Atlanta
Fernbank Forest
Fernbank Forest
Ferst Center For The Arts
Ferst Center For The Arts
Fire Station No. 11
Fire Station No. 11
First Church Of Christ, Scientist
First Church Of Christ, Scientist
First Congregational Church
First Congregational Church
First Presbyterian Church Of Atlanta
First Presbyterian Church Of Atlanta
Flatiron Building
Flatiron Building
Food Processing Technology Building
Food Processing Technology Building
Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
Fox Theatre
Fox Theatre
French Consulate General, Atlanta
French Consulate General, Atlanta
Garden Hills
Garden Hills
Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Dome
Georgia Dome
|
  Georgia Governor'S Mansion
| Georgia Governor'S Mansion
Georgia Institute Of Technology College Of Architecture
Georgia Institute Of Technology College Of Architecture
Georgia Institute Of Technology Historic District
Georgia Institute Of Technology Historic District
Georgia Mental Health Institute
Georgia Mental Health Institute
Georgia State Capitol
Georgia State Capitol
Georgia State University
Georgia State University
Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center
Georgia Tech Campus Recreation Center
Georgia World Congress Center
Georgia World Congress Center
Glenn Building
Glenn Building
Glg Grand
Glg Grand
Goat Farm Arts Center
Goat Farm Arts Center
Grace United Methodist Church (Atlanta)
Grace United Methodist Church (Atlanta)
Grady Memorial Hospital
Grady Memorial Hospital
Grant Park
Grant Park
Gravity Research Foundation Monument
Gravity Research Foundation Monument
Healey Building
Healey Building
Herndon Home
Herndon Home
High Museum Of Art
High Museum Of Art
Historic Fourth Ward Park
Historic Fourth Ward Park
Homage To King
Homage To King
Hope Moving Forward
Hope Moving Forward
Hotel Ansley
Hotel Ansley
Hotel Aragon
Hotel Aragon
Hotel Indigo Atlanta Midtown
Hotel Indigo Atlanta Midtown
Hurt Park
Hurt Park
Hyatt Regency Atlanta
Hyatt Regency Atlanta
|
  Imagine It! The Children'S Museum Of Atlanta
| Imagine It! The Children'S Museum Of Atlanta
J. Mack Robinson College Of Business Administration Building
J. Mack Robinson College Of Business Administration Building
Jimmy Carter Library And Museum
Jimmy Carter Library And Museum
King Center For Nonviolent Social Change
King Center For Nonviolent Social Change
King Plow Arts Center
King Plow Arts Center
Krog Street Tunnel
Krog Street Tunnel
Lanier University
Lanier University
|
  Loew'S Grand Theatre
| Loew'S Grand Theatre
Majestic Hotel
Majestic Hotel
Margaret Mitchell House & Museum
Margaret Mitchell House & Museum
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
M.C. Kiser Company Building
M.C. Kiser Company Building
Mccamish Pavilion
Mccamish Pavilion
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Michael C. Carlos Museum
Michael C. Carlos Museum
Millennium Gate
Millennium Gate
Morningside Nature Preserve
Morningside Nature Preserve
Murder Kroger
Murder Kroger
Museum Of Contemporary Art Of Georgia
Museum Of Contemporary Art Of Georgia
Museum Of Design Atlanta
Museum Of Design Atlanta
National Center For Civil And Human Rights
National Center For Civil And Human Rights
Oakland Cemetery
Oakland Cemetery
Olympia Building
Olympia Building
Omega Chapter Of The Chi Phi Fraternity
Omega Chapter Of The Chi Phi Fraternity
Omni Coliseum
Omni Coliseum
Peachtree Station
Peachtree Station
Pemberton Place
Pemberton Place
Phipps Plaza
Phipps Plaza
Plaza Theatre
Plaza Theatre
Ponce City Market
Ponce City Market
Prince Hall
Prince Hall
Promenade Ii
Promenade Ii
Regal Tara Cinemas
Regal Tara Cinemas
Regions Plaza
Regions Plaza
Rhodes Hall
Rhodes Hall
Rialto Center For The Arts
Rialto Center For The Arts
Robert C. Williams Paper Museum
Robert C. Williams Paper Museum
Roxy Theatre
Roxy Theatre
Rufus M. Rose House
Rufus M. Rose House
Russ Chandler Stadium
Russ Chandler Stadium
|
  Saint Joseph'S Hospital
| Saint Joseph'S Hospital
Saint Philip Ame Church
Saint Philip Ame Church
Shrine Of The Immaculate Conception
Shrine Of The Immaculate Conception
Six Flags Over Georgia
Six Flags Over Georgia
Spelman College
Spelman College
|
  St. Luke'S Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
| St. Luke'S Episcopal Church (Atlanta)
St. Mark Methodist Church (Atlanta, Georgia)
St. Mark Methodist Church (Atlanta, Georgia)
Statue Of Eugene Talmadge
Statue Of Eugene Talmadge
Statue Of Jimmy Carter
Statue Of Jimmy Carter
Statue Of Martin Luther King Jr.
Statue Of Martin Luther King Jr.
Swan House
Swan House
Sweet Auburn
Sweet Auburn
Taipei Economic And Cultural Office In Atlanta
Taipei Economic And Cultural Office In Atlanta
Terminal Station
Terminal Station
The Masquerade
The Masquerade
The Tabernacle
The Tabernacle
The Temple
The Temple
Trap Music Museum
Trap Music Museum
Turner Field
Turner Field
United States Penitentiary, Atlanta
United States Penitentiary, Atlanta
Utoy Cemetery
Utoy Cemetery
Variety Playhouse
Variety Playhouse
W. D. Grant Building
W. D. Grant Building
Washington Hall
Washington Hall
Westview Cemetery
Westview Cemetery
William Breman Jewish Heritage & Holocaust Museum
William Breman Jewish Heritage & Holocaust Museum
William-Oliver Building
William-Oliver Building
Winecoff Hotel
Winecoff Hotel
Woodlands Garden
Woodlands Garden
Woodruff Arts Center
Woodruff Arts Center
World Of Coca-Cola
World Of Coca-Cola