Hotel Ansley Atlanta: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, the Hotel Ansley stands out as a symbol of the city’s early 20th-century grandeur and evolution in hospitality. Established in 1913, the hotel was a beacon of architectural innovation and a focal point for Atlanta’s social and civic life. Though the original building was demolished in the early 1970s, its legacy continues through archival records, the nearby Ansley Inn, and the historic Fairlie-Poplar district’s preserved character.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Hotel Ansley’s history, its transformation under the Dinkler family, and the cultural legacy of related sites like the Ansley Inn. You’ll also find practical information for visiting the area, exploring nearby attractions, and accessing resources for further learning. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a culturally curious traveler, this article offers a detailed and engaging resource to help you experience Atlanta’s living heritage.

Contents

Origins and Construction of Hotel Ansley (1913)

The Hotel Ansley was constructed during a period of rapid urban growth in Atlanta. Backed by Jerome B. Pound and named after Edwin P. Ansley—an influential Atlanta developer—the hotel opened in 1913 at the corner of Williams and Forsyth Streets in the Fairlie-Poplar district. The grand opening drew thousands, signaling its significance as a luxury destination and modern hospitality landmark.

With a construction cost of around $1,000,000, the hotel featured 400 guest rooms and was managed by M.I. and Frank Harrell, who established its reputation for excellence. Its location in the Fairlie-Poplar district placed it at the epicenter of Atlanta’s business, government, and cultural activities.


Architectural Features and Early Amenities

Upon completion, the Hotel Ansley was considered an architectural marvel. Its Beaux-Arts façade, 15 stories, ornate lobby, and grand dining rooms set a new standard for Southern hospitality. By the late 1930s, every room boasted en-suite bathrooms and radios—remarkable luxuries at the time.

The lobby featured three notable murals depicting key scenes from Georgia’s history, including the meeting of James Oglethorpe and Tomochichi, John Wesley’s missionary work, and the Yazoo Land Fraud. These artworks captivated guests until their mysterious disappearance in the 1950s, a loss that still intrigues historians.


Social and Cultural Role in Atlanta

Throughout its existence, the Hotel Ansley hosted countless banquets, conventions, and civic events. Its ballrooms and meeting rooms became gathering places for Atlanta’s elite, and its central location made it a preferred venue for visitors and locals alike.

The hotel also played a part in Atlanta’s communications history, housing the studios of radio station WGST in 1930, and serving as a hub for political and social discourse during pivotal moments in the city’s growth.


Transition to Dinkler Ownership and Rebranding

In 1952, the Dinkler family, renowned for their hotel management across the Southeast, acquired the property. It was rebranded as the Dinkler Ansley and then the Dinkler Plaza Hotel. The Dinklers modernized the hotel but also experienced personal tragedies, including the deaths of L.J. Dinkler and his son Carling Dinkler, which marked a somber chapter in its history.


Decline, Demolition, and Enduring Legacy

Competition from newer hotels and changing urban dynamics led to the Ansley’s decline. The hotel was demolished in 1972 (with some records citing 1973), and the site was redeveloped. While no physical remnants remain, the Hotel Ansley’s story lives on through photographs, archives, and the collective memory of Atlanta’s residents. The loss of the lobby murals remains a poignant reminder of the fragility of cultural heritage.


Visiting Information and Nearby Historical Attractions

Can I Visit the Hotel Ansley Today?
The original Hotel Ansley building no longer exists. However, the Fairlie-Poplar district remains a vibrant, historic area well worth exploring. No tickets or specific visiting hours apply to the site, as it is now integrated into downtown Atlanta’s commercial landscape.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Fairlie-Poplar Historic District: Noted for its early 20th-century architecture and lively atmosphere.
  • Atlanta History Center: Extensive exhibits and archives documenting the city’s past (Atlanta History Center).
  • Georgia State University Library Special Collections: Offers digital archives on Atlanta’s historic hotels (Georgia State University Library Digital Collections).
  • Centennial Olympic Park, Fox Theatre, and other major sites are within walking distance.

Accessibility:
The Fairlie-Poplar district is pedestrian-friendly and accessible via MARTA, Atlanta’s public transit system.

Travel Tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring on foot.
  • Check local listings for guided historical tours and special events.

The Ansley Inn’s Place in Atlanta’s Cultural Landscape

Historical Context and Neighborhood Influence

The Ansley Inn, in Midtown’s historic Ansley Park, preserves the spirit of the Ansley name. The inn occupies a 1908 mansion amidst tree-lined streets and early 20th-century homes (Ansley Park Civic Association), reflecting the legacy of Edwin P. Ansley’s vision for suburban-style neighborhoods close to Atlanta’s cultural core.

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Booking

  • Check-in: 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Check-out: by 11:00 AM
  • Reservations: Required, especially during peak events like Atlanta Pride or the Atlanta Film Festival.

The inn is accessible for guests with disabilities and offers a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. Contact the inn directly for accessibility requests or specific needs.

Proximity to Arts and Culture

Within walking distance are the Woodruff Arts Center, High Museum of Art, Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Piedmont Park (Woodruff Arts Center, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Piedmont Park). The inn’s location is ideal for guests interested in the city’s arts scene and annual festivals like Music Midtown and the Atlanta Dogwood Festival.

Social Significance and Inclusivity

The Ansley Inn is recognized for its LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and is an active participant in Midtown’s progressive community (Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau). It serves as a social hub during major events and fosters a sense of belonging among diverse guests.

Heritage Preservation and Community Engagement

The inn supports local artists through rotating exhibitions and collaborates with neighborhood preservation campaigns (Atlanta Preservation Center). Its complimentary Southern-style breakfast and partnerships with local restaurants enhance the guest experience and promote Atlanta’s culinary culture (Eater Atlanta).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Q: Does the Ansley Inn require tickets?
    A: No, but reservations are necessary for stays.

  • Q: Is the inn accessible?
    A: Yes, accessible rooms and ramps are available.

  • Q: What attractions are nearby?
    A: Woodruff Arts Center, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Piedmont Park, and more.


Visiting the Historic Dinkler Plaza Hotel Site

History and Legacy

The Dinkler Plaza Hotel, originally the Hotel Ansley, was a cornerstone of Atlanta’s hospitality scene before its demolition in the early 1980s. The Dinkler family brought modern luxury and hosted important social and political events, including gatherings tied to the civil rights movement (Digital Library of Georgia).

Visiting Information

  • Site Status: The building is gone, but a historical plaque marks the location.
  • Accessibility: Open to the public at all hours, with wheelchair access and proximity to public transit.
  • Nearby Attractions: Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia Aquarium, and Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.

Resources

Historic photographs and archives can be viewed online (Digital Library of Georgia).


Visiting Hotel Ansley’s Former Site: Tips and Attractions

Location and Current Status

  • Address: 60 Forsyth Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Current Use: Now occupied by modern hotels and commercial buildings; no original features remain.
  • Nearest MARTA Station: Peachtree Center (MARTA Peachtree Center Station)
  • Parking: Public garages nearby.

What to Expect

While no physical remnants or commemorative plaques exist on site, the area is rich in historic architecture and within walking distance of several major attractions. Various downtown walking tours include references to the Hotel Ansley’s history (Atlanta Preservation Center).

Nearby Sites

Tips

  • Visit during weekends or off-peak hours for a less crowded experience.
  • Summer months can be hot and humid; dress appropriately and stay hydrated (Discover Atlanta).
  • Standard urban safety precautions apply.

Exploring the Legacy

Connect with the hotel’s story through digital archives (GSU Digital Collections), local history books, and virtual tours like Atlanta Time Machine.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit the Hotel Ansley building today?
A: No, it was demolished in 1972, but you can visit the site and surrounding historic district.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No tours focus exclusively on the Hotel Ansley, but several downtown tours include it among Atlanta’s historic hotels.

Q: Are there any commemorative plaques?
A: None at the former Hotel Ansley site, but the Dinkler Plaza Hotel site has a historical marker.

Q: Where can I find more information?
A: Visit the Atlanta History Center, Georgia State University Library Digital Collections, or the Digital Library of Georgia.


Conclusion and Final Visitor Tips

The Hotel Ansley’s story is woven into the fabric of Atlanta’s history—reflecting architectural innovation, social change, and the city’s ongoing transformation. Although the original hotel is gone, its cultural impact endures through archival records, the neighboring Fairlie-Poplar district, and contemporary venues like the Ansley Inn.

To enrich your experience:

  • Explore the Fairlie-Poplar district and Ansley Park.
  • Visit nearby historical sites and museums.
  • Access online archives for historic photographs and documents.
  • Consider guided walking tours for deeper context.
  • Use mobile apps like Audiala for curated historical content and updates.

By engaging with these resources, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of Atlanta’s dynamic past and its enduring legacy.


Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Hotel Ansley and Atlanta’s historic hotels.

Atlanta History Center
Ansley Park Civic Association
Digital Library of Georgia
Georgia State University Library Digital Collections


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