The Atlanta Marriott Marquis
The Atlanta Marriott Marquis is a hotel and convention center in downtown Atlanta, designed by Atlanta-born architect John C. Portman Jr. It opened in 1985 and is known for its 470-foot atrium, panoramic elevators, and sky bridges. Its central location offers access to historical and cultural attractions across the city.
The hotel has 1,663 guest rooms and 94 suites oriented around the atrium, as well as more than 160,000 square feet of flexible event space.
History and architecture
Origins
The Marquis was conceived during Atlanta’s rapid downtown revitalization in the 1980s as part of Portman’s broader Peachtree Center project (city-data.com). Portman had previously designed the Hyatt Regency Atlanta and Westin Peachtree Plaza. Completed in 1985, the Marquis became the third of these projects, and a major example of his use of vast atrium spaces in hotel design (hotelmanagement.net).
Atrium and structure
The hotel’s signature atrium is 470 feet (143 meters) tall and was the world’s tallest when completed (zestandcuriosity.com). Vertical chambers, sky bridges, and glass panoramic elevators span the light-filled space, creating an impression of openness and combining futuristic ambition with organic forms (uniqhotels.com).
The atrium is supported by reinforced concrete and steel and has no interior columns. The engineering made it possible to install panoramic elevators that traverse the atrium’s full height.
Exterior and renovations
The tower stands 554 feet (169 meters) tall. Its concrete grid facade bulges at the base, earning it nicknames including “the pregnant building” and “the Coca-Cola building.” The facade was painted white in 2004 to harmonize with the evolving skyline. The Marquis currently ranks as Atlanta’s 14th tallest building (zestandcuriosity.com).
A $140 million renovation in 2008 refreshed guest rooms, expanded meeting areas, and introduced the Pulse lobby lounge and Sear restaurant (city-data.com). The 42nd-floor concierge lounge offers sweeping city views. The hotel remains a leading convention destination and a draw for architecture enthusiasts.
Film and photography
The atrium has appeared in “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” “Mockingjay – Part 1,” “Flight” (2012), and “Manhunter” (1986) (zestandcuriosity.com). The atrium, sky bridges, and elevators are popular photography spots.
Visiting information
Hours, admission, and tours
The Atlanta Marriott Marquis is a working hotel and convention center. Public access to the atrium and lobby is available daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with no admission fee or ticket required.
The hotel does not offer regular public tours. Special group tours and photography sessions may sometimes be arranged through the concierge. For information about special events or tours, consult the Marriott Marquis Official Site or contact the hotel concierge.
The Marriott Marquis Official Site also offers interactive tours of the atrium and public spaces.
Location, transport, and accessibility
The hotel is at 265 Peachtree Center Avenue NE. It can be reached by car, public transit, or on foot from major downtown attractions. Valet and self-parking are available. The nearby Peachtree Center MARTA station provides public transportation access, and the hotel is steps from MARTA stations.
The Marquis is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Staff are trained to accommodate guests with disabilities.
Visiting tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance for popular attractions such as the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola.
- Most downtown attractions are walkable, and MARTA is convenient for reaching city highlights.
- The area offers activities for all ages, and most attractions, as well as the hotel, are fully accessible.
- For the latest updates, event details, and exclusive travel tips, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media.
Nearby places
Historical and cultural sites
Centennial Olympic Park was created for the 1996 Olympics and is now a 22-acre public space with fountains, gardens, and monuments. It is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Centennial Olympic Park
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park includes Dr. King’s childhood home, historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the King Center. It is open daily, typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with free entry; some tours or exhibits may require tickets (National Park Service website). Ranger-led tours, educational programs, and annual events explore civil rights history.
Georgia State Capitol is a significant architectural and historical landmark.
Atlanta History Center, in Buckhead, encompasses historic homes, gardens, and exhibits on Atlanta’s past (Atlanta History Center). Hours are Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, and Sunday, 12:00 PM–5:00 PM. Tickets are Adults $21, Seniors $19, Youth $15, and Children under 4 free. Highlights include Swan House, Smith Family Farm, Civil War exhibits, and gardens. The center is fully wheelchair accessible; on-site dining is available at Swan Coach House.
Other attractions
Georgia Aquarium is one of the world’s largest aquariums, with whale sharks, belugas, and more. Hours are usually 9:00 AM–6:00 PM, with seasonal changes. Tickets start at $39.95 for adults; buying online can help visitors skip lines. The aquarium is fully accessible. Georgia Aquarium
World of Coca-Cola explores the history and global influence of Coca-Cola. It is open daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Tickets are Adults $19 and Children $15. World of Coca-Cola
National Center for Civil and Human Rights has immersive exhibits on civil rights and global human rights issues. Hours are Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Tickets are Adults $19.50 and Children $14.50. National Center for Civil and Human Rights
College Football Hall of Fame features interactive exhibits and an indoor field. It is open daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Tickets are Adults $19.95. College Football Hall of Fame
Other attractions include the High Museum of Art, Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Children’s Museum of Atlanta.
Dining, shopping, and nightlife
- Peachtree Center, directly connected to the Marquis, offers dining and shopping.
- Walk to Ray’s in the City for seafood or Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint for Southern cuisine.
- Nearby nightlife options include rooftop bar SkyLounge and music venue The Tabernacle.
Events and festivals
Atlanta hosts festivals throughout the year, including PeachFest, Buckhead Restaurant Week, and ATL Comic Convention. Check Atlanta Events for current schedules.
Frequently asked questions
What are the visiting hours for the Atlanta Marriott Marquis?
Public spaces are open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Do I need tickets to visit the atrium or lobby?
No. General access does not require tickets. Special tours or events may require advance booking.
Is the hotel accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. The Marquis has ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms, and staff are trained to accommodate guests with disabilities.
Are guided tours available at the hotel?
Regular public tours are not scheduled, but tours may be available upon request. Special group tours and photography sessions can sometimes be arranged through the concierge.
What nearby historical sites can I visit?
Nearby highlights include Centennial Olympic Park, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, and the Georgia State Capitol.
What is the best time to visit the Georgia Aquarium?
Early weekday mornings are least crowded.
Can I use public transportation to reach attractions?
Yes. MARTA is convenient for reaching city highlights.
Are guided tours offered at local museums and landmarks?
Many attractions offer guided tours; check each attraction’s website for details.
