Navigating MARTA: Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling Between Sandy Springs and Atlanta

We know how hectic it can be trying to navigate your way around the metro Atlanta area. That’s why we’re sharing our top tips for making the most of MARTA, the convenient public transit system serving Sandy Springs!

Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) is an excellent way to travel between Sandy Springs and the greater Atlanta area. With two MARTA stations right here in our city, you’re just steps away from your next adventure!

Plan Your Trip
Purchase Your Fare
Understanding the Lines
Tips for a Smooth Ride
Exploring Atlanta

Why Choose MARTA?

MARTA offers a convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly way to navigate the Atlanta metropolitan area. With extensive rail and bus routes, it’s a reliable option for commuters and travelers alike. It takes away the stress of trying to navigate a highly trafficked city like Atlanta, and can drop you off just steps away from your destination! Plus, it offers a direct connection with the Hartsfield Jackson Airport, making getting to and from your flight a breeze!

Plan Your Trip

Use MARTA's Online Tools:

  • MARTA's website offers a plethora of information on their services, and gives you everything you'll need to get around. Their Plan a Trip tool makes it easier than ever to find your way around using MARTA's bus and train routes.
  • Sign-up for bus and train alerts to stay up-to-date on any information that may affect your trip.

Check the Schedules: Train schedules can vary, especially on weekends and holidays. Be sure to check the latest schedules online, or on the MARTA app, to avoid any surprises.

Purchase Your Fare

MARTA Breeze Card: Purchase a Breeze Card for $2 from any MARTA station or online. Load it with your desired amount for easy tap-and-go access. You can also purchase a Breeze Ticket for a single trip, but the Breeze Card is more cost-effective for multiple trips.

  • Their new Breeze Mobile 2.0 app allows you to purchase fares and reload your MARTA Breeze card all from your phone! Reload your card using the app, and scan the code at the turnstiles to get in with ease.

Fare Options:

  • Single Ride: $2.50
  • Round Trip: $5.00
  • Unlimited Day Passes: Options range from 1 to 30 days, offering flexibility for frequent travelers.

Understanding the Lines

Understanding the Lines: MARTA has four main rail lines: Red, Gold, Blue, and Green. The Red Line is particularly useful for traveling between Sandy Springs and Atlanta, but the Gold Line also may be required for travel. Key stations include:

  • Sandy Springs Station: Your starting point in Sandy Springs.
  • North Springs Station: Another option in Sandy Springs with ample parking.
  • Lindbergh Center: The transfer point between the North Springs (Red Line) and Doraville (Gold Line) destinations
  • Midtown, Five Points, Peachtree Center: Central Atlanta stops with access to major attractions and business districts.

Transfers: Transfers between rail lines are free and can be done at designated transfer stations such as Lindbergh Center and Five Points. Be sure to follow the signs to the correct platform for your connecting train.

Train Stations Map

Tips for a Smooth Ride

Timing Is Everything: During peak hours (6 AM - 9 AM and 3 PM - 7 PM), trains run more frequently, approximately every 10 minutes. Off-peak hours see trains every 20 minutes. Plan your trip accordingly to minimize wait times.

Safety First: MARTA stations and trains are equipped with security cameras and personnel. For added safety:

  • Keep your belongings secure and in sight.
  • Avoid isolated areas of stations, especially late at night.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to MARTA staff.

Comfort and Etiquette:

  • Offer your seat to elderly passengers or those with disabilities.
  • Keep noise levels down to ensure a pleasant ride for everyone.
  • Eating and drinking are prohibited on trains and buses.

Exploring Atlanta

Key Attractions: Once in Atlanta, MARTA provides easy access to many iconic Atlanta attractions. Here's a short list of activities, along with their closest MARTA stations:

Tourist Activities

Dining and Shopping:

Arenas/Venues:

Airport:

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