With assistance from Doug Stewart, Larry Johnson, Sally Flocks, Michael Hintze, Alan Steinbeck, Brian Karpinski, Diane Murley and numerous others.

(Special thanks to the following for allowing us to use pictures off the Web: Larry Johnson, Kevin Hutchby.)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

CH. 1: Walking in Atlanta

CH. 2: Public transit

   A.  MARTA

   B.  CCT

   C. C-TRAN

   D.  GCT

   E.  OTHER

CH. 3: Taxis and shuttles

CH. 4: Bicycling

CH. 5: Getting to major amenities via transit

CH. 6: Atlanta-area neighborhoods

    A.  Downtown

    B.  Northeast

    C.  Northwest

    D.  Southeast

    E.  Southwest

    F.   Other

CH. 7: Getting out of town

(followed by links)

For a (somewhat messier) version of this page with a bookmarked table of contents go http://lewyn.tripod.com/carfree4.htm

Tell native Atlantans that you found a website about getting around Atlanta without a car and you might hear a surprised, "That’s ridiculous—you can’t get around Atlanta without a car!" To be sure, few Atlantans would describe Atlanta as a paradise for transit riders, cyclists, and pedestrians. But even in Atlanta there are choices for those who don’t or can’t drive.

This document is about those choices–the alternative ways you have to get around metro Atlanta without a car. Our purpose is to expand your transportation horizons by helping you learn about new ways to get around. You have many great ways to get where you’re going without having to drive yourself, especially in the city of Atlanta and its inner suburbs. You can move to Point A to Point B inexpensively and (sometimes) conveniently by bus, train, taxi, bicycle and your own feet. 23.5% of intown Atlanta households (and even a few suburbanites here and there) already live a totally car-free lifestyle–either by choice or by circumstance. More would love to be car-free more of the time; some wish they could avoid automobiles entirely, while others merely wish they could do so during their rush-hour commute to work.

Whatever your situation, this website gives you all the information you’ll need to get around without driving. A less vehicle-dependent lifestyle can be a better lifestyle – not just for those who live it, but for everybody in Greater Atlanta. How we choose to move influences the shape of our own lives, as well as the quality of our neighborhoods or region. For example, walking and cycling combine transportation with exercise, while helping to create a cleaner, quieter city environment. Besides, worrying about breakdowns, car break-ins, traffic jams, parking problems, potholes, expensive repairs and road rage doesn’t have to be an unavoidable evil of living in cities the size of Atlanta. Why not consider a few ways to simplify your life, demonstrate care for your community, benefit from a lower-stress lifestyle, and save some money in the process?

The car-dependent lifestyle isn’t cheap, if you think about how much owning and operating a car costs. The American Automobile Association estimates that the average cost for owning and operating a new car is $6,400 per year. And don’t forget the billions of dollars we pay in taxes every year to subsidize the infrastructure of the car culture– roads, traffic cops, military spending to protect Arab oil. What would you do with an extra few thousand dollars a year?

There’s no question that trying new things can be challenging. Many of us aren’t really sure what transportation options are available out there. But, whether you wish to travel car free for an everyday commute, an evening out with friends, or a spontaneous weekend getaway, this book does much of the legwork for you. Phone numbers, transit information and neighborhood profiles are here to help you plan your travels. Public transit is an obvious car-free alternative, and we outline metro Atlanta’s transit systems. Beyond the bus and rail systems, we profile bicycling, walking and taxicabs as possible local options. Just think–if you choose a car-free lifestyle, you’ll enjoy the freedom of not looking for a parking space, not having to pump gas in bad weather, and not fighting traffic and road-rage craziness. Now read on and see how it can happen!

For the past fifty years, roads and buildings in metro Atlanta have been planned, designed and built to serve the automobile. Streets have gotten wider, blocks longer, and roadway design speeds higher. Because most of metro Atlanta has been built in the last fifty years during this automobile-oriented age, pedestrian access to the city has definitely suffered.

However, attitudes about the need for transportation alternatives have changed significantly in Atlanta over the past decade. The issue of non-motorized transportation safety and access now enters the discussion of all new roadway projects. In addition, many governments around the region are now undertaking the task of retrofitting existing downtown areas and commercial centers to accommodate various types of transportation choices. These efforts are being matched by a renewed interest among developers in bringing buildings to market that have the function and appearance of a pedestrian-friendly area. Although the going is slow, there have been significant advances in improving pedestrian infrastructure and there are surely more to come.

Despite the positive trends in thinking about urban transportation choices, Atlanta pedestrians must come to terms with two difficult realities: the physical difficulties of the walking landscape and the culture of driving that exists among most region’s inhabitants.

There are physical barriers in Atlanta that make being on the street without a car a little difficult and a little more dangerous than other places. But with some practice, caution and understanding the rules, navigating Atlanta on foot is fun and rewarding.

The Georgia Driver’s Code, like that in nearly every state, gives pedestrians the right of way in crosswalks. In Georgia, drivers must stop and stay stopped for pedestrians if a pedestrian is:

As a pedestrian, you must always assume that drivers, even if they know the rules, are not very good at practicing them. Cautious confidence will win the day. At intersections, even when the "Walk" sign is flashing, motorists will make turns and disregard pedestrians trying to cross. But the seasoned walker will give the message to the drivers around them that they are going to take the right of way, usually by eye contact and especially to those who are turning, and proceed through the intersection. It is amazing how restrained drivers can be when reminded of the presence of other people using the street and the rules of engagement. The Atlanta driver knows very well that any hesitation or abnormal act can result in getting honked at, getting cut off, or driven around. Why should the pedestrian expect anything different? You must use good judgment, but always stake your claim.

Four agencies currently provide public transit in the Atlanta Metropolitan Area. MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) provides bus and rapid rail service in Fulton and DeKalb Counties. CCT (Cobb Community Transit) provides bus service in Cobb County, with connecting service to MARTA. Clayton County has Clayton Transit (C-TRAN) and Gwinnett County has Gwinnett County Transit (GCT). C-TRAN runs five buses to and from the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport MARTA rail stop, while GCT runs bus routes both to downtown Atlanta and through Gwinnett County.

A.  MARTA

1.  MARTA basics 

MARTA operates in Fulton County and DeKalb County with over 100 bus routes. MARTA’s rail cars serve riders at 38 stations and cover over 47 miles of double track. Although Gwinnett County, Cobb County and Clayton County all have their own bus systems, MARTA remains the largest of all providers and has the lion’s share of transit users in the region.

MARTA was designed to get people into the city from the suburbs, and the system does this very well. Getting to Downtown and most parts of Midtown by train has many advantages over taking the very unpredictable interstate system. Downtown and Midtown combined have by far the largest number of "day jobs" in the region and are followed by Perimeter, Buckhead and Cumberland. If office work is not your thing, Perimeter and Buckhead offer the most variety of jobs in entertainment, restaurants, retail and other services that are easily accessible by transit.

Despite the bias in the design of the MARTA system toward the suburb-to-city commute, many workers who are going from city to suburb are increasingly relying on it, especially for getting to the northern part of the city. Do not expect excellent walking conditions anywhere around stations that are north of Buckhead and Lenox, but do not rule out using the system to get to these areas. Bus service in the suburbs is often fast and reliable. Try a few practice runs before you decide that taking the car is a must. Some bus lines are more reliable than others because of traffic congestion problems. A good source of information is the riders who are waiting for the bus at the train station in the morning. Most regular MARTA commuters, especially bus riders, are happy to share their experience with you and often know almost as much about the routes as the drivers.

MARTA provides parking lots at many of its rail stations, especially those in suburban locations. Daily parking is free of charge to MARTA customers, and long-term parking costs between $3 and $6 per day (depending on the station).

Many MARTA bus routes run from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Monday through Friday, and from 6:00 a.m. until 12:30 a.m. on weekends and holidays. Some routes do not have evening or weekend service. Almost every bus route terminates at a rail station.

MARTA operates several convenient shuttle routes to popular destinations, including Turner Field, Lakewood Amphitheatre, and the Six Flags Over Georgia amusement park. For more information, call (404) 848-4711.

2.  Paratransit

MARTA provides lift vans for persons with disabilities who experience difficulty accessing fixed-route bus or rail services. Vans operate on a curb-to-curb pick-up and drop-off basis for a one-way fare of $3.50. Service is available in DeKalb and Fulton counties through advance registration.

3.  Fare Structure

As of early 2005, a single $1.75 fare covers bus or train trips, including transfers. Fare media choices and costs are:

One token: $1.75

Roll of 10 tokens: $17.50

20 one-way passes: $30 (at RideStores only)

Weekly TransCard: $13 (unlimited rides)

Monthly TransCard: $52.50 (unlimited rides)

Student Pass (elementary & high school): $10

Elderly/disabled half-fare (with card): $0.85

Out-of-district routes: $2.50 (6 Flags, Clayton)

A reciprocal fare agreement with CCT enables passengers to transfer from one system to the other at no additional charge.

Tokens and TransCards can be purchased at MARTA RideStores, located inside stations at Five Points, Lenox and the Airport, or the Lindbergh Headquarters building. Tokens can also be purchased from token machines, located outside all rail station entrances.

Although MARTA generally tries to make transferring between buses and trains convenient, living and/or working within walking distance to a rail station makes life without a car much easier. Please see the neighborhoods chapter to determine the best places to live as far as accessibility to MARTA Rail stations is concerned.

For additional route and schedule information call MARTA at (404) 848-4711. A complete list of routes along with maps and timetables for all rail and bus routes is available on MARTA's web site at: http://www.itsmarta.com/getthere/schedules/index.htm

4.  Practical Tips - bus

Use the bus driver and other passengers as a resource

If you aren't positive where a bus is going to take you, where you need to get off, where you can transfer or have some other question about the bus route, talk to the driver. Most MARTA drivers know their routes and the MARTA system quite well and can help you out. If you can't get the information you need from a bus driver, ask the passengers. Don't be shy!

Stopping the Bus

As you approach your stop, pull the overhead cord, or push the strip along the windows to let the driver know you want to get off. Don’t signal for your stop too far ahead of time, most likely there will be another stop before yours and you’ll either force the driver to make an unnecessary stop or you will be walking to where you wanted to get off.

Have bus schedules for the buses you use

Be aware that many routes suffer delays from rush hour car traffic. Most drivers are very conscientious about staying on schedule, but because there are no dedicated bus lanes they are as vulnerable to traffic problems as other motorists. If a bus line is persistently off-schedule during peak hours, consider trying another bus line that may run through less busy streets and run more reliably. While it may drop you off slightly farther away from where you live, it may end up saving you more time.

Before you venture out on a bus route, check the schedule to make sure you can get back. Some buses stop running as early as 7:00pm.

Have exact change

If paying bus fare with cash, always have the exact change (dollar bills, quarters, dimes and nickels are accepted); change is not given on the bus. Be smart and make sure you have additional cash on hand so if you have to buy an additional token, you won't be stranded. Tokens are accepted on both buses and trains.

Help make the system the best it can be.

In the (hopefully) rare instances when you do not find the help or level of service you expect, you should let MARTA know. Here’s how: First, make sure you record all the necessary details (bus number, train line, name of driver, conductor, or other MARTA official). Then, call MARTA customer service at (404) 848-4800 or send an email to customerserv@itsmarta.com and report the incident.

Always sign your MARTA pass!

On the back of MARTA passes there's room for a signature. As soon as you get your card, be sure to sign it. If your card is ever stuck in a turnstile and MARTA helps you get it out, they will look for the signature as proof that the card is yours.

5.  Practical tips- trains

Stay Alert

Trains stop at every station. Usually (though not always), the station will be announced before every stop. There are also signs at every station visible from the train window - stay alert so you know when to get off.

Exact Change

If you're using cash for the train, you need exact change to put in the turnstile or you'll need to buy tokens at nearby token machines. If you are an occasional rider (i.e. once every couple weeks or so), it might make sense to buy tokens in bulk to save time at the token machines. If you are a regular rider, a weekly or monthly transcard will save you time as well as money.

6.  How do transfers work?

It's pretty simple. In fact, if you have a pass, it's not even something you need to worry about because you don't need a transfer at all. If you're paying in cash or by tokens and you need to catch a connecting bus, however, transfers are a must. Here's an outline of how they work:

Train-to-bus: After you put your token or cash in the turnstile and walk through, push the transfer button to get your transfer. Once you reach your station and want to get on the bus there, present your transfer to the driver. At certain stations this will not be necessary as the buses come directly into the station and the bus driver knows you've just come off the train and have already paid.

Bus-to-train: After feeding the bus with cash or tokens, ask the driver for a bus-to-rail transfer. You can only get this if the bus is going to a rail station. Once you arrive at the station, stick the transfer card into the turnstile just as you would a rail pass. The card is for one-time use and will not be returned.

Bus-to-bus: If for some reason you need to take one bus and transfer from it onto another one (the 48 to the 2, for example), you need to ask the driver for a bus-to-bus transfer.

Note: Some bus depots are in the station (no transfer needed) and some require a transfer. Find out before you get there or to be on the safe side, always get a transfer.

7.  Bikes on MARTA

MARTA is one of the more bicycle-friendly transit agencies in the country. Bikes are allowed on trains and buses.

All rail stations have elevators and there's plenty of room on board for your bike. Once on the train, bikers should be sure to minimize discomfort or obstructions to other passengers. Make sure your bike is not blocking an exit, an aisle or several seats on a crowded train. Be alert for people trying to maneuver around your bike and move it out of the way as needed. You should park your bike at the front or rear of the train car, where there is more space. Make a conscious effort to take up as little room on the train as you need to.

8.  Shopping on MARTA

Some people use MARTA for recreational trips but shy away from using it to do things like grocery shopping because they don't think it's possible. Don't be intimidated - it is possible, especially when you have the right tools and right attitude.

Even if you are buying a lot of things, you can bring them home without driving by:

a) using a two-wheeled, folding shopping cart. They cost about $20 at local grocery stores, hardware stores, and elsewhere. Using one of these carts you can roll home an entire week's worth of groceries or load of books or even a computer system without putting a strain on your back or arms. Using a cart avoids the problems of having to juggle dozens of bags or deciding whether or not to buy heavy things - with a cart, unless it's really, really big, you can carry it yourself. The carts fold up for easy carrying and easy storage or

b) Taking a taxicab home.

If you're not going to buy a lot but will be making a few stops, bring a backpack or shoulder bag. Buy some clothes, put them in the backpack. Buy a book down the road, put that in as well. Take the train to get some supplies at the hardware store, and put them in, too. When you get home you won't have all those plastic bags and you'll feel like you've really accomplished something.

For buying furniture, remember that you can take MARTA to the store and nine times out of ten, they will deliver it to your door, though usually at a charge. Home Depot will home-deliver certain items or you can rent a truck by the hour.

All of the hints above apply to the region's other transit services (discussed below) as well as to MARTA.

B.  Cobb Community Transit Services (CCT)

All CCT vehicles are wheelchair lift-equipped, with interior and exterior equipment upgrades that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). CCT has also equipped ts fleet with bicycle racks to accommodate bicycle/transit trips.

Transfer Centers and Park/Ride Lots

Cobb County’s transit system includes two transfer centers, where a number of bus routes converge, and four parking lots for which CCT has negotiated partial use as transit park/ride facilities. The transfer centers are located at Cumberland Mall and near downtown Marietta (on S. Marietta Parkway at Aviation Drive). Neither of the transfer centers provides any public parking spaces. Two of the park and ride lots are in Marietta (one at 800 S. Marietta Parkway, another at the Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at 955 Johnson Ferry), a third is on Busbee Drive in Kennesaw, and a fourth is on Lake Acworth Drive in Acworth.

CCT Paratransit Services

A fleet of lift-equipped vans provides paratransit service to people unable to access the fixed-route service because of a disability. Qualified passengers can make reservations for curbside pick-up and be taken to their final destinations or transferred to a fixed-route bus: Call (770) 427-2222. (For information about prices, see CCT Fare Structure.)

CCT Fare Structure

Local single rides are $1.25 for adults, and $0.80 for youth under age 18. Elderly passengers and passengers with disabilities can pay half-fare ($0.60) to ride local routes during non-peak hours and all day Saturday. Children under 42" in height ride free.

Adult express fares are $3.00 one-way or $4.00 for a round-trip. Youth express fares are $1.80 one-way or $2.55 for a round-trip. Paratransit single-ride fare for adults is $2.50; youth pay $1.60. Ten-ride tickets are available for every fare category at a slightly discounted price. In addition, monthly passes are available as follows:

Adult-Local: $45.00

Adult-Express, one-way: $55.00

Adult-Express, round trip: $70.00

Adult-Paratransit: $90.00

Youth-Paratransit: $55.00

A negotiated arrangement between CCT and MARTA provides free transfer privileges for transit passengers. Tickets and passes can be purchased online at the CCT web page, or by phone (770-428-1218).

General System Description

As of January 2005, C-TRAN’s fixed route operations include five routes, all going from the airport MARTA rail stop into Clayton County. Three of the five C-TRAN buses operate on Sunday.

All C-TRAN buses are wheelchair lift-equipped, and thus accessible for persons with disabilities. C-TRAN buses are equipped with bicycle racks at the front of the bus to accommodate bicycle/transit trips.

C-TRAN’s fleet of lift-equipped vans provide paratransit service (for $3 each way) for persons unable to access fixed-route service because of a disability. Qualified passengers may make reservations for paratransit vans: Call (770) 848-5399.

Single rides are $1.50 per passenger, $0.75 for elderly and disabled passengers, and free for children under 5. Paratransit service is $3 each way. 20-ride passes are available for $26, and monthly passes are available for $52.50. Tickets and passes can be purchased at Southlake Mall and at Kroger stores at the following locations: 8059 Tara Blvd. in Jonesboro, and 7125 Highway 85 in Riverdale.

Transfers between C-TRAN and MARTA bus and train routes are free, as are transfers between C-TRAN buses.

General System Description

As of March 2005, GCT’s operations include six express routes going from Gwinnett County to downtown Atlanta, and five local routes.that serve destinations within Gwinnett County. One of the local buses (route 10) serves Doraville’s MARTA rail station. Most of the local routes run Monday through Saturday, while the express routes are limited to weekday rush hour service.

GCT buses have a rack on the front for two bicycles, and all Park & Ride lots have a place where riders can lock their bikes.

Single rides on express buses are $3 one way. Ten-ride passes are available for $27, and monthly passes cost $100.

Single rides on local buses are $1.75 per passenger. Ten-ride passes are available for $14. In addition, monthly passes are available for $55. Seniors, youth and the disabled may purchase local bus trips for .85 apiece, or pay $8.50 for a ten-ride pass. Paratransit rides cost $3.50 per ride or $35 for a ten-ride pass. Tickets and passes can be purchased by contacting GCT at (770) 822-5010 or by mail. Pass-by-mail forms are available on GCT buses.

Transfers between GCT and MARTA bus and train routes are free, as is parking at GCT’s three Park & Ride Lots (at I-85 and Indian Trail, Discover Mills Mall, and I-985 and SR 20). However, overnight parking is prohibited.

E.  NEIGHBORHOOD-ONLY BUSES

The Buc (www.bucride.com) serves only Buckhead, and Royal Bus Lines runs buses up and down Buford Highway.  For more details on these services see neighborhood profiles of Buckhead and Chamblee/Doraville respectively.

Not owning a car doesn’t preclude you from using one when you need to.

To get to your doctor’s office on a rainy day when you have the flu, a taxi may be well worth the cost. Likewise, a taxi is a big help when you need to stock up on groceries for a week or pick up a 40-pound bag of dog food. Taxis are also an efficient way to get between two meetings that are scheduled back-to-back when using MARTA would require too many transfers to be feasible. Taxis also provide independence and convenience for traveling at night or on weekends, when bus service is less frequent.

Taxis are less visible in Atlanta than in most major cities, so attempting to flag down a taxi is not your best choice. Taxis tend to hang out near big hotels, particularly ones used for conventions, so if you’re located in Downtown Atlanta, Buckhead, or Decatur, head to your nearest hotel. The concierge or other staff member will call the company, and a taxi will show up quickly. If you want to be picked up at work or at home, call the taxi company. At Checker Cab and some other taxi companies, the dispatcher will request your phone number. Checker’s Taxi drivers will call you when they arrive, which means you don’t need to spend time waiting on the street. For other companies, ask the receptionist whether the driver will call you. If you need to be picked up from a store, you can save time by calling when you get in the checkout line.

If you have any trouble with or have left something in a taxi governed by the City of Atlanta (the taxi’s number will start with 0001), call the Taxicab Bureau at (404) 658-7600. Provide the number of the cab, the name of the company, the date and time, and the name of the driver (if you remember it).

Bo's Taxi Service 404-577-2222 or 1-877-666-6668

Atlanta Lenox 404-872-2600

American Cab 404-873-1410

Ambassador Taxi 404-724-0220

Omega Taxi 404-249-9830

United Taxi 404-658-1638

American Cab 404-873-1410

National Cab 404-752-6834

Rapid Taxi 404-222-9888

Bo's Taxi Service 404-577-2222 or 1-877-666-6668

Atlanta Lenox 404-872-2600

Amigo Taxi 404-248-0106

Bo's Taxi Service 404-577-2222 or 1-877-666-6668

Atlanta Lenox 404-872-2600

Decatur's Best 404-289-6603

Decatur Jett Cab 404-289-3333

69 Cab 770-986-0123

Quick Service 404-558-5940

Dunwoody Taxi 770-390-9997

Doraville Cab 770-451-2272

Su Taxi 404-255-6333

Alpha Cab 404-255-4955

Quick Service 404-558-5940

Dunwoody Taxi 770-390-9997

Gwinnett Taxi 770-963-0963

Doraville/Gwinnett Cab 770-968-6078

Metro Taxi 770-925-2277

Action Cab 770-423-2222

Trip Taxi 770-924-1700

Cobb Taxi 770-956-7273

A-1 Taxi 770-434-8785

Action Cab 770-423-2222

Cobb Taxi 770-956-7273

A-1 Taxi 770-434-8785

Stone Mtn. Taxi 770-469-9066

Decatur Yellow 404-377-3905

Decautur Best 404-289-6603

Checker Taxi Decatur 404-289-0333

Lithonia Best Cab 770-934-0354

Bo's Taxi Service 404-577-2222 or 1-877-666-6668

Payless Cab 770-909-9393

Dixie Cab 404-366-8101

E Z Taxi 404-766-5500

Harbor Light Cab 770-994-0730

Superior Airport Shuttle 770-457-4794

Mike Transportation Inc. 404-669-0900

Airport Transportation 404-299-3886

Star Coaches 404-364-0177

Superior Airport Shuttle 770-457-4794

Mike Transportation Inc. 404-669-0900

Airport Transportation 404-299-3886

Star Coaches 404-364-0177

Superior Airport Shuttle 770-457-4794

Mike Transportation Inc. 404-669-0900

Airport Transportation 404-299-3886

Star Coaches 404-364-0177

Bo's Taxi Service 404-577-2222 or 1-877-666-6668

Superior Airport Shuttle 770-457-4794

Mike Transportation Inc. 404-669-0900

Airport Transportation 404-299-3886

Star Coaches 404-364-0177

La Familia Taxi 770-451-2272

Paisanos Taxi 770-220-0295

Los Primos Taxi 770-936-8400

Hispanos Taxi 770-458-6600

Guadalupana Taxi 770-455-0646

Amigo Taxi 404-248-0106

First, the bitter truth: Atlanta is one of the harder cities for bicycling in the U.S. Atlanta drivers tend to be less tolerant of cyclists sharing the road than motorists in other cities, and bike lanes are few and far between. Effective cycling here requires no small amount of poise and savvy.

However, if you pick your routes carefully, keep your bike in good working order, and—most importantly—respect the rules of the road, bicycling in Atlanta can be a pleasure. Atlanta has a strong community of cyclists who regularly brave its streets and share trade secrets. Some of Atlanta’s intown neighborhoods wind their way to commercial and office districts, making cycling to work and to shop easier than one might think. And there is hope, though by no means certainty, that the various city and state agencies responsible for Atlanta’s roads will make the safety and convenience of bicyclists a higher priority in the coming years than they have in years past.

Many, though not all, parts of metro Atlanta are bikeable, and bicycling is safer than one might think: for each hour spent on the road, bicyclists in Atlanta actually experienced fewer accidents than motorists. A half hour bike ride is as good exercise as a half hour spent at the gym; you can run errands or ride to work and stay in shape at the same time.

Although Atlanta’s roads tend to favor the motorist and shortchange the cyclist, you can ride safely and get where you need to go by following some basic rules:

Although these sound simple enough, they are easier said than done: too few cyclists abide by all of these rules. It requires a lot of patience and fortitude to be a law-abiding cyclist. Most of the roads in Atlanta are not built to accommodate cyclists, and some motorists regard cyclists as a hindrance rather than as full and equal road-sharing partners. Yet many Atlanta cyclists, of all ages and backgrounds—more of them in dresses and slacks than in spandex--find a way to make the system work for them. The Atlanta Bicycle Campaign offers classes on effective cycling that will make you a better city cyclist—you can sign up by calling (404) 881-1112.

There are some accessories that no rider should do without: a front and rear light; a water-bottle holder; a Kryptonite lock. You should never go out riding at night without your lights. A reflector vest is also very helpful for riding both night and day, especially if you ride on busier roads. Likewise, in spring and summer you will need to bring a water bottle and drink out of it regularly. Don’t skimp on a lock. Kryptonite is nearly unbreakable and well worth the investment. Also, it’s advisable to lock your front wheel along with your frame whenever you park your bike -- and essential to do so if you have a quick-release wheel. Beyond this, your gear needs will depend on your circumstances. Racks are useful, especially if you’re commuting to work. If you plan to shop, you will probably need panniers. A camelback water container is extremely valuable for longer rides in the heat. If you find yourself riding on many busy arterial streets, consider investing in a side mirror.

If you want to cycle regularly, you will probably find that the best opportunities to do so are in the eastern half of the city of Atlanta and in nearby Decatur. Because the layout of these areas is generally older than in the rest of the Atlanta area, they tend to be slightly more interconnected, smaller-scale, and more bicycle-friendly than the metro area. Also, the city government is very pro-bicycle and many new bike lanes should come on line in the near future.

Most city streets, even the main arterial roads, are safe to ride on. There are some streets you should avoid, like most of Ponce De Leon Avenue and North Avenue, and Peachtree Street anywhere north of Midtown. However, if you claim your part of the lane and remain in the path of the cars--rather than retreating toward the curb where you will get squeezed out by passing traffic—you will have little trouble with cars on most streets during most hours of the day.

If you would still prefer to stay off the busier roads, you can often find an alternative route. For example, the Freedom Parkway bike trail will take you from the Midtown area to the Martin Luther King historic district just east of downtown; it is a very pleasant morning commute if you work downtown. There are many other neighborhoods with easy access to central commercial nodes of the city, such as Ansley Park (leading to the Midtown business district) and the Midtown residential district between Tenth Street and Ponce De Leon Avenue. Shopping centers, such as Sage Hill in North Druid Hills, can be reached from the downtown/midtown area by taking a mix of unthreatening commercial streets and quiet residential streets. It may take a while to discover these routes, and they may be rather labyrinthine; but they usually exist in the intown area. The Atlanta Bicycle Campaign also has bicycle maps for some parts of the metro area, which can help you figure out the most bike-friendly routes for any given trip – if you’re interested, call them at (404) 881-1112.

Atlanta has recently developed a number of short bike paths throughout Midtown and DeKalb County. These paths join with city streets to form something resembling a single bike route stretching from Freedom Parkway near downtown all the way to Stone Mountain. Planning and financial support from the PATH Foundation has been largely responsible for these great recreational cycling opportunities. The paths are particularly convenient for residents of Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, and Candler Park. If you want to ride all the way to Stone Mountain, be prepared for many gaps in the paths and a fair amount of on-road cycling. While "PATH" signs on the roads will help you stay on the right course, be aware that these roads are simply connectors and are no more or less dangerous than other city streets. Maps of PATH’s current trails, as well as trails in planning, can be obtained at many metro area bike stores and on the PATH Foundation website at http://www.pathfoundation.org/trails/index.cfm

PATH is also supporting the construction of a trail extending all the way from Smyrna in Cobb County to Anniston, Alabama. When completed, this "Silver Comet" trail will offer a great opportunity for many Atlantans to get away from the sprawl and enjoy a long ride without any hassles from cars. While most riders will have to drive to get to the trail in the first place, the Silver Comet could inspire a lot of Atlanta residents to brush the dust off their bikes and rediscover the pleasures of cycling.

Many Atlantans know how to get to their jobs by rail or bus, but believe that they need a car to go anyplace else of importance.  But in fact, many civic amenities are on bus or rail routes, including shopping malls, museums, hospitals, major regional parks, and sports arenas.  This section

lists such facilities and how to reach them using MARTA or one of the region's other transit systems.

All bus routes listed are MARTA routes unless otherwise noted.

THEATERS

14^th St. Playhouse (173 14^th St., 404-876-9762) - Three blocks east of Arts Center station’s eastern exit.

Agatha’s - A Taste of Mystery (693 Peachtree St, 404-875-1610)- One block east of North Avenue station; served by 10 bus.

Center for Puppetry Arts (1404 Spring St., 404-873-3391) - Two blocks west of the Arts Center station’s western exit.

Dad’s Garage Theater Co. (280 Elizabeth St NE, 404-523-3141)- Take 3 bus to Elizabeth St. and Lake Ave., then walk one block west.

Fox Theater (660 Peachtree St., 404-249-6400)- This 1920s movie palace (now used primarily for plays) is a block north and east of the North Avenue station, and is served by the 10 bus.

New American Shakespeare Tavern (499 Peachtree St, 404-874-5299)- A block east and two blocks north of Civic Center station.

Rialto Center for the Performing Arts (Forsyth at Luckie, 404-651-4727)- This onetime movie place turned stage theater is two blocks west of Peachtree, about halfway between the Five Points and Peachtree Center stations.

Atlanta Medical Center (303 Parkway Drive NE, 404-265-4000) (formerly Georgia Baptist Medical Center)- Served by 16 and 99 buses.

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Eggleston (1405 Clifton Rd, 404-325-6000)- Served by 36 and 245 buses.

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite (1001 Johnson Ferry, 404-256-5252)- Served by 41 bus.

Cobb Hospital (3950 Austell Rd in Cobb County, 770-732-4000)- served by 30 CCT bus.

Crawford W. Long Hospital (550 Peachtree St., 404-686-4411)- A block south and east of the North Avenue station, and served by the 10 bus.

Decatur Hospital (450 N. Candler St., Decatur, 404-501-6700)- Just a block north of the Decatur station, and served by the 2 bus.

DeKalb Medical Center (2701 N. Decatur Rd., 404-501-1000)- Served by 123 and 125 buses.

Emory-Adventist Hospital (3949 S. Cobb Drive in Smyrna, 770-434-0710) and Ridgeview Institute (3995 S Cobb Drive, 770-434-4567)- Served by CCT 20 bus.

Emory University Hospital (1364 Clifton Rd NE, 404-712-7021)- Served by 6, 36 and 245 buses.

Grady Memorial Hospital (80 Butler St SE, 404-616-4307) and Hughes Spalding Children’s Hospital (35 Butler St. SE, 404-616-6402)- Served by 4 and 17 buses. Also three blocks north and one block east of Georgia State station.

North Fulton Medical Center (3000 Hospital Blvd., Roswell, 770-451-2500)- Served by 85 bus.

Northside Hospital (1000 Johnson Ferry Rd., NE, 404-851-8000)- Just southwest of Medical Center station, and served by all buses serving that station (including the 41 bus).

Piedmont Hospital (1968 Peachtree Rd, 404-605-5000)- Served by 23 bus.

Saint Joseph’s Hospital (5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd, 404-851-7001) - Just southeast of Medical Center station, and served by all buses serving that station (including the 41 bus).

Scottish Rite Pediatric Health Alliance (780 Johnson Ferry Rd, 404-303-0383)- Two blocks southwest of Medical Center station, (including the 41 bus).

Shepherd Spinal Center (2020 Peachtree Rd, 404-352-2020)- Served by 23 bus.

South Fulton Medical Center (1170 Cleveland Avenue in East Point, 404-305-3500)- Served by 78 and 93 buses. Also a 3/4 mile walk east on Cleveland Avenue from East Point station.

Southern Regional Medical Center (11 SW Upper Riverdale Road in Clayton County)- Served by 503 C-TRAN bus.

Southwest Hospital & Medical Center (501 Fairburn Rd SW, 404-699-1111)- Served by 165 bus.

VA Medical Center (1670 Clairmont Rd, 404-321-6111)- Served by 19 bus.

Vencor Hospital Atlanta (705 Juniper St, 404-873-2871)- Two blocks north and two blocks east of North Avenue station, and a block east of Peachtree (served by 10 bus).

West Paces Ferry Hospital (3200 Howell Mill Rd NW, 404-351-0351)- Served by 12 bus.

MALLS

Cumberland Mall (Cobb Pkwy at I-285 and I-75)- Served by 10, 10A, 10B, 20, 50 and 70 CCT buses.

Discover Mills (5900 NW Sugarloaf Pkwy, Gwinnett County)- Served by 40, 103 and 103A GCT buses.

Galleria Mall (1 Galleria Pkwy)- Served by 50 CCT bus.

Greenbriar Mall (2841 Greenbriar Pkwy SW)- Served by 66, 82 and 83 buses.

Gwinnett Place Mall (2100 Pleasant Hill Road, Gwinnett County)- Served by all GCT local routes, and 102A GCT express bus.

Lenox Square (3393 Peachtree Rd)- Atlanta’s largest intown mall is at Lenox station. Served by 23, 25, 47, 48, and 92 buses.

Mall at Peachtree Center (231 Peachtree St.)- At Peachtree Center station, at northeast exit. Also served by 10 bus. No anchor store, but more upscale than Underground Atlanta.

Mall of Georgia (3333 Buford Drive, Gwinnett County)- Served by 50 and 101A GCT buses.

Mall at Stonecrest (2929 Turner Hill, Lithonia) - Served by 116 and 216 buses.

North DeKalb Mall (2801 Lawrenceville Hwy)- Served by 8, 75 and 123 buses.

Northlake Mall (LaVista Rd. & I-285)- Served by 30, 91, 125 and 126 buses.

Perimeter Mall (4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd)- At Dunwoody station. Also served by 5 and 150 buses. One of the region’s larger suburban malls.

Phipps Plaza (3500 Peachtree)- From Lenox rail stop, walk 1/4 mile up Lenox Road to Peachtree, then cross street to mall. Also on 25 bus route. Phipps is not quite as large as Lenox, but is even more upscale.

South DeKalb Mall (2801 Candler Road)- Served by 74 and 186 buses.

Southlake Mall (1001 Southlake in Morrow)- Served by 501 and 502 C-TRAN buses.

Town Center Mall (I-75 and Barrett Pkwy in Cobb County) - Served by 10C, 40 and 45 CCT buses.

Underground Atlanta (50 Alabama St. SW) - At Five Points station. This mall, unlike Phipps or Lenox, has no "anchor store." It instead has lots of small specialty stores and a "dollar store."

West End Mall (850 Oak St SW)- From West End station, walk a block north on Lee; mall should be on your left. Also served by 67, 68 and 71 buses. Small and discount-oriented.

MUSEUMS