With the lack of opportunity to travel as frequently as we’d all like, staycations have become more popular. A couple years ago me and the hubs did a staycation in Midtown at the Artmore Hotel and had a fabulous time. Earlier this summer a staycation in downtown Atlanta at the Hyatt Regency was how we spent one of our weekends.
There are so many things to do downtown like sporting events, visiting the Aquarium or seeing a concert. Perhaps an event like a concert is the reason for your staycation. The Hyatt Regency is a terrific choice with its proximity to many downtown Atlatna venues. But you may choose to relax and be pampered for a couple days and there’s nothing wrong with that. Here’s my take on how to enjoy the Hyatt for staycation.
Arriving for check-in around 4 on a Friday, the Hyatt was buzzing with activity. We loved those iconic elevators that took us to our suite. Note the decor of the Hyatt has been updated to reflect a minimalist touch. We loved the sweeping views of downtown Atlanta with the floor to ceiling windows.
Another thing that was wonderful about the Hyatt? The thick walls that keep out noise, ensuring restful sleep. Sorry, W Hotels, but your walls are paper thin and I never rest well when staying at your hotels. But at Hyatt I had no problem falling asleep and staying asleep through the night.
After enjoying a cup of afternoon tea (they keep a generous selection of teas stocked) in our luxurious suite and the patio, dinner time was soon approaching. We then headed off to dinner at the Polaris, the rotating restaurant atop the hotel. The views are stunning, especially at sunset, so plan your reservation accordingly. The small menu changes frequently to allow for seasonal ingredients. Plus, they have their own bourbon. Read the full review of the Polaris here.
With the incredible views of the Atlanta skyline at the Polaris you will want to stretch out your dining experience. If you’ve never done it, the Skyview ferris wheel downtown is a fun experience, should be looking for something to do to round out your Friday evening.
You don’t have to skip working out if it’s part of your regimen, as they’ve got a terrific gym at the Hyatt. But it’s your staycation, so if sleeping in is in order that’s quite all right. It’s worth mentioning that Hyatt’s VIP lounge is open early evening and mornings for breakfast. They’ve got complimentary beer and wine and a better-than-average selection of charcuterie, cheeses, vegetable sides and soups in the evening and substantial breakfast items in the AM. So there’s no need to venture out to an expensive brunch if you don’t want to.
We spent the afternoon at the Hyatt pool. On this particular Saturday in June it was too cool for a swim. But we hopped in for a bit anyway. The bar at the Hyatt Regency downtown, 22 Storys is just a few steps away, so whet your whistle with a cocktail, while you enjoy pool time. Oh and did I mention, there’s a great market inside the hotel as well? They have lots of locally produced items so you can still indulge in these even if you never leave the hotel. Insider tip: They are soon going to begin serving Sway’s signature fried chicken to go.
No visit to The Atlanta Hyatt would be complete without a meal at Sway. The southern inspired menu features everything anyone visiting the south should try. We sampled deviled eggs and fried green tomatoes to begin. The restaurant also makes juices in house like the orange and blueberry pictured above. Get a small for just $3 or a large for $6. Deviled eggs come with a choice of crab, bacon or jalapeno, or get a mix of all three like we did.
What’s special about Sway’s fried chicken? Besides that the fried chicken is brined for 24 hours, the portion is huge, offering a wing, breast and leg. Get a starter and a side and two can share this entree. Since we’d started our day light with some fruit, this hearty lunch kept us full until dinner that evening.
It was fantastic being a tourist in my own city. Whether you venture out in downtown Atlanta a little or a lot during a staycation, the Hyatt Regency is a great base for your weekend.
Disclosure: Hyatt Regency Atlanta hosted me for the weekend and provided my hotel suite and meals complimentary.
Read about more downtown Atlanta restaurants and hot spots:
Guide to the Ultimate Girls Weekend in Atlanta
Downtown Atlanta Hyatt Staycation
ParkBar – Burger spot in downtown Atlanta
Peachtree Center Must Try Restaurants
Polaris – revolving restaurant at the Hyatt Atlanta
RED Restaurant at Philips Arena
Smoke Ring – barbecue joint in Castleberry Hill
The Sun Dial at the Westin Hotel in downtown Atlanta