Symposium Local Guide: Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore

Welcome to Atlanta! Below are a few recommended hotels, restaurants, and local attractions near the symposium venue to help attendees plan their visit.

Hotels Near the Emory Conference Center

Attendees are encouraged to book early and confirm shuttle availability, parking, and cancellation policies directly with the hotel.

• Emory Conference Center Hotel - Symposium venue. Please book through the link on the registration page.
• The University Inn at Emory - Small inn close to campus; convenient and quiet.
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta–Emory University Area - Practical and budget-friendly option in Decatur.
• Residence Inn Decatur Emory Area - Suite-style accommodations near Emory, CDC, and VA Medical Center.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta - Located in downtown Decatur near restaurants and shops.
• Courtyard Atlanta Decatur Downtown/Emory - Walkable Decatur location with easy dining access.
• Atlanta Marriott Northeast/Emory Area - Larger full-service hotel with complimentary local shuttle service.
• Hotel Clermont - Boutique hotel near Virginia-Highland and Poncey-Highland.
• FORTH Atlanta - Upscale boutique and wellness hotel near BeltLine.

Recommended Restaurants

A few local favorites for casual meals, networking dinners, or exploring Atlanta cuisine.

• The General Muir - Modern Jewish deli / American - Recommended for Breakfast, lunch, casual dinners, groups
• Double Zero - Southern Italian, Neapolitan pizza, handmade pasta - Recommended for Dinner, cocktails, small groups
• Dooley’s Grounds / The Dining Room / The Club Room - On-site hotel dining - Recommended for most convenient option for conference attendees
• The Iberian Pig - Spanish tapas and cocktails - Recommended for Group dinners and shared plates
• Brick Store Pub - Casual pub food and extensive beer selection - Recommended for Informal dinners and networking
• No. 246 - Italian cuisine and brunch - Recommended for Dinner or brunch with smaller groups
• Kimball House - Oyster bar and refined cocktails - Recommended for Upscale dinners and cocktails
• The White Bull - Farm-forward Italian-inspired menu - Recommended for Smaller group dinners
• La Tavola Trattoria - Neighborhood Italian trattoria - Recommended for Classic Atlanta dining experience
• Murphy's - Modern American comfort food - Recommended for Brunch, wine, and relaxed dinners
• Rumi’s Kitchen – Colony Square - Persian cuisine - Recommended for Larger dinners and polished atmosphere

Attractions & Things To Do

Whether you have a free evening or are extending your stay in Atlanta, these nearby attractions are worth exploring.

• Fernbank Museum of Natural History - Natural history museum near Emory featuring science exhibits and outdoor trails.
• Atlanta Botanical Garden & Piedmont Park - Great option for a half-day visit, evening stroll, or outdoor break in Midtown.
• Decatur Square - Walkable downtown district with restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and bookstores.
• Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail / Ponce City Market / Old Fourth Ward - Classic downtown Atlanta attractions for attendees extending their stay.

Quick Notes for Attendees

• Transportation: Atlanta traffic can be significant during peak hours. Rideshare services are widely available.
• Weather: Atlanta in the fall is generally warm during the day with cooler evenings.
• Networking Tip: Many of the restaurants in Decatur and along the BeltLine are excellent for informal networking dinners.

                                                          We look forward to welcoming you to Atlanta!