What to Wear in Atlanta, Georgia in Winter: A Detailed Guide

Got a winter trip planned to Atlanta, GA? Atlanta can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cool and dry, with temperatures averaging around 55°F (that's 13°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Atlanta, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Atlanta in winter—whether you're visiting the Georgia Aquarium, taking a walk through the Atlanta BeltLine, visiting the World of Coca-Cola, or checking out the CNN Center.

🔗 What should women wear in Atlanta, Georgia in winter?

Atlanta in winter is generally cool, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: comfortable flats or loafers, cardigans, light jacket, jeans, and pashmina. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Atlanta has to offer.

🔗 Comfortable flats or loafers

Packing the right shoes for Atlanta can make the difference between a comfortable trip and a difficult one. While there are many factors to consider when packing your shoes, comfort is always the most important. Flats or loafers are a great option for travel, as they can be easily slipped on and off at security checkpoints and are generally super comfortable to walk in.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Atlanta in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Atlanta, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Atlanta, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to Atlanta. They can be used as a scarf, sarong, blanket, or even a headscarf. They are light and easy to pack, yet they provide warmth and color to any outfit. Pashminas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it's easy to find one that compliments your personal style. When choosing a pashmina, look for one that is made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere. These fibers are not only more durable, but they will also breathe better and keep you covered without making you sweat.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 What should men wear in Atlanta, Georgia in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: lightweight comfortable shoes, jeans, light jacket, collared shirts, and sweaters. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Atlanta in comfort and style.

🔗 Lightweight comfortable shoes

Traveling can be tough on your feet. You're constantly on the move, walking through airports and down crowded streets. And even if you're just sitting on a plane or in a car, your feet can start to swell after hours of being confined in one position. That's why it's important to pack comfortable, lightweight shoes that won't add too much weight to your luggage. But how do you know which shoes are right for Atlanta? Look for ones made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas. They should also have good arch support and a cushioned sole to help reduce fatigue.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Atlanta, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Atlanta, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Collared shirts

A lot of people think that collared shirts are only for work, but they can actually be really handy when traveling too. For one thing, they can help you dress up if you need to go someplace nice for dinner or a show. But how can you tell which collared shirts are worth packing? You can never go wrong with ones that are made from light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Atlanta. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Atlanta, Georgia will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Atlanta has to offer!