Discover Some of Atlanta’s History at The Georgian Terrace Hotel

If the walls at The Georgian Terrace Hotel (map) could talk, you would get an earful about the property’s fascinating history, starting with its beginning.

Built on the site of a former mayor’s house, The Georgian Terrace is situated on the corner of the intersection of Peachtree St., and Ponce de Leon Ave., in Midtown. Interestingly, this intersection was once referred to as “the city’s most famous intersection,” with the addition of the “Fabulous” Fox Theatre (map). Jumping ahead with a quick side note, the hotel has great, photo-worthy views of the front of theatre and its marquee.

Now, returning back to its history. Many grand hotels have hosted numerous famous faces throughout the years, The Georgian Terrace included, but how many can claim to have the ballroom (Grand Ballroom) where Arthur Murray taught dance. In the mid-70s, the Electric Ballroom was the site of Atlanta’s first rock music hall. But even with all of that, there’s one event that occurred in the ‘30s that perhaps eclipse them all. The Georgian Terrace was the site of the “Gone With The Wind” premiere. And today, near the ballrooms, blown up of photos depicting scenes from that night adorn the walls.

But with the good, comes the bad. And just like any grand hotel, the property fell to some hard times. In fact, The Georgian Terrace was slated to be demolished, until a group of preservationists recognizing its rich history stepped up to save it. In 1986, the property was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Three years later, it reopened on the 50th anniversary of the “Gone With The Wind” premiere party as The Georgian Terrace Apartments. In 1997, it was converted back to a hotel.

Ten years later, after a $10 million restoration project that includes a 20-story atrium, The Georgian Terrace Hotel is home to 326-rooms, including suites and six penthouses. You can sit and enjoy a meal at Livingston Restaurant + Bar, or grab a quick bite to eat at Cafe’s Mimi. If you want to step out to explore, you aren’t far from boutiques, galleries and eateries.

Yet, even with all of the changes, don’t think for a moment that the property has lost any of its grandeur or personality. It’s still there, waiting for you to discover it.

Located in Midtown, the historic Georgian Terrace Hotel is the official hotel of the Fox Theatre. The property offers various packages, including a Park and Dine, and a “Gone With The Wind” special that includes two tickets for a docent-led tour of the Margaret Mitchell House (map).

photo credits: All photos are courtesy of The Georgian Terrace Hotel. (top left) Exterior shot; (middle right) Grand Ballroom; (bottom left) Lobby