Best places to people-watch at Dragon Con without a pass

For the undercover fans, fans unable to purchase a membership or just fans of standing in awe of the costumes, you can still join the fun by hanging out in the area — you might just see your favorite character walking across downtown.

CHECK OUT: Everything you need to know about Dragon Con

Here are six of the best places to get the most out of the cosplay extravaganza:

Annual Dragon Con Parade

Location: Downtown - Peachtree St. and Linden Ave.; Website: dragoncon.org

The parade begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, September 3.

The Atlanta Dragon Con parade is a spectacle in itself, from the large crowd it draws in (one of the largest of the year) to the quirky floats and unusual costumes. People young and old and from near and far immerse in the city streets to celebrate all things sci-fi and strange. It feels as if for one long weekend, Atlanta is in a different realm. Be sure to arrive early, and don’t be afraid to dress up and get some mileage out of that Halloween costume in the closet.

The Hub at Peachtree Center

Location: Downtown - Mall at Peachtree Center; Website: peachtreecenter.com

Food courts aren’t the most glamorous spots, but Peachtree Center is strategically located (direct access to Marta and the main hotels) and full of hungry Con-goers. This major transportation hub is the perfect place to grab a quick bite and to awe at hundreds of costumed fans.

Hard Rock Cafe

Location: Downtown - 215 Peachtree St NE; Website: hardrock.com

The Hard Rock is centrally located in the eclectic mix that will be on display Labor Day weekend. (The food’s not too bad, either.) Try to grab a seat at the bar or, if you’re lucky enough, a seat by the window. It’s a rocking good time with the music and drinks in addition to people watching your favorite characters at the next table or out on Peachtree Street.

Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Location: Downtown - 265 Peachtree Center Ave NE; Website: marriott.com

You need a pass to actually step inside this host hotel (the others include Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Hilton Atlanta, Westin Peachtree, and Sheraton Atlanta). However, you’ll be able to catch most of the cosplayers outside in full force as they shuffle to and from festivities. Feel free to ask for pictures — most cosplayers will proudly do so but don’t take offense if you’re told no; they are most likely in a hurry to make it to the next panel.

Waffle House

Location: Downtown - 112 Courtland St NE; Website: wafflehouse.com

It’s less than a 10-minute walk (.4 miles) from the Marriott Marquis to this location of the South’s most famous restaurant chain. How could hungry cosplayers resist? They can’t. And like all Waffle Houses, it’s 24-7, perfectly suited to the around-the-clock vibe of Dragon Con.

Metro Diner and Bar

Location: Downtown - 229 Peachtree St NE B17; Website: metrodineratl.com

The advantage of this diner is that, like WaHo, it’s open 24 hours — perfect for the night owls who want to keep going after the Dragon Con party or for a hefty breakfast after a night of self-indulgence. Stop in for a fun time, good grub, and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to catch a stormtrooper singing karaoke.