Don't have any info on the Atlanta area.
As far as being the new rider, there are about a hundred thousand posts on bike forums providing the information you're requesting.
My answer is get any kind of bike that holds air in the tires and just start riding. Doesn't matter if it's a beach cruiser, comfort bike, mountain bike, old 80's road bike or any other type. Just get a bike start riding and if you like it then you will start looking for something that will better fit your needs.
Also ask a local bike shop to show you how to change a tire on it, then buy a flat repair kit from them.
God luck and welcome to the world of bicycling!
Last edited by ups; 03-29-20 at 06:39 AM.