If you’re searching for “Philips Arena Atlanta,” you’re almost certainly looking for what is now known as State Farm Arena—the major sports and entertainment venue in downtown Atlanta, Georgia.
For many years, the building was called Philips Arena, and a lot of Atlantan locals still use that name out of habit. Today, though, the arena has a new name, a modernized interior, and a packed schedule of games, concerts, and special events.
This guide walks you through what Atlantans and visitors need to know: the history of Philips Arena, what it’s called now, how to get there, where to park, and what to expect inside.
The venue now called State Farm Arena opened in 1999 as Philips Arena, named after its original naming sponsor. For nearly two decades, Atlantans went to “Philips” for:
Because of that long history, many locals still say “Philips Arena” even though the name has officially changed.
It sits right in the downtown entertainment district, next to:
If someone in Atlanta gives you directions to Philips Arena, they’re talking about this building.
The arena is best known today as the home of the:
If you’re in Atlanta and want to experience a pro basketball game, this is where you go.
The former Philips Arena is also one of the city’s primary concert and live event venues, regularly hosting:
For big touring acts, this arena is often the main Atlanta stop, along with other large venues in the metro area.
For many Atlantans, MARTA is the easiest way to get to the arena, especially on busy game or concert nights.
Basic MARTA tips for the arena area:
For locals, MARTA is often the fastest way to avoid downtown traffic and parking stress.
The arena is near several major Atlanta highways:
Common routes for drivers:
Atlanta traffic can be heavy before and after popular events, so many locals:
Parking is structured around the larger downtown stadium and convention district.
Nearby parking typically includes:
Parking prices in Atlanta’s downtown event district commonly increase for:
To make things easier:
Although it used to be Philips Arena, the building has been significantly renovated and modernized.
Inside, you’ll find:
For basketball, the court is oriented centrally, with Hawks-branded features and game-day entertainment. For concerts, the stage location can vary, which affects which seats are closest or have the best line of sight.
Visitors generally find:
Atlanta residents will recognize some local-style food options alongside national arena fare, and offerings can vary by event.
For any event at the former Philips Arena (now State Farm Arena):
Policies can shift over time, and different tours or events sometimes add extra restrictions.
To make the most of your visit:
Many Atlantans like to pair events with:
Arena security is typical for major venues:
Carrying less speeds up your entry and reduces risk of having to return items to your car.
One advantage of visiting the former Philips Arena is how much there is to do within walking distance.
From the arena area, you can easily reach:
Many visitors plan an entire downtown Atlanta outing around a game or concert.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Former name | Philips Arena |
| Current name | State Farm Arena |
| Location | Downtown Atlanta, Georgia |
| Address | 1 State Farm Drive, Atlanta, GA 30303 |
| Main sports tenant | Atlanta Hawks (NBA) |
| Typical events | Basketball games, concerts, family shows, special events |
| Closest MARTA station | GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green lines) |
| Nearby landmarks | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia World Congress Center |
| Common uses for locals | Hawks games, major concerts, downtown nights out |
If you hear someone in Atlanta mention Philips Arena, they’re talking about the same downtown venue you’ll now see signed as State Farm Arena. Whether you live in the metro area or are visiting from out of town, it’s one of the city’s central spots for live sports and entertainment.
