Atlanta Falcons vs. Dallas Cowboys: What Fans in Atlanta Need to Know

The phrase “Atlanta Falcons Cowboys” almost always points to one thing: a matchup between the Atlanta Falcons and the Dallas Cowboys. For football fans in Atlanta, Georgia, this is one of the more high-profile games on the schedule, whether it’s being played at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium or out in Arlington, Texas.

Below is a practical, Atlanta-focused guide to understanding this matchup, how to experience it in the city, and what locals and visitors should know on game day.

How Often Do the Falcons Play the Cowboys?

The Falcons and Cowboys are both in the NFC, but in different divisions:

• Atlanta Falcons – NFC South
• Dallas Cowboys – NFC East

Because of the NFL’s rotating schedule:

• They usually meet at least once every few years in the regular season.
• They may also meet in the playoffs if both teams qualify and the bracket lines up.

For fans in Atlanta, that means:

• Some seasons you’ll get a home game at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium.
• Other seasons, the Falcons will travel to AT&T Stadium in Texas, and Atlanta watch parties become the main way to experience the game locally.

The exact year‑to‑year schedule changes, so locals typically check the latest Falcons season schedule once it’s released each spring.

Falcons vs. Cowboys at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium: What to Expect in Atlanta

When the Cowboys come to Atlanta, the atmosphere in and around downtown gets especially energized. Cowboys fans travel well, so you’ll often see a noticeable mix of red and black with navy and silver around the city.

Game Location & Basics

Stadium:
Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
1 AMB Drive NW
Atlanta, GA 30313

The stadium sits on the west side of downtown Atlanta, right by the Vine City and Castleberry Hill neighborhoods and within walking distance of:

• CNN Center area
• Centennial Olympic Park
• The GWCC/CNN Center MARTA Station

Getting to the Game: Transportation Tips for Atlanta Fans

On a Falcons–Cowboys game day, traffic and parking can be tight, especially around downtown and the connector.

1. MARTA (Recommended for Many Fans)

For most Atlanta residents and visitors staying in the city, MARTA is often the simplest way to reach the game.

Two rail stations serve the stadium area:

• GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Line) – Closest to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium’s main entrances.
• Vine City Station (Blue/Green Line) – On the west side of the stadium, popular for those coming from the west or parking in that area.

Helpful pointers:

• Aim to arrive downtown at least 60–90 minutes before kickoff to avoid crowded trains.
• Purchase or load your Breeze Card before game day or early on game day to reduce lines.
• If you’re staying in Midtown, Buckhead, or near the Airport, you can usually take the Red/Gold line to Five Points, then transfer to Blue/Green to reach GWCC/CNN Center or Vine City.

2. Driving and Parking Near the Stadium

If you prefer to drive:

• Expect heavy congestion on I‑75/85, I‑20, and surface streets like Northside Drive and Marietta Street.
• Official stadium parking lots and decks often require advanced reservation, especially for big opponents like the Cowboys.
• Many fans use private lots around downtown, Vine City, and Castleberry Hill, but prices can spike for major games.

Driving tips:

• Consider parking a bit farther out (for example, near a MARTA station like Ashby, West End, or North Avenue) and taking the train the rest of the way.
• Budget extra time for post-game traffic, particularly if you need to re-enter the connector.

3. Rideshare and Drop‑Off

Rideshare services typically have designated pick‑up and drop‑off zones around Mercedes‑Benz Stadium. When the Cowboys are in town, those zones can get busy:

• Plan for wait times after the game.
• It’s often easier to walk a few blocks away from the stadium before requesting a ride.

Where to Watch Falcons vs. Cowboys in Atlanta (If You Don’t Have Tickets)

You don’t need a ticket to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium to enjoy Falcons–Cowboys in Atlanta. The city has a strong football culture and plenty of viewing options.

Popular Neighborhoods for Game‑Day Viewing

Some areas where you’ll typically find multiple sports-friendly spots:

• Downtown & Centennial Park District – Convenient if you want to be near the stadium but not inside.
• Midtown – Easy MARTA access and many bars and restaurants that show NFL games.
• Buckhead – Known for nightlife and big‑screen sports viewing.
• Westside / West Midtown – Trendy, with several places that lean into a game‑day atmosphere.
• East Atlanta / Inman Park / Old Fourth Ward – More local, neighborhood‑style viewing with strong Falcons fan bases.

When picking a spot:

• Look for places that advertise NFL Sunday viewing or Falcons watch parties.
• For high-demand games like Falcons vs. Cowboys, arriving early helps you get a good seat.

Game‑Day Atmosphere: Falcons vs. Cowboys in Atlanta

When the Falcons host the Cowboys, the game often feels bigger than a standard regular‑season matchup.

Expect:

• A mixed crowd – Many Cowboys fans live in or near Atlanta or travel for the game.
• Loud environment inside Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, especially on key third downs.
• Plenty of tailgating around downtown and in nearby lots, with music, food, and team colors everywhere.

If you’re new to Atlanta:

• Falcons home games often feature local food vendors, in‑stadium entertainment, and a very family-friendly atmosphere.
• The stadium’s retractable roof may be open or closed depending on weather, but either way, noise levels can be intense during big games.

Tickets, Seating, and Budgeting for a Falcons–Cowboys Game

Falcons vs. Cowboys tends to be a higher-demand ticket compared with some other regular-season opponents.

Ticket Basics

• Price range can vary widely depending on the opponent’s record, time of season, and seat location.
• Upper-level seats generally cost less; lower-level, club, and suite seats are priced higher.
• For premium games like this, last-minute prices can be unpredictable.

Tips for Atlanta fans:

• If you want a specific section (for example, lower bowl on the Falcons’ sideline), start looking soon after the schedule is released.
• Consider weeknight vs. Sunday timing; prime-time games often carry a different price profile.
• For families, seats in quieter or higher sections may be more comfortable for younger children.

Key Things to Know About the Falcons–Cowboys Matchup

While on-field details change every season, there are some general patterns fans in Atlanta usually pay attention to.

NFC Rivalry Feel

Even though they’re not division rivals, Falcons vs. Cowboys often feels like:

• A measuring-stick game for how the Falcons stack up against a high-profile NFC team.
• A matchup that draws national attention, especially if both teams are competitive.

Style of Play (Varies by Season)

From an Atlanta perspective, fans usually watch for:

• How the Falcons’ offense matches up with the Cowboys’ defense, especially pass protection and big-play potential.
• Whether the Falcons’ defense can contain Dallas’ skill players and limit explosive plays.
• Special teams moments that can swing momentum in a loud stadium.

Because rosters and coaching staffs change, many Atlanta fans check local coverage in the days leading up to the game to get a sense of the current matchup dynamics.

Making the Most of a Falcons–Cowboys Weekend in Atlanta

If you’re visiting Atlanta for the game, or you live here and want to build a full weekend around it, the downtown area offers plenty to do within walking distance of the stadium.

Attractions Near Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

Within about a 10–15 minute walk, you’ll find:

• Centennial Olympic Park – Open green space, fountains, and views of the skyline.
• Georgia World Congress Center – Often hosts events on big football weekends.
• College Football Hall of Fame – Popular with football fans visiting for the game.
• State Farm Arena – Home of the Atlanta Hawks, sometimes with events on adjacent days.
• Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca‑Cola – For families or visitors looking for pre‑ or post‑game activities.

Lodging Considerations

For out-of-town Cowboys or Falcons fans:

• Downtown hotels offer the easiest walk to the game.
• Midtown provides more nightlife and dining options, with a short MARTA ride to the stadium.
• Airport area hotels are convenient for flights and still accessible via MARTA.

Booking early is usually wise for high-profile games, since rooms near downtown can fill quickly.

Safety, Crowd Navigation, and Practical Tips

Big games like Falcons vs. Cowboys bring large crowds to Atlanta’s core. A few straightforward habits can make the day smoother.

Personal Safety & Belongings

• Use clear bags or small clutches that meet Mercedes‑Benz Stadium’s bag policy.
• Keep wallets and phones secure in crowded lines and on MARTA platforms.
• If traveling with kids, choose a meet‑up point in case anyone gets separated.

Moving Around Downtown

• Many streets around the stadium may be closed or restricted on game day. Walking often becomes the fastest way to move between downtown hotels, parking, and the stadium.
• Follow posted signs and instructions from Atlanta Police Department and stadium staff for pedestrian routes and crosswalks.

Quick Reference: Falcons–Cowboys in Atlanta

If You Can’t Make It to the Stadium

For Atlanta residents who can’t get tickets or prefer a more low-key experience:

• Many locals host home watch parties, often rotating between friends’ houses.
• Neighborhood spots across Intown Atlanta, Decatur, and the suburbs typically show Falcons games, including matchups against the Cowboys.
• Some fans like to combine errands or outings with the game by choosing restaurants that have TVs and sound on for major NFL broadcasts.

For anyone in Atlanta, Georgia, the Atlanta Falcons vs. Dallas Cowboys matchup is more than just another game. It’s a chance to see a marquee opponent in the heart of downtown, experience one of the NFL’s most modern stadiums, and be part of a lively citywide game‑day atmosphere, whether you’re inside Mercedes‑Benz Stadium or watching from a favorite spot around the city.