Patriots vs. Atlanta Falcons: What Fans in Atlanta Need to Know
When people search for “Patriots Atlanta Falcons,” they’re usually looking for one of three things:
- information about past matchups (especially the Super Bowl),
- details on upcoming New England Patriots vs. Atlanta Falcons games, or
- how to watch, attend, or enjoy the matchup in Atlanta, Georgia.
This guide focuses on all of that from an Atlanta local’s point of view—whether you live here, are visiting for a game, or just want to understand how Falcons–Patriots matchups work in and around Atlanta.
The Falcons–Patriots Matchup: Why It Matters in Atlanta
The Atlanta Falcons and New England Patriots don’t play every year, but whenever they meet, the game draws extra attention in Atlanta because of:
- The history between the two teams, especially the Super Bowl LI matchup.
- The contrast between a Boston-area team and an Atlanta team—two very different fan cultures.
- The chance for Falcons fans to see a marquee opponent at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
For Atlanta fans, Patriots games often carry a mix of regular-season importance and emotional weight. If you follow the Falcons locally, this is typically one of the first matchups you circle when the schedule comes out.
Where Falcons vs. Patriots Games Are Played in Atlanta
When the Patriots travel to Atlanta, games are hosted at:
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Address: 1 AMB Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
- Neighborhood: Downtown / Vine City (near the Georgia World Congress Center and State Farm Arena)
The stadium is easy to reach from many parts of the city and is directly connected to MARTA rail, making it practical for both locals and visitors.
Getting to the Game
🚆 By MARTA (Recommended for big games like Falcons vs. Patriots):
- Take the Blue or Green Line to GWCC/CNN Center Station or Vine City Station.
- From there, it’s a short walk with clear signs directing you to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
- MARTA is often the fastest way to bypass heavy game-day traffic and expensive parking.
🚗 By Car:
- Major routes include I-20, I-75/85 (“The Connector”), and Northside Drive.
- Parking near the stadium is typically sold in advance. For high-profile games like Falcons vs. Patriots, lots and decks fill quickly.
- Many fans park further out and walk or rideshare in from nearby areas like Midtown or the Westside.
🚕 Rideshare / Taxi:
- There are designated rideshare zones signed clearly around Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
- Plan for post-game surge pricing and extra wait times, especially if it’s a prime-time or late-afternoon game.
Buying Tickets in Atlanta for Falcons vs. Patriots
When the Patriots are on the Falcons’ home schedule, tickets are available through:
- The Atlanta Falcons official ticketing platform
- Major, well-known resale marketplaces (especially once the primary inventory sells out)
- Season ticket holders who resell seats for specific games
Tips for Atlanta fans and visitors:
- Buy early: Matchups with teams like the Patriots tend to be among the most sought-after regular-season tickets.
- Check seating sections: Mercedes-Benz Stadium has:
- Lower bowl (closest to the field)
- Club sections (with extra amenities)
- Upper deck (higher but often more budget-friendly)
- Standing-room or “porch” style areas in some sections
- Watch for prime-time pricing: If the Falcons–Patriots game is scheduled for Sunday night, Monday night, or a national TV slot, ticket prices usually trend higher.
Game-Day Experience in Atlanta for Falcons vs. Patriots
Tailgating and Pre-Game Options
For a Patriots game in Atlanta, the pre-game scene is almost as important as the action on the field.
Popular pre-game zones near the stadium:
- The Home Depot Backyard (adjacent to Mercedes-Benz Stadium) – a go-to tailgating area with space for games, grilling (within rules), and fan gatherings.
- Centennial Olympic Park Area – plenty of bars, restaurants, and walkable streets with fans in jerseys on game days.
- Castleberry Hill & Downtown – local bars and restaurants often show pre-game coverage and host fan groups.
Some key tailgating basics around Mercedes-Benz Stadium:
- Check stadium and lot-specific rules for grills, tents, and alcohol.
- Many organized group tailgates are open to both Falcons and visiting fans if you purchase access ahead of time.
- Arrive early—especially when the Patriots are in town—to secure good spots and avoid traffic.
Inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Once you’re inside for a Falcons vs. Patriots game, you can expect:
- Fan zones and concourses with interactive screens and photo spots.
- A reputation for fan-friendly food pricing compared to many other NFL stadiums.
- A mix of Falcons fans and Patriots fans, especially when New England is playing well—Atlanta often sees a noticeable visiting fan presence.
For families:
- Look for family-friendly sections and guest services desks to ask about stroller policies, nursing rooms, and noise-sensitive seating options.
- Day games are generally easier with young kids than late prime-time kickoffs.
Watching Patriots vs. Falcons in Atlanta Sports Bars
If you’re in Atlanta but not going to the stadium, there are plenty of places to watch Falcons–Patriots games with a crowd.
Common neighborhoods with strong sports bar scenes:
- Downtown & Castleberry Hill – convenient to the stadium if you want to be near the action without entering the venue.
- Midtown – walkable, dense, and popular with younger professionals and visitors.
- Buckhead – known for larger sports bars and late-night options.
- West Midtown / Westside Provisions area – a growing cluster of modern bars and eateries with multiple TVs.
What to look for when choosing a spot:
- Multiple big screens and audio actually on the game you care about.
- A crowd that leans Falcons-heavy (if you want home-team energy) or more mixed (if you want to find Patriots fans).
- Earlier arrival if it’s a high-profile game, since seats and standing room can fill fast.
Falcons vs. Patriots: Understanding the Matchup History
Even without listing every statistic, most Atlanta fans associate Patriots vs. Falcons with:
- Super Bowl LI, where the Falcons built a large early lead before the Patriots rallied for a comeback win.
- Intermittent regular-season matchups where the Falcons have tried to reset the narrative and get key wins against a historically strong Patriots franchise.
For Atlanta residents, that Super Bowl connection still colors how people talk about the matchup. When the Patriots come to town, you’ll hear fans reference it on sports radio, in group chats, and in stadium chants.
TV, Streaming, and Radio Options in Atlanta
If you’re in the Atlanta TV market, how you watch the game depends on how the NFL schedules it.
Local TV
Falcons games, including matchups against the Patriots, often appear on:
- A major broadcast network (CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC) depending on the time slot and conference/rights arrangement.
- National games may appear on channels like ESPN if scheduled for Monday night.
Check the week-of game info in local listings or the Falcons’ official schedule to see which network has the broadcast.
Streaming
Fans in Atlanta typically watch Patriots–Falcons games through:
- The network’s own streaming app (linked to a TV provider login)
- NFL-oriented streaming services that carry local and national NFL broadcasts in-market
- Live TV streaming platforms that include local Atlanta channels
Make sure the service you choose carries Atlanta’s local affiliates for the station airing the game.
Radio in Atlanta
Game-day audio is important if you’re driving, tailgating, or working.
Atlanta Falcons games are usually aired on a local flagship radio station in the metro area, covering:
- Full game play-by-play
- Pre-game and post-game shows tailored to Atlanta fans
You can typically listen:
- On traditional FM/AM radio in metro Atlanta
- Through official team or station apps that carry live audio (restrictions may apply)
Planning a Trip to Atlanta for a Patriots–Falcons Game
If you’re a Patriots fan visiting Atlanta (or a local hosting out-of-town fans), planning around the game can turn it into a full weekend.
Where to Stay
Areas that work well for out-of-towners:
- Downtown Atlanta – easiest walk or short ride to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, close to attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola.
- Midtown – more nightlife and dining variety, direct MARTA access to the stadium.
- Buckhead – good for visitors wanting upscale hotels and dining, but you’ll likely drive or take MARTA/rideshare to the game.
What Else to Do Near Game Day
Within a short distance of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, you can visit:
- Georgia Aquarium (225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313)
- World of Coca-Cola (121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313)
- College Football Hall of Fame (250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313)
These attractions make it easy to build a full Atlanta experience around your Falcons–Patriots game.
Basic Game-Day Checklist for Falcons vs. Patriots in Atlanta
Use this simple overview to plan:
| Item | What Atlanta Fans Should Know |
|---|---|
| Tickets | Purchase early; Patriots matchups are high-demand. |
| Transportation | MARTA to GWCC/CNN Center or Vine City is often fastest; expect traffic and parking demand. |
| Tailgating | The Home Depot Backyard and nearby lots are popular; check specific rules ahead of time. |
| Stadium Policies | Be aware of clear bag policies, prohibited items, and entry times at Mercedes-Benz. |
| Watching Elsewhere | Midtown, Downtown, Buckhead, and West Midtown have many sports bars with game-day crowds. |
| Visiting Fans | Staying Downtown or Midtown keeps you close to the stadium and major attractions. |
Key Takeaways for Atlanta Residents and Visitors
- Patriots vs. Atlanta Falcons games are major events in the city, with strong turnout, heavy traffic, and a lively pre- and post-game scene.
- If you’re attending in person, plan:
- Tickets early
- Transportation (especially MARTA)
- Your tailgate or pre-game spot
- If you’re watching from around Atlanta, choose a neighborhood and venue that matches the atmosphere you want—Falcons-heavy, mixed, or neutral.
- For visitors, pairing the game with time in Downtown, Midtown, or nearby attractions can turn one matchup into a full Atlanta weekend.
With a bit of planning, Patriots–Falcons matchups in Atlanta can be one of the most memorable football experiences you’ll have in the city.