Atlanta Dream Game: How to Go, What to Expect, and Tips for Fans in Atlanta

Catching an Atlanta Dream game is one of the best ways to experience professional sports in the city—especially if you love fast-paced basketball, a family-friendly atmosphere, and supporting women’s sports. Whether you live in Atlanta, are in town for a weekend, or planning a group outing, it helps to know how Dream home games work locally.

This guide walks you through where the Atlanta Dream play, how to get tickets, parking and transit tips, the in-arena experience, and practical advice tailored specifically to Atlanta.

Where the Atlanta Dream Play in Atlanta

The Atlanta Dream are Atlanta’s WNBA team. They play their home games at:

Gateway Center Arena at College Park
2000 Convention Center Concourse
College Park, GA 30337

Although the address says College Park, it’s part of the Atlanta metro area and directly connected to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and MARTA.

Neighborhood & Surroundings

Gateway Center Arena sits in the Gateway Center campus, near:

• The Georgia International Convention Center
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• The SkyTrain station connecting the airport and rental car center

This area feels more like an event/airport district than a traditional neighborhood—expect hotels, parking decks, and convention facilities more than walkable retail streets.

When the Atlanta Dream Play: Season & Game Times

WNBA Season Overview

The WNBA regular season typically runs from May through September, with:

• Around 20+ home games for the Dream
• Most home games on evenings and weekends
• Occasional day games, including special school or camp days in summer

Because schedules can change, it’s helpful to:

• Check the official Atlanta Dream schedule before planning
• Look at specific tip-off times (weeknight games often start in the evening, weekend games may vary)

Getting Tickets to an Atlanta Dream Game

Common Ways Atlantans Buy Tickets

Most fans in Atlanta get Dream game tickets by:

• Purchasing single-game tickets online ahead of time
• Buying season tickets or partial plans if they attend regularly
• Using box office services at the arena on game days (if available and not sold out)

Prices are typically more approachable than many other pro sports in Atlanta, which makes Dream games attractive for families, youth teams, and groups.

Choosing Your Seats

Gateway Center Arena is smaller than some downtown arenas, which means most seats feel relatively close to the court. When deciding where to sit, consider:

• Lower-level sideline: Best for seeing plays develop; often pricier
• Corners & baselines: Good value and still close to the action
• Upper sections (if available): Budget-friendly, decent sightlines in this size arena
• Behind the benches or near the tunnel: Fun for kids who like seeing players up close during warmups and walkouts

If you’re bringing young kids or a big group, seats higher up or slightly further from the court can be easier for moving around and bathroom breaks.

How to Get to an Atlanta Dream Game

Because Dream home games are at Gateway Center Arena, your transportation strategy is a bit different from going to a game in downtown or Midtown.

Option 1: MARTA (Often the Easiest from Intown)

For many Atlanta residents and visitors staying near MARTA, transit is the simplest way to get to an Atlanta Dream game.

1. Take MARTA (Rail) to Airport Station

   • Any line that reaches the Airport station (Red/Gold) will work.
   • Trains run directly into the domestic terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson.

2. Use the ATL SkyTrain to GICC/Gateway Center

   • From the Airport station terminal area, follow signs for the ATL SkyTrain.
   • Ride the SkyTrain to the GICC/Gateway Center station.
   • Gateway Center Arena is a short walk from this station, with signs directing you.

✅ Why locals like this option:

• Avoids interstate traffic on I-85/I-285
• No need to pay for arena parking
• Often stress-free for evening games, especially for those living near MARTA lines

Option 2: Driving and Parking

If you’re driving from metro Atlanta suburbs or areas not well served by MARTA, driving can be convenient.

Typical routes:

• From Downtown/Midtown Atlanta:

  • Take I-75/85 South toward the airport.
  • Follow airport/GICC signage and then local signs for Gateway Center Arena.

• From North Atlanta (Buckhead, Sandy Springs, etc.):

  • Take GA-400 South to I-85 South, then toward the airport.

• From South Atlanta (Fayetteville, Jonesboro, etc.):

  • Use surface routes or I-75/I-85 North, then follow airport signage.

Parking is usually available in surface lots or decks around the Gateway Center campus. Costs and exact lots can vary by event, so many fans:

• Arrive 45–60 minutes early to avoid last-minute congestion
• Keep a digital payment method or cash ready for parking fees

What to Expect Inside an Atlanta Dream Game

Atmosphere & Crowd

Dream games generally have a fun, energetic, and inclusive atmosphere that appeals to:

• Families with kids
• Longtime basketball fans
• Youth and school groups
• Visitors looking for a local pro sports experience

Expect:

• Music and in-game entertainment during breaks
• Mascot appearances and fan contests
• Crowd engagement like T-shirt tosses and dance cams

The crowd is usually less intense and more relaxed than some other pro sports environments, which many local parents find comfortable for children.

Game Experience

A typical Atlanta Dream game involves:

• Pregame warmups starting well before tip-off
• National anthem and team introductions
• Four quarters of play, with halftime entertainment
• Timeout breaks with on-court promotions or performances

Arriving 30–45 minutes before tip-off gives you time to park, pass security, find seats, and see warmups.

Food, Drinks, and Amenities at Gateway Center Arena

Food and beverage options inside the arena may include:

• Standard concession fare (burgers, hot dogs, pizza, nachos)
• Snacks like popcorn, pretzels, and candy
• Soft drinks and water
• Alcoholic beverages for age-verified guests

Options can vary by game and vendor, so many regulars in Atlanta:

• Eat a light meal before arriving if they want more variety
• Plan on concessions mainly for snacks and drinks

Check venue policies for:

• Bag size limits
• Prohibited items (outside food/drink, large umbrellas, noisemakers, etc.)

There are typically restrooms on each level, accessible seating areas, and guest services staff to help with questions.

Family & Kids: Making a Dream Game Kid-Friendly

Atlanta Dream games are popular with families, youth basketball teams, and camps.

Helpful tips if you’re going with kids:

• Choose seats near an aisle to make bathroom and snack trips easier.
• Bring ear protection (like small headphones) for very young children if they’re sensitive to loud music.
• Arrive early so kids can watch shootaround and see players up close.
• Look out for theme nights or kid-focused promotions, which can include giveaways or special performances.

Many Atlanta parents appreciate that Dream games are:

• Shorter outings than some other event types
• Held in a controlled, indoor environment
• Generally affordable for bringing multiple children

Comparing an Atlanta Dream Game to Other Atlanta Sports Experiences

Atlanta offers several pro sports options, and knowing how a Dream game fits into that mix helps you decide if it’s right for your plans.

For many locals, Dream games are a good “starter” pro sports event for kids or visitors who want a low-stress, authentic Atlanta experience.

Planning a Group Outing to an Atlanta Dream Game

If you’re organizing a group event in Atlanta—for example:

• A youth basketball team
• A school or summer camp
• A workplace outing
• A community organization

Atlanta Dream games can be appealing because:

• The arena size makes larger groups feel close to the action.
• Pricing is usually more manageable than some other pro events.
• The environment is suitable for mixed-age groups.

When planning:

1. Choose a date that works with traffic (weekend vs. weekday).
2. Decide whether your group will take MARTA or drive and park together.
3. Arrive early to coordinate ticket distribution and seating.

Group ticket arrangements are typically handled through official ticket channels; checking early in the season or several weeks before your preferred game usually gives you more options.

Tips for Visitors Staying Near the Airport or Downtown

If You’re Staying by the Airport

Many visitors book airport-area hotels in College Park, Hapeville, or near Virginia Avenue. From there:

• Some hotels may be walking distance or a short shuttle ride to Gateway Center.
• Ask your hotel front desk if they offer shuttles to the convention center or arena.
• You can also use rideshare for a quick trip if you’re not right on the Gateway campus.

If You’re Staying Downtown or Midtown

From downtown or Midtown Atlanta:

• Take MARTA rail south to the Airport station, then the SkyTrain to GICC/Gateway Center.
• Or drive via I-75/85 South, factoring in evening rush-hour traffic if it’s a weekday.

Visitors often combine:

• A day in the city (museums, Centennial Olympic Park, BeltLine)
• Followed by an evening Atlanta Dream game as their main nighttime activity

Safety, Accessibility, and Practical Considerations

Safety Around the Arena

The Gateway Center area is a dedicated event and convention district. On game days, you can expect:

• Event staff and security present
• Lighting and signage guiding you between parking, transit, and the arena

As with any busy event in metro Atlanta:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight in your vehicle.
• Stay aware of your surroundings when walking after dark.
• Follow all posted signs and staff directions inside and outside the arena.

Accessibility

Gateway Center Arena is designed with accessibility in mind, including:

• Accessible seating areas
• Ramps/elevators where needed
• Access to restrooms and concessions for guests with mobility challenges

If you or someone in your party needs specific accommodations, it’s best to:

• Contact the arena or the Atlanta Dream ticket office in advance
• Arrive early to allow time for any needed assistance

Key Takeaways for Enjoying an Atlanta Dream Game

If you’re in Atlanta and considering going to an Atlanta Dream game, here’s the quick summary:

• Location: Home games are at Gateway Center Arena in College Park, near the airport.
• Season: Games run May–September, with many evening and weekend matchups.
• Transit: MARTA to the Airport + SkyTrain is often the easiest from intown; parking is available for drivers.
• Experience: Expect a high-energy but family-friendly vibe, an intimate arena, and strong local fan support.
• Who it’s great for: Families, youth teams, visitors wanting a pro sports experience, and locals who love basketball.

With a bit of planning around transportation, arrival time, and seating, an Atlanta Dream game can be a smooth, memorable part of life in Atlanta or a fun highlight of your visit.