Atlanta Hawks Arena: Your Complete Guide to State Farm Arena in Downtown Atlanta

If you’re looking for information about the Atlanta Hawks arena, you’re really asking about State Farm Arena in downtown Atlanta. Whether you live in the city, are planning a visit, or just want to understand how Hawks games and events work here, this guide walks you through what to expect and how to make the most of your trip.

Where the Atlanta Hawks Play: State Farm Arena Basics

The Atlanta Hawks’ home arena is:

State Farm Arena
1 State Farm Drive
Atlanta, GA 30303

It sits in the heart of Downtown Atlanta, right next to Mercedes-Benz Stadium and close to spots like Centennial Olympic Park, CNN Center, and the College Football Hall of Fame.

The arena hosts:

• Atlanta Hawks home games (NBA)
• Concerts and major tours
• College basketball, family shows, and special events

For most Atlanta residents, the arena is a familiar landmark; for visitors, it’s one of the city’s busiest entertainment hubs.

Getting to the Atlanta Hawks Arena

By MARTA (Recommended for Many Fans)

Using MARTA is often the easiest way to get to the arena, especially for weeknight games or big events.

Closest MARTA station:

• GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Line)
  – Exit the station and follow signs toward State Farm Arena
  – The arena is a short walk along the connected campus area

You can also use:

• Five Points Station (transfer point for all lines)
  – From here, you can walk about 10–15 minutes through downtown, or transfer to the Blue/Green line for one stop to GWCC/CNN Center.

Tips for MARTA on game days:

• Load or refill your Breeze Card before peak crowds (right after the game can be busy).
• Check train frequency if you’re staying outside the Perimeter (I-285); late-night returns can be less frequent.
• If you’re staying near Midtown, Buckhead, or Sandy Springs, a quick Red/Gold line ride and transfer at Five Points usually works well.

Driving and Parking Near State Farm Arena

If you prefer to drive, there are multiple parking decks and surface lots around the arena and The Gulch area.

Key things to know:

• Parking is typically more expensive and more crowded for Hawks games, especially weekend or prime-time matchups.
• Buying parking in advance through official channels can save time and guarantee a spot.
• Expect heavy traffic on Northside Drive, Centennial Olympic Park Drive, and MLK Jr. Drive right before and after games.

Common parking areas near the arena include:

• State Farm Arena parking decks and official lots
• Nearby garages around CNN Center and Centennial Olympic Park
• Large lots in The Gulch (the rail yard area under/near the stadium and arena)

If you’re coming from:

• Suburbs north of Atlanta (e.g., Sandy Springs, Alpharetta) – You’ll likely use GA-400 to I-85/I-75 South, then follow signs to downtown.
• West Metro (e.g., Douglasville) – Take I-20 East and exit near downtown.
• East Metro (e.g., Stone Mountain, Decatur) – Use I-20 West and follow directions into downtown.

Leaving the game, many locals wait 20–30 minutes inside the arena or grab a snack nearby to let the traffic thin out.

Rideshare and Drop-Off

Rideshare services are widely used for Hawks games and events.

Common patterns:

• There are usually designated rideshare pickup areas around the arena campus.
• Post-game rides can surge in price and wait time; walking a few blocks away into downtown often gives you more stable pricing and quicker pickups.
• If you’re unfamiliar with downtown, wait in well-lit, populated areas and follow official signage.

Inside State Farm Arena: What to Expect

Entry, Security, and Timing

For Atlanta Hawks games, doors often open about 60–90 minutes before tip-off (exact times vary by event).

Expect:

• Security screening at all entrances (metal detectors, bag checks).
• Restrictions on bag size; small clear bags or clutches are typically preferred.
• Cashless concessions at most stands (card and mobile payments are widely used).

Arriving 30–45 minutes before tip-off is a good target for most locals who want to grab food, find their seat, and catch pregame warmups.

Seating Layout and Viewing Experience

State Farm Arena has a modern, fan-focused design with a variety of seating options. While specific sections can change with configurations, the building generally includes:

• 100 Level (Lower Bowl) – Closest to the court, great for intense game atmosphere.
• Club and Suite Levels – Premium seating with additional amenities.
• 200 Level (Upper Bowl) – More budget-friendly, still solid sightlines for basketball.

For Hawks fans:

• Courtside and near the Hawks bench provide the best view of player interactions and coaching.
• Center-court seats (mid-level) often balance view and cost for those prioritizing the game experience over extras.

If you’re bringing kids or first-time visitors, many Atlanta families choose end-zone or corner seats to stay within budget while still enjoying the atmosphere and in-arena entertainment.

Food, Drinks, and Amenities at the Hawks Arena

Concessions and Dining

State Farm Arena offers a range of food and drink options that reflect both national favorites and some local Atlanta flavor.

You can expect:

• Classic arena fare – Burgers, hot dogs, fries, pizza, nachos.
• Local-style bites – Options can include Southern-inspired dishes, barbecue elements, and chicken-focused items.
• Vegetarian and some vegan-friendly options at select stands.
• Beer, wine, and cocktails for adults (with ID check).

📝 Tip for locals: If you want to avoid the biggest lines, try grabbing food before the game or midway through the second quarter rather than during halftime.

Family-Friendly Features

Many Atlanta families treat Hawks games as a night out with kids or teens. Inside the arena you’ll usually find:

• In-game entertainment – Mascot Harry the Hawk, dance teams, and fan contests.
• Occasional themed nights – Youth-focused promotions or special giveaway nights.
• A broad crowd mix that includes families, die-hard fans, and casual visitors.

Check event details in advance if you’re hoping to attend family nights, student nights, or discount promotions often geared toward locals.

Accessibility and Special Accommodations

State Farm Arena is designed with accessibility in mind.

Common services include:

• Accessible seating areas throughout the arena.
• Elevators and ramps for fans using wheelchairs or with mobility limitations.
• Assistance from guest services staff for seating, directions, or special needs.

If you or a family member needs specific accommodations:

• Plan to arrive early to navigate the building comfortably.
• Contact the arena’s guest services ahead of time to ask about accessible seating, assistive listening devices, or other accommodations.

Ticket Options for Atlanta Hawks Games

Buying Tickets

Most Atlantans purchase digital tickets for Hawks games. These can come from:

• Official team ticketing channels
• Verified resale platforms
• Arena box office (for certain events, subject to availability)

General considerations:

• Weeknight games against less high-profile opponents are often more affordable.
• Games against marquee teams tend to sell faster and cost more.
• Upper bowl seating is typically the most budget-friendly option.

Season Tickets and Mini Plans

For locals who attend often, season tickets or multi-game plans may be available. These are most relevant if:

• You attend several games each season.
• You value consistent seat locations and possible perks (early access, team events, etc.).

If you’re a casual fan or a visitor, single-game tickets are usually sufficient.

Non-Hawks Events at State Farm Arena

The Hawks arena is also one of Atlanta’s top venues for concerts and major entertainment events.

You’ll regularly see:

• Major touring artists
• Comedy shows
• College basketball tournaments or special games
• Family-friendly tours (ice shows, kids’ character shows, etc.)

Event-day logistics (parking, MARTA, security) are very similar to Hawks games, though setup and seating maps can vary by event (end-stage concert vs. in-the-round, for example).

Safety, Neighborhood, and Nearby Attractions

The Surrounding Area

State Farm Arena is part of a dense pocket of downtown Atlanta entertainment. Within walking distance are:

• Mercedes-Benz Stadium
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Georgia World Congress Center
• College Football Hall of Fame
• SkyView Atlanta (the large Ferris wheel)

This makes it convenient to bundle a Hawks game with other activities, especially if you’re visiting from out of town.

General Safety Tips

Downtown Atlanta around the arena is typically busy and well-patrolled on event nights, but smart urban habits still apply:

• Stay in well-lit, populated areas.
• Be aware of traffic when crossing streets, especially near Northside Drive.
• Keep valuables secure and avoid leaving items visible in parked cars.
• If using MARTA late at night, stay on platforms near other riders and follow posted guidance.

Many Atlantans feel comfortable walking in small groups from the arena to nearby hotels, restaurants, or transit stations after games.

Quick Reference: Atlanta Hawks Arena Essentials

Making the Most of Your Visit as an Atlantan or Visitor

If you’re local to Atlanta:

• Consider MARTA to avoid traffic and high parking costs, especially on weeknights.
• Explore pairing a Hawks game with dinner downtown or in nearby neighborhoods like Castleberry Hill or Midtown.
• Watch the home schedule for rivalry games, promotional nights, or marquee matchups that fit your interests.

If you’re visiting Atlanta:

• Staying in Downtown or Midtown makes it easy to reach the arena without a car.
• Use the arena visit as a hub to see nearby attractions like Centennial Olympic Park or the Georgia Aquarium before or after an event.
• Plan your transportation ahead of time, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Atlanta traffic patterns or MARTA routes.

With a bit of planning, attending a game or event at the Atlanta Hawks’ State Farm Arena can be one of the most enjoyable experiences in Atlanta—whether you’re cheering from the lower bowl, taking the kids to their first NBA game, or catching a concert in the heart of the city.