Atlanta Hawks vs. Chicago Bulls: How to Experience the Matchup in Atlanta

When people search for “Atlanta Hawks Chicago Bulls”, they’re usually looking for two things:

1. details about Hawks vs. Bulls games, and
2. how to watch, attend, or enjoy the matchup in Atlanta.

If you live in Atlanta, are visiting the city, or are planning a trip that revolves around an NBA game, this guide walks through everything you need to know about the Hawks–Bulls rivalry, tickets, game-day logistics, and fan experiences around downtown Atlanta.

Why the Atlanta Hawks vs. Chicago Bulls Matchup Matters

The Atlanta Hawks and Chicago Bulls are both Eastern Conference teams, so they meet several times each regular season. For Atlanta fans, these games are popular because:

• The Bulls bring a strong traveling fan base, so the arena often feels extra energetic.
• Many Atlantans grew up watching 1990s Bulls teams, so there’s built-in nostalgia.
• These games can have playoff implications, especially when both teams are chasing seeding.

If you’re in Atlanta, Hawks–Bulls nights typically mean:

• A busier downtown around State Farm Arena
• Higher demand for tickets and parking
• More pregame and postgame activity in nearby restaurants and bars

Where the Hawks Play the Bulls in Atlanta

State Farm Arena: The Home of Hawks vs. Bulls in Atlanta

All regular-season Hawks home games against the Chicago Bulls are played at:

State Farm Arena
1 State Farm Dr
Atlanta, GA 30303

State Farm Arena sits right in Downtown Atlanta, next to Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the CNN Center area. It’s directly connected to the GWCC/CNN Center MARTA station, which makes it one of the easiest big venues to reach without driving.

Key things to know:

• Neighborhood: Central downtown, walkable to major hotels and attractions
• Capacity: Large NBA arena with different seating tiers (lower bowl, club level, upper deck, suites)
• Accessibility: Designed with elevators, ramps, and accessible seating; details are usually available through the arena’s guest services

How to Get Tickets for Hawks vs. Bulls in Atlanta

When the Chicago Bulls come to town, ticket demand can be higher than for many other regular-season games, so planning ahead helps.

Common Ways Atlantans Get Tickets

• Team/arena ticket platforms:
  The most direct way for many fans is through the Atlanta Hawks’ official ticketing system, usually accessible via the Hawks or State Farm Arena’s official channels.

• Season ticket holders:
  Some Atlantans with season tickets sell individual game seats for popular matchups like Hawks vs. Bulls. These can often be found through official resale channels linked to the team.

• Box office in person:
  The State Farm Arena box office typically operates on event days. If you’re already downtown, this can help if you prefer to buy same-day tickets (availability varies, especially for high-demand games).

Tips for Better Seat Selection

When choosing seats at State Farm Arena for a Hawks vs. Bulls game:

• Lower bowl (100 level):
  Best for being close to the action, but usually higher priced—especially center court sections.

• Club & mid-level seating:
  Good balance of view and experience; some sections may include access to club areas.

• Upper level (200 level):
  Often the most budget-friendly, and still offers a clear view of the court.

• Behind benches:
  One side features the Hawks bench, the opposite side has the visiting bench, which is where most Bulls fans tend to cluster.

If you want a full home-crowd vibe, many local fans prefer Hawks bench side or end zones filled with Atlanta fans. If you’re a Bulls fan visiting Atlanta, you might look for sections closer to the visitor bench instead.

Getting to Hawks vs. Bulls Games in Atlanta

Using MARTA 🚆

For many people in metro Atlanta, MARTA is the easiest way to get to a Hawks vs. Bulls game and avoid parking headaches.

Closest station:

• GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Line)
  This station’s exits lead you directly toward State Farm Arena, with clear signs to the venue.

Other nearby stations (a short walk away):

• Five Points Station – Downtown hub connecting all MARTA rail lines
• Peachtree Center Station – Useful if you’re coming from a nearby hotel and walking over

Tips for using MARTA on game day:

• Load a Breeze Card or ticket before the evening rush.
• Expect crowded trains right before tipoff and immediately after the game.
• If you’re coming from the suburbs, park at larger MARTA park-and-ride stations and ride in.

Driving and Parking

If you drive to a Hawks vs. Bulls game:

• Expect heavier traffic on I-85, I-75, and the Connector near downtown close to game time.
• There are official parking decks and lots around State Farm Arena, as well as private lots near Centennial Olympic Park, CNN Center, and the Gulch.

Basic parking guidance:

• Arrive early (at least 60–90 minutes before tipoff) if you want easier parking and less stress.
• Verify whether your parking option is card-only, prepaid, or accepts cash.
• Be cautious about small, unofficial lots and always confirm you’re allowed to park there.

What to Expect on Game Day in Atlanta

Typical Hawks vs. Bulls Game Timeline

While exact times vary, a typical evening home game in Atlanta looks roughly like this:

Getting there early lets you explore the arena, find your seat comfortably, and watch pre-game shootarounds, which many fans enjoy.

Inside State Farm Arena

Once inside for a Hawks–Bulls game, you can expect:

• Concessions: Local and classic arena food options throughout the concourses
• Merchandise: Hawks gear stands and the main team store, which often highlight key players and special game-night items
• Fan entertainment: In-game contests, music, and time-out entertainment that keep the energy high

Where to Eat and Hang Out Around State Farm Arena

Part of the fun of a Hawks vs. Bulls game in Atlanta is making a night of it. The downtown area offers food and drinks before and after the game.

Nearby Areas to Consider

• CNN Center / State Farm Arena area
  Quick-service and sit-down options that are very convenient if you want to stay close to the arena.

• Centennial Olympic Park district
  A short walk from the arena, with restaurants, bars, and attractions like the park itself, the Georgia Aquarium, and the World of Coca‑Cola.

• Downtown streets (Marietta St, Peachtree St, Luckie St)
  Mix of local spots, hotel restaurants, and casual food that cater to event crowds.

If you’re bringing kids or a group, giving yourself extra time before the game to eat nearby helps avoid the pre-tipoff rush inside the arena.

Watching Hawks vs. Bulls in Atlanta Without a Ticket

Not everyone wants to go into the arena, especially if you’re in town briefly or need a more budget-conscious option. In Atlanta, many fans enjoy Hawks vs. Bulls games from:

• Sports bars and restaurants in Downtown, Midtown, Atlantic Station, and Buckhead, which often show NBA games on multiple screens
• Hotel bars downtown, which may tune in to major NBA matchups on game nights
• At home through major TV or streaming platforms that commonly carry NBA broadcasts

If you want a more “arena-like” energy without being inside State Farm Arena, look for sports-focused spots that regularly show NBA games, especially on nights when the Hawks are playing a notable opponent like the Bulls.

Tips if You’re a Chicago Fan Visiting Atlanta

Atlanta is a manageable city to navigate for out-of-town NBA fans, including Bulls supporters.

Practical pointers:

• Stay downtown or nearby if you want to walk or take a quick MARTA ride to State Farm Arena.
• Plan for at least 30–45 minutes to get through security, find your seat, and buy concessions.
• Check local transportation options from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: MARTA runs directly from the airport into downtown, which is helpful if you’re visiting just for a game.

You can comfortably enjoy the game in your Chicago Bulls gear—State Farm Arena typically has a mixed but spirited crowd for this matchup, and both fanbases are widely represented.

Family-Friendly Considerations for Hawks vs. Bulls Games

If you’re bringing kids or teens to the game in Atlanta:

• Aim for earlier arrival times so you’re not rushing through crowds.
• Consider seats that are closer to aisles for easier trips to restrooms or concessions.
• Be prepared for loud music and crowd noise, especially during key moments and timeouts.

Families who live outside the city often:

• Park at a MARTA park-and-ride and take the train in to avoid driving downtown at night.
• Choose weekend games when possible, which can be easier for younger children’s schedules.

How to Find Out When the Hawks Play the Bulls in Atlanta

Games between the Atlanta Hawks and Chicago Bulls rotate annually, but they generally meet multiple times each season, with a mix of home and away matchups.

To check when the Bulls will be in Atlanta:

• Look up the Atlanta Hawks season schedule, filtering for home games against Chicago.
• Note whether the game is a weekday or weekend, and what time tipoff is scheduled (evening games are most common).

It can help to buy Hawks–Bulls tickets earlier in the season if you:

• Want specific seats or sections
• Are coordinating with a group or planning travel
• Expect a high-demand night (such as promotional events or marquee matchups)

Making the Most of a Hawks vs. Bulls Night in Atlanta

Whether you’re a long-time Atlantan or a visitor following the Bulls on the road, Hawks vs. Bulls games are consistently high-energy events in the city. With some advance planning—tickets, transportation, food, and timing—you can:

• Get to State Farm Arena smoothly
• Enjoy the downtown atmosphere around the game
• Choose a viewing option that fits your budget and preferences

For anyone focused on “Atlanta Hawks Chicago Bulls” in Atlanta, the experience is more than just the final score—it’s a full downtown Atlanta outing built around one of the NBA’s most recognizable matchups.