LA Lakers at Atlanta Hawks: How to Experience This Matchup in Atlanta

When the Los Angeles Lakers come to play the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena, it’s one of the most in-demand games of the NBA season in Atlanta. Whether you live in the city, are visiting, or just want to understand how this matchup works locally, knowing what to expect can help you enjoy the night instead of stressing over logistics.

Below is a practical, Atlanta-focused guide to LA Lakers at Atlanta Hawks games: tickets, getting downtown, where to sit, timelines, and what it’s really like around the arena on game day.

Key Basics: Lakers vs. Hawks in Atlanta

Where the game is played

• Arena: State Farm Arena
• Address: 1 State Farm Drive, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Neighborhood: Downtown, next to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium and Centennial Olympic Park area

What to expect from this matchup in Atlanta

• High demand for tickets – Lakers games in Atlanta almost always sell faster than a typical regular-season game.
• Big crowds and more visiting fans – You’ll usually see a mix of Hawks fans and Lakers fans (especially when a superstar is on the Lakers’ roster).
• Lively downtown atmosphere – Restaurants, MARTA stations, and parking decks around the arena get busy hours before tipoff.

Getting Tickets for LA Lakers at Atlanta Hawks

Where locals typically buy

Most Atlanta fans use a mix of:

• The official Atlanta Hawks/State Farm Arena box office
• Major online ticket platforms
• Season ticket holders or friends reselling extra seats

If you want the most straightforward, low-hassle option, many people start with the arena box office or the team’s official ticketing partners, since fees and seating maps are usually clear.

How early to buy for a Lakers game

For a Lakers-at-Hawks matchup, it’s smart to:

• Buy weeks (or even months) ahead if:

  • You need several seats together
  • You want lower-bowl or center-court views
  • You’re planning around a trip to Atlanta

• You may still find tickets closer to game day, but:

  • Prices often climb as the game approaches
  • Prime sections usually sell out first

Typical seating options and what they’re like

Here’s a simple way to think about the sections inside State Farm Arena for this kind of high-profile game:

For kids or first-time visitors, a mid-level or lower-corner seat can be a good compromise—exciting, but not the very highest-priced sections.

Getting to State Farm Arena from Around Atlanta

MARTA: Easiest way for many fans

For a big game like Lakers at Hawks, many locals prefer MARTA to avoid downtown parking costs and congestion.

• Closest Stations:
  • GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Line) – Directly beside State Farm Arena
  • Five Points Station (Red/Gold/Blue/Green) – About a 5–10 minute walk

Tips if you’re taking MARTA:

• Load your Breeze Card or ticket before game day or earlier in the day to avoid lines.
• Trains run more frequently during major events, but it can still be crowded right after the game.
• If you’re staying in Midtown, Buckhead, or near the Airport, riding MARTA to Five Points or GWCC/CNN Center is usually straightforward.

Driving and parking in downtown Atlanta

If you choose to drive:

• Arrive at least 60–90 minutes early for a Lakers game, especially on weekdays when commuter traffic overlaps with game traffic.
• Common parking options include:
  • Official State Farm Arena–connected decks and lots
  • Nearby public parking garages along Marietta St NW, Baker St NW, and side streets
• Expect higher prices than for a mid-week game against a less high-profile opponent.

If you’re coming from:

• North Atlanta (Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta):
  Take GA‑400 or I‑75/I‑85 South into downtown; watch for changing traffic patterns near the connector.
• East (Decatur, Stone Mountain):
  Use I‑20 West into downtown and follow signs toward State Farm Arena or Mercedes‑Benz Stadium.
• South (Hapeville, College Park, Airport):
  Take I‑85/I‑75 North and follow downtown exit signs.

Rideshare and drop-off

For Uber, Lyft, and taxis:

• Drop-off and pick-up zones are typically set up around the arena on nearby streets.
• Plan for delays after the game while everyone tries to request rides at once.
• Some locals walk a few blocks away from the arena before ordering a ride to avoid the most congested spots.

When to Arrive and What to Expect Inside

Game day timeline for Lakers at Hawks

A common schedule many Atlanta fans follow:

• 90–120 minutes before tipoff:
  Arrive downtown, park or exit MARTA, grab a quick bite, or walk around Centennial Olympic Park area.

• 60–75 minutes before tipoff:
  Go through security and enter State Farm Arena. This allows time for:

  • Finding your seat
  • Grabbing food and drinks
  • Watching warm-ups and early shootaround

• Tipoff:
  The arena is usually close to full, especially for a Lakers game, and the atmosphere is loud and active from the start.

Security and entry

At State Farm Arena, you can typically expect:

• Bag checks and walk-through scanners
• Restrictions on bag size (small clutches and clear bags are more likely to be allowed)
• Limits on certain items (no outside food and drinks, no weapons, etc.)

Checking the arena’s current bag and security policy before heading out helps you avoid being turned away or needing to walk back to your car.

Atmosphere: How Lakers at Hawks Feels in Atlanta

Crowd energy

Lakers-at-Hawks games have a different feel than a standard regular-season matchup:

• More national attention – You may see more cameras, media, and out-of-town guests.
• High-energy intros and music – The Hawks lean into the entertainment aspect, especially with marquee opponents.
• Balanced crowd noise – When the Lakers go on a run, you’ll usually hear a noticeable cheer from visiting fans, but the Hawks crowd responds just as loudly when Atlanta makes a big play.

Is it family-friendly?

For most families in Atlanta, a Hawks game—even against a big-name opponent like the Lakers—feels reasonably family-friendly, especially if you:

• Choose seats a bit higher up or away from the rowdiest lower-bowl sections
• Arrive early to avoid the tightest crowds at the doors
• Prepare for loud music, lights, and higher noise levels than a casual outing

Food, Drinks, and Amenities Around the Arena

Inside State Farm Arena

Inside the arena, you’ll typically find:

• Concession stands with standard arena fare (pizza, burgers, hot dogs, snacks)
• Local-style options that vary but often highlight Atlanta-leaning flavors and brands
• Bars and portable stands with beer, wine, and other beverages

Lines can get long at halftime and between quarters, so many Atlanta fans:

• Grab food upon entering the arena, or
• Wait until a quieter portion of the game (early second quarter, late third quarter)

Eating and hanging out nearby

If you want to eat before or after the game, popular nearby areas include:

• Downtown around Centennial Olympic Park and Marietta St NW – Casual spots, sports bars, and quick bites.
• CNN Center area – Historically a hub for pre-game activity, though exact options may change over time.
• A short drive or train ride to Midtown – Many restaurants and bars if you want to make a full evening of it.

If you’re visiting Atlanta, building in dinner or drinks before the game can turn the Lakers-at-Hawks matchup into a full downtown experience.

Tips for Different Types of Fans

For Atlanta residents

• Use MARTA when you can to avoid parking stress, especially if you’re coming from the north or east.
• Plan around rush hour if it’s a weeknight game; leaving work a bit early can make the entire experience smoother.
• Consider choosing one marquee matchup (like Lakers, Celtics, or other big-market teams) and planning it as a special outing each season.

For visitors staying in Atlanta hotels

• If your hotel is in Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead, check your proximity to a MARTA station; the train can be more predictable than driving in unfamiliar traffic.
• Ask your hotel staff about latest game-night routes and whether there are any large events overlapping (concerts, football games, conventions) that might affect traffic.

For fans on a budget

• Look at upper-level tickets for a more affordable option; you still get a strong full-court view.
• Eat before you enter the arena to minimize food costs.
• Use MARTA to reduce the cost of parking and avoid surge pricing for rideshare.

Staying Safe and Comfortable in Downtown Atlanta

Like any major city event area, downtown Atlanta during a big game is:

• Crowded but generally well-patrolled, especially around State Farm Arena and nearby attractions
• Active with police presence, event staff, and arena security

Common-sense tips locals follow:

• Stick to well-lit, busy streets when walking to and from the arena.
• Keep personal items secure and avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
• If you’re unfamiliar with the area, head directly to MARTA stations, official parking decks, or your rideshare pick-up zones after the game.

How to Make the Most of LA Lakers at Atlanta Hawks

To sum up how to get the best local experience:

• Buy tickets early—Lakers games in Atlanta tend to sell quickly and run pricier than average.
• Plan your transportation—MARTA is often the easiest option; if you drive, arrive early and expect crowds.
• Get there ahead of tipoff—Arriving 60–90 minutes early lets you settle in, grab food, and watch warm‑ups.
• Choose seats that match your priorities—View, budget, family needs, or atmosphere.
• Use the game as a chance to enjoy downtown Atlanta—From Centennial Olympic Park to nearby restaurants, the area is set up for an evening out.

With a bit of planning around tickets, transit, and timing, LA Lakers at Atlanta Hawks can be one of the most memorable sports experiences you can have in Atlanta.