Atlanta NFL Guide: Falcons Football, Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, and How to Experience the NFL in Atlanta

When people search for “Atlanta NFL”, they’re almost always looking for one thing: Atlanta Falcons football and how to experience the National Football League in and around Atlanta, Georgia.

Whether you live in metro Atlanta, are visiting for a weekend, or are planning a football-focused trip, this guide walks through how the NFL fits into the city—from Falcons home games and Mercedes‑Benz Stadium basics to tickets, parking, tailgating, and other NFL‑related events in Atlanta.

Atlanta’s NFL Team: The Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons are Atlanta’s official NFL franchise, playing in the NFC South division.

• Home city: Atlanta, Georgia
• Home stadium: Mercedes‑Benz Stadium (MBS), downtown Atlanta
• Typical season: Preseason in August, regular season September–January, potential playoffs in January

Locally, the Falcons are a major part of Atlanta’s sports identity, along with the Braves (MLB), Hawks (NBA), and Atlanta United FC (MLS). If you’re in Atlanta during football season, Falcons game day has a big presence across the city—especially downtown and in nearby neighborhoods like Castleberry Hill and around the CNN Center area.

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium: The Hub of NFL in Atlanta

Where the Falcons Play

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium is the home of the Atlanta Falcons and is one of the most recognizable places in the city.

• Address:
  Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
  1 AMB Drive NW
  Atlanta, GA 30313

The stadium sits near the heart of downtown, close to State Farm Arena, the Georgia World Congress Center, and Centennial Olympic Park.

Getting to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

You have several options for reaching the stadium on NFL game days:

1. MARTA (Public Transit)
Using MARTA is often the simplest option, especially for big games.

• Train stations within easy walking distance:
  • GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Line)
  • Vine City Station (Blue/Green Line)
• You can connect from the Red/Gold Lines (North–South) at Five Points Station to reach these stations.

Many local fans prefer MARTA to avoid game‑day traffic and parking costs. If you’re staying in Midtown, Buckhead, or near the airport, the rail system typically connects you directly into downtown with one transfer or less.

2. Driving and Parking

If you drive:

• There are official stadium parking lots and decks around Mercedes‑Benz Stadium and the Georgia World Congress Center campus.
• Private lots in nearby areas, like Castleberry Hill and streets surrounding Northside Drive, often offer game‑day parking for a fee.
• For large events (Falcons games, playoff games, big national matchups), parking can sell out or get expensive the closer you get to kick‑off.

✅ Tip: In Atlanta, traffic before and after NFL games can be heavy on Northside Drive NW, Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd, Marietta St, and around the Connector (I‑75/85). Plan to arrive early or consider MARTA if you’re not familiar with downtown driving.

3. Rideshare and Drop‑Off

Most big games have designated rideshare zones near the stadium. These zones may shift slightly each year, but they’re usually marked and supported by on‑site staff to help with pickup and drop‑off. Expect surge pricing during peak pre‑ and post‑game times.

Buying Atlanta Falcons Tickets

If you’re looking to attend an NFL game in Atlanta, you’ll need tickets for Falcons home games at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium.

Types of Tickets You’ll See

In Atlanta, ticket options generally fall into:

• Single-game tickets: For one particular game, often priced by demand (rivalry games and primetime matchups tend to be higher).
• Season tickets: A package for all home games in a season, sometimes including preseason. Popular among local residents.
• Club and premium seating: Includes additional amenities such as lounge access or dedicated food and beverage options.
• Suites: Private or semi-private group spaces with catering options for businesses, families, or large groups.

If you live in Atlanta and want to attend multiple Falcons games each year, many locals compare the long-term cost of season tickets versus buying single-game seats when schedules are released.

Game Day Experience: What to Expect at an NFL Game in Atlanta

Tailgating Culture

NFL tailgating in Atlanta happens mainly in and around:

• Official parking lots near the stadium
• Nearby surface lots and private parking areas

Atlanta’s tailgating vibe can vary depending on weather and kickoff time:

• Early games (1 p.m. kickoffs): Morning set-up, breakfast and lunch tailgates.
• Late afternoon or evening games: Longer pregame windows, more grilling, and music.

Most lots have rules on open flames, tents, and alcohol, so local fans usually check the latest stadium or lot guidelines before planning large setups.

Inside Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

Once inside the stadium, fans often highlight:

• 360° Halo video board over the field
• Retractable roof that can be open or closed depending on weather and event plans
• Concession pricing: The stadium is known for having more accessible food and beverage pricing compared to many major venues

You’ll also find:

• Multiple merchandise shops selling Falcons gear
• Family-friendly areas and wide concourses
• Designated ADA seating and access points

If you’re bringing a family, you’ll want to review rules about bags, strollers, and items allowed into the building—Atlanta’s NFL stadium typically follows a clear bag policy, especially for NFL events.

Best Atlanta Neighborhoods and Spots for NFL Watching

Not everyone wants to go to the stadium. Many Atlanta residents and visitors enjoy watching NFL games at sports bars and restaurants around the city.

Popular NFL‑watching areas in Atlanta include:

• Downtown & Castleberry Hill: Close to the stadium, a good option before or after games.
• Midtown: Numerous bars and restaurants that show Falcons and national NFL games on Sundays.
• Buckhead: Well-known for nightlife and sports-viewing spots.
• West Midtown / Upper Westside: Growing area with breweries and casual hangouts where games are often on.

Most places prioritize Falcons games on TVs, and many also show other NFL matchups, especially during Sunday afternoon and Sunday Night Football windows.

Understanding the NFL Season in Atlanta

If you’re planning around Atlanta’s NFL calendar, here’s how it typically works:

Falcons Preseason

• Takes place in August.
• Often includes one or two home preseason games.
• Preseason tickets can be more affordable and less crowded—some Atlanta families use these games as an introduction for younger kids.

Regular Season

• Runs from September through early January.
• Home games are usually on Sundays, with occasional Monday night or Thursday night games.
• Around downtown Atlanta, you’ll notice increased foot traffic, heavier MARTA usage, and more fan gear visible on game days.

Playoffs and Special Events

When the Falcons reach the NFL playoffs, Atlanta’s game‑day atmosphere intensifies—more coverage, themed events at local businesses, and a buzzing downtown on game weekends.

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium has also hosted major non-Falcons NFL events, such as:

• The Super Bowl
• Neutral-site college and professional football games
• Large national events connected to the NFL

During those weeks, downtown Atlanta often adds fan festivals, pop-up attractions, and extra security and traffic controls.

NFL Merchandise and Gear in Atlanta

If you’re in Atlanta and want Falcons or NFL gear, you have several options:

• Team store at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium: Open on game days and often on select non-game days.
• Major sporting goods stores around metro Atlanta: Commonly carry Falcons jerseys, hats, and NFL apparel.
• Airport shops (Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport): Often stock Falcons gear for travelers.

Being in the Falcons’ home city, you’ll generally find more variety and customization options for Atlanta NFL items than you would online or in non‑local markets.

Family and Accessibility Considerations

Bringing Kids to an NFL Game in Atlanta

Many Atlanta families bring children to Falcons games. Consider:

• Noise levels: NFL stadiums can be very loud; some parents bring ear protection for younger kids.
• Seat location: Some families prefer aisles or lower rows for easier in‑and‑out access.
• Arrival time: Coming early helps avoid rushes at security and concessions.

Accessibility and ADA Needs

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium and other major Atlanta venues typically provide:

• Accessible seating throughout the building
• Elevators and ramps
• Designated drop-off points
• Accessible restrooms

If you or someone in your group has mobility or sensory needs, checking stadium accessibility information in advance can make game day smoother.

How NFL Impacts Atlanta on Game Days

Falcons home games and other major NFL events influence Atlanta’s daily flow, especially in and around downtown.

Key ways this shows up:

• Traffic: Congestion around I‑75/85, I‑20, and downtown streets near the stadium before and after games.
• Transit load: Heavier use of MARTA rail and buses, particularly on lines and stations feeding downtown.
• Local businesses: Restaurants, bars, and hotels near the stadium and in Midtown, Buckhead, and Downtown can see increased crowds on game weekends.
• Parking prices: Rates around the stadium typically rise on NFL game days and large events.

If you’re not attending the game but plan to be downtown, it’s helpful to check the Falcons home schedule, so you can anticipate traffic and crowds.

Quick Reference: Atlanta NFL Basics

If you live in Atlanta, are visiting, or are planning a trip around football season, “Atlanta NFL” essentially means connecting with the Falcons and the game‑day environment centered on Mercedes‑Benz Stadium and downtown. With the right planning for tickets, transit, and timing, it’s straightforward to plug into Atlanta’s NFL scene at the level that fits your schedule—whether that’s a single game, multiple home dates, or just watching with locals at a neighborhood spot.