Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Atlanta: Your Complete Local Guide

If you live in Atlanta or you’re planning a visit, Mercedes‑Benz Stadium (often called “Benz Stadium Atlanta” or just “The Benz”) is one of the city’s biggest landmarks. It’s home to the Atlanta Falcons (NFL) and Atlanta United FC (MLS), and it regularly hosts concerts, college football games, and major national events.

This guide walks you through what you need to know about the stadium specifically as an Atlanta visitor or resident—from getting there and parking, to food prices, tours, nearby neighborhoods, and tips for big-game days.

Where Mercedes‑Benz Stadium Is and What Happens There

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

The stadium sits on the west side of downtown Atlanta, right next to where the Georgia Dome used to stand. It’s within walking distance of:

• Downtown hotels and offices
• Georgia World Congress Center
• State Farm Arena
• Tourist spots like Centennial Olympic Park and the College Football Hall of Fame

What the Stadium Is Used For

You’ll see the stadium come up in Atlanta conversations for:

• NFL games – Atlanta Falcons home games in the fall and winter
• MLS games – Atlanta United FC matches, mainly spring through fall
• College football – SEC Championship Game, Chick-fil-A Kickoff games, some bowl games
• Major concerts – Large touring acts that need a stadium-size venue
• Special events – International soccer matches, high school football championships, conventions, and festivals

If you’re planning a trip downtown, always check if something is going on at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium—big events can transform traffic and parking in the area.

Getting to Benz Stadium from Around Atlanta

One of the advantages of Mercedes‑Benz Stadium is accessibility. You have several realistic options depending on where you’re coming from and your budget.

1. Taking MARTA (Often the Easiest on Game Days)

For many Atlanta residents, MARTA is the most stress‑free way to reach the stadium, especially when the Falcons or Atlanta United are playing.

• Closest MARTA station:
  GWCC/CNN Center Station (West Line) – this stop is designed for the stadium and Georgia World Congress Center area.
• Alternative station:
  Vine City Station – on the west side of the stadium, often less crowded leaving events.

From either station, the walk to the stadium is short and clearly marked on event days.

🛈 Local tip: If you’re coming from the northern suburbs (e.g., Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Brookhaven), consider parking at a MARTA park‑and‑ride and taking the train in to avoid downtown parking costs.

2. Driving and Parking

If you prefer to drive:

• The stadium is near the junction of I‑20, I‑75, and I‑85.
• Traffic can be heavy around Northside Drive, Mitchell Street, and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive before and after events.

Parking is usually organized through official lots and garages run by the stadium and the Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA). Fans often:

• Reserve parking in advance for Falcons and Atlanta United games
• Use nearby lots and decks along Northside Drive, Marietta Street, and around Centennial Olympic Park

🛈 Local tip: On event days, arrive at least 60–90 minutes early if you’re driving. Downtown surface lots can fill quickly, and prices can rise close to kickoff or showtime.

3. Rideshare, Taxis, and Drop‑offs

Many Atlantans use Uber, Lyft, or taxis:

• During large events, the stadium typically has designated rideshare zones to keep traffic moving.
• Be prepared to walk a few blocks from the pickup/drop‑off point, especially after the event when streets are partially closed.

If you’re being dropped off by a friend or family member, aim for streets just outside the main congestion zones (for example, sections of Northside Drive or Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd when open) and follow event signage and law enforcement directions.

What It’s Like Inside Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

Beyond being a sports venue, Mercedes‑Benz Stadium is designed to feel like a modern, fan‑friendly entertainment space.

Seating and Layout

The stadium features:

• Lower bowl seating close to the field
• Multiple club and premium levels
• Upper bowl seating with a large video halo board overhead
• End‑zone “supporters’ section” for Atlanta United with standing‑friendly seating

If you’re bringing someone who has mobility needs, the stadium has accessible seating areas and can assist with wheelchair escorts from certain entrances. Event‑specific information usually tells you which gates are best.

Food and Concessions

One thing many locals mention: fan‑friendly concession pricing on core items, such as:

• Hot dogs
• Nachos
• Soft drinks
• Popcorn

While specialty items and alcohol can still add up, the basic menu is often more affordable than at many other major stadiums.

You’ll also see local Atlanta restaurant brands represented at some stands, especially during larger events.

🛈 Local tip: If you’re going with a group or family, you can often eat reasonably by sticking to the “value” or “core” items rather than specialty stands.

Payments and Entry

The stadium is built with a modern, mostly cash‑free setup:

• Expect card and digital payments at many vendors
• Security screening typically uses walk‑through scanners
• Tickets are commonly mobile‑only, so have your phone charged and ready

Check the bag policy before you go—transparent or small bags are usually required, and large backpacks are typically not allowed on event days.

Quick Reference: Key Basics at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

Tours and Non‑Game‑Day Visits

Even when there isn’t a game or concert, many people in Atlanta want to see the inside of the stadium.

Stadium Tours

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium often offers guided tours that may include:

• Locker room areas (when available)
• Field‑level or sideline views
• Club and suite levels
• Behind‑the‑scenes operations spaces

These tours can be appealing if:

• You have visiting family or friends who are sports fans
• You’re a local who wants a deeper look at a major Atlanta landmark
• You’re planning a school or group outing

Tour availability changes depending on the event calendar. Check the tour schedule before heading downtown, as special events can limit access.

Nearby Neighborhoods and Things to Do Around the Stadium

If you’re spending a day downtown, you can easily combine a stadium event with other Atlanta destinations.

Walking Distance Attractions

Near Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, you’ll find:

• Centennial Olympic Park – green space, fountains, and walking paths
• Georgia World Congress Center – large convention complex
• College Football Hall of Fame – interactive museum for football fans
• State Farm Arena – home to the Atlanta Hawks and major concerts
• CNN Center area – historically a hub for food and activity (portions are under redevelopment; offerings may change)

Hotels and Lodging

Visitors who want to be close to the stadium often look at downtown Atlanta hotels, especially:

• Around Marietta Street NW, Baker Street NW, and Centennial Olympic Park Drive
• Near MARTA stations like Peachtree Center and Five Points for easy transit access

If you’re local and have guests in town for a big Falcons game or concert, downtown lodging cuts down on the hassle of late‑night travel after events.

Game‑Day and Event‑Day Tips for Atlantans

Timing Your Arrival

For major events like NFL games, playoff matches, or large concerts:

• Plan to arrive 60–120 minutes early if you’re driving
• For MARTA, try to board earlier trains to avoid last‑minute crowds at turnstiles
• Factor in security lines—you’ll need time to get through bag checks and scanners

What to Bring (and Not Bring)

Common recommendations for Mercedes‑Benz Stadium events include:

Usually acceptable (check your event’s policy):

• Small clear bags or clutches within size limits
• Phones and portable chargers
• Jackets or ponchos if weather is bad (even though the stadium has a roof, some areas can be exposed walking in)

Often restricted:

• Large bags or backpacks
• Outside food and drink (unless there are specific allowances or medical needs)
• Items that could be considered weapons or sharp objects

Always review your specific event’s guidance—concerts and sporting events sometimes have slightly different rules.

Bringing Kids and Families

Families in Atlanta regularly bring children to Falcons and Atlanta United games:

• The atmosphere at Atlanta United matches is often loud and energetic, especially near the supporters’ section.
• For younger children, consider seats farther from the loudest fan sections.
• Restrooms and family facilities are spread throughout the concourses, and staff are used to helping families navigate.

Accessibility and Special Needs

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium is designed to be accessible for many types of visitors:

• Accessible seating in various price ranges
• Ramps, elevators, and escalators between concourse levels
• Options to request assistance from staff for navigation or seating

If accessibility is a priority:

• Look for accessible seating when purchasing tickets
• Allow extra time to arrive and get to your seat
• Use marked entry points that advertise accessibility services

Practical Contacts and Location Details

For general questions, event details, or specific policies, you can usually find up‑to‑date information through:

• Mercedes‑Benz Stadium Guest Services – typically reachable through the stadium’s main information channels for questions about events, accessibility, and lost & found
• Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) – the public authority responsible for the broader campus, including some parking and surrounding areas

Physical Location Anchor Points:

• The stadium is just west of State Farm Arena and CNN Center.
• It sits between Northside Drive NW and the Georgia World Congress Center complex.
• To the south, it’s close to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SW; to the north, it’s not far from Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd NW and Marietta Street NW.

Having these landmarks in mind can help if you’re walking, using rideshare, or trying to meet someone nearby.

When Mercedes‑Benz Stadium Matters for Daily Atlanta Life

Even if you’re not a sports fan, the stadium affects everyday life in Atlanta:

• Traffic: Big events change traffic patterns around downtown and into parts of Midtown and the Westside.
• Transit Crowds: MARTA trains can be more crowded before and after major games and concerts.
• Downtown Activity: Bars, restaurants, and parking lots near the stadium get busier and sometimes adjust hours.

If you live or work downtown, it’s useful to keep an eye on the event calendar so you can plan commutes, reservations, and errands accordingly.

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium is more than just an arena—it’s one of the main hubs of sports, music, and big events in Atlanta, Georgia. Whether you’re catching a Falcons game, cheering on Atlanta United, heading to a concert, or just exploring the city, understanding how the stadium fits into Atlanta’s layout, transit, and neighborhoods makes your visit smoother and far more enjoyable.