Cirque du Soleil in Atlanta: How to See the Show, Where It Plays, and What to Expect

Cirque du Soleil has become a regular and much‑anticipated part of Atlanta’s entertainment calendar. If you search for “Cirque du Soleil Atlanta”, you’re usually trying to figure out:

• When is Cirque coming to Atlanta next?
• Where will the big tent be set up?
• How do tickets, seating, and parking work here specifically?

This guide breaks down how Cirque du Soleil typically operates in Atlanta, Georgia, what locals and visitors can expect, and how to plan your visit smoothly.

Where Cirque du Soleil Usually Performs in Atlanta

Cirque du Soleil is best known in Atlanta for its big top (grand chapiteau) shows rather than arena tours. While exact locations can change, Atlanta has a few common spots.

Atlantic Station – The Most Common Big Top Location

In recent years, Cirque du Soleil has often set up its iconic blue‑and‑yellow tent at:

Atlantic Station
1380 Atlantic Dr NW
Atlanta, GA 30363

Atlantic Station is a mixed‑use development in Midtown with shops, restaurants, and parking garages. It’s a convenient site for Cirque because:

• It offers large open space for the big top and support tents.
• There are multiple parking decks within walking distance.
• Food and drinks are easy to find before or after the show.
• It’s accessible from I‑75/85 and close to MARTA bus routes and the Arts Center MARTA rail station (with a bit of walking or a short rideshare ride).

If you see a Cirque du Soleil big top announced for Atlanta, Atlantic Station is often the first place to check.

Other Possible Atlanta‑Area Venues

While the big top normally goes to Atlantic Station, Cirque du Soleil also brings arena shows to Atlanta occasionally. These usually play at:

• State Farm Arena
  1 State Farm Dr
  Atlanta, GA 30303

• Gas South Arena (suburban option in Gwinnett County)
  6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy
  Duluth, GA 30097

Arena shows use indoor staging rather than the big tent. They’re more like a traditional touring performance inside a major venue, and they often run for fewer days than big top productions.

How Often Cirque du Soleil Comes to Atlanta

Cirque du Soleil does not have a permanent show in Atlanta like it does in Las Vegas. Instead, it visits periodically as part of North American tours.

Typical patterns:

• Every 1–3 years for a major big top show at Atlantic Station or another large site
• Occasional arena tours scheduled between big top runs
• Limited engagements that last a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the production

Because schedules and show titles change, the most reliable approach is to:

• Check the official Cirque du Soleil schedule for “Atlanta” a few times a year
• Start looking months in advance if you plan a special trip or group outing

Types of Cirque du Soleil Shows You Might See in Atlanta

Atlanta audiences have seen a mix of classic big top shows and arena productions. While specific titles change, the main categories are fairly consistent.

Big Top Productions

These are the ones people usually associate with the signature Cirque tent. They typically include:

• Acrobatics and aerial acts under the grand chapiteau
• A circular or semi‑circular stage with 360‑degree sightlines
• Original music, elaborate costumes, and a loosely connected storyline

Big top shows in Atlanta are often family‑friendly, but intensity, lighting, and themes vary by show. Most local families check age recommendations before booking, especially for younger children.

Arena Shows

Arena shows are adapted to fit into existing venues like State Farm Arena. Common features:

• Stage positioned at one end of the arena
• More traditional reserved seating map
• Shorter setups and runs than the big tent
• Often themed around well‑known music, movies, or concepts

These tours can be a good option if you prefer indoor, climate‑controlled venues or live closer to downtown or Gwinnett.

Ticket Basics for Cirque du Soleil in Atlanta

Ticket details vary by show and venue, but some patterns are fairly consistent.

How to Get Tickets

You can usually buy tickets:

• Directly from the official Cirque du Soleil ticketing system
• Through the venue’s box office (Atlantic Station box office tent, State Farm Arena ticket office, etc.)
• Through major, reputable ticketing platforms listed on Cirque’s official site

For Atlanta residents who like an in‑person option, many people:

• Visit the on‑site box office tent at Atlantic Station once it opens for that tour
• Go to the State Farm Arena box office for arena shows during its regular operating hours

Avoid buying from unknown resellers to reduce the risk of fake or invalid tickets.

Seating Options Under the Big Top

At Atlantic Station’s big top, seating is typically divided into sections such as:

Some Atlanta big top runs may offer VIP packages that include lounge access, snacks, or souvenirs. These are optional and not necessary to enjoy the show.

When to Buy Tickets in Atlanta

Patterns many Atlanta locals follow:

• Buy early for weekend evenings and special dates (opening weekend, holidays, school breaks).
• Weeknight shows and late‑run performances sometimes have more availability.
• Group organizers (schools, companies, clubs) often contact the ticket office or official group sales well in advance, especially for weekend matinees.

Getting to the Show: Transportation & Parking in Atlanta

How you get to Cirque du Soleil in Atlanta depends on the venue and your comfort with local traffic and transit.

Getting to Atlantic Station (Big Top)

Driving:

• Accessible from I‑75/85 via the 17th Street or 14th Street exits.
• Follow signs for Atlantic Station parking decks.
• During Cirque runs, there may be special event signage directing you to the tent area.

Parking tips:

• Parking is usually in paid decks or surface lots around Atlantic Station.
• On Friday nights, weekends, and holiday periods, arrive early to avoid circling for spaces.
• Keep your parking ticket handy and note which deck you used—Atlantic Station has multiple garages and levels.

MARTA and rideshare:

• The nearest rail station is Arts Center MARTA Station (on the Red/Gold lines). From there:
  • Walk, use the Atlantic Station shuttle if operating, or take a short rideshare to the big top area.
• Rideshare pickup and drop‑off are commonly directed to specific Atlantic Station zones—look for posted signs or follow staff instructions.

Getting to Arena Shows (Downtown & Suburbs)

For State Farm Arena in downtown Atlanta:

• Connected to GWCC/CNN Center MARTA Station on the Blue/Green lines.
• Several parking decks and surface lots nearby; event pricing usually applies.
• Be prepared for heavy traffic around major events and sports games.

For Gas South Arena in Duluth:

• Located off I‑85 northeast of Atlanta.
• Large surface lots with event parking; limited public transit options, so driving is most common.

What to Expect During a Cirque du Soleil Performance in Atlanta

Arrival and Entry

• Plan to arrive 30–60 minutes before the show time to park, go through security, and find your seat.
• Expect bag checks and metal detectors at both big top and arena venues.
• Outside food and beverages are generally not allowed inside the tent or arenas.

Show Length and Breaks

Most Cirque du Soleil shows in Atlanta run:

• Around 2 hours, plus
• A 20–30 minute intermission in the middle

This gives you time to use the restroom, grab a snack, or stretch your legs.

Food, Drinks, and Merchandise

At the big top and arena venues, you can usually find:

• Snacks and concession‑style food
• Soft drinks, water, and sometimes alcoholic beverages (age‑restricted)
• Merchandise booths with show‑branded items

Prices are typically higher than standard restaurants, so many Atlantans choose to eat at nearby Midtown, Westside, or Atlantic Station restaurants before or after the show.

Family‑Friendly Considerations for Atlanta Audiences

Cirque du Soleil shows in Atlanta often attract families, but some planning helps.

Age and Seating

• There is usually no strict age minimum, but children often need their own ticket once past a very young age.
• Loud music, dark lighting, and intense acrobatics can be overwhelming for some children.
• Many families prefer aisle seats in case a quick exit is needed.

Strollers and Bags

• Strollers may need to be parked outside the seating area or in a designated zone.
• Large bags or coolers are usually not allowed due to security policies.

Check the specific show’s bag policy for limits on size and type, especially at arena venues where security rules can be stricter.

Planning Your Night Around Cirque du Soleil in Atlanta

Because most Cirque shows are in or near central Atlanta, it’s easy to build an entire outing around the performance.

Before or After the Show

Near Atlantic Station, you’ll find:

• Sit‑down restaurants, fast‑casual spots, and coffee shops
• A movie theater and retail stores
• Seasonal events (ice skating rinks, markets, or outdoor activities, depending on the time of year)

In downtown Atlanta near State Farm Arena, options include:

• Restaurants in and around Centennial Olympic Park, CNN Center area, and the Georgia World Congress Center
• Attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca‑Cola (usually best before an afternoon matinee or early evening show)

If you’re visiting from out of town, staying in Midtown, Downtown, or Atlantic Station makes it easy to reach most Cirque venues without a long commute.

Tips for Atlanta Locals and Visitors Booking Cirque du Soleil

Here are some practical pointers tailored to the Atlanta area:

• Check schedules early: Tour announcements often list Atlanta dates months in advance, especially for big top runs at Atlantic Station.
• Mind Braves and Hawks schedules: If you’re going downtown for an arena show, overlapping games at Truist Park or State Farm Arena can increase traffic and parking demand.
• Consider weeknight shows: For less congestion and easier parking around Atlantic Station or downtown, many locals favor Tuesday–Thursday evenings.
• Watch weather for big top shows: The tent is covered and climate‑controlled to a degree, but heavy rain or extreme heat can affect traffic and comfort traveling to and from the venue.
• Allow extra time if using MARTA: Factor in rail schedules, waits for shuttles, and walking time, especially at night or if you are unfamiliar with the area.

How to Stay Updated on Future Cirque du Soleil Dates in Atlanta

Since Cirque du Soleil tours evolve and specific Atlanta dates change:

• Use the official Cirque du Soleil schedule and search for “Atlanta, GA” as new tours are announced.
• Keep an eye on event calendars from Atlantic Station, State Farm Arena, and Gas South District, which often list major touring shows well ahead of time.
• If you’re a frequent show‑goer, following local entertainment listings and Atlanta event calendars can help you spot new Cirque announcements quickly.

By understanding how Cirque du Soleil typically operates in Atlanta, where it sets up its tent, and how tickets and logistics work locally, you can pick the best date, seat, and transportation plan for a smooth, memorable night under the big top or inside one of the city’s arenas.