Philips Arena in Atlanta: What It Is Today, What It Was, and How to Visit

If you’re searching for “Philips Arena Atlanta,” you’re almost certainly looking for what is now known as State Farm Arena—the major sports and entertainment venue in downtown Atlanta, Georgia.

For many years, the building was called Philips Arena, and a lot of Atlantan locals still use that name out of habit. Today, though, the arena has a new name, a modernized interior, and a packed schedule of games, concerts, and special events.

This guide walks you through what Atlantans and visitors need to know: the history of Philips Arena, what it’s called now, how to get there, where to park, and what to expect inside.

From Philips Arena to State Farm Arena

Why you still hear “Philips Arena”

The venue now called State Farm Arena opened in 1999 as Philips Arena, named after its original naming sponsor. For nearly two decades, Atlantans went to “Philips” for:

• Atlanta Hawks home games
• Big-name concerts and tours
• College basketball games and tournaments
• Family shows like ice performances and circuses

Because of that long history, many locals still say “Philips Arena” even though the name has officially changed.

The current name and location

• Current name: State Farm Arena (formerly Philips Arena)
• Address:
  State Farm Arena
  1 State Farm Drive
  Atlanta, GA 30303

It sits right in the downtown entertainment district, next to:

• Mercedes-Benz Stadium
• CNN Center area
• Centennial Olympic Park

If someone in Atlanta gives you directions to Philips Arena, they’re talking about this building.

What Happens at the Former Philips Arena Today

Sports

The arena is best known today as the home of the:

• Atlanta Hawks (NBA) – Regular season, playoffs, and special events like fan nights
• Occasional college basketball games and tournaments

If you’re in Atlanta and want to experience a pro basketball game, this is where you go.

Concerts and major events

The former Philips Arena is also one of the city’s primary concert and live event venues, regularly hosting:

• Major music tours across genres (pop, hip-hop, rock, country, R&B, Latin, etc.)
• Comedy shows by nationally known comedians
• Family-oriented shows (ice shows, kids’ character tours, holiday events)
• Special events, ceremonies, and community-centered gatherings

For big touring acts, this arena is often the main Atlanta stop, along with other large venues in the metro area.

Getting to the Old Philips Arena (State Farm Arena) in Atlanta

By MARTA (recommended for many events)

For many Atlantans, MARTA is the easiest way to get to the arena, especially on busy game or concert nights.

• Primary station:GWCC/CNN Center Station (West Line / Blue & Green Lines)
  • This station opens directly into the arena/CNN Center area
• Alternative station (walkable):Vine City Station (short walk, often used for events in the same district)

Basic MARTA tips for the arena area:

• Plan extra time on weekend nights and for marquee events
• You’ll need a Breeze Card or Breeze ticket (available at MARTA stations)
• Trains serving downtown Atlanta generally run frequently, but late-night schedules can vary

For locals, MARTA is often the fastest way to avoid downtown traffic and parking stress.

Driving directions (general guidance)

The arena is near several major Atlanta highways:

• I-20
• I-75/I-85 (the Downtown Connector)

Common routes for drivers:

• From North Atlanta / Buckhead / Midtown: Take I-75/85 South, exit toward downtown, and follow signs toward the GWCC / State Farm Arena / Mercedes-Benz Stadium area.
• From South Atlanta / Hartsfield-Jackson Airport: Take I-75/85 North and follow downtown signs to the same event district.
• From West/East Atlanta via I-20: Exit toward downtown and follow arena signage.

Atlanta traffic can be heavy before and after popular events, so many locals:

• Arrive earlier than showtime
• Consider dining or walking around nearby before or after the event to avoid peak traffic

Parking Near the Former Philips Arena

Parking is structured around the larger downtown stadium and convention district.

General parking options

Nearby parking typically includes:

• Official event parking decks and lots around the arena and stadium district
• Private garages in the surrounding downtown blocks
• Limited surface lots farther out, with a short walk

Parking prices in Atlanta’s downtown event district commonly increase for:

• Playoff games
• High-demand concerts
• Weekend nights and special events

To make things easier:

• Plan your parking option in advance when possible
• Consider whether rideshare or MARTA might be less stressful

What It’s Like Inside the Arena

Although it used to be Philips Arena, the building has been significantly renovated and modernized.

Seating and layout

Inside, you’ll find:

• Typical arena bowl seating – lower level, upper level, and premium sections
• Club and suite areas for premium experiences
• Video boards and modern lighting designed for both sports and concerts

For basketball, the court is oriented centrally, with Hawks-branded features and game-day entertainment. For concerts, the stage location can vary, which affects which seats are closest or have the best line of sight.

Food, drinks, and amenities

Visitors generally find:

• A range of concession stands with arena-style and local-flavor food options
• Bars and drink stands spread throughout concourses
• Restrooms on every level and accessible facilities

Atlanta residents will recognize some local-style food options alongside national arena fare, and offerings can vary by event.

Tips for Attending an Event (Games or Concerts)

1. Check event details before you go

For any event at the former Philips Arena (now State Farm Arena):

• Confirm doors-open time vs. show/game time
• Verify whether bags, cameras, or other items have special rules
• Make sure you know whether your ticket is mobile-only or can be printed

Policies can shift over time, and different tours or events sometimes add extra restrictions.

2. Plan arrival and departure

To make the most of your visit:

• Aim to arrive at least 30–60 minutes early, longer for major events
• Plan your MARTA route or parking ahead of time
• If driving, identify primary and backup parking options

Many Atlantans like to pair events with:

• A quick bite in downtown or Centennial Olympic Park area
• A walk around nearby attractions before the event starts

3. Bring only what you need

Arena security is typical for major venues:

• Bag size limits are common
• All guests pass through security screening
• Prohibited item lists can vary by event

Carrying less speeds up your entry and reduces risk of having to return items to your car.

Nearby Attractions in Downtown Atlanta

One advantage of visiting the former Philips Arena is how much there is to do within walking distance.

Within a short walk

From the arena area, you can easily reach:

• Centennial Olympic Park – A central green space for strolling and photos
• Georgia World Congress Center – Often hosts conventions and expos
• Mercedes-Benz Stadium – Home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United
• Major downtown blocks with restaurants, quick eats, and bars

Many visitors plan an entire downtown Atlanta outing around a game or concert.

Quick Reference: Key Facts About “Philips Arena” in Atlanta

If you hear someone in Atlanta mention Philips Arena, they’re talking about the same downtown venue you’ll now see signed as State Farm Arena. Whether you live in the metro area or are visiting from out of town, it’s one of the city’s central spots for live sports and entertainment.