Atlanta United vs. New York Red Bulls: What Fans in Atlanta Need to Know

When you search for “Atlanta United – New York RB”, you’re usually trying to find one of three things:

  1. Details on the next Atlanta United vs. New York Red Bulls match
  2. How to get tickets and attend the game in Atlanta
  3. Where and how to watch, park, and enjoy the matchday experience in the city

This guide walks you through all of that, specifically from the perspective of someone living in or visiting Atlanta, Georgia.

The Atlanta United–New York Red Bulls Rivalry, Explained

In Major League Soccer (MLS), Atlanta United FC and the New York Red Bulls have developed one of the league’s more intense matchups.

For Atlanta fans, Red Bulls games tend to stand out because:

  • The teams have met in important Eastern Conference games and playoffs.
  • Their styles often clash: Atlanta’s attacking flair vs. New York’s high-press, high-energy approach.
  • Matches are usually fast, physical, and emotional with strong fan energy in the stands.

If you’re new to Atlanta United, this is one of the fixtures locals circle on the calendar each season.

Where Atlanta United Plays in Atlanta

All standard home matches against the New York Red Bulls are played at:

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

  • Address: 1 AMB Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Atlanta, near the State Farm Arena and Georgia World Congress Center

This is Atlanta United’s main home stadium and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.

Why Mercedes-Benz Stadium matters for this matchup

  • Indoor, climate-controlled environment: Summer heat or spring rain won’t ruin your experience.
  • Large capacity means energy is high, especially for big Eastern Conference games like Atlanta United vs. New York Red Bulls.
  • Excellent visibility: Even from upper levels, sightlines are typically good for watching fast-paced soccer.

Finding the Match Date, Time, and Competition

Atlanta United and the New York Red Bulls can meet in:

  • Regular-season MLS matches
  • MLS Cup Playoffs (if both teams qualify and are matched up)
  • Leagues Cup or other cup competitions

To know exactly when the next Atlanta United–New York Red Bulls game is in Atlanta, check:

  • The official Atlanta United schedule for the current MLS season
  • The Mercedes-Benz Stadium event calendar
  • Local sports coverage in Atlanta media (especially during the MLS season, which typically runs from late February/early March through fall)

Because schedules change from year to year, always confirm date, kickoff time, and whether it’s a home or away match before making plans.

Ticket Basics for Atlanta United vs. New York Red Bulls in Atlanta

For a high-demand game like this, it helps to understand how tickets are usually structured at Mercedes-Benz Stadium:

Main ticket types

  • Single-game tickets
    • Your standard option for one Atlanta United vs. New York Red Bulls match
  • Season tickets / partial plans
    • Popular with Atlanta residents who attend multiple games a year
  • Supporters’ section tickets
    • These are usually standing, loud, and highly active; ideal if you want a nonstop chanting environment
  • Premium & club seats
    • Often come with additional amenities, better views, and lounge access

Where to sit for this matchup

For many Atlanta locals, preferences usually fall into three categories:

Fan TypeBest Fit in StadiumWhy It Works
First-time visitorLower bowl corner or sidelineGood view, strong atmosphere without being overwhelming
Die-hard fanSupporters’ section behind the goalDrums, chants, tifos, maximum energy
Family with kidsUpper sideline or family-friendly sectionsMore relaxed, easier for kids, better overview of the field

🎟 Tip: Because Red Bulls are a recognizable Eastern Conference opponent, ticket demand can be higher than for some other regular-season games. Buying early is usually wiser than waiting until the last minute.

Getting to Mercedes-Benz Stadium from Around Atlanta

Atlanta traffic can be unpredictable, so plan your route to the stadium in advance.

By MARTA (recommended for many fans)

MARTA is often the easiest and most predictable way to get to Atlanta United games, especially big ones like vs. New York Red Bulls.

  • Closest stations:
    • GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Line)
    • Vine City Station (Blue/Green Line)
  • Both are a short walk to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

If you’re staying in Midtown, Downtown, or near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, you can typically ride the Red or Gold Line into central Atlanta and transfer to reach the stadium.

Driving & Parking

If you choose to drive:

  • The stadium is right off Interstate 20 and Interstates 75/85 near the downtown connector.
  • There are multiple official parking lots and decks around the stadium area, plus independent lots in the surrounding blocks.

Common considerations for Atlanta locals:

  • Arrive early for high-demand games like New York Red Bulls to avoid long waits near kickoff.
  • Expect post-game congestion, especially onto the main interstates.
  • Compare parking near Castleberry Hill or further from the stadium if you prefer a short walk instead of dealing with the closest, busiest lots.

Rideshare & Drop-Off

Rideshare services typically use designated pickup and drop-off zones near the stadium. These zones can change periodically, so check on current event-day maps before you go.

If you’re staying at a Downtown or Midtown hotel, walking or combining a short ride with MARTA is often easier than having a car.

What to Expect on Matchday in Atlanta

Atlanta United home games, especially against a conference opponent like the New York Red Bulls, are a full experience—more than just 90 minutes on the field.

Pre-game atmosphere

Around Downtown and Castleberry Hill, you may see:

  • Supporters marching to the stadium
  • Fans gathering at restaurants and bars before kickoff
  • People wearing Atlanta United scarves, jerseys, and flags

Most fans like to arrive 60–90 minutes before kickoff to soak in the atmosphere, find their seats, and avoid lines.

Inside the stadium

Common features that stand out for visitors and new locals:

  • Supporters’ section: Constant singing, drumming, and flags
  • Tifos (large banners) for major games
  • Stadium food and drink options, including “fan-friendly” pricing that has been a major talking point in Atlanta sports

If you’re bringing children or someone new to soccer, the energy is usually high but still accessible, especially in sideline or upper-deck seating.

Watching Atlanta United vs. New York Red Bulls Without Going to the Stadium

If you live in Atlanta but don’t plan to attend in person, there are still plenty of ways to connect with the game.

Broadcast & streaming

Atlanta United matches, including games against the New York Red Bulls, are typically available through:

  • National streaming platforms contracted with MLS
  • Occasional national TV games when the matchup is considered particularly attractive

Because broadcast arrangements can change season to season, verify closer to matchday how that specific game is being shown.

Local watch experiences

In metro Atlanta, soccer fans often gather at:

  • Sports bars in Midtown, Downtown, East Atlanta, and surrounding neighborhoods
  • Official and unofficial supporters’ group watch parties

These venues can provide a stadium-like environment with chanting, singing, and coordinated reactions—especially for higher-profile opponents like the New York Red Bulls.

Bringing Kids or New Fans to the Game in Atlanta

If you’re introducing someone to MLS or to Atlanta United, games against the New York Red Bulls can be a great choice because they tend to be:

  • High-intensity, with lots of action
  • Surrounded by a lively but generally friendly fan environment
  • Held in a comfortable indoor stadium, which makes weather less of a concern

Tips for families and new attendees:

  • Choose sections where seating is calmer (often sideline or upper-level areas).
  • Arrive early to avoid stress getting through gates.
  • Plan your transportation home before you go, especially with kids or visitors unfamiliar with Atlanta at night.

How This Matchup Fits into Atlanta’s Soccer Culture

Atlanta is widely seen as one of MLS’s most vibrant soccer cities, and the Atlanta United–New York Red Bulls matchup has helped build that reputation.

For Atlanta residents and visitors, these games:

  • Highlight Eastern Conference rivalries
  • Attract big crowds and strong turnout from organized supporters
  • Offer a way to connect with the city’s diverse international community, many of whom follow soccer regularly

If you’re trying to understand soccer’s role in Atlanta’s sports scene, catching an Atlanta United vs. New York Red Bulls game—either in person at Mercedes-Benz Stadium or at a local watch party—is one of the clearest windows into how seriously the city takes the sport.

Quick Planning Checklist for Atlanta United vs. New York Red Bulls in Atlanta

Use this as a simple reference before matchday:

  • Confirm the date and time of the game
  • Verify it’s a home match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (not in New York)
  • Buy tickets early, especially if you want specific sections
  • ✅ Decide: MARTA, driving, or rideshare?
  • ✅ Plan to arrive at least an hour before kickoff
  • ✅ If not attending in person, confirm where the game is being shown (streaming, TV, or local watch party)

By understanding how this matchup works within Atlanta—where the game is played, how to get there, and what to expect—you’ll be able to fully enjoy Atlanta United vs. New York Red Bulls whether you’re a long-time local or visiting the city for the first time.