Atlanta United Parking: How to Park Smart for Match Day at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

Going to an Atlanta United match is exciting—but parking around Mercedes‑Benz Stadium can be confusing if you’re not prepared. Whether you live in Atlanta or you’re visiting just for the game, understanding your parking options, prices, and traffic patterns will make your match-day experience much smoother.

This guide focuses on Atlanta United parking at and around Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia and nearby access points.

Key Atlanta United Parking Options at a Glance

Quick overview of the main choices for Atlanta United parking:

Understanding the Stadium Area: Where You’re Headed

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium is located just west of downtown Atlanta at:

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

Atlanta United home matches are played here, and most “Atlanta United parking” searches are really about how to park near this stadium.

The stadium is surrounded by a mix of:

• Official stadium-controlled parking decks and surface lots
• Downtown private garages and lots used for events
• Nearby neighborhoods (Vine City, Castleberry Hill, Downtown) with limited street parking and residential restrictions
• MARTA stations and park‑and‑ride lots feeding fans into downtown by rail

Official Atlanta United Parking at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

What “Official” Stadium Parking Means

Official parking includes lots and decks directly managed for events at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium. For Atlanta United matches, these are usually the most clearly marked and easiest to navigate, especially for visitors.

Common official facilities (names and exact access routes can vary by event):

• Red Deck – Typically used for many events; close and mostly covered.
• Silver Deck / Orange Deck / Blue Lot / Other Named Lots – Various proximity and pricing; usually labeled on event parking maps.
• Designated RV or oversized vehicle areas (select events only, and often limited).

These decks and lots generally open a few hours before kickoff and close after the event. Check posted event guidelines for exact times if you need extended time downtown.

How to Reserve Official Parking

For most Atlanta United games, fans can:

• Pre-purchase parking for a specific deck or lot through official stadium or ticketing channels.
• Sometimes purchase day-of-event parking at the entrance, though this is much more limited and may be higher priced.

Why pre-reserving is smart:

• Locks in a spot near the stadium.
• Lets you pick a lot based on which direction you’re coming from (e.g., from I‑75/I‑85 north vs. south vs. I‑20).
• Often speeds up entry since attendants are expecting prepaid passes.

Off-Site Parking Near Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

If official Atlanta United parking is sold out or feels too expensive, off-site parking can be a workable alternative.

Common Off-Site Parking Areas

Within walking distance of Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, you’ll typically find:

• Downtown Atlanta garages along or near:
  • Marietta St NW
  • Andrew Young International Blvd NW
  • Ted Turner Dr NW
  • Spring St NW
  • Luckie St NW
• Lots bordering Vine City and Castleberry Hill, often run by parking companies during events.
• Multi-level parking decks near State Farm Arena and the CNN Center area.

Walking times can range from 5 to 20 minutes depending on where you park.

Tips When Choosing an Off-Site Lot

• Check the walk: Make sure the walking route to the stadium is well-lit and uses main streets.
• Pay close attention to signage: Look for clearly posted game‑day rates and event notices.
• Have a backup plan: If a lot is full, you may need to loop around a few blocks or head to a different direction from the stadium.
• Know your exit route: Before you park, think about how you’ll get back on I‑85, I‑75, or I‑20 without driving right past the stadium if you’re trying to avoid the heaviest traffic.

Using MARTA for Atlanta United Games (Parking + Rail)

If you’d rather avoid driving all the way into downtown, MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) is often the easiest way to get to an Atlanta United match.

Key MARTA Stations for the Stadium

• GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Line)

  • Provides direct access to Mercedes‑Benz Stadium.
  • Follow the stadium signage once exiting the station.

• Vine City Station (Blue/Green Line)

  • Also very close to the stadium, especially convenient from the west side.

Park-and-Ride Lots

Many Atlantans park further out from downtown and take MARTA in. Common park‑and‑ride locations include:

• North Springs Station (Red Line) – North of the city.
• Sandy Springs / Dunwoody / Medical Center Stations – Red Line options in the northern corridor.
• Indian Creek Station (East Line).
• College Park and East Point Stations (South Line).

Most MARTA park‑and‑ride lots offer free or low‑cost parking for riders, but always review posted rules at the lot.

Why MARTA Can Be the Best “Parking” Strategy

• You avoid downtown gridlock before and after the match.
• No need to worry about finding a spot or navigating multiple one‑way streets.
• Trains are typically busy but frequent around major matches.

👍 Tip: Aim to arrive on MARTA at least 60–90 minutes before kickoff to allow for crowds, security lines, and walking into the stadium.

Rideshare, Drop-Off, and Pick-Up for Atlanta United Matches

If you don’t want to park at all, rideshare (Uber, Lyft, taxis) can be a convenient option, though you’ll still need to navigate traffic.

Where Rideshare Typically Operates

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium usually sets up:

• Designated drop‑off zones before the match.
• Specific pickup areas after the event to manage traffic flow.

These are generally a short walk from the stadium rather than right at the front doors, to keep vehicles from clogging stadium entrances. Event signage and staff usually direct you to the correct zone.

Rideshare Tips

• Expect surge pricing near match time and immediately after final whistle.
• Walk a block or two away from the densest crowd before ordering a ride when leaving.
• Make sure your pickup pin is clearly set to the correct side of the stadium or the designated rideshare area.

ADA & Accessible Parking for Atlanta United Games

For fans who need accessible parking near Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, some ADA‑compliant spaces are available in official lots and decks.

What to Know

• A valid state-issued disability placard or license plate is required to use ADA spaces.
• ADA spots are often located in official stadium lots closer to accessible entrances.
• Spaces can fill quickly, especially for popular matches, so arrive early.

If you have specific mobility needs, check for:

• Drop-off options closer to ADA entrances.
• Wheelchair or mobility assistance inside the stadium once you arrive.

For additional accessibility information, you can contact:

Mercedes‑Benz Stadium Guest Services (Atlanta)
Phone: Typically available through the stadium’s main information line (search “Mercedes‑Benz Stadium guest services Atlanta” for current contact details).

Ask specifically about Atlanta United match accessibility and parking.

Street Parking Around Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

Many visitors wonder if they can simply park on the street near the stadium for Atlanta United games.

Is Street Parking an Option?

Limited, and often not recommended during major events because:

• Many streets have event restrictions, time limits, or resident-only rules.
• Several nearby neighborhoods, including parts of Vine City and Castleberry Hill, have permit parking or enforcement during events.
• Illegal parking can lead to ticketing or towing, which is actively enforced during high-attendance events.

If you choose street parking:

• Read every sign on the block carefully, including temporary event signs.
• Avoid parking too close to driveways, hydrants, corners, and crosswalks.
• Plan for a longer walk and possibly dimly lit areas on the way back.

Timing Your Arrival and Departure

When to Arrive for an Atlanta United Match

If you’re driving and parking:

• Aim to park 60–90 minutes before kickoff.
• For very popular matches or weekend games, earlier can be better, especially if you want easier entry, tailgating time, or a less stressful walk.

If you’re using MARTA:

• Plan to be on a train that arrives at GWCC/CNN Center or Vine City at least 60 minutes before kickoff.

Leaving After the Match

Traffic is usually heavy for 30–60 minutes after full time, especially:

• On streets immediately east and south of the stadium.
• At downtown interstate entrances (I‑75/I‑85, I‑20).

To make your exit smoother:

• Consider staying in your seat a few extra minutes to let crowds thin out.
• If parked in a deck, expect a slow exit and follow attendee and police directions.
• If using MARTA, allow for crowded platforms and trains immediately after the final whistle; sometimes waiting for the next train makes for a more comfortable ride.

Practical Parking Strategies Based on Where You’re Coming From

If You’re Coming from North Atlanta (Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta)

• Consider MARTA from North Springs, Sandy Springs, or Dunwoody and transfer to the Blue/Green line downtown.
• If driving all the way, look for official lots on the north or northwest side of the stadium to avoid circling the entire complex.

From the East (Decatur, Stone Mountain, East Atlanta)

• Park at Indian Creek or Kensington MARTA stations (if convenient) and ride into GWCC/CNN Center.
• Or drive I‑20 west, but plan which downtown exit you’ll take (such as Spring St/Capitol Ave or MLK Jr. Dr) and target decks on the east side of the stadium area.

From the West or Southwest (Douglasville, West End, Cascade)

• Vine City station is a very convenient MARTA option from the west.
• If driving, watch for lots along Northside Dr NW and nearby streets, which often serve as game‑day parking.

From the South (College Park, South Fulton, Hapeville)

• College Park or East Point MARTA stations can be easier than driving I‑85/75 the whole way.
• If driving, consider official lots on the south or southeast side of the stadium, depending on your preferred exit route.

Safety and Security Considerations

Atlanta United matches attract large, lively crowds. To keep parking and walking to and from the match safe:

• Lock your vehicle and keep valuables out of sight, regardless of where you park.
• Use main, well-lit streets when walking to and from the stadium.
• Pay attention to official event personnel and follow their directions for crossing streets or entering/exiting lots.
• If you’re unfamiliar with downtown Atlanta, consider parking in clearly managed lots or decks rather than unmarked or informal spaces.

Helpful Local Contacts and Resources

When planning Atlanta United parking around Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, these official Atlanta resources can provide current information:

• City of Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT)
  Often manages traffic control plans and road closures for major events.
  68 Mitchell St SW
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Main City Information Line: 404‑330‑6000

• MARTA Customer Service
  For rail schedules, park‑and‑ride information, and station details.
  2424 Piedmont Rd NE
  Atlanta, GA 30324
  Phone: 404‑848‑5000

When calling, mention that you’re attending an Atlanta United match at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium and want to confirm parking, transit, or road closure details for your event day.

Planning Atlanta United parking in Atlanta mostly comes down to choosing between official stadium parking, off-site lots, MARTA, or rideshare, then giving yourself enough time before and after the match. With a clear plan, you can spend less time circling blocks and more time enjoying the match.