Atlanta Dream (WNBA): Your Guide to Atlanta’s Home Team

The Atlanta Dream is Atlanta’s WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association) team and one of the city’s most exciting pro sports experiences. Whether you live in the metro area, plan to visit, or are just learning about women’s basketball in Atlanta, this guide walks you through what you need to know to enjoy a Dream game and follow the team like a local.

Who the Atlanta Dream Are

The Atlanta Dream is Atlanta’s professional women’s basketball team, competing in the WNBA’s Eastern Conference. The team is known for:

• Fast-paced, high-scoring games
• Strong community involvement in Atlanta
• A loud, energetic home-game atmosphere

The Dream has featured All-Star level players and has made multiple WNBA playoff runs, including appearances in the WNBA Finals. For Atlantans, the team is a major part of the city’s growing women’s sports scene.

Where the Atlanta Dream Play in Atlanta

Home Arena

The Atlanta Dream’s home games are played at:

Gateway Center Arena
2000 Convention Center Concourse
College Park, GA 30337

This modern arena is located just south of downtown Atlanta, near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and is easily accessible from many parts of the metro area.

Getting There

By MARTA:

• Take MARTA’s Red or Gold Line to Airport Station.
• Transfer to the ATL SkyTrain to the Gateway Center area.
• From there, follow signage to Gateway Center Arena.

This is often the most convenient option if you’re coming from Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, Sandy Springs, or other MARTA-accessible areas.

By Car:

• From Downtown Atlanta: Take I-85 South toward the airport and follow signs for the Convention Center/College Park area.
• From North Atlanta suburbs: Use I-85 or I-285 depending on your location, then connect toward the airport and follow local signs.

Parking is typically available in lots around the arena. Prices and availability can vary by game, so many fans check details before they go or arrive early to avoid last-minute stress.

Buying Atlanta Dream Tickets

If you’re in Atlanta and want to catch a game, you have a few common options:

• Single-game tickets – Best if you’re visiting or just trying out a game.
• Season tickets – Popular with families and dedicated local fans who attend multiple games.
• Group tickets – Often used by schools, youth teams, companies, and community groups.

Tips for Atlanta Locals and Visitors

• Weeknight vs. weekend games:

  • Weeknight games are good for after-work outings, especially if you’re already near a MARTA line.
  • Weekend games can be more convenient for families and out-of-town visitors.

• Seat location:

  • Lower-level seats put you closer to the action and the players’ bench.
  • Upper-level or corner seats are often more affordable but still offer a solid view in a relatively intimate arena.

• Buying early:
  Big matchups or promotional nights (such as special theme nights) can sell faster. Buying earlier gives you more choice in seating and price.

What to Expect on Game Day

Game-Day Atmosphere

Atlanta Dream games tend to be:

• Family-friendly – You’ll see kids, youth teams, and multi-generational groups.
• High energy – Music, in-game entertainment, and an active crowd.
• Inclusive and community-focused – The organization frequently highlights local causes, youth programs, and Atlanta culture.

Games usually last about two hours, including halftime, so they work well for an evening or afternoon outing.

Food and Concessions

Inside Gateway Center Arena, you’ll typically find:

• Standard arena favorites: burgers, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn
• Soft drinks, water, and alcoholic beverages for adults
• Quick-serve options suitable for families and groups

If you prefer a full meal before or after the game, many fans choose restaurants in:

• Downtown College Park
• East Point
• Airport area hotel districts

These areas offer a mix of casual dining, local spots, and hotel restaurants.

Atlanta Dream Schedule and Season Basics

The WNBA season normally runs from late spring through summer into early fall, making it a great warm-weather sports option in Atlanta.

While exact dates change year to year, the season often includes:

• Preseason games – Sometimes fewer crowds, a good way to see the team up close.
• Regular season games – The majority of home games at Gateway Center Arena.
• Playoff games – If the Dream qualify, these can have a particularly electric atmosphere.

Typical Season Pattern (High-Level)

For the exact schedule, most fans check closer to the start of the season, since dates and tip-off times are updated annually.

Best Seats and Viewing Tips

If you’re trying to pick a great spot in the arena:

• Center-court lower level:
  Ideal for fans who want the best overall view of the action and coaching strategy.

• Behind the basket:
  Great for watching layups, dunks in warmups, and free throws up close.

• Sideline upper level:
  Often more budget-friendly while still offering a clear view of both ends of the court.

👉 Local tip: Many Atlanta-area families like to sit a bit higher up or on the corners so younger kids can move more easily and have a broader view of the court.

Bringing Kids and Families

The Atlanta Dream experience tends to work well for kids and teens:

• Games are generally shorter than many other live events.
• The arena is compact, so it’s easier to manage with children.
• In-game music, contests, and mascot interactions help keep kids engaged.

Some families in Atlanta plan around:

• Earlier tip-offs on weekends for younger children.
• Group outings with youth basketball leagues or school groups.
• Parking closer to the arena when bringing strollers or large bags (always check current bag policies).

Accessibility and Special Accommodations

Gateway Center Arena is designed to support accessible seating and services. Visitors commonly find:

• Designated accessible seating areas
• Ramps and elevators
• Accessible restrooms

If you or someone in your group needs accessibility accommodations, it’s often best to:

• Review seating options when purchasing tickets.
• Arrive a bit early to coordinate entry and seating with arena staff.

Atlanta Dream and the Local Community

The Dream is more than just a pro team; it’s a visible part of Atlanta’s sports and civic identity. The organization has been known for:

• Supporting youth basketball and sports programs in metro Atlanta
• Involvement in local schools and community events
• Highlighting women’s sports and leadership in the city

For Atlanta residents, especially those raising young athletes, the Dream often serves as an example of high-level women’s basketball close to home.

Following the Team from Around Atlanta

If you can’t get to every home game, fans in the Atlanta area commonly keep up with the Dream by:

• Watching televised or streamed games when available
• Listening to local sports coverage that follows WNBA storylines
• Following game recaps, box scores, and highlights through sports news outlets

Many locals combine in-person games with following the team from home, especially during busy summer months or when traffic makes travel harder on weeknights.

Practical Tips for First-Time Attendees

If you’re going to your first Atlanta Dream game, here are a few quick pointers tailored to Atlanta:

• Plan for traffic:
  Southbound routes near the airport can be busy, especially on weekday evenings and holiday weekends. Leave extra time.

• Use MARTA when possible:
  Avoiding parking can make the experience easier, especially if you’re coming from Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead.

• Check bag and security policies before you go:
  Most Atlanta venues have clear bag rules and security checks. Planning ahead can prevent delays at the entrance.

• Layer your clothing:
  Summers in Atlanta are hot, but arenas are air-conditioned. Light layers help you stay comfortable.

• Consider a family or group outing:
  The environment is well-suited to school groups, coworkers, clubs, and extended families.

Key Takeaways for Atlanta Residents and Visitors

• The Atlanta Dream (WNBA) is Atlanta’s professional women’s basketball team and plays home games at Gateway Center Arena in College Park, just south of downtown.
• Games offer a fast-paced, family-friendly experience that fits well into Atlanta’s spring and summer sports calendar.
• Access is convenient via MARTA + SkyTrain or by car, with parking available near the arena.
• The Dream are an important part of Atlanta’s sports culture and community life, especially for fans who want to support women’s professional sports locally.

If you live in Atlanta or are visiting during the WNBA season, attending an Atlanta Dream game is one of the most direct ways to experience high-level basketball and the city’s growing pride in women’s sports.