Atlanta Falcons Football: How to Experience the NFL in Atlanta

The Atlanta Falcons are more than just an NFL team—they’re a major part of Atlanta’s identity and weekend routine for many residents and visitors. Whether you’re planning your first game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, following the team from a local sports bar, or just trying to understand how NFL football fits into life in Atlanta, this guide walks you through what you need to know.

The Atlanta Falcons at a Glance

The Atlanta Falcons are Atlanta’s professional football team in the National Football League (NFL). Their regular season runs from September through early January, with preseason games in August and possible playoff games in January.

Key basics:

• Home stadium: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, 1 AMB Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Conference: NFC (National Football Conference)
• Division: NFC South
• Typical game days: Mostly Sundays, with occasional Monday or Thursday night games
• Fan base: Strong local support from across metro Atlanta, with many families, alumni groups, and long-time season ticket holders

For Atlanta residents, the Falcons season often sets the rhythm for fall weekends—tailgates, downtown traffic patterns, and even neighborhood watch parties.

Where the Falcons Play: Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Location and Basics

Mercedes-Benz Stadium sits on the west side of downtown Atlanta, right next to the Georgia World Congress Center and State Farm Arena.

• Address: 1 AMB Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Neighborhood: Downtown / Vine City area
• Primary uses: Atlanta Falcons (NFL), Atlanta United FC (MLS), concerts, major events

If you live in or are visiting Atlanta, planning how you’ll get to and from the stadium is one of the most important parts of your game-day experience.

Getting to Falcons Games

Using MARTA (Recommended for Most Fans)

Public transit is often the easiest way to get to a Falcons game, especially if you want to avoid parking costs and traffic.

Closest MARTA stations:

• GWCC/CNN Center Station (Blue/Green Lines):
  Short walk to the stadium’s main entrances.
• Vine City Station (Blue/Green Lines):
  Useful for fans approaching from the west side; also a short walk.

Tips for MARTA on game days:

• Load your Breeze Card or purchase fare before game day if possible.
• Trains typically run more frequently for major events.
• Plan extra time—stations can be crowded before kickoff and right after the game.

Driving and Parking

Driving may be more convenient if you’re coming from the suburbs without easy MARTA access, but you’ll need to plan carefully.

Parking realities:

• Parking lots and decks around the stadium and downtown can fill quickly.
• Prices and availability vary by event and location.
• Some fans prefer to reserve parking in advance through official channels or nearby decks.

Common parking areas include lots around:

• Georgia World Congress Center
• State Farm Arena area
• Various private decks in downtown and the Luckie Marietta District

If you’re not familiar with downtown one-way streets and event traffic patterns, consider arriving earlier than you think you need to.

Rideshare and Drop-Off

Rideshare (Uber, Lyft, and taxis) is widely used in Atlanta on game days.

• There are designated pickup/drop-off zones around the stadium area.
• Surge pricing can occur right after games; some fans walk a few blocks away from the stadium before requesting a ride.

Buying Atlanta Falcons Tickets

How Most Locals Get Tickets

Atlanta residents typically buy Falcons tickets in a few ways:

• Single-game tickets through official NFL ticket platforms
• Season tickets for fans who attend regularly
• Verified resale tickets for sold-out or premium matchups
• Group tickets for corporate outings, schools, or large friend groups

Prices vary based on:

• Opponent and game importance
• Seat location (lower level vs. upper level vs. club)
• Time of season (early vs. late season games)
• Day and time (Sunday afternoon vs. prime-time night game)

If you’re flexible on opponent and date, you can often find more affordable upper-level seats, which still provide a good view thanks to the stadium’s design.

Game-Day Ticket Tips for Atlanta Visitors

• If you’re visiting from out of town, check the Falcons home schedule before you book travel.
• Be aware of clear bag policies and entry requirements before buying tickets for a large group.
• Last-minute tickets are common, but prime games (division rivals, key late-season matchups) can be limited or more expensive.

What to Expect Inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Seating and Viewing Experience

Mercedes-Benz Stadium is designed with:

• A retractable roof that can be open or closed depending on weather and event
• A massive 360-degree “Halo Board” video screen around the top of the field
• Multiple levels of seating, including club and suite areas

Even upper-level seats generally have good sightlines. If you’re bringing children or someone new to football, aim for a view between the end zones (the “sideline” sections) for easier understanding of the action.

Food and Drinks

The stadium is known for its fan-friendly pricing on certain concessions, which many locals appreciate.

You’ll typically find:

• Classic favorites (hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels, pizza)
• Local-style options and specialty stands
• Full bars and beer stands in most concourse areas

Expect crowds at concession stands around halftime and between quarters; going just before or after those times is often faster.

Clear Bag Policy and Security

Like most NFL venues, security is strict:

• Only small clear bags or very small clutches are generally allowed.
• All guests go through metal detectors.
• Certain items (large umbrellas, outside food/drink, professional cameras, etc.) may not be allowed.

Check the up-to-date stadium policies before heading downtown, especially if you’re arriving with kids, strollers, or special items.

Game-Day Atmosphere in Atlanta

Tailgating and Pre-Game

Tailgating culture in Atlanta is active but more spread out than in some older stadium locations.

Common pre-game options:

• Tailgates in designated parking lots around the stadium
• Bars and restaurants in Downtown, Castleberry Hill, and the Luckie Marietta District
• Fan events in and around The Home Depot Backyard, the large green space adjacent to the stadium (used for fan activities and recreation on non-event days)

If you want a lower-stress experience, many fans arrive 60–90 minutes before kickoff, walk around the concourse, grab food, and watch teams warm up from their seats.

Noise Level and Family Friendliness

Falcons games can be loud, especially for big divisional matchups or national TV games.

• Noise: Indoors, with crowd noise echoing—families often bring ear protection for younger kids.
• Families: Many Atlanta families attend; you’ll see children and multi-generation groups in most sections.
• Energy: Varies by game and opponent, but downtown usually feels noticeably busier on home game days.

Where to Watch Falcons Games Around Atlanta (If You Don’t Go to the Stadium)

Not everyone wants to fight downtown traffic, and many locals prefer watching at home or at local spots.

At Home in Atlanta

Most games are available through:

• Local broadcast channels for Sunday day games
• National networks for prime-time and major matchups
• NFL-specific streaming or cable packages for out-of-market games

In Atlanta, good reception for local channels is common in most of the metro area, especially if you’re using a modern antenna.

Sports Bars and Local Hangouts

Across the metro, you’ll find sports bars and restaurants that prioritize Falcons games on their screens, especially:

• Downtown and Midtown
• Buckhead
• West Midtown and the Upper Westside
• Suburban centers like Sandy Springs, Marietta, and Decatur

Crowds can be heavy for rivalry and late-season games, so locals often arrive early or call ahead for large groups.

Falcons Season Timing and How It Fits Atlanta Life

Annual Calendar Overview

Here’s a simplified look at how the Falcons fit into the Atlanta sports calendar:

In Atlanta, this overlaps with other local teams (like Atlanta United FC, the Hawks, and Braves), so the city can feel especially busy during crossover months.

Impact on Traffic and Downtown Activity

On Falcons home game days, you can expect:

• Heavier traffic on interstates leading into downtown (I-75/85, I-20)
• Crowds around the stadium, Centennial Olympic Park area, and nearby attractions
• Limited street parking and busier MARTA trains

If you’re not going to the game but need to be downtown, plan extra time or consider alternate routes.

Falcons Merchandise and Team Gear in Atlanta

Where Locals Typically Shop

If you want official Falcons gear while you’re in Atlanta, popular options include:

• Team stores inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium (open on game days and some non-event days)
• Major sporting goods stores across the metro area
• Portions of other retail stores that carry NFL gear seasonally

Common items:

• Jerseys and T-shirts
• Hats and beanies
• Flags, car decals, and home décor items

During playoff pushes or strong seasons, Falcons gear becomes especially visible in malls, big-box stores, and neighborhood shops.

Bringing Kids or First-Time Fans to a Falcons Game

Practical Tips for Families

If you’re bringing children or someone new to American football:

• Choose a day game if possible; earlier start times are easier for families.
• Plan for ear protection for younger children because of the noise.
• Review the bag policy and stroller options in advance.
• Consider seats slightly higher up, where aisles can be less busy and views more complete.

Many Atlanta families introduce kids to the Falcons with preseason games, which can be more casual and slightly less intense than regular-season matchups.

How the Falcons Fit Into Atlanta’s Sports Culture

For many Atlantans, the Falcons are:

• A shared conversation topic at work and school during the fall
• A reason for neighborhood gatherings and barbecues
• A piece of the city’s identity on national TV, especially in prime-time games

The team’s history includes memorable highs and tough lows, and long-time residents often have strong opinions about classic players, past seasons, and coaching changes. If you’re new to Atlanta, getting familiar with the Falcons is an easy way to connect with locals.

Key Takeaways for Experiencing the Atlanta Falcons in Atlanta

• The Atlanta Falcons play home games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in downtown Atlanta.
• MARTA is often the simplest way to reach games, especially from inside the Perimeter.
• Expect increased traffic and crowds around downtown on home game days.
• The stadium offers a modern, indoor football experience with family-friendly options.
• You can enjoy Falcons games at home, at the stadium, or at sports bars and restaurants all over the metro area.

Whether you live in Atlanta or are just visiting, planning ahead—transportation, tickets, timing, and comfort—will help you get the most out of Falcons football in the city.