Ameris Bank Amphitheatre: Your Guide to North Atlanta’s Big Outdoor Concert Venue

The Ameris Bank Amphitheatre in Alpharetta is one of metro Atlanta’s go-to spots for major concerts, festivals, and summer shows. If you live in Atlanta—or you’re visiting and want to catch a big-name performance—this outdoor venue is likely to be on your radar.

Below is a practical, Atlanta-focused guide to what it is, where it is, how to get there, and how to make the most of your visit.

Where the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre Is and How It Fits into Metro Atlanta

Location:
Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
2200 Encore Parkway
Alpharetta, GA 30009

The amphitheatre sits in North Fulton County, just off GA-400 in Alpharetta, north of the Perimeter. It’s part of a busy corridor that includes Avalon, North Point Mall, and many restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers.

For Atlanta residents, this is often a preferred option over driving to other regional venues because it’s:

• Easily reachable from Buckhead, Sandy Springs, and Dunwoody via GA‑400
• Reasonably close to Johns Creek, Roswell, Cumming, and Milton
• A popular “suburban night out” destination for people who don’t want to deal with downtown parking or event traffic near State Farm Arena or Mercedes‑Benz Stadium

What to Expect at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

The Venue Layout

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre is a semi-open outdoor venue with three main seating areas:

• Covered seats near the stage (reserved seating)
• Tiered reserved seating behind the main floor
• General admission lawn at the top

Most shows are rain or shine, so plan for the weather. The covered sections offer some protection, while the lawn is fully exposed.

Capacity: It’s a large venue designed for big concerts, so expect a crowd and plan accordingly for traffic and lines.

Types of Events You’ll See

You’ll typically find:

• Major concert tours (rock, pop, hip-hop, country, R&B, and more)
• Summer concert series and multi-artist lineups
• Occasional family-friendly shows or themed events

If you live in Atlanta, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre often picks up tours that also hit other large regional venues. It’s a common alternative to going ITP (inside the Perimeter) if you’re in the northern suburbs.

Getting to Ameris Bank Amphitheatre from Around Atlanta

Driving from Different Parts of Metro Atlanta

Most visitors drive to Ameris Bank Amphitheatre. GA‑400 is the main route in.

• From Downtown / Midtown Atlanta

  • Take I‑75/85 North to the I‑85 North split (if needed), then GA‑400 North
  • Exit near Encore Parkway / Mansell Road area (follow posted signs to the amphitheatre)

• From Buckhead / Brookhaven

  • Get on GA‑400 North from Lenox Road, Peachtree Road, or I‑285
  • Continue north until you reach the Alpharetta exits

• From Sandy Springs / Dunwoody

  • Connect to GA‑400 North from I‑285 or surface streets
  • Then follow GA‑400 to the amphitheatre exits

• From East Atlanta / Decatur

  • Take I‑285 around to GA‑400 North
  • Continue up GA‑400 to Alpharetta

• From Cobb County / Marietta / Smyrna

  • Use I‑285 East to connect to GA‑400 North
  • Then follow GA‑400 north to the venue

📌 Tip: On concert nights, GA‑400 can back up heavily near the exits serving Alpharetta and the venue. Plan extra time, especially for Friday and weekend shows.

Public Transit and Rideshare

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre is not directly served by MARTA rail, but there are a few options:

• MARTA Bus + Rideshare:

  • You can take the MARTA Red Line to North Springs Station in Sandy Springs.
  • From there, you may use rideshare (such as taxis or app-based rides) to reach the amphitheatre. This is a common workaround for people staying closer to the city who don’t want to drive all the way.

• Rideshare / Taxi Directly to Venue:

  • For many Atlanta residents, using rideshare directly from home is often easier than driving and parking, especially if you plan to stay late.
  • The venue typically has designated drop-off and pick-up areas; follow on-site signs and staff directions.

Parking at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

General Parking

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre typically has large on-site parking areas. On big show nights, these lots can fill and back up, especially for early evening shows.

Common considerations:

• Parking may be included with your ticket or separately charged, depending on how tickets are sold for that show.
• There are usually different lots based on your ticket type and arrival route.
• Signage and staff will direct you where to go; it helps to know your entry gate in advance.

Accessible Parking

The venue usually offers accessible parking for guests with valid disability credentials. Spots can fill, so arriving early is helpful. If you need mobility assistance or have specific accessibility needs, it’s wise to check policies or contact the venue prior to the event.

Tickets, Seating, and Choosing the Right Spot

Ticket Types You’ll Commonly See

You’ll generally find:

• Reserved Seating:

  • Numbered seats under the roof and in the lower and middle bowl.
  • Best if you want a guaranteed view and don’t want to bring lawn gear.

• Lawn Tickets (General Admission):

  • Open-grass seating area at the back.
  • First-come, first-served space—bring a blanket or low-profile chair if allowed.
  • Often the most budget-friendly option.

• Premium / Box / VIP Options:

  • Certain sections or packages may include better viewing, dedicated entrances, or other conveniences.
  • Availability and details depend on the show.

Lawn vs. Reserved: Which Works Best for Atlanta Locals?

• Choose Lawn if:

  • You’re okay with a casual, picnic-style setup
  • You want a more social vibe with friends
  • You don’t mind a less direct view of the stage

• Choose Reserved Seating if:

  • You prefer a clear view and don’t want to stand the whole time
  • You want to avoid rushing early to secure a good lawn spot
  • You’re going with family or someone who needs easier seating access

What You Can (and Usually Can’t) Bring

Every show can have slightly different rules, but typical outdoor amphitheatre policies around Atlanta often include:

Commonly Allowed (check for updates):

• Small bags or clear bags within specific size limits
• Blankets for the lawn
• Low-profile lawn chairs (often with height restrictions)
• Sealed water bottles (sometimes limited to one per person)

Commonly Restricted or Prohibited:

• Large bags, coolers, or outside alcohol
• Professional cameras with detachable lenses
• Weapons or sharp objects
• Umbrellas that block views

Because policies can vary by event, it’s wise for Atlanta concertgoers to verify current rules closer to the show date.

Food, Drinks, and Nearby Dining Options

On-Site Concessions

Inside the amphitheatre, you can expect:

• Standard venue concessions like burgers, hot dogs, nachos, and snacks
• A variety of drinks, including non-alcoholic options and alcoholic beverages for attendees of legal drinking age
• Multiple stands spread throughout the concourse to reduce wait times, though lines are common during peak pre-show and intermission periods

Eating Nearby Before or After the Show

One of the advantages of Ameris Bank Amphitheatre is its proximity to major dining hubs in North Fulton:

• Avalon (Alpharetta) – Upscale mixed-use district with restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and dessert spots
• Downtown Alpharetta – Growing restaurant scene with local eateries, breweries, and casual dining
• North Point Parkway Corridor – Chain restaurants and fast-casual options

Many Atlantans make a night of it by eating at Avalon or downtown Alpharetta, then heading over to the amphitheatre.

Neighborhood Feel and Nearby Attractions

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre is located in a suburban, mixed-use area:

• Close to shopping, hotels, and offices
• Short drive to Big Creek Greenway trails for walking and biking
• Accessible to nearby communities like Johns Creek, Roswell, and Milton

For out-of-town visitors staying in Atlanta, you can choose to:

• Stay ITP (in Midtown, Buckhead, or Downtown) and drive or rideshare up for the show, or
• Stay near Alpharetta / Avalon if your main reason for visiting is a concert and you prefer less time on the highway.

Accessibility and Guest Services

The amphitheatre typically offers:

• Accessible seating areas for guests with mobility needs
• Accessible restrooms and pathways
• On-site staff who can assist with seating, directions, or basic concerns

If you or someone in your group needs special assistance, it’s a good idea to:

• Look for accessibility information when purchasing tickets
• Arrive early to avoid rushing through crowds
• Plan drop-off and parking with extra time in mind

Simple Snapshot for Atlanta Visitors

Practical Tips for Atlanta Locals and Visitors

• Plan for traffic: GA‑400 and Encore Parkway can slow significantly before and after shows.
• Check your gate and parking lot: Knowing where you’re supposed to enter can save time and walking.
• Dress for the weather: It’s an outdoor venue—Atlanta humidity, summer thunderstorms, and cool fall evenings can all come into play.
• Arrive early for the lawn: If you bought general admission lawn tickets and want a good spot, getting in line early helps.
• Have a post-show plan: Whether you’re driving back inside the Perimeter or staying near Alpharetta, expect extended exit times and consider grabbing a late-night snack nearby while traffic thins out.

For anyone in Atlanta who loves live music, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre is one of the major places to see touring artists in a comfortable, outdoor setting—especially during spring, summer, and early fall.