
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Home of the NFL's Atlanta Falcons, Mercedes-Benz Stadium features a striking retractable petal roof inspired by the Georgia state flower. The first US venue to host a World Cup 2026 match. Known for its famously affordable fan food prices.
Getting There & Away
Transport options to and from the stadium
MARTA Rail (GWCC Station)
TransportMARTA's heavy rail stops at GWCC/CNN Center Station — a 5-minute walk from Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Direct from the airport (15 min, $2.50) and from Midtown/Downtown. Avoid driving — parking is $40-80 and surface streets are gridlocked post-match.
Rideshare Pickup — Gold Lot
TransportDesignated rideshare pickup is the Gold Lot, west of the stadium. Wait times hit 40+ minutes after full-time. Tip: walk 10 minutes to GWCC MARTA station and take the train — it bypasses the surface street gridlock entirely. Last train is around 1am.
Before the Match
Bars, fan zones, and food spots near the stadium
FIFA Fan Festival at The Home Depot Backyard
Fan ZoneThe official FIFA Fan Fest takes over The Home Depot Backyard, the tailgating area west of the stadium. Giant screens, food trucks, sponsor activations, and live music. Free entry. Atlanta's tailgate culture brings the noise — bring your loudest voice.
Ponce City Market Food Hall
RestaurantA restored historic Sears warehouse turned into one of Atlanta's best food halls. You'll find everything from falafel to brisket to tacos under one roof. Head up to the rooftop bar for skyline views before walking over. 15 minutes to the stadium.
Stats Brewing Co.
BarA classic Atlanta sports bar a 10-minute walk from the stadium. Great beer selection, burgers, and wings. Gets packed on matchdays with a good-natured crowd. You can't beat the location — this is the closest proper sports bar to the stadium.
Good Anytime
Attractions and spots worth visiting before or after
Centennial Olympic Park
AttractionBuilt for the 1996 Olympics, the park sits between Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the Georgia Aquarium. Free, open, and a great place to walk off the pre-match energy. The Olympic Rings fountain is a classic photo spot. Watch out for matchday crowds.
Georgia Aquarium
AttractionOne of the world's largest aquariums, a 5-minute walk from the stadium. Whale sharks, belugas, and manta rays. A perfect pre-match activity for families. Book online to skip the queue — it gets busy on matchdays.
After the Match
Nightlife, late food, and safe transport options
Edgewood Avenue
NightlifeAfter the match, head east to Edgewood Avenue — Atlanta's most vibrant nightlife strip outside Buckhead. Dive bars, cocktail lounges, late-night soul food, and hip-hop venues. Sister Louisa's Church of the Living Room is the weirdest, best dive bar you'll ever go to.
