Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons since 2017, stands as a testament to modern stadium design and fan experience. As one of the newest and most advanced venues in the NFL, its construction and features have garnered significant attention. This article delves into the details of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, exploring what makes it a standout destination and examining the investment behind its creation.
The stadium is not just a venue; it’s an architectural marvel. Its signature retractable roof, composed of five steel “petals” weighing 4,000 tons, can open and close, creating a unique circular opening at the stadium’s apex. Adding to the immersive experience is the massive 62,000-square-foot Halo video board that encircles the field, providing unparalleled views for fans from every seat.
Before Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Falcons called Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium home from 1966 to 1991, followed by the Georgia Dome from 1992 to 2016. This latest move marked a significant upgrade, reflecting Atlanta’s growth as a major sports city and the commitment of owner Arthur Blank, who also owns MLS’ Atlanta United, which shares the stadium. The reported Cost Mercedes Benz Stadium incurred for construction was a staggering $1.6 billion, a figure that underscores the ambition and scale of this project. Beyond NFL and MLS games, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a versatile venue, regularly hosting high-profile college football games and set to welcome eight FIFA World Cup matches in 2026, further justifying its substantial investment.
Insider Insights into Mercedes-Benz Stadium
To truly appreciate the Mercedes-Benz Stadium experience, understanding some insider tips can significantly enhance your visit.
Must-See 2024 Game: Falcons vs. Kansas City Chiefs, September 22
For those planning a visit in 2024, mark your calendars for September 22nd. Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host a highly anticipated “Sunday Night Football” clash between the Atlanta Falcons and the reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. This matchup is a highlight of the NFL season and a prime opportunity to witness top-tier football in Atlanta. Interestingly, the Chiefs’ last game in Atlanta was on December 4, 2016, during the Falcons’ final season at the Georgia Dome, before Patrick Mahomes’ ascent to NFL stardom.
Embrace the Fan Tradition: The Train Horn
A unique and spirited tradition at Falcons games is the train horn. Before each home game, a celebrity fan has the honor of pulling the train horn. This tradition is a nod to Atlanta’s history as a railroad hub, founded in the 1830s as the starting point of a railroad to the Midwest. Over the years, notable figures like Big Boi, Dr. Bernice King, former President Jimmy Carter, Chipper Jones, and Michael Vick have participated in this pre-game ritual, adding to the game day atmosphere.
Josh Kendall’s Stadium Highlight: Dining Variety & Value
Arthur Blank’s emphasis on hospitality is evident in the diverse dining options available at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. From premium selections like rack of ribs and carne asada fries to incredibly affordable fan-favorite staples, there’s something for every palate and budget. Notably, Mercedes-Benz Stadium offers some of the most affordable staple concessions in the NFL. For just $20, fans can enjoy a slice of pizza, a hot dog, chicken strips with fries, popcorn, a regular soft drink, a pretzel, and cheese nachos – an exceptional value in a modern stadium setting.
Image alt text: Fantasy Football 2024 guide advertisement banner for Mercedes-Benz Stadium visitors.
Stadium Ranking: A Top-Tier NFL Venue
The Athletic’s stadium ranking placed Mercedes-Benz Stadium at an impressive 8th out of 30 NFL venues in August 2023. Despite its relative newness and the Falcons’ on-field performance not always matching the stadium’s grandeur, it consistently ranks high among fans and critics. Jon Machota noted in his ranking that Mercedes-Benz Stadium surprisingly doesn’t receive more widespread acclaim, highlighting that it appeared in the top five on 12 ballots and ranked fifth on seven. He also pointed out a significant drop-off in rankings after Mercedes-Benz Stadium, underscoring its position as a truly elite venue. The stadium compensates for any perceived lack of traditional football nostalgia with its state-of-the-art amenities and user-friendly design.
Fan Game Day Wisdom
To get the most out of your Mercedes-Benz Stadium experience, consider these tips directly from NFL fans:
Best Value Seating:
“The first 10 rows of the 300 section at the 50-yard line. Provides a great view of the field, and the halo board is awesome (and easily seen).” – Gabe C. This section offers a balanced perspective of the entire field and optimal viewing of the Halo video board without breaking the bank.
Must-Try Food:
“The Mac Shac” on the 100 level. $11 gets you mac and cheese, a BBQ meat and all the toppings you could want. I get it almost every Atlanta United or Falcons game I attend.” – Nick T. “The Mac Shac” is a fan favorite for its customizable and hearty mac and cheese bowls, offering great value and flavor.
Top Beer Spot:
“The beer islands on every concourse or the 100-yard bar on the 300 level.” – Ben R. With multiple beer islands throughout the concourses and a dedicated 100-yard bar on the 300 level, finding a refreshing beverage is convenient and quick, no matter where you are in the stadium.
Prime Photo Location:
“Outside Section 101/136, in the plaza overlooking the field, or the AT&T perch on the 200 level.” – Nick T. These locations offer stunning backdrops for photos, whether you want a field view or a unique stadium perspective from the AT&T perch.
Kid-Friendly Activities:
“Lots of activation points like the Mercedes F1 display that’s pretty cool.” – Ben R. Beyond the game, Mercedes-Benz Stadium provides engaging activities for younger fans, including interactive displays like the Mercedes F1 exhibit, making it a family-friendly destination.
Best Tailgating Location:
“The Home Depot Lot in the superfan section. Right next to the stadium, great view of Atlanta and tons of activity.” – Gabe C. The Home Depot Backyard, adjacent to the stadium, is the premier tailgating spot, known for its vibrant atmosphere, city views, and proximity to the stadium entrance.
Essential Game Day Information
Planning your visit to Mercedes-Benz Stadium? Here’s what you need to know:
Stadium Address: 1 AMB Drive NW, Atlanta, Ga. 30313.
Year Opened: 2017.
Roof: Retractable.
Playing Surface: FieldTurf.
Stadium Capacity: 71,000.
2023 Average Attendance: 69,603 per game (Pro Football Reference data).
Tickets: The average StubHub ticket cost mercedes benz stadium events is around $284 for a 2024 NFL game. Season tickets are currently sold out for 2024, with a waiting list requiring a $100 deposit. Permanent Seat Licenses (PSLs) started at $650 this year.
Bag Policy: Ensure you adhere to the clear bag policy. Permitted bags include clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags not exceeding 12″ x 6″ x 12″, such as clear backpacks, fanny packs, and cinch bags. Non-clear purses, bags, clutches, and fanny packs smaller than 4.5″ x 6.5″ are allowed after inspection.
Outside Food Policy: No outside food or beverages are permitted, except for one unsealed, plastic, non-flavored water bottle per person. Exceptions are made for plastic bottles of formula or milk and small snacks for parents with young children, and medically necessary food items approved by security.
ADA Accessibility: Mercedes-Benz Stadium is committed to accessibility, with at least 1% of seats wheelchair accessible. For detailed information on ADA services, visit www.mercedesbenzstadium.com/guidelines.
Tailgating Policy: The official tailgating area is The Home Depot Backyard, opening 4.5 hours before games and closing 2 hours after. Tailgating is allowed until 30 minutes after game start.
Parking: Beyond The Home Depot Backyard, numerous parking lots are available around the stadium, though not directly managed by Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Transportation: Various transportation options include driving, rideshare services, and MARTA rail and bus lines, offering convenient access to the stadium.
Learn More: For comprehensive details, visit the official Mercedes-Benz Stadium website: www.mercedesbenzstadium.com/.
Scoop City Newsletter
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Mercedes-Benz Stadium represents a significant investment in Atlanta’s sports and entertainment landscape. The cost mercedes benz stadium incurred reflects its status as a top-tier, multi-purpose venue designed for an exceptional fan experience. From its innovative architecture to its fan-friendly amenities and prime location, it stands as a premier destination for NFL games, soccer matches, and major events, solidifying its value for years to come.
