Mercedes-Benz Stadium - Atlanta United FC
- Dave Cottenie
- Aug 5
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 10
Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey
Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43
Mercedes-Benz Stadium 1 AMB Drive
Atlanta, GA 30313
Year Opened: 2017
Capacity: 42,500
Unite and Conquer
When entering the gates at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for an Atlanta United FC soccer match, one of the items that will catch a fan’s attention is the large banner above the gates that confidently states “Unite & Conquer” in gold lettering on a black background. This slogan aptly describes the life of the Atlanta United Football Club. Taking to the pitch for their first season in 2017, Atlanta United has been a runaway success. They have led Major League Soccer in attendance every season they have played, with the exception of the 2020 Covid 19 season. They have been dubbed the “Loudest Pitch in MLS” according to Newsweek magazine. They even won the MLS Cup in just their second season, 2018. Owned by Home Depot magnate and Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank, Atlanta United FC enjoys a synergy with the NFL that no other MLS club can boast.
The home pitch for Atlanta United is Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Built in 2017, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a modern wonder with a downtown location next to the site of the Georgia Dome, the stadium which it replaced. It is publicly owned by the Georgia World Congress Authority and boasts a capacity of over 42,000 for soccer, which can easily be expanded for larger events. The retractable roof, ring video board and unique design make Mercedes-Benz Stadium one of the most recognizable stadiums in the world.
Food & Beverage 5
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is well known for a variety of concession options including many cheaper options. Fans will have no difficulty finding food options. Some highlights of the menu, to go along with the expected stadium fare, include Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, Tex-Mex options from Moe’s, Capital District Pizza, Chick-Fil-A, and West Nest Chicken. The beer and alcohol selection is large and varied throughout the stadium. Being Atlanta, Coca-Cola products are, of course, the soft drink supplier for Mercedes-Benz Stadium, however, self-serve fountain stations are found throughout. This not only offers value to the consumer, but also reduces lines.
Atmosphere 5
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is one of the most unique and recognizable sports facilities in the world. It all begins on the exterior which features a multi-sided design, which gives it a star-like look to it. The triangular panels are translucent offering plenty of natural light into the stadium. However, a recent development at the stadium has large Mercedes-Benz ads on some of the panels, which take away from the exterior look and make it look cheaper. The pre-game tailgating area is to the north of the stadium, known as the Home Depot Backyard. Upon entering the gates at the east end, fans will find a massive metallic falcon, more a nod to the NFL team than soccer, with a massive Atlanta United scarf draped over its neck. Inside the gates there are a number of pre-match items to keep the interest of fans before heading into the stadium proper. Picture opportunities are plenty at the numerous player jersey standups. There are also a few games fans can play as well as a music stage.
Inside the stadium, fans will be overwhelmed with the massive concourses. The ceilings are high and plenty of natural light comes in through the translucent panels. One would expect the decor inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium to scream Atlanta Falcons. No doubt there are plenty of items that will remind fans of the NFL team, but a refreshing change is the number of items that are Atlanta United and soccer specific. Massive nets holding a plethora of soccer balls hang from the concourse ceiling, framed soccer jerseys high in a permanent location and player murals and collages are some of the notes that state plainly that Mercedes-Benz Stadium is not just where Atlanta United plays, but it is the HOME of Atlanta United. The main team store is packed with all items Atlanta United.
The seating bowl surrounds the Field Turf pitch, which is west to east oriented. The first and second levels of seating are available for soccer matches with the majority of seats curtained off in the third deck. The exception is the west end, which remains open. The eyeline is immediately drawn to the retractable roof and the massive ring LED board just below it. The supporters section is found in the east end and is named The Gulch. The Gulch is the focus of much of the pre-match festivities. The players enter the pitch from the north side, in the traditional manner with both squads side by side. Pyro is part of the east side and the ritual of hammering in The Golden Spike is done at the bottom of The Gulch, signifying the beginning of the match. Overall, there is plenty to keep the attention of fans and it is difficult to imagine an atmosphere that could be better for Major League Soccer.
Neighborhood 5
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is located in Downtown Atlanta, an underrated tourist destination. Being Downtown in a major metropolitan city offers a number of options for pre or post-game food and drink. Some options close by include Max’s Coal Oven Pizza, The Food Shoppe, Sway, Polaris and Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint. There are a bunch of other sporting options in Atlanta. The Atlanta Falcons share Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Atlanta Hawks play right next door at State Farm Arena. Mercedes-Benz Stadium is also the annual home of the Peach Bowl, now part of the College Football Playoff. The Atlanta Braves play outside of the Atlanta city limits in Cumberland. Other options include the Atlanta Dream, Georgia Swarm and Gwinnet Stripers. College sports are also prevalent with Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football, basketball and baseball and Georgia State Panthers football, basketball and baseball among other sports. There are also a ton of other tourist options in Atlanta. Fans should consider checking out the World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, Olympic Park and College Football Hall of Fame. There are plenty of hotel options that are close. The Omni is an iconic Atlanta staple. Other options close by include Holiday Inn, Hyatt and Marriott.
Fans 5
Atlanta United is renowned for having the strongest support in Major League Soccer. Outside of the 2020 season, Atlanta United has led the league in attendance every season. For the 2025 season, Atlanta United remains at the top of the league in attendance averaging over 44,000 at the time of writing. For the match that was reviewed, a disappointing 38,000 was the official attendance, however, the match was on a Wednesday night and the 2025 Atlanta United squad was in 13th place at the time of writing. Although there was definitely not 38,000 fans in the building at the match which was reviewed, it was still very loud and Atlanta United fans have earned their reputation.
Access 4
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is located in Downtown Atlanta, at the northeast corner of MLK Jr Drive and Northside Drive. It is west of Highway I-85 and north of I-20. Getting to the stadium is not too difficult if sufficient time is given, but Atlanta traffic can definitely be an issue. There are a number of surface lots and parking garages downtown. Pre-purchasing parking using an appropriate app is probably the best idea for new fans. The parking deck on Centennial Olympic Park Drive is a very convenient option. For fans wishing to take public transit, the MARTA station is right there. Fans should check the MARTA website for fares, schedules and maps. Inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium, getting around is surprisingly easy given the population at events there. The concourses are large and spacious. The washroom facilities are adequate for the facility.
Stadium Journey recognizes that the security protocols for major sporting events are in constant flux. Stadium Journey strongly recommends consulting Atlanta United FC and Mercedes-Benz Stadium websites for the most up to date security information including prohibited items and bag policy.
Return on Investment 4
Tickets for Atlanta United FC start at $31 and go up to $219. According to the Fan Cost Index, Atlanta United is the 20th most expensive experience in MLS. Ticket prices may be as expensive or higher than other teams in the league, but as compared, concession prices are much lower. Parking can be found for a decent price or public transit is convenient. Fans will definitely have a great time at an Atlanta United match and the return on investment is strong.
Extras 3
An extra mark for the success that Atlanta United FC has enjoyed, vaulting them to the top as one of the premier MLS experiences.
An extra mark for the unique design of Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
An extra mark for Mercedes-Benz Stadium giving fans the feel that it is a true home for Atlanta United FC.
Final Thoughts
When traversing the experiences of Major League Soccer, Atlanta United FC stands out as being in the top echelon. The team has taken an NFL venue and made it their own in a way that no other team has. In the end soccer fans in the USA must put a visit to Mercedes-Benz Stadium at the top end of their bucket list. Unite and Conquer.
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