Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, has rapidly become an iconic landmark in the sports and entertainment world since opening its doors in 2017. As one of the newest and most technologically advanced stadiums in the National Football League (NFL), it offers fans an unparalleled game day experience. But beyond the on-field action and state-of-the-art amenities, many are curious about the financial aspects behind this impressive structure. Let’s delve into the details of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, exploring not just the fan experience but also the significant investment that made it a reality, focusing on the cost of Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
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One of the stadium’s most striking features is its retractable roof, composed of five steel “petals” that weigh a staggering 4,000 tons. This engineering marvel can open and close to create a unique circular opening at the stadium’s apex. Adding to the visual spectacle is the massive 62,000-square-foot Halo video board, encircling the stadium’s interior and providing fans with a constant stream of information and entertainment.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium represents the third home for the Atlanta Falcons since the franchise joined the NFL in 1966. The team previously played at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium from 1966 to 1991 and the Georgia Dome from 1992 to 2016. This move to a new, cutting-edge venue underscores the commitment of owner Arthur Blank to provide world-class facilities for Atlanta’s sports fans. Blank’s ownership extends to Atlanta United FC of Major League Soccer (MLS), who also call Mercedes-Benz Stadium home, highlighting the stadium’s versatility as a multi-purpose venue.
The cost of Mercedes-Benz Stadium was a reported $1.6 billion for construction. This significant investment reflects the stadium’s ambitious design, advanced technology, and premium materials. It’s a testament to the vision of creating not just a sports venue, but a destination. This substantial financial commitment has resulted in a stadium that not only hosts NFL and MLS games but also attracts high-profile college football matchups and is set to host eight prestigious FIFA World Cup matches in 2026, further cementing its global significance.
The Athletic has undertaken an extensive project to create stadium guides for all 32 NFL teams, aiming to equip fans with essential information for an optimal game day. These guides incorporate insights from readers, focusing on aspects like food, beer, and tailgating to ensure fans can maximize their stadium visits.
Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Visit
Don’t Miss Game of the Year: Falcons vs. Kansas City Chiefs, September 22, 2024
Mark your calendars for September 22nd when the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, visit Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a highly anticipated “Sunday Night Football” game. This matchup is a highlight of the 2024 NFL season and a must-see event for football fans in Atlanta. Interestingly, the Chiefs’ last appearance in Atlanta was on December 4, 2016, during the Falcons’ final season at the Georgia Dome, before Patrick Mahomes rose to NFL stardom.
Experience the Iconic Train Horn
A unique Atlanta Falcons tradition involves a celebrity guest sounding a train horn before each home game. This tradition pays homage to Atlanta’s history as a railroad hub in the 19th century. Notable figures who have performed this honor include Big Boi, Dr. Bernice King, former President Jimmy Carter, Chipper Jones, and Michael Vick, adding a touch of local flavor and celebrity excitement to the pre-game atmosphere.
Josh Kendall’s Dining Recommendation: Affordable and Premium Options
Arthur Blank’s emphasis on hospitality is evident in the diverse dining options available at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Fans can indulge in premium selections like rack of ribs and carne asada fries. However, Mercedes-Benz Stadium also distinguishes itself by offering the most budget-friendly staple concessions in the NFL. For around $20, fans can enjoy a slice of pizza, a hot dog, chicken strips with fries, popcorn, a soft drink, a pretzel, and cheese nachos, ensuring that game day is affordable for everyone.
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The Athletic Stadium Ranking: A Top-Tier Venue
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is consistently recognized as one of the top NFL stadiums. In The Athletic‘s 2023 stadium rankings, it secured the 8th position out of 30 NFL venues. Despite its relative newness, which might affect traditional stadium ranking factors, Mercedes-Benz Stadium compensates with its modern amenities, fan-friendly design, and overall ease of navigation. Jon Machota, who conducted the ranking, noted that Mercedes-Benz Stadium received significant praise, consistently appearing in the top five on many ballots, highlighting its strong appeal among stadiumgoers.
Enhance your fantasy football experience with expert insights from The Athletic 2024 Fantasy Football Guide.
Fan-Sourced Game Day Wisdom
The Athletic surveyed NFL fans to gather firsthand advice for attending games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Their recommendations cover seating, food, beer, photo spots, kid-friendly activities, and tailgating, providing valuable insights from seasoned stadium visitors.
Best Value Seating:
For the best combination of view and affordability, fans recommend the first ten rows of the 300 section, particularly near the 50-yard line. This location offers excellent sightlines of the field and unobstructed views of the impressive Halo video board. Gabe C., a fan respondent, highlights this section as the “best bang for your buck.”
Must-Try Food:
Nick T. recommends “The Mac Shac” located on the 100 level for a can’t-miss culinary experience. For approximately $11, fans can savor mac and cheese topped with BBQ meat and a variety of customizable toppings. Nick T. enthusiastically states it’s a regular choice for both Atlanta United and Falcons games.
Top Beer Options:
Ben R. points to the conveniently located “beer islands” on every concourse and the expansive 100-yard bar on the 300 level as the prime spots for beer selection and atmosphere within the stadium.
Ideal Photo Locations:
For memorable photos, Nick T. suggests the area outside Section 101/136, which offers a plaza with field views, or the AT&T Perch on the 200 level for elevated perspectives.
Kid-Friendly Activities:
Mercedes-Benz Stadium provides various engaging activities for young fans, including the Mercedes F1 display, which Ben R. notes as particularly “pretty cool” and interactive.
Premier Tailgating Spot:
Gabe C. recommends The Home Depot Lot, situated in the superfan zone next to the stadium. This location offers a vibrant tailgating atmosphere, excellent views of the Atlanta skyline, and plenty of pre-game excitement.
Essential Information for Your Visit
Stadium Address: 1 AMB Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30313.
Opening Year: 2017.
Roof Type: Retractable.
Playing Surface: FieldTurf.
Stadium Capacity: 71,000.
2023 Average Attendance: 69,603 per game (according to Pro Football Reference).
Ticket Information: The average ticket cost on StubHub for a 2024 NFL game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium is $284. Season tickets are currently sold out for the 2024 season, and the waiting list requires a $100 deposit. Permanent Seat Licenses (PSLs) started at $650 in 2024.
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Bag Policy: Mercedes-Benz Stadium enforces a 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.
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Outside Food and Beverage Policy: Outside food and beverages are generally prohibited, with the exception of one unsealed, plastic, non-flavored water bottle per person. Exceptions are made for parents with small children who may bring plastic bottles of formula or milk and small snacks. Medically necessary food items are allowed upon inspection and approval by security.
Accessibility (ADA): Mercedes-Benz Stadium complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring that at least 1% of seats are wheelchair accessible. Detailed information about accessibility services is available on the stadium’s website.
Tailgating Policy: The Home Depot Backyard is the official tailgating area for Atlanta Falcons games. It opens 4.5 hours before game time and tailgating is allowed until 30 minutes after the game begins, closing two hours post-game.
Parking: Beyond the Home Depot Backyard, numerous parking lots are available in the vicinity, although these are independently operated and not managed by Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Transportation Options: Transportation to the stadium includes driving, rideshare services, and MARTA rail and bus lines.
Learn More: For comprehensive information, visit the official Mercedes-Benz Stadium website.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium stands as a testament to modern stadium design and fan-centric experience, justified by its significant cost of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. From its iconic architecture to its diverse amenities and commitment to fan satisfaction, it offers more than just a game day venue – it provides a complete entertainment destination. As it continues to host major sporting events and cultural moments, Mercedes-Benz Stadium reinforces its position as a premier venue in Atlanta and on the global stage.
The Stadium Guides series is brought to you in partnership with StubHub.
The Athletic maintains full editorial independence in its stadium guides. Partners have no influence over the reporting or editing process.
(Top illustration: Dan Goldfarb / The Athletic; photos: Mark Brown / Getty Images and Robin Alam / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
