1965
YEAR FALCONS WERE FOUNDED
2017
YEAR MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM OPENED
70,000
MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM CAPACITY
8-9
2025-2026 FINAL SEASON RECORD
ATLANTA FALCONS GAMEDAY GUIDE
The Atlanta Falcons tailgating experience is a lively, community-driven pregame tradition that mixes Southern hospitality, barbecue culture, and serious football energy. While it’s more polished than some older NFL tailgates (thanks to Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s urban location), it’s still one of the better NFL tailgates—especially when the Falcons are hot or playing a rival.
Categories
TAILGATING
WHERE'S THE TAILGATE HUB?
The Home Depot Backyard is the spot for ultimate fans and serves as the primary tailgating location near Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The 11-acre grassed area has plenty of space for tents, trucks, and tailgate setups. Reserve a spot in advance to guarantee you have room! Brands are also known to come here to host giveaways and contests.
WHERE ELSE CAN WE TAILGATE?
Plenty of lots around the stadium welcome tailgaters. Find more old-school style car tailgating in areas like the Gulch and the Blue and Yellow Lots.
WHAT'S ON THE MENU?
Southern barbecue is the star of the show in Atlanta, with smokers and grills firing up ribs, pulled pork, sausages, and more. Drinkable beer and bourbon will be in fans’ coolers as well!
ARE THERE ANY TAILGATE TRADITIONS?
Freddie Falcon is known to make appearances in The Backyard, but fans everywhere will wear costumes, black and red facepaint, and sport their favorite players’ jerseys. Chants of “Rise Up” are also known to break out all day long!
WHEN DOES TAILGATING START?
Fans start gathering 4-5 hours before kickoff, but early risers get the best spots at The Backyard! For a 1pm kickoff, be prepared to go by 9am!
THE STADIUM
WHERE IS THE STADIUM?
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is located in downtown Atlanta at 1 AMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313.
IS IT DOMED?
Mercedes-Benz has a retractable roof–the best of both worlds!
WHERE DO I PARK?
Parking at the Merdedes-Benz lots near the stadium are available for reservation through the ParkHub app, and the stadium recommends you navigate through Waze.
DO I NEED A CLEAR BAG?
You’ll need a bag in accordance with NFL clear bag policy at this stadium.
CAN I USE CASH AT THE GAME?
The stadium only accepts card and mobile payments, no cash.
AROUND ATLANTA
WHERE CAN I EAT/DRINK NEAR THE STADIUM?
Wild Leap Atlanta is a 15-minute walk away, and serves as a go-to for Atlanta United fans before their matches. They brew their own beer and often have food trucks.
Atlantucky is a local joint with their own beers, an art-gallery feel, and freshly baked pizza.
No Mas Cantina is beloved by locals for its great location and delicious Mexican food.
WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO DO DOWNTOWN?
Downtown Atlanta boasts a ton of attractions, like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and the Olympic Park nearby.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium also hosts Atlanta United FC and will be home to 8 World Cup Games in 2026.
Football fans can also see the College Football Hall of Fame just a short walk away.