Things to Do Near Mercedes-Benz Stadium Before Match

Things to do near Mercedes-Benz Stadium before match isn’t about killing time—it’s about avoiding overpriced mistakes and actually enjoying Mercedes-Benz Stadium before kickoff.

You’re in downtown Atlanta. Everything good is walkable—if you know where to go and what to skip.

 Grab Food Without Getting Ripped Off

Skip stadium food unless you enjoy paying $18 for basic fries.

• The Varsity (North Ave, 5-min Uber)
  Cheap, fast, chaotic. Chili dogs + fries under $10. Classic pre-game fuel.
• Der Biergarten (Marietta St, 10-min walk)
  Solid beer, big portions. Expect $15–$25. Good for groups.
• No Mas! Cantina (Walker St, 8-min walk)
  Hidden gem. Better quality than stadium food. Watch for automatic gratuity.

Real talk: Anything right next to the stadium spikes prices on match days. Walk 5–10 minutes out—same food, lower bill.

Related: Is Atlanta safe for tourists World Cup?

 Pre-Game Hangout Spots (No Ticket Needed)

You don’t need to be inside yet. Kill time smart.

• Centennial Olympic Park
  12-minute walk. Open space, street performers, fan vibes. Good for photos.
• State Farm Arena plaza area
  Often has pop-up fan zones, merch stalls, and live music on big match days.
• SkyView Atlanta
  Tourist trap? Slightly. But skyline views are legit. ~$15 per ride.

 Bars Near Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Pre-Match Energy)

If you want atmosphere, not silence:

• Hudson Grille Downtown
  Screens everywhere. Gets packed fast. Arrive early.
• Park Bar (Edgewood Ave)
  Loud, messy, fun. Exactly what a pre-game bar should be.
• Bottle Rocket Fine Food and Beverage
  Slightly more chill. Craft drinks, better crowd.

Warning: Uber surge pricing hits hard 90 minutes before kickoff. Walk if you’re within 1 mile. It’s faster anyway.

Quick Sightseeing (If You’ve Got 1–2 Hours)

Don’t waste time on long attractions.

• Georgia Aquarium
  Massive. But only worth it if you’ve got at least 2 hours.
• World of Coca-Cola
  Quick and touristy. 60–90 minutes max.

Stick to outdoor spots if kickoff is close. Indoor lines get ugly on match days.

 Getting to the Stadium Without Losing Your Mind

• Use MARTA (GWCC/CNN Center Station). Cheapest, fastest.
• Avoid driving unless you pre-book parking. Lots fill up early and charge $40–$80.
• Walking from downtown hotels? 100% the move.

Pro-Tip for Soccertimes Readers

Enter through Gate 2 or Gate 3 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium—they’re less crowded than the main gates. Also, arrive 45–60 minutes before kickoff. That’s the sweet spot: no long security lines, no overpriced last-minute rush, and you actually enjoy the build-up instead of stressing outside.

Bookmark this. It’ll save you money—and your mood—on match day.