Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a state-of-the-art venue in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, is renowned for its impressive architecture, fan-friendly amenities, and, of course, its seating capacity. As a premier destination for major sporting events, concerts, and more, understanding the stadium’s seating configuration is crucial for anyone planning a visit. Whether you’re an Atlanta Falcons fan, an Atlanta United FC supporter, or attending a blockbuster concert, this guide will provide you with a detailed overview of how many seats are in Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the various seating options available.
Step inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium and experience the impressive seating and architectural design of this premier venue in Atlanta
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, opened in August 2017, quickly became an iconic landmark in Atlanta. Serving as the home for both the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United, the stadium is designed to offer an unparalleled experience for a wide range of events. Replacing the Georgia Dome, this modern stadium boasts a retractable roof, a massive halo video board, and a seating arrangement that can be adapted for different events.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium: A History of Innovation and Spectacle
The story of Mercedes-Benz Stadium began with the vision to create a next-generation venue that would not only host major sporting events but also serve as a community hub. Discussions about replacing the Georgia Dome started in 2010, with formal agreements to build a new stadium reached in 2013. Groundbreaking commenced in 2014, and after some delays, Mercedes-Benz Stadium officially opened its doors in August 2017.
One of the stadium’s most distinctive features is its retractable roof, composed of eight triangular panels in a unique pinwheel design, drawing inspiration from the Roman Pantheon’s circular opening. Beneath this innovative roof hangs the Halo, a massive 58-foot by 1,100-foot video board, which was groundbreaking in its size at the time of installation, dwarfing other NFL stadium screens.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium has quickly established itself as a host for prestigious events. Even before completion, it was selected to host Super Bowl LIII in 2019. It annually hosts significant college football games like the SEC Championship, Celebration Bowl, Peach Bowl, and Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets also play a home game there each year. In 2018, it was the venue for the College Football Playoff National Championship.
For soccer fans, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a fortress for Atlanta United FC, consistently breaking MLS attendance records, including the 2018 MLS Cup where over 73,000 fans witnessed Atlanta United’s victory. Looking ahead, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is set to be one of the key U.S. venues for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, further solidifying its status on the global stage.
Beyond sports, the stadium has also become a prominent concert venue, hosting major tours from artists like Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift, whose 2018 concerts drew over 116,000 attendees across two nights.
Parking and Getting to Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Located in Atlanta’s vibrant downtown sports and entertainment district, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is easily accessible. Over 20,000 parking spaces are available within a 20-minute walk, though parking rates vary by event and are managed separately from the stadium. Pre-purchasing parking passes at www.parking.mercedesbenzstadium.com is recommended.
Public transportation is also a convenient option, with the MARTA station located on the northwest side of the stadium, connected via a pedestrian bridge for safe and easy access.
For Mercedes-Benz drivers, a special perk exists: free parking in the Mercedes-Benz Lot by reserving a spot in advance through the ParkMobile app. This lot is located across from The Backyard, at the corner of Magnolia and Northside Dr.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Bag Policy: Know Before You Go
To ensure fan safety and expedite entry, Mercedes-Benz Stadium has a clear bag policy aligned with NFL guidelines. It’s recommended to arrive early, as gates typically open 1.5 hours before kickoff for Falcons and United games (other events may vary). All attendees must pass through metal detectors.
Permitted bags are limited to:
- Clear plastic bags no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- One-gallon resealable clear freezer bags
- Small women’s clutch purses (4.5″ x 6.5″ or smaller)
- Medically necessary bags
All bags are subject to search, and non-compliant bags will be denied entry.
Exploring Mercedes-Benz Stadium Capacity and Seating Options
Now, to answer the key question: How many seats are in Mercedes-Benz Stadium? The seating capacity of Mercedes-Benz Stadium is flexible and varies depending on the type of event being hosted.
For football games, the standard Mercedes-Benz Stadium capacity is 71,000 seats. However, this can be expanded to 75,000 seats for major events like the Super Bowl or College Football Playoff National Championship.
For soccer matches, the configuration is slightly different, with a typical capacity of 42,500 seats, expandable up to 71,000 seats for high-demand games and tournaments. The record attendance for a sporting event at Mercedes-Benz Stadium stands at an impressive 79,330 fans, achieved during the 2022 Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, showcasing the stadium’s ability to accommodate massive crowds.
Beyond general seating, Mercedes-Benz Stadium offers a premium experience with 7,500 club seats and 100,000 square feet of club space. These VIP options include:
- Field-Level Terraces: Providing exclusive, close-to-the-action views with upscale dining options.
- Upper-Level Suites: Offering premium seating and amenities for groups seeking a luxurious experience.
To find the best seats for your preferred event, it’s recommended to consult the Mercedes-Benz Stadium seating charts available online. These interactive charts allow you to explore different sections, view availability, and choose seats that match your preferences and budget.
Food and Beverage: A Fan-First Approach at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Mercedes-Benz Stadium is not only about sports and entertainment; it’s also about the fan experience, particularly when it comes to food and beverages. Recognized as a leader in fan-friendly pricing, the stadium has consistently ranked #1 in the NFL for food and beverage for several years (2017-2021).
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The stadium made headlines for dramatically reducing food prices in 2019, offering incredible value like $2 soda cups with unlimited refills and $5 beers. This commitment to affordability extends throughout the stadium, with reasonably priced hot dogs, burgers, pretzel bites, and more.
The 100 Yard Club on the upper concourse is a standout feature, stretching the length of a football field and offering a vast array of concession options and gathering spaces. Food choices are diverse, ranging from classic stadium fare like burgers and hot dogs to local favorites and international flavors. Popular vendors include West Nest by Westside Works, Gamechanger, Farmburger, Fresh Mex, Bruster’s, and Capital Crust Pizza. Chick-fil-A is also present, though adhering to their tradition of being closed on Sundays.
For guests with dietary needs, Mercedes-Benz Stadium provides vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options throughout the venue, ensuring everyone can enjoy the game day experience.
In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a world-class venue designed to accommodate large crowds comfortably and offer a premium experience for all attendees. Understanding the seating capacity – 71,000 for football, expandable to 75,000, and 42,500 for soccer, expandable to 71,000 – along with the diverse seating options and fan-focused amenities, will help you make the most of your visit to this Atlanta landmark.
