Mercedes Benz Stadium is the home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United. All year round, there are sporting events occurring on weekends and weekdays at the 75,000 seat stadium. The stadium is efficient and allows for perfect access to tailgates and parking before and after the game. The stadium takes the fan experience seriously, and this photo story provides an insider look at the experience that Mercedes Benz Stadium can provide.
Atlanta United fans Laura Waldrep and John Kluba discuss their favorite Major League Baseball teams at a tailgate for the upcoming Major League Soccer regular season game where Atlanta United would take on FC Cincinnati on April 20, 2024. (interaction)
Atlanta United supporter Kyle Hamm leads the crowd in the chant “Esta Noche” before marching down to Mercedes Benz Stadium for the match. The supporters section tailgate is called “The Gulch,” named after the row of parking lots where it resides that were envisioned to be developed into a 50-acre urban revitalization project, but have yet to come to fruition.
Cars pass in front of Mercedes Benz Stadium just a half hour before kickoff. Fans trek from The Gulch tailgate lot up to the daunting stadium, remembering to be safe and utilize city crosswalks. (establishing shot)
Upon entering the stadium, Atlanta United superfan Griffin Kluba reads over the menu at the “Fresh Mex” counter before deciding to purchase the Stadium Nachos. The snack comes in a box shaped like Mercedes Benz, adding to the effect of a game day. (portrait)
Mercedes Benz provides general information for those entering the rowdy supporter section located in sections 135, 136, 101, 102 and 103. An employee stands directly next to the sign so fans can ask questions if a concern may arise.
Prior to kickoff, supporter leader Kyle Hamm prepares to make an announcement to the supporter section. The megaphones are used throughout the game to keep the crowd jumping and screaming for the entire 90 minutes of play.
Fans begin to fill in the seats around the stadium as the stage is finally set for the match to begin. The roof is opened up for the sun to shine down on the pitch on a beautiful Saturday in the heart of Atlanta. (signature photo)
During the match, fans wave flags, heckle the referees, chant and jump no matter what may be happening on the field. Atlanta United fans are passionate and cheer for their team, even when a loss is looming.
At the half, fans race back out to the concourse to purchase food and beverages to enjoy during the remainder of the game. Security stands on site to ensure the safety of the crowds as people rush to quickly make their purchases before heading back to their seats.
Night has fallen at around 8:40 p.m. as fans return to their seats from the break. The game is tied at 0-0 and tensions are high as both teams are looking to secure an Eastern Conference win.
Fans go wild as Atlanta United fires a shot into the back of the net. Water is thrown everywhere as fans cheer as midfielder Thiago Amalda brings them to a 1-0 lead in the 59th minute. (close up)
After the unfortunate 2-1 loss, fans still leave the stadium smiling. Mercedes Benz incorporates inexpensive food and drinks into their experience, while also having exceptional customer service, allowing fans to walk away happy, even when their team falls short.
Traffic lines the streets after the game. Police officers direct traffic to ensure the safety of those traveling through Atlanta. Mercedes Benz Stadium has carefully accounted for every interaction that a fan may have in and around their stadium, providing for a safe and positive experience in the city of Atlanta. (clincher)
Piedmont Photojournalists 