What State Farm Arena is and where it sits

State Farm Arena is the home of the Atlanta Hawks, the NBA team based in Atlanta, Georgia. The arena opened in 2018 and replaced the older Philips Arena. It is located at 1 State Farm Drive in downtown Atlanta, near the Georgia Dome and other sports venues in the area.

The arena holds roughly 16,600 people for basketball games. It also hosts concerts, other sports events, and community gatherings throughout the year. When you buy a ticket to a Hawks game, you are buying entry to this specific building on a specific date and time.

Key Takeaways

  • State Farm Arena is located at 1 State Farm Drive in downtown Atlanta and holds about 16,600 people for Hawks games.
  • You can buy Hawks tickets through the official NBA website, the Hawks' own website, Ticketmaster, or resale sites like StubHub and SeatGeek.
  • Ticket prices vary widely depending on the opponent, the day of the week, and how close the game date is — rivalry games and weekend games cost more.
  • The arena has parking lots nearby, public transit access via MARTA, and rideshare pickup zones, so plan your arrival method before game day.
  • Bring a valid ID if you plan to buy alcohol, and arrive early to clear security and find your seat before tipoff.

How to find and buy Hawks tickets

The official Hawks website (nba.com/hawks) is the main place to buy tickets directly from the team. You can also buy through Ticketmaster, which is the official ticket vendor. Both sites let you see the arena map, choose your seat, and pay online. Tickets are usually available weeks before a game, though popular games sell out faster.

If the Hawks' official channels are sold out or prices are too high, resale sites like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats let you buy from other fans who have extra tickets. Prices on resale sites often drop as game day gets closer, especially for less popular matchups. Be aware that resale tickets may cost more than face value, and you will pay a service fee on top of the ticket price.

Ticket prices depend on several things: who the Hawks are playing (games against the Boston Celtics or Los Angeles Lakers draw bigger crowds and cost more), what day of the week it is (weekend games cost more than weekday games), and how far away the game is (tickets are cheaper if you buy them close to game day for unpopular matchups, but more expensive if you wait for popular ones). A ticket to a regular season game might range from $30 to $300 or more, depending on these factors.

What to bring and what the arena allows

You will need a valid photo ID to enter State Farm Arena. If you plan to buy alcohol at the concession stands, bring your ID — staff will check it before selling you a drink. Your ticket (digital or printed) is also required; most people show a digital ticket on their phone at the gate.

The arena allows small bags, but has size limits. A bag no larger than 14 inches wide by 14 inches tall by 6 inches deep is permitted. You can bring a clear bag of any size. Outside food and drink are not permitted inside the arena, though you can buy food and drinks at concession stands once you enter. Weapons, including pocket knives, are not allowed.

Parking, transit, and getting to the arena

State Farm Arena has parking lots on the grounds and nearby. Parking typically costs $15 to $25 per vehicle, depending on the lot and demand. You can pay at the lot or reserve a spot online through the Hawks website before you arrive. Arrive early on game day if you plan to park, as lots fill up quickly for popular games.

Public transit is another option. MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) runs the Red and Gold lines to the Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena station, which is a short walk from State Farm Arena. A single MARTA fare is $2.50. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft also serve the arena; pickup zones are located on the north side of the building.

Plan to arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before tipoff. This gives you time to park or use transit, walk to the arena, clear security screening at the gate, and find your seat. Games typically start at 7:30 p.m. on weeknights and 7:00 p.m. or 8:00 p.m. on weekends, though times vary.

What happens when you arrive at the gate

When you reach the arena entrance, security staff will scan your ticket and check your bag. This process is similar to airport security but faster. Have your ticket ready on your phone or in printed form. If you have a bag, open it for inspection. Once you clear security, you are inside the arena.

Find your section number on your ticket and follow the signs inside the arena. Ushers in blue shirts can point you to your section if you are unsure. Concession stands (food, drinks, and merchandise) are located throughout the arena. Restrooms are also clearly marked. Most people find their seat 10 to 15 minutes before tipoff.

Food, drinks, and what things cost inside the arena

State Farm Arena has concession stands throughout the building selling hot dogs, pizza, nachos, popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. Prices are higher than outside the arena — a hot dog might cost $12 to $15, and a soft drink $8 to $10. Alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, cocktails) are also available and cost $12 to $18 per drink. You must show a valid ID to buy alcohol.

The arena also has a few sit-down restaurants and bars, though these are usually busier during halftime. If you want to eat before the game, there are restaurants in downtown Atlanta within walking distance of the arena. Eating before you arrive is often cheaper and faster than buying inside.

What to expect during the game

Hawks games typically last about 2 hours and 15 minutes from tipoff to final buzzer. The game has two halves of 24 minutes each (the NBA calls these "quarters"), with a 15-minute halftime break in the middle. During halftime, the arena shows entertainment — sometimes a local high school band, sometimes a dance team, sometimes a comedy act.

The crowd is usually loud and energetic, especially during close games or when the Hawks are playing well. The arena has a sound system and large video screens showing replays and stats. Bring a light jacket or sweater — arenas are air-conditioned and can feel cold after sitting for a while. If you have questions during the game, ushers in blue shirts are stationed throughout the arena.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food or drinks into State Farm Arena?

No. Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the arena. You can buy food and drinks at concession stands once you enter. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, the arena has options — ask at a concession stand or contact the Hawks in advance to discuss what is available.

What is the best time to arrive before a game?

Arrive 30 to 45 minutes before tipoff. This gives you time to park, use transit, walk to the arena, clear security, and find your seat without rushing. For very popular games, arriving even earlier is wise because parking lots and security lines fill up faster.

Can I get a refund if I can't go to the game?

Refund policies depend on where you bought the ticket. Tickets bought directly from the Hawks or Ticketmaster may have a return window — check the Hawks website for their current policy. Resale tickets (from StubHub, SeatGeek, etc.) usually cannot be returned, so buy resale tickets only if you are sure you can attend.

Is there accessible parking or seating for people with disabilities?

Yes. State Farm Arena has accessible parking spaces near the entrances and accessible seating throughout the arena. Contact the Hawks directly at the phone number on their website to reserve an accessible space or seat when you buy your ticket.

What time do Hawks games usually start?

Most weeknight games start at 7:30 p.m. Weekend games typically start at 7:00 p.m. or 8:00 p.m. Game times vary, so check the Hawks schedule on their website or on the NBA website to confirm the exact start time for the game you plan to attend.