The Atlanta Hawks play in a building built for flow. At State Farm Arena, the difference between a smooth arrival and missing the first rotation is usually the approach you choose before you hit downtown. Use this plan to match your gate to your route, clear security quickly, and get to your section without a maze.
Pick Your Approach (Drive or MARTA)
If you’re driving, pre-purchase a deck through the arena’s ParkMobile portal and pick a lot on the same side of the building as your seats so your post-entry walk is straight—not a cross-concourse hike.
If you’re riding rail, use MARTA’s GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center station on the Blue/Green Lines and follow the escalators straight up to the arena. When you leave, signs will route you toward Gates 4, 5, or 2 for the walk back to the station.
Bag Policy in One Paragraph
For Hawks games and most events, bags 14″ x 14″ x 6″ or smaller are permitted and a clear bag is not required. All bags are screened. Medical and diaper bags are allowed (subject to search).
Strollers are welcome but must be checked at Gate 1; an on-site bag valet operates by Gate 2 if you arrive with a non-compliant item. Always check your specific event page in case of one-off restrictions.
Gate Flow Tips (What Actually Moves Fast)
- From MARTA: Use the station escalators and enter at Gate 4; it’s the cleanest handoff from the platform. If Gate 4 is pulsing, slide to Gate 5 along State Farm Drive.
- From Centennial Olympic Park Drive: Gates 1–2 are your quickest entries. The Box Office sits by Gate 2 if you need will-call.
- Cashless & Mobile: The arena is cashless and optimized for mobile tickets—open your barcode before the magnetometers to keep the lane moving.
Where to Eat (Without Hiking a Lap)
Concourse boards note clubs and stands on every level; pick what’s nearest to your section rather than chasing a social post across the building.
If you want a pregame anchor, the main concourse on the 100s has the widest variety and easiest regroup points; upper levels mirror options so you don’t have to leave your floor.
Families & Accessibility
With little ones, aim for Gates 1–2 (closest to Guest Services and stroller check) and choose a meet-up point that’s a section marker, not a storefront.
Guests who need a wheelchair escort can ask a staffer near the gate line—Guest Services is inside Gate 1, with additional podiums near Gate 5 and Section 211.
FAQ
What’s the best gate from MARTA?
Gate 4 is the direct handoff from the GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center station; if it’s crowded, follow signage to Gate 5.
Can I bring a backpack or clear bag?
Backpacks are generally prohibited; bring a small bag ≤14″ x 14″ x 6″. The arena does not require clear bags for most events; medical/diaper bags are allowed and searched. Bag valet is available by Gate 2.
Is the arena cashless?
Yes. All tickets, food/beverage, and retail are cashless; use cards or contactless pay.
