Experiencing game day at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta is an unforgettable event, and tailgating is a cherished tradition for many fans. Getting together with friends and family, sharing food, and building up the pre-game excitement is all part of the fun. If you’re planning to drive to the stadium, understanding the parking guidelines is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Specifically, if you’re considering bringing an RV, it’s important to know the stadium’s policy on oversized vehicles.
This guide will walk you through the parking and tailgating rules at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with a particular focus on RV parking at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Atlanta. We’ll cover everything from opening times and permitted activities to restrictions on vehicle types, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your next event.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Event Day Parking Guidelines
To ensure efficient and safe parking for all events, Mercedes-Benz Stadium has established clear guidelines for parking and tailgating in The Home Depot Backyard and surrounding areas. These rules are designed to maximize space, maintain order, and create a positive experience for all fans.
General Parking Information
- Parking Lot Opening Times: Parking lots, including The Home Depot Backyard, open 4.5 hours prior to the event start time. Fans arriving before this time should not stage or block traffic on city streets. Law enforcement will be directing traffic flow.
- Tailgating Hours: Tailgating is permitted from the time the lots open until 30 minutes after the event begins. After this time, fans are expected to proceed inside the stadium to enjoy the event.
- Post-Event Lot Closure: Parking lots typically close two (2) hours after the event concludes. For evening events, tailgating must end no later than midnight, and all vehicles and guests must vacate the lot by closing time.
- No Overnight Parking: Overnight parking is strictly prohibited. Vehicles left overnight will be towed at the owner’s expense without exception.
- One Space Per Pass: Each parking pass is valid for one (1) parking space. Vehicles occupying more than one space or parked improperly are subject to towing at the owner’s expense.
- Speed Loading: To ensure efficient parking, fans are expected to follow the directions of parking staff and quickly park their vehicles in the designated location. Failure to comply may result in towing.
- No Reserved Spaces: Parking spaces are not reservable. If you wish to park near friends, you must arrive at the parking entrance together, as parking spots cannot be saved for later arrivals. Roping off or reserving large tailgate areas is also not permitted.
Tailgating Specifics in The Home Depot Backyard
The Home Depot Backyard is a designated area for tailgating at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, offering a vibrant pre-game atmosphere. However, tailgating activities are subject to specific rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.
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Tailgating Area: Tailgating activities are limited to the area directly in front of or behind your vehicle, within the marked parking space. Tailgating in empty parking stalls is not allowed.
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Equipment Restrictions: Tailgating equipment, such as chairs, tents, and grills, must not extend into fire lanes, sidewalks, or walkways.
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Tent Policy: Fans are allowed one (1) 10’ x 10’ shade tent per parking space in grass areas and tailgate spaces, weather permitting. Tents must be weighted down – staking is strictly prohibited. Tents must be taken down before entering the stadium.
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Grill Usage: Only natural gas or propane grills are permitted. Charcoal grills, wood stoves, oil fryers, open fires, and boiling pots are prohibited due to safety concerns.
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Alcohol Consumption: Excessive or underage alcohol consumption is not tolerated. Drinking games and activities promoting excessive drinking are prohibited. Security personnel will address any activities deemed harmful or inappropriate.
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Glass Container Policy: Single-serving glass bottles (beer, soda, etc.) are prohibited. Glass containers are permitted only for serving purposes (e.g., wine bottles).
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Food and Beverage Sales: Selling food or beverages is prohibited. Tailgating is intended for personal enjoyment with family and friends, not for commercial activities. Private catering companies are not allowed in The Home Depot Backyard.
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Prohibited Vehicles: Oversized vehicles, including RVs, buses, and trailers, are NOT allowed in The Home Depot Backyard. This is a crucial point for anyone planning to bring an RV to Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Alt text: Aerial view of Mercedes-Benz Stadium parking area with cars and tailgating setups, emphasizing organized parking and fan activity.
Prohibited Items and Activities
To maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all guests, the following are prohibited in The Home Depot Backyard and parking areas:
- Oversized Vehicles: As mentioned, RVs, buses, trailers, and similar oversized vehicles are not permitted. This directly addresses the question of RV parking at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Atlanta – RVs are not allowed.
- Non-licensed Motorized Vehicles: Golf carts, Segways, skateboards, bicycles, scooters, hoverboards, and other non-licensed motorized vehicles are prohibited (except for permitted vehicles).
- Drones and Model Aircraft: Radio-controlled model aircraft, unmanned aircraft systems (drones), and similar devices are strictly prohibited. Possession or operation will result in ejection and potential law enforcement intervention.
- Portable Public-Address Systems: Sound systems are allowed but cannot be used at excessive volumes or play music with profanity or unsuitable content for a public setting.
- Charcoal Grills and Open Flames: Only propane or natural gas grills are allowed. Charcoal grills, open fires, and similar cooking methods are prohibited.
- Staking: Staking of any kind for tents or any other equipment is not permitted. Tents must be weighted down.
- Commercial Activities: Advertising, sale of goods or services, and vehicles with exterior advertising are not allowed in the parking areas.
Generator Policy
- Small Portable Generators Allowed: Small portable electric generators (6500W or less) are permitted.
- Safety Precautions: Generators must be placed on a plywood or decking base to protect the grass. Electrical cords must not be placed across drive aisles or in a manner that creates a hazard.
Liability
- Park at Owner’s Risk: Cars are parked at the owner’s risk. Mercedes-Benz Stadium and its security are not responsible for loss or damage to vehicles or their contents, including tailgating items. Fans are advised to lock vehicles and not leave valuables in plain sight.
RV Parking at Mercedes-Benz Stadium: Key Takeaway
To reiterate, RV parking is not available at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta’s Home Depot Backyard or any controlled event day parking areas. Oversized vehicles, including RVs, are explicitly prohibited.
While this may be disappointing for RV owners hoping to tailgate directly at the stadium, it’s essential to adhere to these guidelines. Consider exploring alternative parking options for RVs outside of the immediate stadium area and utilizing transportation to reach the game.
Conclusion
Understanding and adhering to the parking and tailgating guidelines at Mercedes-Benz Stadium is crucial for a positive game day experience. While RV parking directly at the stadium is not permitted, the stadium offers comprehensive tailgating opportunities for standard vehicles within The Home Depot Backyard, provided all regulations are followed. By planning ahead and respecting these rules, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable event day at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Remember to always check the official Mercedes-Benz Stadium website for the most up-to-date parking and tailgating policies before attending any event. Enjoy the game!
