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The Atlanta Hawks are one of the most exciting teams in the National Basketball Association (NBA). They are known for their passionate fan base, thrilling games, and rich basketball history. If you are wondering where the Atlanta Hawks play their home games, the answer is State Farm Arena in downtown Atlanta, Georgia.
State Farm Arena is more than just a basketball venue. It is a multi-purpose arena that hosts concerts, special events, and other sporting competitions throughout the year. The arena has undergone major renovations to provide a modern and exciting experience for fans.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into where the Atlanta Hawks play, the features of State Farm Arena, its history, accessibility, fan experience, and its impact on the city of Atlanta.
History of the Atlanta Hawks’ Home Arenas
Before moving into State Farm Arena, the Atlanta Hawks played in several different venues throughout their history. Let’s take a look at where they played before their current home.
1. The Early Days: St. Louis and Milwaukee
The Atlanta Hawks were not always based in Atlanta. The franchise was originally founded as the Buffalo Bisons in 1946. They moved several times, playing in cities such as Moline, Illinois, and Milwaukee before settling in St. Louis. The team became the St. Louis Hawks and played their home games at Kiel Auditorium and later the St. Louis Arena.
The Hawks won their only NBA championship in 1958 while they were still based in St. Louis.
2. Relocation to Atlanta: The Omni Coliseum
In 1968, the Hawks moved to Atlanta, Georgia. Their first home in Atlanta was The Omni Coliseum, which opened in 1972. The Omni was known for its unique architecture and was considered one of the most advanced arenas of its time.
The Hawks played at The Omni for 25 years before the building was demolished in 1997 due to structural issues.
3. Philips Arena: A Modern Upgrade
After the demolition of The Omni, construction began on Philips Arena, which officially opened in 1999. Philips Arena was home to the Hawks for nearly two decades before undergoing a massive renovation and rebranding as State Farm Arena in 2018.
State Farm Arena: The Current Home of the Atlanta Hawks
1. Location and Address
State Farm Arena is located in the heart of downtown Atlanta at:
1 State Farm Drive, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
This location is ideal because it is close to many of Atlanta’s most popular attractions, including Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
2. Seating Capacity
State Farm Arena has a seating capacity of 16,600 for basketball games. It is designed to provide fans with an intimate and energetic atmosphere.
3. Major Renovations
In 2018, Philips Arena was renovated and renamed State Farm Arena after State Farm Insurance purchased the naming rights. The renovation project cost approximately $192 million and transformed the venue into one of the most fan-friendly arenas in the NBA.
4. Unique Features of State Farm Arena
The arena is packed with features designed to enhance the fan experience:
- NBA’s Third-Largest Scoreboard: The arena has a massive center-hung scoreboard, one of the largest in the NBA, providing fans with an excellent viewing experience.
- Topgolf Swing Suites: There are interactive golf simulators where fans can play games while waiting for the main event.
- Killer Mike’s SWAG Shop: A fully operational barbershop inside the arena where fans can get haircuts during games.
- Premium Seating and Clubs: The arena has exclusive luxury suites, club lounges, and courtside seating for VIP fans.
- Fan-Friendly Food Pricing: Unlike most sports venues, State Farm Arena offers affordable concession prices, making it a great place for families and casual fans.
How to Get to State Farm Arena
1. Public Transportation (MARTA)
State Farm Arena is easily accessible using Atlanta’s MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) system.
The arena is connected to two MARTA stations:
- GWCC/CNN Center Station (right next to the arena)
- Peachtree Center Station (a short walk away)
Using MARTA is a convenient and affordable way for fans to avoid traffic and parking issues.
2. Parking Options
For fans who prefer to drive, there are several parking garages near State Farm Arena. Some of the best parking options include:
- CNN Deck (connected to the CNN Center)
- Centennial Parking Deck
- State Farm Arena Parking Garage
Many fans also use rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, which have designated drop-off areas near the arena.
Fan Experience at State Farm Arena
1. Game-Day Atmosphere
The Atlanta Hawks are known for their high-energy home games. The crowd is loud, the music is electric, and the overall atmosphere makes every game an unforgettable experience.
2. Celebrity Sightings
Since Atlanta is home to many famous musicians, actors, and athletes, you might see celebrities at a Hawks game. Some well-known Hawks superfans include:
- Rapper 2 Chainz
- Actor Samuel L. Jackson
- NBA legend Dominique Wilkins (a former Hawks player and team ambassador)
3. Special Events and Giveaways
The Hawks frequently host theme nights, giveaways, and special events, such as:
- “Peachtree Night” – A special night celebrating Atlanta’s culture.
- Bobblehead Giveaways – Fans receive collectible bobblehead figures of Hawks players.
- Halftime Shows – Entertaining performances featuring musicians, dancers, and acrobats.
Other Events at State Farm Arena
State Farm Arena is not just a basketball venue. It is also one of Atlanta’s top entertainment destinations.
1. Concerts
The arena regularly hosts major concerts by some of the biggest names in music. Some of the artists who have performed at State Farm Arena include:
- Beyoncé
- Drake
- Taylor Swift
- Ed Sheeran
2. Other Sporting Events
In addition to NBA games, the arena hosts other sports events, including:
- College basketball games
- Professional wrestling (WWE, AEW)
- Boxing and MMA fights
- Ice hockey exhibitions
3. Community Events
State Farm Arena also hosts:
- Charity events
- Business conferences
- Religious gatherings
- Comedy shows
Economic and Cultural Impact on Atlanta
1. Boosting the Local Economy
State Farm Arena contributes significantly to Atlanta’s economy by:
- Generating millions of dollars in revenue for local businesses.
- Creating thousands of jobs in hospitality, security, and entertainment.
- Attracting tourists who spend money on hotels, restaurants, and shopping.
2. Representing Atlanta’s Culture
The arena showcases the rich culture of Atlanta, incorporating local music, food, and entertainment. The Hawks franchise has embraced the “Peachtree” branding, which connects the team to the city’s identity.
Conclusion
The Atlanta Hawks play their home games at State Farm Arena, one of the most modern and exciting arenas in the NBA. Located in downtown Atlanta, the arena offers a fantastic game-day experience with state-of-the-art technology, premium seating, and affordable concessions.
Beyond basketball, State Farm Arena is a major entertainment venue, hosting concerts, sporting events, and community gatherings. Its impact on Atlanta’s economy and culture is undeniable.
If you are ever in Atlanta, attending a Hawks game at State Farm Arena is a must!
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