State Farm Arena Information
State Farm Arena Guide History State Farm Arena opened on September 18, 1999, as Philips Arena, replacing the aging Omni Coliseum in downtown Atlanta. Construction began in 1997 at a cost of $213.5 million, with the venue designed by HOK (formerly HOK Sport) to host both NBA and NHL teams. It debuted with an Elton John concert and quickly became home to the Atlanta Hawks and the short-lived Atlanta Thrashers (NHL, 1999–2011). A major $192.5 million renovation from 2017 to 2018 transformed the building, improving sightlines, adding 360-degree concourses, new seating, and premium amenities. On August 29, 2018, State Farm secured 20-year naming rights in a $175 million deal, marking the rebrand. The arena has hosted NBA All-Star Games (2003, 2021), NHL All-Star Game (2008), countless concerts, UFC events, and other major productions. Ownership and Management The arena is owned by the Atlanta Fulton County Recreation Authority. It is operated by the Atlanta Hawks organization, majority-owned by Tony Ressler and investors including Grant Hill. Levy Restaurants serves as the food and beverage partner, while Chef G. Garvin (Atlanta native) acts as Chief Culinary Officer. Location and Accessibility Located at 1 State Farm Drive (formerly One Philips Drive) in Atlanta’s Centennial Park District, the venue sits in the heart of downtown with easy access to hotels, restaurants, and attractions like Centennial Olympic Park. Public transit via MARTA includes the SEC District station (Green/Blue lines) directly below the arena and Peachtree Center (Red/Gold lines). Parking options, rideshares, biking, and ADA/EV spots are available. The exterior features “ATLANTA” spelled out in steel columns facing downtown. Capacity and Facilities The arena spans 680,000 square feet. Current basketball capacity is approximately 16,888–17,044 seats, with concert configurations accommodating 15,590+ to over 21,000. It features 92 luxury suites, club seats, and flexible seating. A standout is the massive center-hung video board offering 4,477 square feet of active display (360-degree wrap: 80.67 feet around, 27.75 feet high) – one of the largest and most immersive in the NBA. Atmosphere and Experience State Farm Arena embodies “True to Atlanta,” reflecting the city’s culture through local art, music, and flavors. Hawks games feature high energy with mascot Harry the Hawk, ATL Dancers, Flight Crew breakdancers, and Sky Squad dunk team. The venue delivers an immersive audiovisual experience via the giant scoreboard and advanced sound/lighting systems. Concerts benefit from strong acoustics and sightlines across all levels. The 2018 renovation created a more open, modern feel with better circulation and fan engagement spaces. Concessions and Dining Dining is a highlight, with the arena functioning as “Atlanta’s largest restaurant.” Chef G. Garvin and Levy have expanded options to nearly 200 points of sale and 331 draft beer taps, dramatically improving speed of service through dedicated bars and self-serve stations. Menus emphasize local Atlanta flavors and Southern favorites alongside national chains. Signature spots include: – Zac Brown’s Social Club (100-level): Southern gourmet fare like BBQ ribs, mac n’ cheeseburger, and peach hand pie. – Hawk Walk Market (sections 116–122): Open food hall concept with Chick-fil-A, smashburgers, falafel, and more. – J.R. Crickets and Dolo’s Pizza: Atlanta institutions known for wings and New York-style pies. – Other highlights: BBQ smashburgers, jerk chicken sandwiches, gourmet pretzels, hand-spun milkshakes (including Georgia Peach), and vegan options. Premium clubs offer all-inclusive chef-driven dining for select events. Fan-friendly pricing and diverse selections cater to all tastes. Premium Experiences Beyond standard seating, options include the Delta SKY360° Club (courtside with Hawk Bar – the NBA’s first on-court bar), Players Club (views of players’ tunnel), Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos Club, Sharecare Social Club, Chase Concert Club, Topgolf Swing Suites, and Killer Mike’s S.W.A.G. Shop (four-chair barbershop overlooking the court). Suites range from loft to veranda styles with varying capacities and amenities. Sustainability and Awards State Farm Arena leads in sustainability as the world’s first sports/entertainment venue to earn TRUE Platinum certification for zero waste and LEED Gold status. It hosted the first zero-waste NBA All-Star Game (2021) and offsets natural gas emissions via partnership with Georgia Natural Gas. The venue has won numerous accolades, including 2024 Front Office Sports Best Venues, multiple Pollstar and IAVM honors, and sensory-inclusive recognition. What to Expect as an Event-Goer Arrive early to explore the concourses, grab food/drinks, and enjoy pre-event entertainment. Security is standard; clear bags are recommended. The venue is family-friendly with sensory-inclusive features. For Hawks games, expect a vibrant, hometown atmosphere; concerts deliver polished production values. Download the official app for maps, mobile tickets, and updates. Nearby dining and hotels make full-day visits easy. With roughly 170 events and nearly 2 million annual guests, it remains one of the busiest and highest-rated arenas worldwide. State Farm Arena blends modern technology, local pride, exceptional food, and fan-focused design into a premier destination for sports and entertainment in Atlanta.
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State Farm Arena Parking:
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State Farm Arena Seating Chart:
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