Mercedes-Benz Stadium is more than just a stage for world-class soccer during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Its vibrant surroundings offer a blend of culture, food, and entertainment that fans can dive into before kickoff.
Atlanta’s energy pulses through nearby neighborhoods, where historic charm meets modern hotspots. From lively markets to street art-lined streets, the city invites visitors to explore beyond the stadium’s towering architecture.
With every corner promising a new experience, the hours leading up to the match become part of the event itself. The blend of local flavor and big-game excitement sets the perfect scene for an unforgettable day in Atlanta.
Centennial Olympic Park
Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, this iconic 22-acre park is a central gathering spot in downtown Atlanta. Its signature attraction, the Fountain of Rings, features a mesmerizing water and light show celebrating the Olympic symbol. The park offers walking paths, lush green spaces for picnics, playgrounds, and hosts concerts and festivals year-round—making it a lively place to connect sports history with city life.
A general view of Mercedes-Benz Stadium after Raheem Morris was introduced as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons on February 05, 2024. (Source: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Georgia Aquarium
One of the largest aquariums in the world, Georgia Aquarium is home to more than 100,000 aquatic animals from around the globe. Highlights include whale sharks, manta rays, and beluga whales. Visitors can walk through an acrylic tunnel surrounded by swimming sea creatures, providing an immersive experience. It’s a perfect spot for families or anyone wanting to explore marine life while escaping the Atlanta heat.
World of Coca-Cola
Located just steps away from the aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola offers a fun, interactive look into the history and global impact of the world’s most famous soft drink. Explore exhibits about the brand’s origins, its evolution, and enjoy tasting Coke products from different countries. It’s a fascinating blend of entertainment and brand storytelling that appeals to all ages.
CNN Center
The global headquarters of CNN is more than just an office building—it features a spacious atrium with a popular food court bustling with locals and visitors alike. For those interested, guided tours offer behind-the-scenes access to the live newsroom, revealing how one of the world’s leading news networks operates in real time.
Piedmont Park
Known as Atlanta’s “green lung,” Piedmont Park spans over 200 acres and serves as a hub for outdoor activity. Visitors come here to jog, bike, picnic, and enjoy cultural events such as farmers’ markets and music festivals. The park includes scenic walking trails, lakes, and gardens, offering a peaceful retreat within the city’s hustle and bustle.
Rodney Cook Sr. Park
This 16-acre community park near the stadium honors local history and culture, featuring monuments like the statue of civil rights icon John Lewis. It’s a testament to Atlanta’s commitment to public green spaces and social legacy. The park offers walking trails, open lawns, and event spaces where visitors can unwind and reflect.
Castleberry Hill Neighborhood
Once an industrial district, Castleberry Hill has transformed into a vibrant arts and entertainment area. Old warehouses now house contemporary art galleries, trendy restaurants, lofts, and music venues. It’s the perfect neighborhood to explore for a mix of creativity, history, and nightlife just minutes from the stadium.
SkyLounge at the Glenn Hotel
For fans looking to relax with style, SkyLounge offers panoramic rooftop views of downtown Atlanta. This chic bar is ideal for pre-match drinks or celebrating after the game, serving craft cocktails in an upscale, lively atmosphere with an unbeatable skyline backdrop.
The Silver Skillet
A beloved Atlanta institution, The Silver Skillet is a retro diner serving classic Southern comfort food. Famous for its hearty breakfasts, fluffy biscuits, and fried chicken, it delivers a warm, nostalgic dining experience that’s perfect for fueling up before or after the match.
Buford Highway
Known as Atlanta’s culinary melting pot, Buford Highway is a vibrant stretch offering authentic international cuisine. From Mexican and Vietnamese to Korean and South American flavors, it’s a food lover’s paradise just a short drive away. The diverse eateries here provide adventurous palates a chance to sample global dishes in a casual setting.
