ATLANTA

Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host matches in the following tournament stages:

Centennial Olympic Park, directly adjacent to the stadium, is the expected FIFA Fan Fest location — it was built for the 1996 Olympics and regularly hosts major outdoor events. The nearby area includes the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and the CNN Center.

Fan zone locations are based on historical precedent. Official FIFA Fan Fest details will be confirmed closer to the tournament.

Atlanta in summer means heat and humidity — average highs around 89°F (32°C) with afternoon thunderstorms common. Mercedes-Benz Stadium's retractable roof will almost certainly be closed with air conditioning, making it one of the most comfortable venues in the tournament. Outside, the humidity is intense, so plan outdoor activities for morning or evening. The stadium's downtown location means plenty of air-conditioned restaurants and bars within walking distance for pre-match shelter from the heat.

Atlanta's food scene punches well above its weight. For classic Southern comfort food, try Mary Mac's Tea Room (a 1945 institution) or Busy Bee Cafe for soul food. Buford Highway — Atlanta's international food corridor — is a revelation with Vietnamese pho at Pho Dai Loi, Korean at Yet Tuh, and Mexican at Taqueria del Sol. The Krog Street Market food hall in Inman Park has upscale vendors and craft cocktails. In the Westside Provisions District near the stadium, Marcel steakhouse and The Optimist (seafood) are excellent splurge options. For a quick, cheap bite, the Varsity near Georgia Tech is the world's largest drive-in restaurant.

Downtown Atlanta has the most convenient hotels — the Omni at CNN Center and Marriott Marquis are walking distance to the stadium. Expect $250-400/night during the tournament. Midtown Atlanta offers boutique hotels near Piedmont Park and the BeltLine at slightly lower prices. Buckhead (upscale shopping district) has luxury options. Budget travelers should look at hotels near MARTA stations in Decatur or the airport corridor — MARTA rail connects directly to both the stadium and the airport. The BeltLine neighborhoods (Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward) have great Airbnb options with walkable restaurants and nightlife.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium is one of the most spectacular sports venues on Earth. The retractable pinwheel roof, massive 360-degree halo video board, and $2 hot dogs (yes, really — Atlanta pioneered fan-friendly concession pricing) make it a remarkable match-day experience. MARTA rail's Vine City station is a 10-minute walk from the gates and connects to the airport — this is the easiest transit-to-stadium connection in the US tournament. The Centennial Olympic Park area right next to the stadium has green space, restaurants, and the College Football Hall of Fame for pre-match wandering. Atlanta United's 'Supporter Section' culture means this city knows how to create a soccer atmosphere — expect organized chanting, drums, and tifo displays from local fan groups.

Atlanta is the cultural capital of the South — visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, explore the BeltLine urban trail for restaurants and street art, and eat your way through Buford Highway's incredible international food corridor.

Downtown Atlanta around the stadium and Centennial Olympic Park is well-policed and safe during events. MARTA rail is reliable and safe during daytime and event hours. The BeltLine trail is popular with locals and generally safe. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas south of downtown at night. Georgia's concealed carry laws are permissive, but firearms are prohibited in the stadium. Summer heat is a health concern — hydrate and seek air conditioning when possible. Atlanta's drivers can be aggressive, so be cautious as a pedestrian.