Mercedes-Benz Stadium Seats in Sun & Shade

Located in the heart of Atlanta, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is an architectural marvel and a hub of sports and entertainment. It serves as the home field for both the Atlanta Falcons of the NFL and home pitch for Atlanta United of the MLS. Atlanta is one of the hottest cities in the U.S. and when the roof is open fans should know where the seats in the shade and the sun are located. Football and soccer fans can use this guide in conjunction with the Mercedes-Benz Stadium seating chart to identify where to find seats in the shade or where to soak up some sun.

Where Are the Seats in the Shade and Sun at Mercedes-Benz Stadium?

Broadly speaking, you’ll find shaded seats at Mercedes-Benz Stadium:

• On the Falcons’ home (south) side of the stadium
• In the 300-level, thanks to the roof’s coverage

Conversely, sunlit seats at Mercedes-Benz Stadium are mainly:

• In the 100-level on the visitors’ (north) side of the stadium

Falcons games typically kick off at 1:00 p.m., occasionally around 4:00 p.m., and sometimes after sunset for NFL Sunday Night or Monday Night games. Atlanta United matches predominantly start at 7:30 p.m., although some can begin earlier. For specific details about sections and kick-off times, continue reading.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Orientation to the Sun

Mercedes Benz Stadium is oriented in a slightly offset east-to-west direction. By noon, the sun looms over the eastern end zone. Over the course of the afternoon, it dips down behind the home field side of the stadium and eventually sets near the western end zone.

The graphic below shows the approximate location of the sun throughout the day on July 1st.

Click or tap here to see a detailed seating chart at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Seats in the Sun and Shade at Early Afternoon Mercedes-Benz Stadium Games

The quest for shade at Mercedes-Benz Stadium is quite a bit simpler than its predecessor, the Georgia Dome, largely due to its expansive retractable roof. Though translucent, the pinwheel-shaped roof allows sunlight penetration, regardless of its position. Nevertheless, the roof’s perimeter is opaque, ensuring sun protection for fans underneath it.

Sections prone to sun exposure are primarily in the 100-level on the visitors’ (north) side, notably sections 123-133. These areas are likely sunlit during early afternoon games, especially when the roof is retracted or the sun is shining bright. Exercise caution when selecting seats behind the western end zone, particularly in sections 119-122. These seats may be in the sun at the start of the game though they should shift into the shade as the sun journeys across the sky.

For shade, gravitate towards the Falcons’ home (south) side. All tiers on this side shield you from the sun’s rays. The upper 300-level, regardless of the side, remains shaded due to its distance from the field and the stadium roof’s cover. While seats behind the eastern end zone are mostly shaded, they might briefly catch the sun towards the game or during potential overtime.

Seats in the Sun and Shade at Late Afternoon and evening Mercedes-Benz Stadium Games

Late afternoon kick-offs in Atlanta make finding shade fairly easy. Opt for the Falcons’ home (south) side or the upper-level beneath the roof. Atlanta United matches often kickoff in the evening and during the summer months you have to be careful if you don’t want the sun setting right in your eyes.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium boasts a 16-story glass facade, offering beautiful cityscape views. However, since the sun sets in the west, it pierces through this glass. If you choose a seat behind the eastern goal line for an evening soccer match, be prepared for potential sun glare hindering your view.

Ready to Get Your Falcons or United Tickets?

Use the individual game links on the side (or middle of the page on mobile) or click or tap here to see an upcoming list of games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Enjoy the game!