Away Game: Atlanta
Bengals v. Falcons
Friday, August 18, 7:30 p.m.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
1 AMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Direct flights from CVG with Frontier and Delta.
Atlanta is about a seven-hour driver from the Cincinnati area.
If the Bengals first pre-season game has you ready for more football, maybe you should consider a road trip this weekend!
The Bengals head to Atlanta for a Friday night game against the Falcons, and there’s no reason you can’t join them.
Whether you’re a face-painting fanatic or just looking for a little getaway, we’ve got a breakdown of where to stay, where to eat, and what to do to make your trip a little more fun, no matter your level of Bengals-commitment.
Diehard fans
Can we get a WHO DEY from the Bengals faithful! If you don’t want to miss a second of this season, including the pre-season, stay close to the action.
The Reverb by Hard Rock Downtown Atlanta is next to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Among the room choices are Roadie Rooms, with space for the crew, including three queen bunk beds and with two bathrooms stocked with Malin & Goetz products. The rooms include a separate lounge with plenty of seating, a giant TV and even a karaoke system. The RT60 rooftop bar overlooks the city, with a skyline view and great music.
Looking for other fans? STATS Brewpub is considered “Atlanta’s ultimate sports bar,” and is just a mile from the stadium. You’ll find creative cocktails and plenty of craft beer. The Dirty Bird (crispy chicken, vinegar slaw, and spicy mayo on a toasted brioche bun) and BBQ Brisket Burger will fuel you up for game time, and beyond.
If you have the time, don’t miss the College Football Hall of Fame. It’s must-do for football fans. Along with more than 50 engaging and interactive exhibits, a 45-yard indoor football field, and a celebration of the greatest player and coaches, the current special exhibit The Art of College Football features portraits and action scenes of Hall of Fame coaches and players including Bear Bryant, Bob Devaney, Johnny Rodgers, Archie Griffin, and Danny Wuerffel.
On the Bandwagon
Just getting into the action as a Bengals fan? You don’t want to miss this Atlanta preseason game and we have all the spots you need to check out.
The Glenn Hotel is only a mile from the action at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with plenty of great amenities. With three different dining spots, including a stunning rooftop lounge, you’ll have lots of ways to enjoy your trip off the field.
If you’re looking for a great meal but want to keep that sports bar feel, head to Hudson Grille. Keep it casual with burgers, wings, and nachos, or step it up with steak, shrimp, jambalaya, or salmon. They have a HUGE draft selection as well as craft cocktails. With plenty of TVs and an The outdoor seating area, you won’t miss any of the game action.
If you're in the mood for shopping on your mini vacay, stop by Phipps Plaza. Known for its luxury stores – Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Prada, Versace – and great dining options, it’s a shopping experience you won’t forget.
Along for the Ride
Tagging along with more serious fans? Don’t worry, there's plenty of hidden Atlanta gems for you to try while the fans are at the stadium!
With six different room options, the Hotel Clermont lets you customize your stay. The hotel also offers four onsite dining including a rooftop option with stunning skyline views.
Need an idea for a fun night out in ATL? Head to Wild Leap Brewery. With 17 beers on tap, vodka and bourbon-based cocktails, and spiked slushes, this modern brewery has been a hit since its opened in 2017. Wild Leap welcomes guests of all ages so your whole crew can enjoy a casual night out.
If you only make one stop to eat in Atlanta, though, make it Busy Bee Cafe. Described as “Essential Atlanta Dining” on Tripadvisor, Busy Bee Cafe has some of the best soul food in the United States. They have been serving up delicious fried chicken, candied yams, mac and cheese, and lots more for over 70 years. It’s always busy, so try to make reservations and be prepared to wait a bit – it will be worth it!
Need a little down time? With more than 18,000 works of art, the High Museum of Art is a great daytime excursion, but also hosts programs every Friday night. The third Friday of the month (which falls on the weekend of the Bengals game) is Jazz Night. See two bands play, with cocktails and appetizers are served throughout the evening.
No matter if you’re going to the game or are just to spend some time with your friends, everyone’s a winner with a trip to ATL.
– by Marley Smith