Falcons Playoffs a Big Win for Atlanta's Economy

ATLANTA, Ga. - Atlanta Falcons fans are ready for some playoff football, and they’re not the only ones. Businesses around the Metro Atlanta are already looking forward to the economic boost that comes along with the team’s playoff berth.

The Falcons eaed a NFC South title, a first-round bye, and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with a win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. That home-field advantage also means a big advantage for local businesses that are looking to cash in on the team’s success.

Many business owners tell Georgia Newsday they’re just as excited for the playoff appearance as the fans. They say just knowing that the Falcons are playoff-bound is a big win for them in terms of eaings.

A spokesperson for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce says they don't keep records for the actual amount of revenue an event like the NFL playoffs will generate because it's not going to attract the crowds the size of the recent Chick-Fil-A Bowl. Still, the event will be a boon for the restaurants, vendors, hotels and cabbies in the area.

The playoffs are expected to be especially good news for businesses in the Luckie Marietta District of downtown Atlanta. That area is home to 25 restaurants, six hotels and a dozen attractions—all within walking distance of the Georgia Dome.

With the first-round bye, the Falcons will hit the field next on January 15 at 8 p.m. If the Falcons win, they’ll move on to the NFC Championship on January 23.

This year’s Super Bowl will be held on February 6 in Dallas.