u/Independent_Ball6318

Going to a show at Ameris this summer (Godsmack/Evanescence) and I’m already dreading the venue pricing. $25 for a cocktail is genuinely unhinged and unlike a downtown venue, there’s nothing walkable around Encore Pkwy before the show.

So what do you all actually do? Asking for real strategies, not just “drink before you go” — I know that one.

Specifically curious about:

•	Is there a tailgating culture in the parking lots there and do they actually enforce it?  
•	Do they check sealed water bottles at entry? What about those collapsible flasks?  
•	Any restaurants or bars close enough to grab a couple drinks before walking in ?  
•	Is it worth buying a drink package in advance or is that still robbery?  
•	Do they pour heavy enough that one $25 drink does real work, or is it a weak pour in a plastic cup?

Rock concert crowd, so I’m assuming the vibe is more lenient than a pop show but curious what the security situation actually looks like at this venue.

Appreciate any Ameris veterans dropping knowledge.

Going to a show at Ameris this summer (Godsmack/Evanescence) and I’m already dreading the venue pricing. $25 for a cocktail is genuinely unhinged and unlike a downtown venue, there’s nothing walkable around Encore Pkwy before the show.

So what do you all actually do? Asking for real strategies, not just “drink before you go” — I know that one.

Specifically curious about:

•	Is there a tailgating culture in the parking lots there and do they actually enforce it?  
•	Do they check sealed water bottles at entry? What about those collapsible flasks?  
•	Any restaurants or bars close enough to grab a couple drinks before walking in ?  
•	Is it worth buying a drink package in advance or is that still robbery?  
•	Do they pour heavy enough that one $25 drink does real work, or is it a weak pour in a plastic cup?

Rock concert crowd, so I’m assuming the vibe is more lenient than a pop show but curious what the security situation actually looks like at this venue.

Appreciate any Ameris veterans dropping knowledge.

Hey everyone!

We are going to the Shakira concert at State Farm Arena on June 26 (7:30 PM start) and it will be our first concert ever.

We live in Cumming and are trying to figure out the best way to get there should we drive or take MARTA?

Would love advice from experienced concert-goers:
Parking vs. public transit, what is less stressful?

How early should we arrive?

Any tips for leaving after the show?

General first concert tips we shouldn’t miss?

Appreciate any insights!