The Atlanta Falcons are the city's NFL franchise, playing eight games (plus exhibition games) each season in the Georgia Dome. Watching a game in the Dome is an interesting, noisy experience. The regular season begins in September and runs through December, with post-season games played in January. Pre-season games begin in August. Ticket prices are $25 to $41. Call tel. 404/249-6400 for ticket information or visit www.atlantafalcons.com.

As for college football, the "Ramblin' Wrecks from Georgia Tech" have played their home games at 43,000-seat Bobby Dodd Stadium/Grant Field, on campus at North Avenue and Techwood Drive (MARTA: North Ave.), since 1913. The season runs from September to November. Call tel. 888/832-4849 or 404/894-5447 for information. Tickets run $20 to $28 and are usually available, except for home games against the University of Georgia, which are always sold out. Games are played on Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons. Parking is limited; MARTA is the best option. Go early and stop at the Varsity for a hamburger or a hot dog; it's on North Avenue between the MARTA station and the stadium.