Ford Field is a big sports arena in Detroit. I went there for a Lions game and had a fun time. The stadium is huge and has lots of seats. The views of the field are great from almost anywhere you sit.
I really liked how clean everything was. The bathrooms were nice and there were plenty of food places to choose from. Getting in and out was pretty easy too. The staff were friendly and helped me find my seat.
If you’re planning to visit Ford Field, I’d say go for it. Whether it’s for a football game or another event, you’ll probably have a good time. Just make sure to get there early so you can look around before things start.
Key Takeaways
- Ford Field has good views from most seats
- There are many food options and clean facilities
- It’s easy to get to and the staff are helpful
History and Overview
Ford Field has a rich history as the home of the Detroit Lions. I’ll share some key details about how this impressive stadium came to be and how it’s been improved over the years.
Construction and Design
Ford Field opened in 2002 as the new home for the Detroit Lions. I find the design really unique – it incorporates part of an old Hudson’s warehouse into the structure. This gives it a cool blend of old and new. The stadium cost about $500 million to build, which seems like a lot but is pretty standard for NFL venues.
One thing I love is how it manages to feel both huge and cozy at the same time. It can seat over 65,000 fans, but the seats are close to the field so you don’t feel far from the action. The domed roof and huge windows let in natural light, making it bright and airy inside.
Renovations and Upgrades
Ford Field got a major facelift in 2017. I was impressed by the massive $100 million renovation that added some great new features. They put in huge new video boards that make it easy to see replays from any seat. The sound system got a big upgrade too.
The suites and clubs areas were redone to be even more luxurious. I think these changes really improved the fan experience. They also made the WiFi much faster throughout the stadium. This lets fans share photos and check stats easily during games.
These upgrades have kept Ford Field modern and competitive with newer NFL stadiums. I’m excited to see what improvements they might make next!
Seating and Comfort
Ford Field offers many seating options to fit different needs and budgets. I found the seats comfy, with good views of the field from most areas. The stadium also has special areas for fans who want extra perks.
Seating Options
I checked out the different seats at Ford Field. The lower level seats are close to the action. They have 41 rows in most sections. Some even have 43 rows!
The Lions use the sideline by sections 105-107. Visiting teams are in front of sections 126-128.
I liked the upper levels too. They give a bird’s eye view of the whole field.
For big spenders, there are fancy suites. These have the best amenities and views.
Club Level Amenities
I was impressed by the Club 200 section at Lions games. It’s a step up from regular seats.
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Club seats have comfy chairs and great views of the sidelines. I enjoyed the extra legroom.
The best part? Access to special lounges! These areas have yummy food and drinks you can’t get elsewhere.
There are also indoor spaces to hang out. Perfect for halftime or if the weather’s bad.
ADA Accessibility
Ford Field does a good job with ADA seating. I saw wheelchair spaces in different areas of the stadium.
These spots have good views and space for companions. There are also seats for fans who can transfer from wheelchairs.
The stadium has elevators and ramps for easy access. Assistive listening devices are available too.
I noticed accessible restrooms and concession stands throughout the venue. It’s clear they want all fans to have a great time.
Experience and Entertainment
Ford Field offers an exciting mix of sports, music, and behind-the-scenes access. I’ve enjoyed some unforgettable moments here, from the roar of Lions games to star-studded concerts and fascinating tours.
Game Day Atmosphere
The energy on Lions game days is electric. As I walk into the stadium, I’m surrounded by a sea of Honolulu blue and silver. Fans cheer and high-five strangers, united by team spirit. The massive video boards show game highlights and player stats. I love how the natural light from the huge windows mixes with the indoor lighting.
The sound system is top-notch. I can clearly hear every play call and crowd chant. During big plays, the noise is deafening. It’s fun to join in the team traditions, like singing “Gridiron Heroes” after touchdowns.
Food options are plentiful. I’ve tried everything from classic hot dogs to Detroit-style pizza. Prices are typical for stadiums – a bit high, but expected.
Concerts and Shows
Ford Field transforms into an amazing concert venue. I’ve seen a few shows here, and the acoustics are surprisingly good for such a large space. The stage setups are often impressive, with huge screens and elaborate lighting.
One of my favorite things is how versatile the space is. I’ve attended both intimate floor-level concerts and massive stadium-wide shows. The sight lines are generally great from most seats.
The staff is always friendly and helpful at events. They keep things running smoothly, from entry to exit. I appreciate how quickly they can convert the field from football to concert mode and back.
Stadium Tours
Taking a tour of Ford Field gave me a whole new appreciation for the venue. I got to see areas normally off-limits, like the locker rooms and press box. Our guide shared fascinating facts about the stadium’s history and design.
The tour route changes based on what’s happening at the stadium, which keeps things interesting. I loved stepping onto the field and seeing it from the players’ perspective. It’s amazing how massive it feels from ground level.
The Lions’ legacy is on full display throughout the tour. I saw trophies, historic photos, and memorabilia from great players of the past. It’s a must-do for any serious Lions fan or football enthusiast.
Food and Concessions
Ford Field offers a great mix of local eats and drinks. I found plenty of tasty options to enjoy during the game.
Local Eats
I was impressed by the variety of local Detroit food options at Ford Field. Slow’s BBQ caught my eye with their mouthwatering brisket and ribs.
For a quick bite, I grabbed a slice from Hungry Howie’s Pizza. The cheesy goodness hit the spot.
I also noticed Lefty’s Famous Cheesesteaks and Big Boy for classic Detroit flavors.
New additions this season include brisket burgers and Parmesan truffle fries. Yum! The corned beef eggrolls sounded intriguing too.
Bar and Alcohol Service
When it comes to drinks, Ford Field doesn’t disappoint. I found plenty of options to quench my thirst.
The Ultimate Bloody Mary caught my eye. It’s a meal in itself, topped with snacks!
Beer lovers will find a good selection of local brews. I enjoyed trying some Michigan craft beers while watching the game.
For wine drinkers, there are choices available too. I spotted both red and white options at several bars around the stadium.
Remember to drink responsibly and have a designated driver if needed.
Facilities and Cleanliness
Ford Field keeps things clean and tidy. I noticed the staff works hard to make sure everything looks good. Let’s look at how they handle the bathrooms and overall cleanliness.
Bathroom Maintenance
I found the bathrooms at Ford Field to be well-kept. The staff checks them often during events. Soap and paper towels were always stocked when I visited. I didn’t see any messy floors or overflowing trash cans.
The toilets flushed well, and sinks were clean. I liked that they had family restrooms too. These were great for parents with young kids.
One thing I really liked was how many bathrooms there were. I never had to wait in long lines, even during halftime.
Overall Cleanliness
The whole stadium felt clean to me. I saw staff wiping down handrails and picking up trash. The seats were free of crumbs and spills when I got to my spot.
The concourse areas stayed neat, even with lots of people around. Food areas looked clean, which made me feel safe eating there.
I noticed recycling bins next to trash cans. This helped keep things tidy and was good for the environment. The floors weren’t sticky, which can happen at some stadiums.
Even after big games, the exit areas were clean. It was nice to leave without stepping over piles of trash.
Access and Parking
Ford Field is easy to get to and has plenty of parking options. I’ll share the best ways to reach the stadium and where to park your car when you arrive.
Location and Transportation
Ford Field sits in downtown Detroit at 2000 Brush Street. I find it simple to reach by car from major highways like I-75 and I-375. If you prefer public transit, the QLINE streetcar stops near the stadium.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are great options too. They drop off and pick up on Montcalm Street. For out-of-town visitors, Detroit Metro Airport is about 30 minutes away by car.
Parking Lots and Fees
I’ve found several parking choices around Ford Field. The Ford Field Parking Deck on St. Antoine Street is super close. Lot 4 on Montcalm Street is another good spot, especially if you need accessible parking.
Parking usually opens 4 hours before kickoff. Prices vary by event, but typically start at $4 for 2 hours. I recommend booking ahead online to save time and maybe some cash.
Remember, tailgating isn’t allowed in the official lots. But don’t worry – there are nearby areas where you can join the pre-game fun!
Additional Amenities
Ford Field offers some great perks beyond just watching the game. I’ve checked out the special areas and experiences that can make your visit even better. Let me tell you about a couple of the coolest options I found.
Club Lounge Access
I love the Club Level at Ford Field. It’s on the 200 level and has some really nice seats. The club lounges are fancy and comfy. They have cushy chairs and big TVs to watch the game.
I noticed the food and drinks are way better than regular concessions. There are bars with cocktails too. It’s nice to grab a snack without long lines.
The best part? The seats are wider and have more leg room. I felt like a VIP sitting there. Plus, you can go inside if the weather gets bad.
VIP Experiences
I was blown away by the VIP options at Ford Field. They really go all out to make fans feel special.
One cool thing I saw was the chance to go on the field before the game. You can watch the players warm up close-up. It’s amazing to see how big and fast they are in person.
There are also tours of the locker rooms and press box. I got to sit in the same spot as the announcers!
Some packages even let you meet players or coaches. It’s a dream come true for big Lions fans.
These experiences cost extra, but they make the game so much more fun and memorable.
Visitors Reviews and Opinions
Ford Field gets mixed reactions from fans and critics. Some love the atmosphere, while others point out areas for improvement. Let’s look at what people are saying about this Detroit Lions stadium.
Fan Feedback
I’ve seen lots of positive reviews on Tripadvisor about Ford Field. Many fans praise the good atmosphere and plenty of great seats. I noticed that one visitor called it a “comfortable experience.” That’s a big plus in my book!
Some fans mention the great views of the entire field from certain sections. I think that’s crucial for enjoying the game. The 2017 renovation seems to have made a difference too. New video boards and an updated sound system? Yes, please!
Critical Reviews
I’ve also come across some not-so-glowing feedback. Some visitors point out a big difference between home and visitors’ sides. I can see how that might be a bummer if you’re rooting for the away team.
A few reviews mention that certain events, like Supercross, can be hit or miss. I read that someone felt the heat races were more exciting than the main events. It’s good to keep in mind that the experience might vary depending on the type of event you’re attending.
Events and Performances
Ford Field hosts a wide range of exciting events and shows. From big-name concerts to thrilling sports matchups, there’s always something happening at this amazing venue.
Notable Events
I’ve been lucky enough to attend some incredible events at Ford Field. The NFL’s Detroit Lions call this place home, and their games are always a blast. The energy is electric when the crowd gets going!
But it’s not just football. I’ve also seen the Michigan Panthers of the UFL play here. And let’s not forget about the MAC Football Championship Game and Quick Lane Bowl. These college matchups bring a whole different vibe to the stadium.
One of my favorite events was the Supercross in February 2024. The dirt bikes flying through the air were amazing! It’s cool how they transform the field for different events.
Legendary Performances
Ford Field has seen some truly epic concerts over the years. I still can’t believe I got to see Taylor Swift perform here! Her show was unforgettable.
Metallica’s heavy metal extravaganza shook the stadium to its core. The sound system really handled their powerful music well.
Country music fans like me have been spoiled too. Garth Brooks put on an incredible show, and I’m so excited for the upcoming George Strait concert in July 2024.
Kenny Chesney is practically a regular here. He’s performed at Ford Field more than any other artist! I love how his beach vibes fill up the massive indoor space.
Visitor Information
Ford Field offers lots of options for fans. I’ll cover how to get tickets and what to expect when you visit. This info will help make your game day smooth and fun.
Ticket Purchase and Pricing
I found that buying tickets for Ford Field is easy. You can get them online or at the box office. Prices change based on the game and where you sit. The cheapest seats start at $153.41.
I think the best deals are often for weekday games. If you want to save money, look for those. Some games might be more expensive, like rivalries or playoffs.
Season tickets are another choice. They can save you money if you plan to go to many games.
Stadium Policies and Guidelines
When I visit Ford Field, I always check their rules first. They have a clear bag policy. Only small clutches or clear bags are allowed inside.
The staff is friendly and helpful. They’re there to make sure everyone follows the rules and stays safe.
Ford Field is open on game days. Gates usually open 2 hours before kickoff. I like to arrive early to avoid long lines.
Food and drinks can be expensive inside. You can bring one sealed water bottle. Outside food isn’t allowed.
The stadium has many entrance gates. I find Gate E on Montcalm Street easy to use. It gets me to the upper level fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ford Field offers a range of experiences for different events. I’ve gathered some key info about seating, food, parking, and other important details to help you plan your visit.
What are the best seating areas for a concert at Ford Field?
For concerts, I think the lower bowl seats offer a great view of the stage. The floor seats are close to the action, but you might have to stand. Club level seats give a good overall view and have comfy chairs.
Can you describe the food options available at Ford Field during events?
Ford Field has lots of food choices. I like the classic stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos. There are also local Detroit favorites and some healthier options. You can find food stands on every level.
What are some tips for parking when visiting Ford Field?
Parking near Ford Field can be tricky. I suggest booking a spot in advance if possible. There are official lots close by, but they fill up fast. Some nearby garages offer cheaper rates if you don’t mind a short walk.
How does the in-stadium experience at Ford Field compare for football games versus concerts?
Football games have a lively crowd atmosphere with lots of cheering. Concerts transform the space with big stages and light shows. Both use the big screens, but concerts often have more elaborate visuals.
Are there any specific entry regulations for bringing items into Ford Field?
Ford Field has a clear bag policy. I always check their website before going to an event. They don’t allow large bags or outside food and drinks. Some items like cameras with detachable lenses aren’t allowed either.
What accessibility accommodations are available at Ford Field?
Ford Field offers several accessibility features. There are wheelchair-accessible seating areas and elevators. They also provide assistive listening devices. I’ve seen staff members who are ready to help guests with special needs.
