Paycor Stadium is a gem in Cincinnati’s sports scene. I recently visited for a Bengals game and was blown away by the experience. The stadium offers great views from almost every seat, making it easy to enjoy the action on the field.
The atmosphere on game day is electric. Fans pack the stands, creating a sea of orange and black. The energy is contagious, and even if you’re not a die-hard Bengals fan, you can’t help but get caught up in the excitement.
I found the staff to be friendly and helpful. They were quick to answer questions and point me in the right direction. The food options are also impressive, with a variety of local and classic stadium fare to choose from.
Key Takeaways
- Paycor Stadium offers excellent views and a lively atmosphere for Bengals games
- The stadium staff provides friendly service and there are diverse food options
- The facility is well-maintained and accessible, enhancing the overall fan experience
History and Overview of Paycor Stadium
Paycor Stadium has been the home of the Cincinnati Bengals since 2000. It’s changed names and hosted many big events over the years. Let me tell you all about this amazing football venue.
Construction and Development
I remember when Paycor Stadium first opened on August 19, 2000. It was a big deal for us Bengals fans! The stadium sits on about 22 acres of land in Cincinnati, Ohio.
It’s an outdoor stadium, which I love because it gives that classic football feel. The designers made sure it had great views of downtown Cincinnati too.
When they built it, they included 65,515 seats. That’s a lot of excited fans on game day! The stadium also has fancy boxes for VIPs and media folks.
Stadium Naming Rights
For a long time, we called it Paul Brown Stadium. That name honored the Bengals’ founder, which was pretty cool.
But in 2022, things changed. The team partnered with Paycor, a local company. They bought the naming rights, so now we call it Paycor Stadium.
I was a bit sad to see the old name go. But I’ve gotten used to the new one. Plus, it’s nice to have a local company supporting the team.
Significant Events Over the Years
Paycor Stadium has seen some exciting moments! Of course, it hosts all the Bengals’ home games. Those are always a blast.
But it’s not just about the NFL. The stadium has welcomed big music acts too. I’ve been to a few concerts there, and the atmosphere is amazing.
In 2022, the Bengals made it to the Super Bowl. The excitement at Paycor Stadium during that playoff run was unreal! It’s moments like those that make this place special.
Location, Access, and Parking
Paycor Stadium sits in a great spot in Cincinnati. I love how easy it is to get there and find parking. The views of the river are a nice bonus too.
Getting to Paycor Stadium
I find Paycor Stadium super easy to reach. It’s right on the riverfront in downtown Cincinnati at 1 Paul Brown Stadium.
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When I drive, I take I-71 or I-75 and follow signs to the stadium. It’s a breeze.
For public transit, I hop on the Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar. It drops me off just a short walk away.
Walking from downtown is my favorite way to get there on nice days. The stroll along the river is lovely.
Parking Facilities and Tips
I’ve found plenty of parking options around Paycor Stadium. Here are my top picks:
- Official stadium lots: Closest, but pricey
- 321 Race St. Parking: 0.4 miles away, 380 spots
- Downtown garages: Cheaper, longer walk
My tip: Book parking online in advance. It saves time and often money too.
For big games, I arrive early. Traffic gets crazy close to kickoff.
Accessibility Features
I’m always impressed by how accessible Paycor Stadium is. They’ve done a great job making sure everyone can enjoy the games.
Handicap parking spaces are available in all lots. Lot 1 has the most, right at Pete Rose Way and Central Avenue.
Inside, there are elevators and ramps throughout. Wheelchair seating is available on all levels.
I’ve noticed they have assistive listening devices too. Just ask at Guest Services.
The staff is always super helpful if you need any extra assistance.
Seating and Viewpoints
Paycor Stadium offers a range of seating options to fit different needs and budgets. I’ve checked out various sections and can share some insights on the best places to sit and watch the Bengals play.
Understanding Stadium Seating Plans
The stadium has several levels of seating. The lower level wraps around the field and gives you a close-up view of the action. Club sections are in the middle tier on the sidelines. These have comfy seats and extra perks. The upper deck has cheaper tickets but is farther from the field.
I found the northwest endzone sections offer nice views of the Ohio River. It’s a cool backdrop for the game.
The top rows can be quite high up. If you’re scared of heights, you might want to avoid these seats.
Best Seats for an Optimal View
For the best view, I recommend the club level seats. Sections 204-216 and 234-216 give you a perfect view of the whole field. They cost more, but you get comfy seats and indoor areas to escape bad weather.
If you’re on a budget, I think the lower level end zone seats are a good pick. You’re close to the action when teams score touchdowns.
I’ve sat in Section 346 before. It’s high up, but you can see the whole field clearly. Plus, it’s easy to get to food and drinks from there.
Special Seating for Accessibility Needs
Paycor Stadium has wheelchair spaces on all levels. I’ve noticed they’re spread out, so you have options.
There are elevators to help you get to upper levels if stairs are hard. The staff is friendly and can help you find your seat.
Some sections have easier access to bathrooms and food. This is great if you have trouble moving around a lot.
I suggest calling the stadium directly if you have specific needs. They can help you find the best accessible seating option for your visit.
Amenities and Facilities
I found Paycor Stadium to be well-equipped with plenty of food options, clean restrooms, and cool Bengals gear for sale. The stadium tries to make fans comfortable while they enjoy the game.
Concessions and Food Service
I was impressed by the variety of food choices at Paycor Stadium. From classic hot dogs and nachos to local Cincinnati favorites, there’s something for everyone. I loved the Cincinnati-style chili dogs – they’re a must-try!
The lines moved pretty quickly at most stands. I didn’t have to miss much game action while grabbing snacks. Prices were what you’d expect at an NFL stadium – not cheap, but not outrageous either.
My favorite spot was the craft beer garden. It had a great selection of local brews. Perfect for sipping while watching the game on the big screens there.
Restrooms and Comfort
I found the restrooms at Paycor Stadium to be clean and well-maintained. There are plenty of them spread throughout the concourses, so I never had to walk far or wait in long lines.
The seats were comfy enough for a few hours of football watching. I liked that most areas are covered, which is nice if it rains or gets too sunny.
For chilly games, there are heating stations on the concourses. These were lifesavers during a cold December matchup I attended!
Merchandise and Memorabilia
The Bengals Pro Shop at Paycor Stadium is awesome! I found everything from jerseys and hats to unique Bengals-themed items I hadn’t seen elsewhere.
Prices were a bit high, but that’s expected for official gear. The staff was super friendly and helped me pick out the perfect souvenir.
There are also smaller merchandise kiosks throughout the stadium. These are great for grabbing something quick without missing much of the game.
I loved the display of Bengals history near the main shop. It’s cool to see old jerseys and photos while shopping for new gear.
Game Day Experience
Paycor Stadium buzzes with excitement on game days. The energy is contageous from the moment I arrive until long after the final whistle. Let me share my favorite parts of attending a Cincinnati Bengals game.
Tailgating and Pre-Game Activities
I love getting to the stadium early to tailgate. The parking lots fill up fast with fans grilling burgers and tossing footballs. There’s always a sea of orange and black jerseys.
Food trucks line the streets nearby. I can grab a quick bite if I don’t feel like cooking. Live music often plays, getting everyone pumped for kickoff.
Kids have fun too. I’ve seen face painting stations and inflatable games set up. The team sometimes hosts special pre-game events for families.
In-Stadium Entertainment
Once inside, there’s plenty to keep me entertained. The big video boards show highlights and player stats. Music blasts during breaks in play.
Cheerleaders and the mascot Who Dey pump up the crowd. During timeouts, I’ve watched cool on-field contests and giveaways.
The concourse has lots of food options. I can grab local favorites like Skyline Chili or try new specialty items each season.
Crowd Atmosphere and Control
The fans at Paycor Stadium are passionate. We get loud when the defense needs a stop. I’ve high-fived strangers after big touchdowns.
Security keeps things under control without being overbearing. I’ve never felt unsafe at a game. Getting in and out of the stadium is usually smooth.
The atmosphere is electric on game day. Even when the team struggles, Bengals fans stay positive. We’re always ready to cheer on the next big play.
Non-Football Events
Paycor Stadium hosts a variety of exciting events beyond Bengals games. I’ve attended some amazing concerts and community gatherings there. The venue really comes alive for these special occasions.
Concerts at Paycor Stadium
I love seeing big-name artists perform at Paycor Stadium. The acoustics are great, and the atmosphere is electric. Taylor Swift played a sold-out show here during her Eras Tour. The stage setup was incredible, with massive screens visible from every seat.
Kenny Chesney is another regular, bringing his beach party vibe to Cincinnati. His concerts always feel like summer, even in cooler months. The stadium can hold over 65,000 fans for these shows.
Sound quality is good throughout the venue. Even in the upper levels, I can hear every note clearly. The staff does a great job managing the crowds for these big events.
Other Sporting and Community Events
Paycor Stadium isn’t just for the Bengals and music stars. I’ve seen some cool high school football games here. It’s awesome for local kids to play on the same field as their NFL heroes.
The stadium also hosts community events throughout the year. I attended a charity walk that used the concourses. It was neat to explore areas I don’t usually see on game days.
Sometimes there are soccer matches too. The field converts well for international friendlies. I watched FC Cincinnati play here before they got their own stadium. The atmosphere was different from football, but still exciting.
Ticketing and Pricing
Getting tickets to watch the Bengals play at Paycor Stadium can be exciting but also a bit tricky. I’ve learned a few things about buying tickets that I think will help you out. Let’s look at the different options and how to get the best deals.
Understanding Ticket Options
Paycor Stadium offers several ticket types to fit different budgets and preferences. I’ve found that single-game tickets are great for casual fans or out-of-town visitors. These can be bought through the team’s website or authorized resellers.
Group tickets are perfect for bringing friends or coworkers to the game. I love these because they often come with perks like early entry or scoreboard recognition.
For the ultimate flexibility, I recommend looking into flex plans. These let you choose multiple games throughout the season without committing to a full season package.
Season Tickets and Packages
If you’re a die-hard Bengals fan like me, season tickets are the way to go. I’ve had mine for years, and it’s been totally worth it. You get guaranteed seats for every home game and often at a better price per game than single-game tickets.
Season ticket holders also get some sweet perks:
- Priority for playoff tickets
- Invites to exclusive events
- Merchandise discounts
There are different levels of season tickets, from budget-friendly upper deck seats to premium club seating. I started with upper deck seats and worked my way down over the years.
Tips for Scoring the Best Deals
I’ve picked up some tricks for getting great seats without breaking the bank. First, I always check for early bird specials. The team often releases these before single-game tickets go on sale to the general public.
Joining the Bengals’ email list has been super helpful. I get notified about flash sales and special promotions that aren’t advertised widely.
For last-minute deals, I keep an eye on social media. Sometimes the team releases unsold tickets at discounted prices just before game day.
My top tip: be flexible with your seat location. I’ve found amazing deals on end zone seats that still offer a great view of the action.
Fan Services and Support
Paycor Stadium offers great support for fans. I found helpful staff and services throughout the venue. They really try to make everyone’s visit enjoyable.
Customer Service Facilities
I was impressed by the customer service at Paycor Stadium. Helpful staff are located at info booths around the concourses. They answered my questions about seating and concessions quickly.
The stadium has a dedicated guest services office. I stopped by to report a spill, and they sent someone right away. Lost and found is also located there if you misplace anything during the game.
Team reps walk the aisles during events. They helped people find their seats and resolved issues. I saw them assist a family that accidentally sat in the wrong section.
Special Accommodations
Paycor Stadium works hard to be accessible for all fans. I noticed wheelchair seating areas with great views throughout the venue. Elevators and ramps make it easy to reach all levels.
They offer assistive listening devices at guest services. I saw fans using them to hear the play-by-play better. There are also interpreters available for deaf and hard-of-hearing guests.
The stadium has a sensory room for those with sensory sensitivities. It provides a quiet space to take a break from the noise and excitement.
Safety and Security
I felt safe and secure during my visit to Paycor Stadium. The staff takes several steps to keep fans protected while also providing quick access to help if needed.
Stadium Security Measures
When I arrived, I noticed friendly and quick security staff at the entrances. They checked bags efficiently to keep the lines moving. The NFL has a strict bag policy here. I could only bring one clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag.
I saw security guards patrolling throughout the stadium. They kept an eye on the crowds but weren’t intrusive. The staff seemed well-trained in crowd control techniques.
Cincinnati police officers were also present outside and inside the venue. Their visibility added an extra layer of safety.
Emergency Services and First Aid
I spotted several first aid stations around the stadium. They were clearly marked and easy to find. Trained medical staff were on duty to handle any health issues.
For bigger emergencies, I learned there are ambulances on standby. The stadium works closely with local hospitals too.
I felt reassured knowing help was nearby if anyone needed it. The staff seemed prepared to respond quickly to any situation.
Review and Testimonials
Fans love Paycor Stadium for its great views and easy navigation. I’ve been there myself and can share some insights about the experience.
What Fans Say
Fans rave about the smart-sized stadium with good views from almost every seat. Many say it’s one of the best newer stadiums they’ve visited.
People like the easy access to food and drinks. Fans mention only needing to walk a few rows to reach concessions.
The high seats offer a full view of the field, though some warn about the climb. Covered areas are a plus for rainy days.
Tailgating in nearby lots is popular. Fans enjoy the pre-game atmosphere.
Sharing Your Own Experience
I found Paycor Stadium easy to get around. The signs are clear, and I didn’t get lost.
The food was tasty, but a bit pricey. I loved the local beer options.
My seats were comfy, and I could see the whole field. The big screens helped me catch plays I missed.
The crowd was fun and friendly. I felt the team spirit all around me.
Parking can be tricky. I’d suggest coming early or using public transport to avoid stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Paycor Stadium offers various amenities and policies to enhance the fan experience. I’ll cover some key aspects like seating, food, accessibility, parking, and item policies.
What amenities are available at Bengals Stadium?
Paycor Stadium has many features to make game day enjoyable. There are concession stands throughout the venue serving food and drinks. Restrooms are easily accessible on all levels. The stadium also has team shops for Bengals merchandise.
Are there any covered seating options at the venue?
Yes, some sections at Paycor Stadium offer covered seating. The upper levels have areas that are fully covered, which is great for rainy days. I recommend checking the seating chart when buying tickets to find covered options.
What are the food and drink policies at the stadium?
Paycor Stadium has strict policies on outside food and drinks. I can’t bring in my own food or beverages. There are many concession stands inside selling a variety of options. Water fountains are available if I need to refill a water bottle.
How does Paycor Stadium cater to guests with disabilities?
The stadium aims to be accessible for all fans. There are wheelchair accessible seating areas and elevators to reach all levels. Assistive listening devices are available upon request. I recommend contacting the stadium directly for specific accessibility needs.
What are the parking facilities like at the stadium?
Paycor Stadium has several parking lots nearby. Lot A in the southeast corner is popular for tailgating. I suggest arriving early on game days, as parking fills up quickly. There are also parking garages and street parking options in downtown Cincinnati.
Can you bring personal items like bags or umbrellas into the stadium?
The stadium has a clear bag policy. I can bring a clear plastic bag up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or a small clutch purse. Larger bags, backpacks, and non-clear bags aren’t allowed. Small umbrellas are usually permitted, but I should check the current policy before attending an event.
