U.S. Bank Stadium is a big deal in Minneapolis. I went there for a Vikings game and was blown away. The place is huge and packed with cool stuff to see and do.
The stadium holds over 66,000 people and has a see-through roof that lets in natural light. This makes it feel open and airy, not dark like some indoor stadiums. The seats are comfy, and there’s lots of food options.
I loved how easy it was to get around. The wide concourses never felt crowded. Plus, there are tons of big screens so you never miss any action. It’s not just for football either – they host concerts and other events too.
Key Takeaways
- U.S. Bank Stadium has a unique design with a clear roof and spacious layout
- The venue offers great views, comfy seats, and lots of food choices
- It’s a multi-purpose facility that hosts football, concerts, and other events
History and Overview
I’ve been fascinated by U.S. Bank Stadium since it opened. This modern NFL venue in Minneapolis is truly one-of-a-kind. Let me tell you about how it came to be and some of the cool stuff that’s happened there.
Design and Construction
The stadium’s design blows me away. Its angular, ship-like shape stands out against the Minneapolis skyline. I love how the huge glass panels let in tons of natural light. It feels open and airy inside, unlike older domed stadiums.
Construction started in 2013 and wrapped up in 2016. The price tag? A cool $1 billion! But I think it was worth it. The stadium can hold over 66,000 fans for Vikings games. For concerts, it fits up to 73,000 people.
Some neat features I noticed:
• World’s largest pivoting glass doors
• Clear plastic roof that lets light in
• LED lighting that uses 75% less energy
Notable Events
U.S. Bank Stadium has hosted some huge events since opening. The biggest was Super Bowl LII in 2018. I still can’t believe the Eagles upset the Patriots!
Other cool happenings I’ve seen there:
• 2019 NCAA Men’s Final Four
• Tons of big-name concerts (Beyoncé, Garth Brooks, etc.)
• X Games competitions
The first ever event was actually a soccer match between A.C. Milan and Chelsea in August 2016. I wish I could’ve been there for that!
I’m excited to see what other big events come to U.S. Bank Stadium in the future. It’s really put Minneapolis on the map for major sports and entertainment.
Stadium Experience
U.S. Bank Stadium offers an amazing game day atmosphere. The seats are comfy, the views are great, and there’s plenty to eat and drink. The facilities are top-notch too.
Seating and Comfort
I love the seats at U.S. Bank Stadium! They’re wide and padded, giving me plenty of room to spread out. Even in the nosebleeds, I don’t feel cramped.
The rows have good legroom too. I can stand up without bumping my knees on the seat in front of me.
For families, there are some great seating areas with extra space. I’ve seen parents with strollers have no trouble getting situated.
The temperature inside is always nice. In the winter, I stay cozy even when it’s freezing outside. During hot games, the A/C keeps things cool.
View and Acoustics
The views are awesome from almost every seat. I can see the action clearly whether I’m right by the field or up high.
The giant video screens are a nice touch. They show replays and stats that are easy to read from anywhere in the stadium.
The sound system rocks! I can hear the announcer clearly, and the music pumps me up. It gets loud during big plays, but not painfully so.
For couples, some of the club seats offer a more intimate experience with great sightlines. Groups of friends might prefer the rowdier sections where you can stand and cheer.
Food and Beverages
The food options are tasty and diverse. I’ve tried everything from classic hot dogs to fancy local cuisine. There’s something for every taste and diet.
Beer lovers will be happy – there are tons of local craft brews on tap. I always find a new favorite to try.
The vendors are quick and friendly. Even during halftime rushes, I don’t wait too long in line.
Prices are what you’d expect at a pro stadium. Not cheap, but the quality is good. I like to grab a bite before the game to save some cash.
Restrooms and Facilities
The bathrooms are clean and plentiful. Even during big games, I’ve never had to wait in a long line.
There are plenty of family restrooms too. Parents with young kids will appreciate the extra space and privacy.
The concourses are wide and easy to navigate. I can get from my seat to the restroom and back without missing much action.
For solo visitors, there are some nice quiet areas to recharge if you need a break from the crowd. The whole stadium feels modern and well-maintained.
Entertainment and Events
U.S. Bank Stadium hosts amazing events year-round. I love the variety of sports, music, and activities they offer. There’s always something exciting happening!
Sports Games
The Minnesota Vikings call U.S. Bank Stadium home. I’ve seen a few football games here, and the atmosphere is electric. The roar of 66,200 fans cheering is unforgettable.
But it’s not just football. I’ve watched basketball, soccer, and even motorsports events here. The stadium transforms to fit different sports perfectly.
The huge video boards make sure I don’t miss any action. And the climate-controlled interior means I’m comfortable no matter the weather outside.
Concerts and Music
I’ve been to some incredible concerts at U.S. Bank Stadium. The acoustics are surprisingly good for such a large venue. I’ve seen Kenny Chesney and Morgan Wallen rock the house.
The stadium attracts big names like Luke Bryan and Stevie Nicks too. I love how versatile the space is for different types of music.
One tip: I always choose my seats carefully. Some spots have better views and sound than others.
Tours and Activities
When there’s no game or concert, I still enjoy visiting U.S. Bank Stadium. They offer great tours that let me see behind the scenes.
I’ve explored the locker rooms, press boxes, and even walked on the field. It’s cool to see how much work goes into running this massive venue.
They also host community events and fitness activities. I’ve done yoga on the field and joined fun runs that finish inside the stadium.
The tours are a great way to learn about the stadium’s history and architecture. I always discover something new each time I visit.
Visitor Information
U.S. Bank Stadium is easy to get to and offers plenty of options for visitors. I’ll share what you need to know about its location, how to get there, and when you can visit.
Location and Access
I love how U.S. Bank Stadium sits right in downtown Minneapolis. It’s at 401 Chicago Ave, making it super easy to find. The stadium is close to lots of cool spots in the city.
From my experience, getting in is a breeze. There are entrances on all sides of the building. I usually use the Legacy Gate on the northwest side – it’s huge and hard to miss!
The stadium is wheelchair accessible too. I’ve seen plenty of ramps and elevators to help everyone get around.
Parking and Public Transport
Parking near the stadium can be tricky, but I’ve got some tips. There are over 32,000 parking spaces within a 20-minute walk. I usually book a spot online before I go – it saves time and stress.
Public transport is my go-to on game days. The light rail is super convenient. Both the Blue and Green lines stop right at U.S. Bank Stadium station.
Buses are another good option. Routes 3, 7, and 22 all stop nearby. I’ve found the Metro Transit app really helpful for planning my trip.
Operating Hours and Scheduling
The stadium’s hours change depending on what’s happening. For Vikings games, I like to arrive about 2 hours early. The gates usually open then, and it gives me time to explore.
On non-event days, you can take a tour. I’ve done this a few times – it’s really cool! Tours run Tuesday to Saturday, usually from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Always check the official website before you go. They post the most up-to-date info on events and hours. I’ve found this really helpful for planning my visits.
Stadium Amenities
U.S. Bank Stadium offers great shopping and top-notch security. I love how they’ve thought of everything to make my visit comfortable and safe.
Merchandise and Shopping
When I’m at U.S. Bank Stadium, I’m always amazed by the variety of Vikings gear available. The main team store is huge and packed with jerseys, hats, and souvenirs. I can easily spend an hour browsing!
Smaller kiosks are scattered throughout the concourses too. This is super convenient if I want to grab something quick without missing much of the game.
What I really appreciate is how they have unique, stadium-exclusive items. It’s fun to get something special I can’t find anywhere else.
The prices are typical for NFL stadiums – not cheap, but the quality is good. I always budget a little extra for a new Vikings shirt or hat when I visit.
Safety and Security
I always feel safe at U.S. Bank Stadium. They take security seriously, which I really appreciate. When I enter, there’s a thorough but efficient screening process. Metal detectors and bag checks are standard.
The staff is well-trained and friendly. I’ve seen them handle rowdy fans calmly and professionally. There are plenty of security personnel visible throughout the stadium.
Emergency exits are clearly marked, and I’ve noticed they run safety drills with staff. It’s reassuring to see how prepared they are.
I also like their clear bag policy. It speeds up entry and makes the whole place feel more secure. Overall, their attention to safety lets me relax and enjoy the game.
Visitor Feedback
I’ve gathered some interesting insights from fans who’ve been to U.S. Bank Stadium. Their comments paint a picture of what it’s like to watch a game there.
Fan Reviews and Ratings
I found that many Vikings fans love the stadium’s modern design. They say it feels open and spacious inside. On Tripadvisor, people give it high marks overall.
Some visitors tell me the seats can be a bit tight. But they rave about the giant video screens. A few mention you might need to stand for concerts.
I talked to a Chargers fan who visited. He thought the atmosphere was great, even as an away supporter.
Food gets mixed reviews. Some love the variety, others find it pricey.
One thing that stood out to me – fans really like the floating sections with no one in front. They say it gives an awesome view.
Frequently Asked Questions
U.S. Bank Stadium offers a range of experiences for visitors. There’s tasty food, exciting events, and helpful services to make your visit memorable.
What are the best food options available at U.S. Bank Stadium during events?
I love the food at U.S. Bank Stadium! My favorite is the local Minneapolis cuisine they offer. You can find classic stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos, but also some unique Minnesota dishes.
I always grab a slice of pizza from one of the local vendors. The craft beer selection is great too, with many local brews to choose from.
Can you share experiences from attending a concert at U.S. Bank Stadium?
I’ve been to a few concerts at U.S. Bank Stadium, and they’ve all been amazing! The sound quality is impressive for such a large venue.
I found the sight lines to be great from most seats. The atmosphere is electric, with the crowd’s energy bouncing off the stadium’s unique design.
What should I know before visiting U.S. Bank Stadium for the first time?
For first-time visitors, I recommend arriving early. The stadium is huge, and it can take time to find your seat.
Only clear bags are allowed, no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Small clutch bags under 4.5″ x 6.5″ are okay too. I always check the stadium’s website for the latest rules before I go.
How does U.S. Bank Stadium accommodate fans during high school football games?
When I’ve attended high school games at U.S. Bank Stadium, I’ve noticed they make it feel special for the young players and fans.
They often use only part of the stadium, creating a more intimate atmosphere. The scoreboards and sound system are still in full effect, giving players a pro-level experience.
Are there any special amenities or services offered at U.S. Bank Stadium?
I’ve found the stadium to be very accommodating. There are six club spaces throughout the building for a more upscale experience.
The stadium also offers great accessibility features. I’ve seen plenty of elevators, wide concourses, and accessible seating options.
Does U.S. Bank Stadium offer any unique experiences like stadium golf?
While I haven’t personally participated, I’ve heard about some cool events at U.S. Bank Stadium. They sometimes host unique experiences like behind-the-scenes tours.
During Vikings games, I love watching the team warm up from section 100. It’s a great chance to see the players up close and maybe even get an autograph!
