What is the capacity of Minnesota Football Stadium?

Minnesota, often referred to as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, is home to one of the most impressive football stadiums in the United States - the U.S. Bank Stadium. Located in downtown Minneapolis, this state-of-the-art facility boasts a captivating capacity, making it an iconic landmark in the world of sports and entertainment. U.S. Bank Stadium proudly serves as the home turf for the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL) and has hosted a range of prestigious events, including Super Bowl LII and the NCAA Final Four. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the history, construction, seating chart, what to bring, and parking details of this remarkable stadium.

Minnesota Football Stadium History and Construction Costs

U.S. Bank Stadium stands as a symbol of modern architectural brilliance. Constructed on the former site of the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, this indoor stadium opened its doors in 2016. It was a significant milestone for the Minnesota Vikings, who played at the Metrodome from 1982 until its closure in 2013. During the stadium's construction, the Vikings temporarily called the open-air Huntington Bank Stadium on the University of Minnesota campus their home for two seasons.

This marvel of engineering was declared substantially complete in June 2016, five weeks before its grand opening in July. With a staggering overall budget of approximately $1.061 billion, contributions from the state of Minnesota, the city of Minneapolis, and private sources were instrumental in its creation.

U.S. Bank Stadium is a trailblazer as the first fixed-roof stadium built in the NFL since Detroit's Ford Field in 2002. Its unique design, crafted by the renowned architecture firm HKS, Inc., combines a lightweight translucent roof with massive pivoting doors. This innovative approach maximizes natural light, offering fans a breathtaking view of downtown Minneapolis.

The decision for a retractable roof at U.S. Bank Stadium was driven by the need to host events year-round, even in sub-freezing conditions. With 60% of the roof made from ETFE, it's North America's largest of its kind, efficiently handling snow accumulation through heated gutters. However, reflective glass used in construction has raised bird safety concerns due to its location along the Mississippi Flyway migration route.

Minnesota Football Stadium Capacity

U.S. Bank Stadium boasts an impressive seating capacity of 66,860 for most games, slightly surpassing its predecessor, the Metrodome. However, the flexibility of the stadium shines through when it comes to hosting events beyond football. For soccer matches, concerts, and special occasions such as the Super Bowl, the stadium's capacity can be expanded to accommodate up to 73,000 spectators. This adaptability ensures that the stadium remains a versatile venue for a wide range of events, attracting fans and enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Minnesota Football Stadium Seating Chart

The seating chart of U.S. Bank Stadium is a testament to its commitment to providing an exceptional viewing experience. With a layout designed to maximize sightlines and comfort, fans can expect a premium experience regardless of where they are seated. From the lower bowl to the upper deck, every seat offers a unique perspective of the action on the field, making it an ideal venue for avid football fans and concertgoers alike.

What to Bring to Minnesota Football Stadium?

• Valid Ticket: Ensure you have a valid ticket for entry.

• Enthusiasm & Team Spirit: Bring your game-day enthusiasm and team spirit.

• Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen.

• Sunglasses: Keep your eyes comfortable and shielded from bright sunlight.

• Clear Bag: Comply with stadium policy by carrying a clear bag for your belongings.

• Portable Phone Charger: Stay connected by having a portable phone charger handy.

• Check Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with event-specific guidelines for a smooth visit.

Parking at Minnesota Football Stadium

For those planning to drive to U.S. Bank Stadium, parking options are available in the vicinity. The Mills Fleet Farm Parking Garage, connected to the stadium via a skywalk, offers convenient access. Additionally, the US Bank Stadium Norm McGrew Lot, located northeast of the stadium, and the US Bank Stadium Purple Lot, situated northwest, provide parking solutions for attendees. It's important to note that tailgating is not permitted in the US Bank Stadium Norm McGrew Lot.