Welcome to State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona’s vibrant and versatile sports arena. As the proud home of the Arizona Cardinals from the NFL and the esteemed annual Fiesta Bowl, this multipurpose stadium has become an iconic destination for sports enthusiasts. With its rich history and remarkable events, State Farm Stadium stands as a testament to the thrilling world of football and the remarkable moments it has hosted. From its inception as Cardinals Stadium to its current name derived from the esteemed insurance company State Farm, this stadium has been the backdrop for countless memorable experiences. Join us as we delve into the captivating journey of State Farm Stadium and explore the exhilarating events that have unfolded within its walls.
| State Farm Stadium | Quick Facts |
|---|---|
| Former names | Cardinals Stadium (August–September 2006) University of Phoenix Stadium (2006–2018) |
| Address | 1 Cardinals Drive |
| Location | Glendale, Arizona, U.S. |
| Coordinates | 33.528°N 112.263°W |
| Parking | 14,000 on-site parking spaces |
| Owner | Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority |
| Operator | ASM Global |
| Executive suites | 88 |
| Capacity | 63,400 (expandable to 72,200; standing room to 78,600 |
| Surface | Natural grass: Tifway 419 Hybrid Bermuda |
| Construction | |
| Broke ground | April 12, 2003 |
| Opened | August 1, 2006; 16 years ago |
| Renovated | 2014, 2017 |
| Construction cost | $455 million |
| Architect | Eisenman Architects Populous (then HOK Sport) |
| Structural engineer | TLCP Structural, Inc. Walter P Moore and designed by Walter P Moore |
| Services engineer | M-E Engineers, Inc. |
| General contractor | Hunt Co |
State Farm Stadium Capacity
State Farm Stadium has a capacity of 63,400 seats for formal events. However, the stadium is designed to be expandable, allowing additional seating. With the expansion option, the capacity can be increased to 72,200 seats. In addition to the fixed seating, a standing room is available, which can accommodate up to 78,600 spectators. This flexibility in capacity makes State Farm Stadium an ideal venue for a wide range of events, from NFL games to college football matchups and other major sporting events. The stadium’s ample seating capacity ensures that fans can gather in large numbers to witness the excitement and thrill of their favorite sports and entertainment events.
State Farm Stadium Seating Plan
State Farm Stadium offers a comprehensive seating plan that caters to various preferences and needs. Here’s an overview of the seating plan at State Farm Stadium:
- General Seating: The stadium features multiple levels of seating, including the lower level, club level, and upper level. These sections offer a range of seating options, from standard seats to premium club seats with additional amenities.
- Family Sections: Sections 114, 424, and 432 are designated as Family Sections, where alcohol is prohibited. These sections provide a family-friendly environment for fans who prefer a more inclusive and controlled atmosphere.
- Club Level: The Club Level at State Farm Stadium is situated in the 200 level and wraps around most of the stadium, except for the end zones. Club seats offer wider and more padded seating, access to upscale food and beverage options, and less crowded restrooms. The Club Level provides a more premium and comfortable experience for spectators looking for enhanced amenities.
- Best Seats: The optimal seating locations may vary depending on personal preferences. Sections 128, 129, 130, 107, 108, and 109 are often considered prime seating areas. Generally, seats between rows 10 and 20, particularly near the 50-yard line, offer an excellent vantage point for viewing the action on the field.
- Team Benches: The Arizona Cardinals’ bench is in front of sections 106-110, while the visiting team’s is in front of sections 128-132. These sections allow one to be close to the action and witness the interactions between players and coaches.
- Seat Numbers: State Farm Stadium follows a standard seating layout, where seat number 1 is closest to the lower-numbered section adjacent to it. For example, seat number 1 in section 127 would be closest to section 126. Most sections in the stadium have 18 seats per row.
State Farm Stadium Seating Chart
State Farm Stadium Parking Capacity
State Farm Stadium provides ample visitor parking options, with approximately 14,000 on-site parking spaces. This extensive parking capacity ensures that fans and event attendees have convenient access to parking facilities when attending games, concerts, or other events at the stadium.
The stadium’s parking areas are well-organized and designed to accommodate a large number of vehicles. The availability of numerous parking spaces minimizes the hassle of finding parking and allows for smooth traffic flow during peak times. Visitors can enjoy the convenience of parking near the stadium, making it easy to access the venue and participate in pre-game festivities or tailgating.
In addition to the on-site parking, State Farm Stadium offers designated accessible parking spaces for individuals with disabilities. These accessible parking areas are strategically located to provide convenient access to the stadium entrances, ensuring inclusivity and ease of mobility for all attendees.
It’s important to note that parking availability and pricing may vary depending on the specific event. It is recommended to check the official State Farm Stadium website or event information for detailed parking instructions, pricing, and any potential updates or restrictions related to parking for a particular event.
Super Bowl at State Farm Stadium
| Super Bowl | NFC Team | AFC Team | Halftime Show | Attendance |
| XLII | New York Giants | New England Patriots | Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | 71,101 |
| XLIX | Seattle Seahawks | New England Patriots | Katy Perry featuring Lenny Kravitz, Missy Elliott, Arizona State University Sun Devil Marching Band | 70,288 |
| LVII | Philadelphia Eagles | Kansas City Chiefs | Rihanna | 67,827 |
Notable Concerts at State Farm Stadium
| Date | Artist | Attendance | Revenue |
| November 8, 2006 | Rolling Stones | 41,772 / 41,772 | $3,286,121 |
| November 26, 2007 | Fall Out Boy | — | — |
| May 31, 2008 | Kenny Chesney | 40,098 / 47,132 | $3,151,970 |
| October 20, 2009 | U2 | 50,775 / 50,775 | $4,912,050 |
| September 16, 2014 | One Direction | 56,524 / 56,524 | $5,035,880 |
| August 15, 2016 | Guns N’ Roses | 44,110 / 48,914 | $4,257,189 |
| August 4, 2017 | Metallica | 52,926 / 52,926 | $5,246,586 |
| September 19, 2017 | U2 | 42,814 / 42,814 | $4,169,215 |
| May 8, 2018 | Taylor Swift | 59,157 / 59,157 | $7,214,478 |
| September 19, 2018 | Beyoncé, Jay-Z | 37,174 / 37,174 | $4,426,568 |
| March 23, 2019 | Garth Brooks | 77,653 / 77,653 | $6,499,556 |
| August 26, 2019 | The Rolling Stones | 52,726 / 52,726 | $9,747,170 |
| May 12, 2022 | Coldplay | 42,849 / 42,849 | $3,542,528 |
| August 25, 2022 | Mötley Crüe | 45,131 / 45,131 | $6,379,829 |
State Farm Stadium Bag Policy
The bag policy at State Farm Stadium aims to ensure the safety and security of all attendees. The stadium has implemented a clear bag policy, meaning that only certain bags are allowed inside the venue. Here are the key points of the bag policy:
- Approved Bags: The following types of bags are allowed:
- Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″ in size.
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bags or similar).
- Small clutch bags or purses, no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″, with or without a handle or strap.
- Prohibited Bags: The following types of bags are not allowed:
- Backpacks, duffel bags, or any bag larger than the permitted size.
- Diaper bags, unless accompanied by an infant (in this case, the infant must be present).
- Camera bags, binocular cases, or any other bag that doesn’t meet the approved bag criteria.
- Exceptions: In certain cases, exceptions may be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection and approval by stadium personnel.
- Bag Check-In: If you arrive at the stadium with a bag that doesn’t comply with the policy, there are bag check-in locations available where you can securely store your bag for the duration of the event. However, checking the specific event guidelines in advance is advisable, as policies may vary.
- Additional Items: Aside from the approved bags, attendees can bring other items such as mobile phones, keys, wallets, and necessary medical supplies. Blankets, jackets, and other similar items are also permitted, but they will be subject to a thorough inspection.
State Farm Stadium – Home ground to Arizona Cardinals
State Farm Stadium, located in Glendale, Arizona, serves as the home ground for the Arizona Cardinals, an NFL team. Since its opening, the stadium has witnessed numerous memorable moments and significant games for the Cardinals. Here are some highlights of the stadium’s history in relation to the Arizona Cardinals:
- Opening Games: The first preseason football game at State Farm Stadium took place on August 12, 2006, with the Cardinals defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the first regular-season game occurred on September 10, 2006, against the San Francisco 49ers, which the Cardinals won. Notably, the stadium’s air-conditioning system allowed the Cardinals to host their home opener on the NFL’s opening weekend for the first time since the team relocated to Arizona in 1988.
- Bears vs. Cardinals: On October 16, 2006, an exciting game occurred between the Cardinals and the undefeated Chicago Bears at the stadium. The Bears managed a remarkable comeback from a 20-point deficit to defeat the Cardinals. This game is significant because the Bears went on to play in Super Bowl XLI.
- Super Bowl XLII: State Farm Stadium hosted Super Bowl XLII on February 3, 2008. The game featured the New York Giants and the previously undefeated New England Patriots. The Giants secured a thrilling victory with a score of 17–14, marking a memorable moment in the stadium’s history.
- Playoff Success: The stadium became the venue for the Cardinals’ first home playoff game since 1947 on January 3, 2009. The Cardinals defeated the Atlanta Falcons in that game, and later, on January 18, 2009, they triumphed over the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2008 NFC Championship Game, advancing to Super Bowl XLIII.
State Farm Stadium History and Facts
State Farm Stadium, located in Glendale, Arizona, is a multi-purpose stadium that serves as the home ground for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League (NFL). Here are some key history and facts about State Farm Stadium:
- Construction and Opening: The stadium was built to replace the Cardinals’ previous home ground, Sun Devil Stadium. Construction began in 2003, and the stadium officially opened on August 1, 2006. It was initially known as the University of Phoenix Stadium, named after its primary sponsor.
- Design and Architecture: State Farm Stadium is renowned for its retractable roof and retractable field. The roof consists of a large fabric canopy that can open and close within 12 minutes, while the field can be rolled outside for maintenance or events held on natural grass. The stadium’s innovative design allows it to host various sporting and entertainment events.
- Seating Capacity: The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 63,400 for most football games. However, it can be expanded to accommodate up to 78,600 spectators for major events such as the Super Bowl. The seating arrangement provides excellent sightlines for fans and offers a comfortable viewing experience.
- Major Events Hosted: State Farm Stadium has hosted numerous high-profile events. It hosted Super Bowl XLII in 2008, where the New York Giants defeated the New England Patriots. The Pro Bowl, the NFL’s annual all-star game, has been held at the stadium multiple times. It has also hosted college football bowl games, international soccer matches, and concerts featuring renowned artists.
- Super Bowl Venue: State Farm Stadium has gained recognition as a premier venue for the Super Bowl. It has hosted three Super Bowl games: XLII in 2008, XLIX in 2015, and LVII in 2023. These Super Bowl games have attracted massive audiences and showcased the stadium’s capabilities to a global audience.
- Name Change: In 2018, the stadium underwent a name change and became known as State Farm Stadium after a new sponsorship agreement with State Farm Insurance. The name change took effect on September 4, 2018.
- Multi-Purpose Venue: State Farm Stadium is used for NFL games and hosts various events. It has been a popular venue for major concerts, including performances by renowned artists such as Taylor Swift, U2, Metallica, and Coldplay. The stadium’s flexible design allows for a seamless transformation between sporting events and large-scale concerts.
- Technology and Amenities: The stadium has state-of-the-art technology and modern amenities to enhance the fan experience. It features high-definition video boards, premium seating options, spacious concourses, and various food and beverage offerings. The venue strives to provide a comfortable and enjoyable environment for all attendees.
- Record Attendances: State Farm Stadium has witnessed numerous record attendances for various events. The highest attendance for an NFL game at the stadium was recorded during Super Bowl XLIX in 2015, with a crowd of 70,288. It has also hosted several concerts with impressive attendance figures, showcasing its popularity as a live entertainment destination.
- Team Success: Since moving to State Farm Stadium in 2006, the Arizona Cardinals have experienced notable successes. The team’s first home playoff game since 1947 was held at the stadium in 2009, and they advanced to Super Bowl XLIII after winning the NFC Championship Game at the venue. The stadium has provided a home-field advantage for the Cardinals and symbolized their progress and achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many seats does State Farm Stadium have?
State Farm Stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 63,400 for NFL games.
Can I bring outside food and drinks into the stadium?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the stadium. There are various food and beverage options available for purchase within the venue.
Is State Farm Stadium wheelchair accessible?
Yes, State Farm Stadium provides accessible seating and facilities for individuals with disabilities. Please contact the stadium for specific accommodation requests.
What is the bag policy at State Farm Stadium?
State Farm Stadium follows the NFL bag policy, which allows clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″, as well as small clutch bags approximately the size of a hand.
Can I tailgate before events at the stadium?
Tailgating is permitted in designated parking lots at State Farm Stadium. However, specific rules and regulations may apply, so checking with the stadium or event organizers for any restrictions is advisable.
How can I purchase tickets for events at State Farm Stadium?
Tickets for events at State Farm Stadium can be purchased through authorized ticketing platforms, such as the stadium’s official website or recognized ticketing vendors.
Is there public transportation available to the stadium?
Yes, State Farm Stadium is accessible by public transportation, including Valley Metro buses and light rail. Plan your route and check for any service updates before attending an event.
Can I bring my camera to events at the stadium?
Generally, non-professional, personal-use cameras are allowed at events. However, professional cameras with detachable lenses may be restricted. It’s recommended to check the specific event guidelines for camera policies.
Are there accommodations for children at the stadium?
State Farm Stadium provides family-friendly amenities, including dedicated family restrooms and designated seating areas for families. Check with the stadium or event organizers for any additional services or facilities for children.
Can I bring my pet to events at the stadium?
With the exception of service animals, pets are not permitted inside State Farm Stadium. Service animals must comply with the stadium’s policies and relevant laws regarding service animals.
