Top 10 NFL Tailgating Stadiums Every Football Fan Should Visit

As a die-hard NFL fan, I can tell you that the pre-game tailgate party is just as thrilling as the game itself. It’s where friendships are forged, rivalries celebrated, and team spirit comes alive in a cloud of savory grill smoke and the clink of cold drinks.

While every NFL stadium has its own tailgating vibe, some spots truly take it to the next level. We used to tailgate at 49er games when they were held at Candlestick growing up , and it was always so much fun. As I grew older, we tailgated at the Oakland Raider games, and while it was definitely a party, it was a little scary at times. Raider fans are serious about the Raiders, and would often throw things and scream and fans of the opposing team.

Since, I’m determined to visit every football stadium for a game (heading to Hard Rock to watch Miami in a few weeks), I was wondering which stadiums have the best tailgate atmosphere. So, based of my research, this is what I found. Be sure and let me know in the comments if you agree or not.

Arrowhead Stadium: Kansas City Chiefs

If you want to experience tailgating at its finest, Arrowhead Stadium is the place to be. Dedicated Chiefs fans roll in at dawn, setting up spreads that would make a five-star restaurant jealous. These feasts fuel the celebrations well into the afternoon and often long after the final whistle.

You can’t talk about Kansas City tailgating without mentioning the barbecue. Trust me, the Arrowhead parking lots transform into a smoky paradise that’ll make your mouth water from a mile away.

Fans here take their grilling as seriously as their football, with setups that could rival professional pitmasters. The air is thick with the irresistible aroma of slow-cooked ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, all slathered in that signature sweet and tangy KC barbecue sauce.

What really sets Arrowhead’s tailgating scene apart are the quirky traditions that have popped up over the years. You’ll often catch local bands and DJs setting up impromptu stages between rows of cars, adding a soundtrack to the pre-game festivities.

And keep an eye out for the elaborate teepees dotting the landscape—they’re not just for show, but serve as gathering points for large groups, adding a unique visual flair to the sea of red and gold.

Highmark Stadium: Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills’ fanbase, lovingly dubbed the “Bills Mafia,” has earned quite the reputation for their passionate—and sometimes wild—tailgating antics. The atmosphere at Highmark Stadium is electric, with fans arriving early to partake in pre-game rituals that have become NFL legend.

One of the most infamous traditions among Bills fans is table slamming. While I can’t officially endorse it, you’ll likely see fans taking flying leaps onto folding tables, resulting in spectacular crashes that have gone viral on social media. I saw Jason Kelce do this last year before the playoff game against the Chiefs.

Another staple of the Bills tailgate scene is Pinto Ron, a superfan known for his unique tailgating setup and for getting doused in ketchup and mustard before each game. It’s a sight to behold!

Buffalo’s culinary traditions are well represented at Bills tailgates. You’ll find fans chowing down on beef on weck, a local specialty featuring juicy roast beef on a kummelweck roll. And of course, no Bills tailgate would be complete without mountains of Buffalo wings.

M&T Bank Stadium: Baltimore Ravens’

The Baltimore Ravens’ M&T Bank Stadium benefits from its prime downtown location, creating a tailgating experience that blends seamlessly with the city’s vibrant atmosphere. It’s easy to transition from exploring Baltimore’s attractions to joining the pre-game festivities, making for a full day of entertainment.

Given Baltimore’s proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, it’s no shocker that seafood stars in Ravens tailgates. I’ve had some of the best crab cakes and oysters of my life in the parking lots surrounding M&T Bank Stadium. These local delicacies add a touch of sophistication to the traditional tailgate fare and showcase Baltimore’s rich culinary heritage.

The stadium’s location near the Inner Harbor takes the tailgating experience up a notch. I always recommend fans start their day with a stroll along the waterfront, maybe visiting the National Aquarium or the USS Constellation, before diving into the pre-game festivities. This unique blend of urban exploration and football tradition makes Ravens tailgates truly special.

Lambeau Field: Green Bay Packers

Lambeau Field consistently tops TripAdvisor reviews for its exceptional tailgating atmosphere, and for good reason. The Green Bay Packers’ storied history and passionate fanbase contribute to a pre-game experience that’s steeped in tradition and community spirit.

Packers fans are known for their unwavering dedication, and let me tell you, it’s on full display during tailgate parties at Lambeau Field. The parking lots fill up hours before kickoff, with fans setting up elaborate spreads that often include local specialties like bratwurst and cheese curds.

The sense of camaraderie among Packers fans is palpable—I’ve seen strangers become fast friends over shared plates and heated football discussions.

What truly sets Lambeau Field’s tailgating apart is the fans’ ability to embrace the elements. Even in the depths of a Wisconsin winter, with temperatures well below freezing, you’ll find Packers fans grilling, drinking, and celebrating in the parking lots.

This resilience in the face of harsh weather has become a point of pride for Packers fans and adds an extra layer of excitement to the tailgating experience.

State Farm Stadium: Arizona Cardinals

While some NFL stadiums have gained a reputation for expensive tailgating, State Farm Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals, offers a more wallet-friendly option.

With average tailgating costs estimated at $158.07 for a group of four, including parking fees of around $21, Cardinals fans can enjoy the pre-game festivities without breaking the bank.

Tailgating in the Arizona desert provides a unique backdrop for pre-game celebrations. The warm, dry climate allows for comfortable outdoor gatherings well into the football season when fans in other cities might be huddling for warmth. This creates a festive, almost vacation-like atmosphere that sets Cardinals tailgates apart.

State Farm Stadium has embraced its role as a tailgating destination by providing amenities that enhance the fan experience. The expansive parking lots offer plenty of space for setting up grills, games, and gathering areas. The stadium also hosts official pre-game events that complement the tailgating experience, creating a well-rounded game day atmosphere that appeals to fans of all ages.

Lincoln Financial Field: Philadelphia Eagles

You didn’t think I was going to do a tailgating post without mentioning Philly, right?

Eagles fans are some of the most die-hard in the NFL, and their tailgating culture reflects that passion. Arriving hours before kickoff, the tailgaters at Lincoln Financial Field set up in the pink, blue, and yellow lots, where the air fills with the scent of sizzling cheesesteaks and hoagies.

You’ll often spot re-purposed school buses and retrofitted vehicles packed with fans, blaring team anthems. The pre-game festivities are a full production here, with impromptu drumlines and chant-offs adding to the electric atmosphere.

While cheesesteaks are the star of the culinary show, Eagles fans also indulge in Philly pretzels, roast pork sandwiches, and local brews, making the tailgating scene as iconic as the Liberty Bell. T. The fans’ notorious reputation might come with a side of tough love, but the tailgating experience here is nothing short of legendary.

Gillette Stadium: New England Patriots

Patriots fans are known for their unwavering loyalty, and Gillette Stadium is a haven for those who love cold-weather tailgating. Fans here set up as early as four hours before the game, bringing with them lobster rolls, clam chowder, and other New England staples. Even when the snow starts falling, fans bundle up in layers and gather around portable heaters to enjoy the pre-game excitement.

What sets Gillette’s tailgating apart is its seafood-heavy menu, reflecting the coastal charm of New England. You’ll find tailgaters serving up fresh clam bakes, lobster tails, and scallops, with local microbrews to wash it all down. The cold-weather doesn’t dampen spirits here—it enhances the camaraderie as fans warm themselves with both food and football passion. Patriots fans turn these parking lots into veritable seafood feasts before the game kicks off.

NRG Stadium: Houston Texans

NRG Stadium in Houston is home to one of the biggest and boldest tailgating cultures in the NFL. The stadium parking lots transform into Texas BBQ festivals, where fans gather to grill brisket, ribs, and sausage for hours on end. Teams of tailgaters, like the Raging Bull Tailgaters and the Liberty Tailgaters, set up elaborate camps complete with smokers, tents, and games.

In true Texas fashion, NRG’s tailgating culture revolves around generosity and community. Even if you’re a first-timer, you’ll likely be invited to try some brisket or sample a cold drink as you walk through the parking lots. Texans fans take their food seriously, with some even participating in unofficial BBQ competitions. Tailgating here isn’t just a pre-game ritual—it’s a Texas tradition.

Raymond James Stadium: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Raymond James Stadium in Tampa is known for its pirate-themed charm, and this extends to the tailgating experience as well. Fans gather to enjoy fresh seafood, including shrimp and fish tacos, alongside traditional tailgating staples. The parking lots open 90 minutes before the game, and the proximity to the Gulf of Mexico means you’ll be dining on seafood as fresh as it gets.

What really sets Raymond James apart is its pirate flair. The massive pirate ship inside the stadium can be seen from the tailgating lots, adding to the festive, swashbuckling atmosphere. Fans show up in pirate gear, and you’ll often see elaborate setups that nod to the Buccaneers’ theme. For an added bonus, the stadium sometimes offers tailgating packages that include food, drinks, and even autographs from players. It’s an unforgettable experience that blends football with a taste of the high seas.

Soldier Field: Chicago Bears

At Soldier Field, tailgating is a hardy tradition that continues no matter how cold it gets. Bears fans gather in large groups, firing up grills to cook bratwurst, burgers, and even the occasional grilled doughnut. The Waldron Deck and other surface lots around the stadium fill up early, as fans set up tents and games to keep the pre-game party going, rain or shine.

Bears fans are proud of their midwestern roots, and the food reflects that—expect plenty of hearty fare like bratwurst, chili, and deep-dish pizza. What makes Soldier Field stand out is the unexpected addition of grilled Krispy Kreme doughnuts, a surprising but beloved tailgating treat that fans swear by. Even in the coldest months, Bears fans show up with their best gear, ready to celebrate their team with good food, drinks, and camaraderie.

Which is your favorite?

What’s your favorite place to tailgate? Also, whats your go to tailgate snack?