U.S. Bank Stadium, which opened in 2016, is more than just the home of the Minnesota Vikings; it’s a premier destination for sports and entertainment in the heart of Minneapolis. But how big is it, really? Understanding the stadium’s seating capacity is key to grasping its scale and the kind of fan experience it offers.
The official seating capacity at U.S. Bank Stadium is 66,860. But that number only tells part of the story. The seating arrangements directly affect the atmosphere, the accessibility, and the overall enjoyment of any event held there.
Whether you’re a die-hard Vikings fan, planning to attend a concert, or just curious about this modern marvel, this article explores the different seating options, what you can expect from the fan experience, and other practical information to help you make the most of your visit to U.S. Bank Stadium.
Seating Capacity and Configuration
U.S. Bank Stadium is a big place, and it holds a lot of people. Here’s a closer look at its seating setup:
Official Seating Numbers
The official seating capacity of U.S. Bank Stadium is 66,860. That puts it somewhere in the middle compared to other NFL stadiums. For example, AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, home of the Dallas Cowboys, can hold over 100,000, while Soldier Field in Chicago, home of the Bears, has a capacity of just over 62,000.
U.S. Bank Stadium can also be expanded for certain events. When Minneapolis hosted Super Bowl LII in 2018, temporary seating was added to boost the capacity to over 73,000.
Different Seating Zones and Their Characteristics
Like most stadiums, U.S. Bank Stadium offers different seating levels, each with its own characteristics:
- Lower Level Seating: These seats put you right in the action, close to the field. As you might expect, they also come with premium pricing. The best seats on the lower level are generally considered to be those between the end zone and the 20-yard line.
- Upper Level Seating: If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the upper level offers a wider view of the field. Some fans recommend sections 340-343 for a view that’s similar to what you’d see on television.
- Club Level Seating: Club level seats offer exclusive amenities and enhanced experiences. Perks often include access to private lounges, premium food and beverage options, and more comfortable seating.
Premium Seating and Suite Options
If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience at U.S. Bank Stadium, you’ll find a variety of premium seating and suite options to suit your needs.
Suite Experiences
U.S. Bank Stadium offers a range of suite sizes and locations, from smaller suites perfect for a close group of friends or colleagues to larger spaces ideal for entertaining clients. Suite packages typically include amenities such as catering options, private restrooms, and dedicated service staff.
Club Seats
Club-level seats offer fantastic views of the action, along with access to exclusive club lounges. In these lounges, you’ll find premium food and beverage options, comfortable seating areas, and often, private bars.
The Value Proposition of Premium Seating
While premium seating and suites come at a higher cost, many fans and businesses find the investment worthwhile. For fans, it’s a chance to enjoy the game in ultimate comfort and style. For businesses, premium seating can be a valuable tool for networking and client entertainment, offering a unique and memorable experience that can strengthen relationships and drive business growth.
Fan perspectives on seating and views
Where you sit can make or break your experience at a sporting event. Here are some insights from fans who’ve attended events at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Optimal seating locations based on fan preferences
Some fans prefer end zone seats, while others like to sit along the sidelines. End zone seats can give you a head-on view of the action as players approach the goal, but it can be harder to see plays develop across the field. Sideline seats offer a broader view of the field, but you might be farther from the most intense action.
Similarly, there are trade-offs between upper-level and lower-level seating. Lower-level seats put you closer to the players, but can limit your overall perspective. Upper-level seats give you a bird’s-eye view of the entire field, but the players will appear smaller.
Recommendations from fans who have attended games
Many fans recommend sections 340-343 for a “television-style” view of the game. If you’re attending a daytime game, keep in mind that the stadium’s design brings in quite a bit of natural light.
As one fan put it, “U.S. Bank brings the best out of the outside environment and natural light during the transition from day to night.”
Impact of stadium design on viewing experience
The abundance of natural light is a major plus for many fans. “I think it’s the natural light and how awesome a touch that is for a stadium without a retractable roof,” one person wrote.
However, depending on where you’re sitting, you might encounter some obstructed views. When you’re buying tickets, it’s worth checking out seating charts and fan reviews to get a better sense of potential sightline issues.
Game day experience beyond the seats
Attending a game at U.S. Bank Stadium is more than just watching the action on the field. It’s about soaking in the atmosphere, indulging in local flavors, and participating in time-honored traditions.
Pre-game activities and atmosphere
While the glory days of tailgating might be dwindling, there are still tailgating options around the stadium. Lots generally open six hours before kickoff and close two hours after the game ends, so plan accordingly.
Inside the stadium, get ready to participate in the “Skol” chant, a unique fan tradition that’ll have you feeling like a true Viking.
Concessions and amenities
U.S. Bank Stadium is a foodie’s paradise. Forget basic stadium fare; fans rave about the cheese curds (apparently “massive and to die for”), the chicken wings, the waffles, and, of course, the local Surly beers. Be prepared to loosen your belt a notch or two!
If you’re looking for a memento of your visit, the stadium also boasts plenty of merchandise and souvenir shops.
Accessibility and inclusivity
The stadium offers ADA-compliant seating options and provides services and resources for fans with disabilities to ensure everyone can enjoy the game day experience.
Practical Information for Attending Events
So, you’re planning a visit to U.S. Bank Stadium? Here’s some info to help you make the most of your experience:
Ticketing Information
Tickets can usually be purchased online, at the box office, or from resale sites. Vikings season tickets are extremely popular and are currently sold out, but you can join the waiting list with a $100 deposit per seat (up to six seats). On average, you can expect to pay around $234 on StubHub for a single ticket to a 2024 Vikings game.
Transportation and Parking
Getting to the stadium is pretty easy. There are lots of public transportation options, including light rail and buses. If you’re driving, there are over 20,000 parking spaces within a 20-minute walk of the stadium. Prices vary depending on the lot and the event.
Stadium Policies
Keep in mind that U.S. Bank Stadium has specific bag policies and security procedures in place. You can find the most up-to-date information on the stadium’s official website before you head out.
In Summary
Choosing the right seat at U.S. Bank Stadium involves balancing what you want to spend, how good you want the view to be, and what amenities matter most to you. Some fans prioritize being close to the action, while others prefer a higher vantage point or access to exclusive club lounges.
Ultimately, though, the fan experience at U.S. Bank Stadium goes beyond just the seating. The stadium’s modern design, the electric atmosphere, and the wide range of food and beverage options all contribute to a memorable event.
With a seating capacity that can expand to over 70,000, U.S. Bank Stadium offers a diverse range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. As The Ringer put it, “It’s really everything you’d want in a place to watch a game: an invested crowd, curated food options, spine-tingling pregame videos.” Whether you’re a die-hard Vikings fan or attending a concert, U.S. Bank Stadium is a top-tier venue that delivers an unforgettable experience.