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Best NFL Stadiums, Ranked
Sorting the best NFL stadiums is a tough call. Each brings its own flavor—electrifying crowds, cutting-edge tech, or a deep history of legendary games. However, there ought to be a way to pinpoint which ones really stand out.
To do this, I’ve developed specific criteria and scored them based on both my own experiences and the persistent feedback from die-hard fans who attend games week in week out.
Let’s go through all 30 NFL stadiums from best to worst.
1. SoFi Stadium – Los Angeles Rams/Chargers | 8.3/10
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 9 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 8 |
| Design and Architecture | 10 |
| History and Tradition | 4 |
| Location | 9 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Field Quality | 9 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 10 |
All things considered, the title for the best NFL football stadium goes to SoFi Stadium, home turf for the Los Angeles Chargers and Rams.
It was completed in 2020 and currently stands as the NFL’s largest— 3.1 million square feet—and most costly to construct, at a total expenditure of $5.5 billion.
Tucked away in Inglewood, just a short drive from LAX, the stadium is a favorite for fans flying in for games. What really draws the eye is the massive, translucent canopy stretching over the arena and spilling out over the nearby plaza and performance venue.
This design is a real showstopper for its blend of style with practicality—it keeps over 70,000 fans sheltered from the weather while maintaining a breezy, open-air atmosphere.
2. Lambeau Field – Green Bay Packers | 8.3/10
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 10 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 8 |
| History and Tradition | 10 |
| Location | 6 |
| Value for Money | 8 |
| Field Quality | 8 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 9 |
Lambeau Field is the best NFL stadium to visit for a walk through football history. It’s the oldest continuously operating venue in the league and has been the home of the Packers since 1957.
Every fan who’s ever stepped into “The Frozen Tundra” raves about the unique game-day atmosphere, complemented with its classic bowl design. Seating over 81,000, it’s one of the largest in the league, yet the vibe is incredibly personal—like being part of a giant family gathering.
You could argue it’s the best NFL stadium in terms of legacy games and Hall of Fame talent. Iconic quarterbacks such as Bart Starr, Brett Favre, and Aaron Rodgers have graced this field. It’s showcased unforgettable games such as the Ice Bowl, too.
Not everyone will appreciate Lambeau’s old school look (you still sit on bleacher seats, after all), nor the cold that accompanies a game there in November and onward.
But when it comes to ranking NFL stadiums, it’s undeniable this stadium’s rich history and quality remodeling push it very close to the top.
3. Lumen Field – Seattle Seahawks | 8.3/10
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 10 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 8 |
| Design and Architecture | 8 |
| History and Tradition | 8 |
| Location | 8 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 10 |
Ask any Seahawks fan which NFL team has the best stadium, and they’ll proudly point to their own. Once you set aside that hometown pride, it’s easy to see why they feel that way.
Lumen Field came to life between 2000 and 2002, thanks to funding approved by voters in a statewide election back in June 1997. It’s famously known for its incredible crowd noise.
In fact, Seahawks fans (aka the 12th Man) have set the Guinness World Record for the loudest crowd roar at an outdoor stadium not once, but twice—hitting 136.6 decibels in 2013 and then topping that with 137.6 decibels the following year.
Another factor that has led most NFL betting sites to favor their home-field advantage.
The design is worth a mention, too, featuring a partial roof that cleverly keeps out the Pacific Northwest rain while not completely closing off the open-air feel—a real architectural feat!
4. AT&T Stadium – Dallas Cowboys | 8/10
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 10 |
| Design and Architecture | 10 |
| History and Tradition | 7 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 6 |
| Field Quality | 8 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 9 |
Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium really sets the bar high with a capacity of over 100,000 spectators, though it officially lists seating for 80,000+. Manhattan Construction initiated the project back in 2006 and opened its doors on May 22, 2009, at a cost of $1.3 billion.
Architecturally, the stadium impresses with its massive retractable roof and enormous glass façades, which create a stunning visual impact and provide dynamic, adaptable game day environments. Inside, it’s nothing short of a spectacle, boasting one of the largest HD video screens at the time of its construction, stretching from one 20-yard line to the other.
Some might say it’s a bit too large.
Overall, Jerry World doesn’t disappoint nearly as much as the Cowboys do come playoff time. Of course, it’s hard not to when you operate in a division with a new champion every single year.
Think Dallas can buck the trend? Then perhaps that’s one piece of data to ignore when you bet on football this year. You shouldn’t ignore all of the key NFL betting stats that are out there, though.
5. Mercedes-Benz Stadium – Atlanta Falcons | 8.1/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 9 |
| Design and Architecture | 9 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 8 |
| Value for Money | 9 |
| Field Quality | 8 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
Rounding the top five best NFL stadiums is Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Opened in 2017, it was the first professional sports venue in the U.S. to achieve LEED Platinum certification. This includes solar panels and a storm water retention system that helps to prevent flooding in neighboring areas.
Another iconic feature is the retractable roof, designed with eight triangular panels that resemble a camera aperture—a stunning piece of engineering that opens and closes like a flower. Inside, you’ll see one of the largest 360-degree HD video halos at the rim of the ceiling that provides clear views from every seat.
We feel it’s a venue that emphasizes fan experience with wide, comfortable seating arrangements, extensive food and beverage options, as well as affordable pricing, which is rare in many other sports arenas.
6. U.S. Bank Stadium – Minnesota Vikings | 8/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 9 |
| Design and Architecture | 9 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 8 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 9 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
The U.S. Bank Stadium is situated at the very core of Minneapolis, a modern marvel and real improvement over the old Metrodome. Since the grand opening in 2016, it has housed major events such as Super Bowl LII and the NCAA Final Four, thus propelling itself into the center of the city.
The building itself? Beautiful.
All glass, and it lets you see the city skyline so clear it’s as if there is no barrier between you and the outside. The stadium hosts more than 66,000 seats and is equipped with 1,200 HD televisions, making sure that no matter where you sit, you catch all the action.
The enormous fan plaza and the iconic Viking ship at the entrance set up a unique game day experience. Step inside, and the vibe is just electric—everyone’s chanting “Skol” and you can hear Viking horns going off. It’s all set to get you right in the spirit.
7. Acrisure Stadium (Heinz Field) – Pittsburgh Steelers | 8/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 9 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 8 |
| History and Tradition | 9 |
| Location | 8 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 8 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
Acrisure Stadium, or Heinz Field, is one of those NFL stadiums where the echoes of cleats, cheers, and hard hits resound. Put yourself among nearly 70,000 fans to experience first-hand the touchdown or tackle being amplified by the iconic “Terrible Towel” twirls in the stands.
Sitting proudly in Pittsburgh, this venue is the beating heart for both the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers and college’s Pitt Panthers.
The open end of the stadium frames the stunning city skyline. After its history? Wander around the Great Hall, decked out with memorabilia that tells tales of gridiron glory.
8. Arrowhead Stadium – Kansas City Chiefs | 7.9/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 10 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 9 |
| Location | 6 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 8 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 9 |
You thought Lumen Field’s record was impressive? Chiefs’ fans at the Arrowhead Stadium wrote themselves into the annals in 2014 with a deafening roar of 142.2 decibels against the New England Patriots, the loudest for any outdoor stadium.
Tailgating is a big deal at Arrowhead, where the smells of barbeque fill the air long before kickoff. The stadium is also home to the Chiefs Hall of Honor, celebrating 25 Pro Football Hall of Famers and 48 Hall of Honor inductees.
Looking ahead, there’s a whopping $800 million renovation slated to start right after the 2026 World Cup. They’re expecting it to take about four years to finish up, which means a whole new look is coming soon.
I haven’t even touched on the fact that this stadium is home to the NFL’s next dynasty. Patrick Mahomes and co. are yearly Super Bowl threats, and that probably won’t be changing anytime soon.
Naturally, the team’s level of play and star power only adds to your viewing experience when taking Chiefs games in live.
9. Allegiant Stadium – Las Vegas Raiders | 7.9/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 9 |
| Design and Architecture | 9 |
| History and Tradition | 4 |
| Location | 9 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 8 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
Merely playing the slots or bluffing at the poker tables does not define a complete Vegas experience. You must dedicate an evening to catching the Las Vegas Raiders in action at Allegiant Stadium.
The ten-level domed venue stands just off the Strip. It’s all about spectacle and experience, much like the city itself. Mark Davis, the Raiders’ owner, fittingly nicknamed it as the “Death Star” due to its bold, black exterior.
Allegiant is among the best stadiums in the NFL to visit for anyone craving the latest in stadium design. It debuted with a Raiders win over the Saints on September 21, 2020, under Monday Night lights.
The venue is packed with cutting-edge features: a retractable natural turf field, colossal HD video boards for an all-angle view of the action, and high-speed Wi-Fi that makes live betting on Raiders games a breeze.
10. Gillette Stadium – New England Patriots | 7.8/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 8 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 9 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 8 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
Completed in 2002, Gillette Stadium replaced the aging Foxboro Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Since its opening, the arena has been at the heart of the Patriots’ formidable NFL legacy, hosting numerous playoff games and underpinning their dynasty, highlighted by their undefeated regular season in 2007.
Over the years, Gillette has undergone several specific enhancements. The $250 million North End renovation, completed in 2023, marks the most recent and significant one, introducing a striking 22-story lighthouse with a 360-degree observation deck—a symbolic entrance and a meeting spot for fans.
Such an iconic addition is complemented by the nation’s largest outdoor curved-radius HD video board. Additions like the G-P Atrium, a 50,000-square-foot function space, and the Enel Plaza transform both aesthetics and utility, making the stadium a year-round venue.
| Into Baseball? Check out how we ranked the best MLB Stadiums |
11. Soldier Field – Chicago Bears | 7.5/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 7 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 6 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 10 |
| Location | 9 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
Positioned at #11 in our top NFL stadiums list is the Chicago Bears’ Soldier Field.
It’s the oldest still-running venue in the league, initially opened in 1924, so you can imagine how stepping in feels like walking through a portal into football history. All the classical architecture, complete with iconic columns and grand facades, immediately immerses you in the rich heritage of the game.
In terms of location, you could be exploring the Loop in downtown Chicago one minute and, after a brisk 30-minute walk, be stepping through the front gates. It’s that close!
Despite all this, Soldier Field has faced its share of modern criticisms, especially post the 2002 renovation which introduced a juxtaposition of futuristic “flying saucer” elements into the classic structure. Many fans and locals dubbed it the “Eyesore on the Lakeshore,” as it disrupted the aesthetic continuity of the stadium.
Inside, the redesign led to narrower concourses that twist and turn unpredictably, making navigation a headache for fans. This, coupled with a complex ramp system, significantly hampers the fan flow on game days.
12. Empower Field at Mile High – Denver Broncos | 7.5/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 8 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 8 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
Empower Field at Mile High is just a stone’s throw from the site of the original Mile High Stadium. Ever wonder why it’s named that way? It’s perched exactly one mile above sea level—yes, that’s quite the altitude advantage against teams not accustomed to it.
Add that to the notoriously loud fans, and you’ve got a fortress. Keep this in mind next time you’re betting on an NFL game where the Broncos play host.
The stadium’s design, with its undulating upper profile and a façade of steel, glass, and aluminum, mirrors Colorado’s rugged beauty and Denver’s urban skyline.
It holds 76,125 fans across five seating levels, including 8,200 club seats and 144 luxury suites. Interestingly, despite being over twice the size of its predecessor, it officially seats only two more spectators.
13. Caesars Superdome – New Orleans Saints | 7.5/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 8 |
| Location | 8 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
The Caesars Superdome has hosted no less than seven Super Bowl games to date and is gearing up for its eighth in 2025.
Why is it such a popular choice? Some might say it’s indeed the NFL’s best stadium for such events due to its legacy and quintessential big-game vibe, while others simply point to its location in New Orleans.
Beyond its iconic status in sports, the arena’s role in the community dramatically shifted in 2005 when it provided shelter to thousands during Hurricane Katrina.
Since then, it has become a symbol of New Orleans’ resilience; notably, a large section of the outer covering was peeled off by high winds during the storm. The images of the exposed concrete quickly became an iconic representation of what happened.
14. Hard Rock Stadium – Miami Dolphins | 7.5/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 7 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 6 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 8 |
| Location | 8 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 9 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, with its history of hosting six Super Bowls—11 in total for the city—has undergone significant renovations. Luckily they’ve elevated its standing.
Those changes include a new open-air canopy, modernized seating, revamped concourses, luxurious suites, and massive high-definition video boards.
Beyond hosting Miami Dolphins games, the Hard Rock Stadium serves as a multipurpose hub for events like F1 races, the Miami Open, and concerts, and is also home to the NCAA’s Miami Hurricanes.
Criticism of game-day amenities is what lowered its ranking to number 14 on our list, yet its diverse functionality and iconic status in the league are undeniable.
15. Ford Field – Detroit Lions | 7.4/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 8 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 8 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
The Detroit Lions’ den broke ground on November 16, 1999, as a keystone in Detroit’s downtown revitalization effort, which also brought Comerica Park to life.
The Ford Motor Company acquired the naming rights for a hefty $40 million over 20 years, a nod to the Ford family’s long standing ownership of the Lions since 1964.
This stadium seamlessly integrates the historic Hudson’s warehouse, which fuses old Detroit grit with cutting-edge design elements. On top of aesthetics, Ford Field stands out for its strategic seating arrangement—thanks to steep seating bowl angles, fans claim, “Even bad seats are good seats.”
This design choice enhances sightlines and brings the Cardiac Cats closer to the field, amplifying both views and game-day excitement.
16. Lincoln Financial Field – Philadelphia Eagles – 7/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 8 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
While lower in rankings than one might expect for 2013’s greenest NFL venue—with 11,000 solar panels and 14 wind turbines generating 30% of its power—Lincoln Financial Field isn’t deficient. It’s simply now considered more industry standard in an era graced by some of the best NFL football stadiums we’ve ever seen.
Home to the Philadelphia Eagles, the place is renowned for its intense game-day atmosphere fueled by die-hard fans.
It features expansive seating for over 69,000 spectators, modern HD video boards, and an advanced turf system called DD GrassMaster that integrates synthetic fibers with natural grass to reinforce the playing field’s structural integrity.
17. M&T Bank Stadium – Baltimore Ravens | 7.3/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 7 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
M&T Bank Stadium isn’t the flashiest in the NFL, but it gets the job done with a classic Baltimore vibe.
Opened back in ’98 with a $220 million price tag, it’s designed by the same folks who did Camden Yards, so it’s got some solid architectural roots. The place holds over 71,000 fans, with 128 suites and tons of club seats for a comfy view.
Tech-wise, it’s up to speed with sharp HD video screens and strong WiFi. It’s also the first arena to nail a LEED Gold for being eco-friendly. Though it doesn’t top the chart in comparisons of the best to worst NFL stadiums, for Ravens fans, it’s a dependable spot to catch the action and feel right at home.
18. State Farm Stadium – Arizona Cardinals – 7.1/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 8 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 6 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 8 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
The Cardinals’ record of most franchise losses in NFL history, with 803 by 2023, hasn’t helped boost State Farm Stadium’s historical significance.
Sure, it hosted two Super Bowls, including the legendary 2008 clash where the Giants upset the undefeated Patriots—a game often hailed as one of the greatest. However, celebrations for the home fans remain few and far between.
Located in suburban Glendale rather than downtown Phoenix, the stadium struggles with drawing spontaneous crowds, affecting appeal for city dwellers who dislike traveling far.
On the positive end of things, it’s known for its retractable roof and field, allowing it to host games in ideal weather conditions regardless of the season. The stadium also thrives on excellent fan amenities, like wide folding seats with individual cup holders and broad aisles.
19. Raymond James Stadium – Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 7/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 7 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 7 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
Opened in 1998 in Tampa, Florida, Raymond James Stadium serves as the home turf for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the USF Bulls.
This venue has witnessed its share of epic moments, including hosting three Super Bowls, notably one where the Buccaneers made history by being the first team to play and clinch the championship on their own field.
As for the amenities, the stadium scores big with features like the legendary pirate ship, which blasts cannons to celebrate touchdowns and field goals. However, while it consistently meets fan expectations, it doesn’t quite elevate to the ranks of the NFL’s best stadiums.
It’s solid, but not groundbreaking.
20. Lucas Oil Stadium – Indianapolis Colts – 7/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 8 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
The fan experience really steals the show at Lucas Oil Stadium, where the usual tailgating takes a backseat to the bustling Touchdown Town.
This area buzzes with pre-game activities and live music, offering plenty to do even if football isn’t your main draw. From the outside, the classic brick facade integrates seamlessly into the cityscape.
Traffic can get a bit hectic at times, though the easy access from the interstate and the wealth of amenities keep fans returning for more.
21. Bank of America Stadium – Carolina Panthers | 6.9/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 7 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
Charlotte’s own Bank of America Stadium is on a somewhat similar level.
Those who visit will be greeted by architectural splendors like the three main entrances, embellished in the Panthers’ colors and accompanied by the large bronze panther statues called ‘Indomitable Spirit,’ the biggest sculptures commissioned in the U.S.
The arena also features innovative LED light domes atop each entrance, enhancing its fortress-like exterior while honoring club legends and team founder Jerry Richardson with life-sized statues.
Historically, the stadium may not have the extensive past of some more storied venues.
The Panthers won their first game against the Atlanta Falcons there in 1996. No Super Bowls have ever been hosted, though fans did witness remarkable individual feats, including Cam Newton setting the rookie passing record in 2011.
22. Levi’s Stadium – San Francisco 49ers | 6.9/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 7 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 8 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 6 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
Levi’s Stadium is one of the newest stadiums in the NFL, and while many of its features might be considered standard fare, the facilities and amenities lift it above those at the lower end.
Its capacity of 68,500 can expand to 75,000 for major events like the Super Bowl, with 60% of fans seated in the lower bowl, close to the action. The west end has 8,500 club seats and 165 luxury boxes for premium experiences, while the east side, known as the Zinni Zone, offers shaded seating and free sunglasses to combat the direct sunlight.
The venue boasts a 63-foot wide concourse for easy movement, plenty of escalators and elevators, and is designed to be open to the field of play so fans don’t miss the action.
It’s a little surprising to learn a franchise like the 49ers – who often have some of the best Super Bowl odds – don’t rank higher in the stadium game. That said, sometimes you have to sacrifice a great stadium to maintain an elite product on the field.
23. Cleveland Browns Stadium – Cleveland Browns | 6.9/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 7 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 6 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 7 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
The Cleveland Browns Stadium was inaugurated in 1999. FirstEnergy held its naming rights from 2013 to 2023. Originally, the venue could seat 73,200 people, but a two-year renovation project completed in 2014 reduced the capacity to 67,431.
Overall, we thought the stadium competes well with the typical NFL arena in several respects, though it has faced criticism for its lack of diversity and modern features.
In particular, fans have noted that the concession options and tech amenities fall short of contemporary standards expected at major sporting events. However, there’s promising news on the horizon for the Browns Backers: a $1 billion renovation is in the pipeline, which could elevate its standing in the coming seasons.
24. Highmark Stadium – Buffalo Bills | 6.9/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 9 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 6 |
| Design and Architecture | 6 |
| History and Tradition | 8 |
| Location | 6 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 6 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
Situated in Orchard Park, New York, Highmark Stadium is known for its incredibly passionate fan base, famously referred to as the “Bills Mafia.”
This open-air field offers a real grassroots football experience, often with harsh winter weather that adds an extra layer of intensity to games—something not every NFL stadium can claim.
Highmark isn’t the most modern; in fact, it lacks some of the high-end amenities you see in newer stadiums. It doesn’t have a retractable roof or luxury suites as plush as others, and it’s been described as more utilitarian. Yet, this very simplicity brings fans closer to the raw excitement of the game, which is a plus for many.
Highmark Stadium’s days as the home of the Bills are numbered. Construction for a new venue started in early May 2023, and it’s slated to welcome fans by the 2026 NFL season.
25. Nissan Stadium – Tennessee Titans | 6.8/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 7 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 6 |
| Design and Architecture | 7 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
Anyone who’s ever set foot in the current Nissan Stadium knows its vibrant atmosphere on game day but also recognizes its age-related shortcomings, particularly in terms of technological integrations and fan comfort.
It’s struggling to keep pace with modern arenas, making the Titans’ announcement of a new stadium a welcome yet unsurprising development.
Construction kicked off in February 2024, promising a venue revolution with a circular translucent roof, enhanced sightlines from every one of its 62,000 seats, and a 12,000-square-foot community space designed to extend the stadium’s utility beyond just sports.
26. NRG Stadium – Houston Texans | 6.6/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 7 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 6 |
| Design and Architecture | 6 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 8 |
| Value for Money | 6 |
| Field Quality | 6 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 8 |
NRG Stadium was built in 2002 as the first NFL stadium with a retractable roof. It serves as the home ground for the Houston Texans and has hosted a range of events, including the Super Bowl and several international soccer matches.
The stadium boasts a seating capacity of over 72,000 with various viewing options, including luxury suites that offer VIP amenities and excellent sightlines.
However, it’s not without its challenges; notably, two large panels of the stadium’s roof were ripped off during Hurricane Beryl. Repairs are planned to begin soon, though we can’t award as many points to facilities as we would like at this stage.
Parking availability is ample, but the cost can be on the higher end depending on the event. The METRORail service does mitigate this issue, along with the regularly reported traffic congestions on matchdays.
27. MetLife Stadium – New York Giants/Jets | 6.6/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 7 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 7 |
| Design and Architecture | 6 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 6 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
The 82,000-seater MetLife Stadium is home to both the New York Giants and New York Jets.
It sits among the largest in the league, which is great for big games but can feel lacking in personal touch during quieter moments. The dual-team arrangement is unique but can dilute the home-field advantage typically felt in the NFL’s best stadiums.
It’s not particularly praised for architectural charm or high-tech amenities either, despite being built only recently in 2010.
You’d think the owners of these teams would pool their efforts to appease their fan base, especially with both of these teams struggling in recent years. Alas, at least it’s not the worst NFL stadium you can visit.
28. Paycor Stadium – Cincinnati Bengals – 6.5/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 7 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 5 |
| Design and Architecture | 6 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 7 |
| Value for Money | 7 |
| Field Quality | 7 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 7 |
Sitting right on the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, Paycor Stadium has a solid vibe among NFL fans.
It has been open since the year 2000 and got a pretty cool tailgating spot called the “Jungle Zone” that ramps up the pre-game fun with food and live music. The seating is close to the action; you’re just feet from the sideline—really in the game.
However, the tech and luxury options lag behind the best NFL stadiums sitting in the top half of this list; fans believe it’s time for a tech boost and better food spots. Traffic and crowd control can be a headache; getting in and out is a slow and potentially dangerous drag.
29. Commanders Field – Washington Commanders | 6/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 6 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 6 |
| Design and Architecture | 6 |
| History and Tradition | 6 |
| Location | 6 |
| Value for Money | 6 |
| Field Quality | 6 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 6 |
The bottom line is that Commanders Field really doesn’t impress. Fans find it outdated and not up to snuff with what’s expected from an NFL stadium today.
It even led one fan to air his grievances publicly on social media.
Something tells me he isn’t the first, and surely won’t be the last.
The critiques about it being a logistical mess, with unprepared staff and poor facilities, really paint a picture of a place that doesn’t just need a facelift but maybe a complete overhaul.
If even locals are avoiding games there, that’s a pretty harsh indictment. It’s no surprise it’s been ranked so poorly repeatedly.
30. EverBank Stadium – Jacksonville Jaguars | 5.6/10
| criteria | rating |
|---|---|
| Fan Experience | 6 |
| Facilities and Amenities | 5 |
| Design and Architecture | 6 |
| History and Tradition | 5 |
| Location | 6 |
| Value for Money | 6 |
| Field Quality | 5 |
| Acoustics and Sightlines | 6 |
Here you have it, the worst NFL stadium you can visit.
EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida, is the only NFL venue with in-stadium pools. That’s luxury. So, what caused the ground to fall so much down the pecking order?
Well, the most pressing issues are primarily related to the stadium’s aging infrastructure and the resulting challenges. For instance, during the home opener, Jacksonville Fire and Rescue reportedly treated 110 people, mostly for heat-related illnesses, highlighting the need for better shade and cooling systems within the stadium.
Lately, The Jacksonville City Council approved a $1.4 billion renovation project dubbed to make the place a “Stadium of the Future.” An article on the Jaguars portal mentioned that the exterior would feature a “first-of-its-kind mirrored material” designed to reduce heat retention by more than 70% and lower temperatures by 10 to 15 degrees.
Could the Cardiac Jags’ home make it among the best NFL stadiums come the beginning of the 2028 season?
What NFL Team Has the Best Stadium?
Ranking the best NFL stadiums is inherently subjective, and what I might prioritize could differ significantly from what you value most.
But when looking at it from all angles, there couldn’t be any other place than SoFi Stadium to take the top spot—it perfectly blends monumental scale with the latest amenities and awe-inspiring architecture.
Lambeau Field and Lumen Field didn’t come far behind; they both carry immense history and traditions and deliver remarkable fan experiences. Meanwhile, AT&T Stadium also made a strong case for itself with its pioneering design and fan-first facilities.
If you wanted to know what NFL stadiums are worth visiting, hopefully my NFL stadium rankings help you make the call.
