Nothing captures the American sporting spirit quite like a good tailgate. Picture this: a parking lot transformed into a buzzing mini-city filled with the aroma of grilled foods, the cheers of die-hard fans, and the collective anticipation of a good game. But some tailgate experiences stand above the rest.
Here’s a list of the best tailgate destinations across the United States that turn game days into unforgettable experiences.
Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Home to the Green Bay Packers, Lambeau Field is nothing short of iconic. Known for their fanatic fans, the “Cheeseheads”, take tailgating to the next level. Imagine rows of RVs and grills sizzling with brats and burgers, not to mention the legendary “Lambeau Leap” where players jump into the crowd after scoring a touchdown or making a big play on the field. If you want to experience tailgating steeped in tradition, this is the place to be.
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
In Kansas City, tailgating is an art form, and Arrowhead Stadium is its canvas. Known for its mouthwatering barbecue, fans here start their tailgating days before the actual game. The parking lot turns into a community with fans sharing food, playing games, and rallying together in support of their hometown team.
University of Mississippi, Oxford
Also known as Ole Miss, the University of Mississippi in Oxford takes a more refined approach to tailgating. The Grove, an idyllic patch of land at the heart of campus, is where it all happens. Imagine chandeliers and elegant table settings that elevate the tailgate experience into something that resembles an outdoor banquet that feels more than a typical pre-game gathering.
AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Everything is bigger in Texas, including tailgates. AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, has a tailgate scene as flashy as the team’s well-known cheerleaders. With a jumbotron in the parking lot and fans showing off their tailgate setups as if they were competing in a reality TV show, this venue provides a modern, larger-than-life tailgate experience.
Notre Dame Stadium, South Bend, Indiana
College football is big at Notre Dame, and the tailgating culture is rich in history and tradition. Even if you’re not a Notre Dame fan, the overall atmosphere—the campus, the golden helmets, the Fighting Irish—is enchanting. Tailgating here feels like you are part of a legacy, a thread in the fabric of American college sports.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
Home to the Atlanta Falcons, Mercedes-Benz Stadium offers a tailgating experience that’s as sleek and modern as the stadium itself. What sets it apart is the Tailgate Teammate Program, which is a service that provides amenities like tents, TVs, and even catering services that take your tailgate experience to the next level.
From the icy cold of Lambeau Field to the sizzling barbecues of Arrowhead Stadium, each of these destinations offers a unique twist on the classic American tailgate. So, pack your cooler, put on your jersey, and hit the road. These tailgate destinations are calling your name, and promise to bring you an experience that’s nothing short of amazing.