Arizona Cardinals
Updated: Jun 10
Arizona Cardinals Travel Guide: State Farm Stadium
Getting to Phoenix & The Stadium
Flying In: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is your main hub. It is heavily serviced by American and Southwest Airlines, with plenty of Delta flights available. The airport is conveniently located near downtown Phoenix, making it easy to access your accommodations and the stadium.
The Neighborhood: State Farm Stadium is situated in Glendale, about 20 miles northwest of the airport and downtown Phoenix. While Phoenix does have a light rail system, it doesn’t reach Glendale. Taking public transit to the stadium can take over an hour and a half. Therefore, renting a car or relying on rideshares is highly recommended.
Where to Stay
When it comes to accommodations, you have two main choices: stay right next to the stadium in the Westgate Entertainment District for pure game-day convenience, or stay in Scottsdale/Phoenix and make the drive on game day. I highly recommend staying in Westgate for the ultimate experience.
Budget Options
Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Glendale-Westgate: This fantastic, reliable option is located right in the Westgate Entertainment District. It’s only a short walk to the stadium, offers a free hot breakfast, and is surrounded by dozens of restaurants and bars.
Holiday Inn Glendale - Stadium & Ent Dist: Located just over a half-mile from State Farm Stadium, this property features comfortable, modern rooms and a great outdoor pool. It keeps you well within walking distance of all the pregame action without breaking the bank.
Higher-End Options
Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa: If you want to stay as close to the gates as possible while enjoying an upscale experience, this is the spot. It’s located just a stone's throw from the stadium and features modern elegance, spacious rooms, a massive outdoor pool, and a full-service spa.
The Wigwam: Located a few miles west of the stadium in Litchfield Park, this stunning, historic resort is perfect for a luxury desert getaway. It features world-class golf courses, a massive spa, and beautiful grounds. It is the premier choice if you are turning your football trip into a high-end Arizona vacation.
Nearby Activities
Explore Westgate Entertainment District
You don’t even need to leave the stadium footprint to find entertainment. Westgate is a massive outdoor complex right next to the stadium, packed with bars, restaurants, live music, and shopping. It's the perfect place to soak up the pregame atmosphere.
Hike Camelback Mountain
If you want to burn off those pregame beers, make the drive to Camelback Mountain. It offers one of the most iconic, challenging, and scenic hikes in the Phoenix area. The views from the top are absolutely worth the effort.
Pregame Food and Drink
Experience The Great Lawn
The Cardinals have one of the most unique tailgating setups in the NFL. The Great Lawn is a massive, eight-acre grassy park that stretches out on the west side of the stadium. It opens four hours before kickoff and is packed with fans, massive TVs, and incredible food. It's a must-visit for any Cardinals fan.
Enjoy The Westgate Bar Scene
If you prefer an indoor pregame, just walk over to Westgate. Grab a massive yard of beer at Yard House, or hit up Salt Tacos y Tequila for a lively crowd. The atmosphere is electric, and it’s a great way to kick off your game day.
Getting to the Event
Driving & Parking
If you are renting a car, State Farm Stadium is surrounded by massive parking lots. You'll take I-10 to the Loop 101 freeway. Make sure to buy a parking pass in advance, as paying on-site can be a massive headache.
Rideshare Options
There is a dedicated Uber/Lyft zone, but be prepared for heavy surge pricing and long wait times after the game ends. It’s a good idea to plan your return trip in advance.
Walking from Westgate
If you book a hotel in Westgate, simply walk to the gates and skip the post-game traffic entirely. It’s a short stroll that allows you to soak in the atmosphere before the game.
Where to Sit at State Farm Stadium
State Farm Stadium is famous for its retractable grass field and massive air-conditioning system, so you don’t have to worry about the desert heat.
The Best Views
The 200-level Club seats offer the absolute best, perfectly elevated sightlines in the building. Plus, you’ll have access to climate-controlled lounges and upscale food options.
Away Fans
If you are cheering for the visiting team, look for Sections 128-130. Try to get seats in rows 30-41; these put you right behind the visitor's sideline, giving you a great view over the players and coaches without being too low.
Family-Friendly Sections
If you’re bringing the kids, look for Sections 114, 424, or 432. These are designated alcohol-free family sections, ensuring a comfortable environment for everyone.
The Budget Seats
The 400-level offers the cheapest tickets. It’s a steep climb, but the sightlines are completely unobstructed. Alternatively, you can buy Standing Room Only tickets behind the end zones. The South end zone is highly social, while the North end zone offers slightly better views of the massive videoboard.
Conclusion
Planning your trip to see the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium can be an unforgettable experience. With the right accommodations, pregame activities, and seating options, you’ll make the most out of your game day. Remember to enjoy every moment, from the excitement of the crowd to the thrill of the game. I hope this guide helps you create lasting memories on your sports adventure!
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