Arizona Cardinals

Arizona Cardinals Travel Guide: State Farm Stadium

How to Get There

• Flying In: You will fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). It is a massive, highly efficient hub located near downtown Phoenix and is heavily serviced by American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, with plenty of Delta flights available.

• Airport Transit: 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 does not reach Glendale. Taking public transit to the stadium can take over an hour and a half, so renting a car or relying on a rideshare from the airport 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. Staying in Westgate is highly recommended for the ultimate, traffic-free football experience.

Budget/Mid-Range Options

• Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Glendale-Westgate: This fantastic, reliable option is located right in the Westgate Entertainment District. It is only a short walk to the stadium, offers a free hot breakfast, and typically requires 30,000 to 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

• 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 and generally ranges from 20,000 to 30,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

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 is located just a stone's throw from the stadium and features modern elegance, a massive outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Redemptions usually hover around 30,000 to 45,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

• 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

• Westgate Entertainment District: You do not 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.

• 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

• 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 gets packed with fans, massive TVs, and incredible food.

• Yard House: If you prefer an indoor pregame, just walk over to the Westgate complex. Grab a massive yard of beer at this highly popular spot before walking over to the security gates.

• Salt Tacos y Tequila: Also located in Westgate, this spot draws a massive, lively crowd and offers an electric atmosphere to kick off your game day with great drinks and Mexican food.

Getting to the Stadium

• Walking from Westgate: If you book a hotel in the Westgate Entertainment District, simply walk to the gates and skip the post-game traffic entirely. It is a short, highly energized stroll.

• Driving: If you are renting a car, State Farm Stadium is surrounded by massive parking lots accessible via I-10 to the Loop 101 freeway. You must buy a parking pass in advance, as paying on-site can be a massive headache.

• Rideshare: There is a dedicated Uber/Lyft zone, but be prepared for heavy surge pricing and long wait times after the game ends as thousands of fans attempt to leave the footprint at the same time.

Where to Sit at State Farm Stadium

• The Cardinals Bench: The home team sits in front of Sections 107-110.

• 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.

• The Premium Club Experience: The 200-level Club seats offer the absolute best, perfectly elevated sightlines in the building. Because State Farm Stadium is famous for its retractable grass field and massive air-conditioning system, you can enjoy these climate-controlled lounges and upscale food options in total comfort.

• Family-Friendly Sections: If you are 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 is a steep climb, but the sightlines are completely unobstructed. Alternatively, you can buy Standing Room Only (SRO) 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.