Tailgating is a huge part of football culture, bringing fans together to eat, drink, and celebrate before kickoff. Some stadiums are legendary for their parking lot parties, while others leave fans disappointed with strict rules or limited space.
From the best barbecue spreads to lackluster setups, here’s how every NFL stadium’s tailgating scene stacks up—ranked from worst to best.
30. Levi’s Stadium (San Francisco 49ers)
Levi’s Stadium might be a modern marvel, but its tailgating scene is a letdown. Limited parking, strict regulations, and the stadium’s location in Santa Clara make it one of the least exciting pregame experiences in the NFL.
29. SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles Rams/Chargers)
SoFi Stadium is stunning inside, but outside, tailgating is a struggle. The urban setting and tight restrictions make it tough to recreate a classic game-day atmosphere.
28. MetLife Stadium (New York Giants/Jets)
Despite housing two NFL teams, MetLife Stadium’s tailgating scene is surprisingly dull. The massive parking lots lack energy, and steep parking fees don’t help.
27. Gillette Stadium (New England Patriots)
Patriots fans bring the passion, but Foxborough’s isolated location limits the fun. With few nearby bars or attractions, the tailgating scene feels tame compared to other NFL cities.
26. Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta Falcons)
While the stadium is known for its cheap concessions, tailgating takes a hit due to its downtown location. There’s just not enough space to create that traditional pregame buzz.
25. Ford Field (Detroit Lions)
Tailgating outside Ford Field is minimal since the stadium is in the heart of downtown. Most fans opt for nearby bars instead, which some prefer—but it doesn’t capture the full tailgating spirit.
24. State Farm Stadium (Arizona Cardinals)
Tailgating at State Farm Stadium is decent, but the scorching Arizona heat makes it a challenge. Early-season games especially test fans’ dedication to standing around a grill.
23. Soldier Field (Chicago Bears)
Soldier Field is an NFL landmark, but it’s not a tailgating paradise. Limited parking and city restrictions make it tough for Bears fans to go all-out before kickoff.
22. Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis Colts)
The Colts have loyal fans, but tailgating at Lucas Oil Stadium is just okay. Many fans skip the parking lot and head to downtown bars instead.
21. Paycor Stadium (Cincinnati Bengals)
Tailgating at Paycor Stadium is solid but not spectacular. The riverfront setting adds some charm, but the atmosphere doesn’t quite reach elite status.
20. EverBank Stadium (Jacksonville Jaguars)
Jaguars fans make the most of Florida’s warm weather, creating a respectable tailgating scene. But compared to the league’s best, it’s still a step below.
19. AT&T Stadium (Dallas Cowboys)
The Cowboys’ stadium is all about luxury, and that extends to tailgating. While options exist, the emphasis on high-end experiences takes away from the traditional parking lot party vibe.
18. NRG Stadium (Houston Texans)
NRG Stadium delivers a decent tailgating scene, but it lacks the iconic traditions that set top-tier venues apart. Texans fans show up, but it’s not quite a legendary experience.
17. Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Dolphins)
Miami’s tailgating scene is more relaxed than rowdy, fitting the city’s laid-back vibe. The warm weather is a plus, but it’s not as intense as some other fan bases.
16. M&T Bank Stadium (Baltimore Ravens)
Ravens fans are passionate, and it shows in their tailgating scene. The Inner Harbor provides extra entertainment, making Baltimore a fun place to pregame.
15. Lumen Field (Seattle Seahawks)
Seahawks fans bring the energy, and their tailgating setup reflects that. While it’s not the most traditional experience, the creative and loud atmosphere makes up for it.
14. Bank of America Stadium (Carolina Panthers)
Southern hospitality shines in Charlotte, where Panthers fans create a welcoming and festive tailgating scene. It may not be the biggest, but it’s a great time.
13. Raymond James Stadium (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
Tampa’s tailgating benefits from Florida sunshine and a pirate-themed stadium. The fans embrace the fun, creating a lively and unique pregame experience.
12. FedEx Field (Washington Commanders)
Despite the Commanders’ recent struggles, their fans still know how to tailgate. The atmosphere remains lively, proving that diehard fans can keep the party going.
11. Nissan Stadium (Tennessee Titans)
Nashville’s music culture gives Titans tailgating a fun edge. The combination of football, barbecue, and live music makes for a great pregame experience.
10. Empower Field at Mile High (Denver Broncos)
Broncos fans take their tailgating seriously. The mix of great food, dedicated fans, and a stunning mountain backdrop makes this one of the best spots in the league.
9. U.S. Bank Stadium (Minnesota Vikings)
Minnesota’s brutal winters don’t stop Vikings fans from tailgating in style. They embrace the cold and create an impressive game-day atmosphere.
8. Cleveland Browns Stadium (Cleveland Browns)
Browns fans are some of the most dedicated in the league, and their tailgating reflects that. Even when the team struggles, their lakeside setup makes for a great football experience.
7. Allegiant Stadium (Las Vegas Raiders)
Las Vegas brings a different energy to tailgating. The city’s party atmosphere mixes with traditional pregame celebrations to create a unique experience for home and visiting fans alike.
6. Caesars Superdome (New Orleans Saints)
New Orleans is famous for its parties, and Saints tailgating is no exception. From live music to incredible food, fans know how to turn game day into a true celebration.
5. Acrisure Stadium (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Steelers fans take pride in their pregame traditions, making Acrisure Stadium one of the best places to tailgate. The energy and camaraderie are hard to beat.
4. Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia Eagles)
Eagles fans don’t mess around when it comes to tailgating. The atmosphere is loud, intense, and unforgettable—just like Philly sports in general.
3. Highmark Stadium (Buffalo Bills)
Bills Mafia has turned tailgating into an extreme sport. From wild antics to legendary food, Buffalo’s pregame scene is one of the most famous in the league.
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2. Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City Chiefs)
Few stadiums can match Arrowhead’s tailgating experience. Between the incredible barbecue and passionate fans, it’s a must-visit spot for any football fan.
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1. Lambeau Field (Green Bay Packers)
Lambeau Field takes the top spot thanks to its deep traditions, dedicated fans, and unbeatable atmosphere. Tailgating in Green Bay isn’t just a pregame event—it’s a way of life.
