What America First Field is and where it sits

America First Field is the home stadium of Real Salt Lake, the Major League Soccer team based in Salt Lake City, Utah. The stadium opened in 2008 and holds approximately 20,000 people for soccer matches. It sits in Sandy, Utah, a suburb about 15 miles south of downtown Salt Lake City, near the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains.

The venue was originally called Rio Tinto Stadium when it first opened, then Sandy Stadium, before taking its current name in 2021 when America First Credit Union purchased the naming rights. Real Salt Lake plays all their regular season and playoff matches there, and the stadium also hosts concerts, rugby matches, and other sporting events throughout the year.

Key Takeaways

  • America First Field is located in Sandy, Utah, about 15 miles south of downtown Salt Lake City, and holds roughly 20,000 spectators.
  • The stadium has been Real Salt Lake's home since 2008 and was previously known as Rio Tinto Stadium and Sandy Stadium.
  • Parking is available on-site and in nearby lots, with pricing that varies depending on the event and how far in advance you purchase.
  • Public transit via the S Line light rail connects the stadium to downtown Salt Lake City and other parts of the metro area.
  • The stadium sits near several restaurants, shops, and hotels in the Sandy area, making it accessible for visitors from out of town.

Getting to the stadium by car and parking

If you drive to America First Field, take I-15 south from Salt Lake City toward Provo, then exit onto 9000 South heading east. The stadium address is 1 South Temple, Sandy, Utah 84070. Parking lots surround the stadium on multiple sides, and Real Salt Lake typically charges for parking on match days — the cost varies by event and whether you buy in advance online or at the gate.

Arriving early (at least 90 minutes before kickoff) gives you better parking options and shorter walks to the entrance. If you are unfamiliar with the area, use a GPS app to navigate directly to the stadium address, as the surrounding roads can be confusing on busy event days. Some parking areas fill up faster than others, so if one lot appears full, follow the signs to alternative lots nearby.

Using public transit and the S Line light rail

The S Line is a light rail system that runs between downtown Salt Lake City and America First Field, making it a car-free option for many visitors. The S Line station sits directly adjacent to the stadium, so you exit the train and walk straight to the gates. The ride from downtown takes about 30 to 40 minutes depending on which downtown station you board from.

The S Line runs on a regular schedule on match days, with increased frequency around kickoff times and after the final whistle. You can purchase a single-trip ticket or a day pass at the station kiosks or through the UTA (Utah Transit Authority) mobile app. If you are staying in downtown Salt Lake City or near any S Line stop, taking the train eliminates parking hassles and the cost of parking at the stadium.

Stadium amenities and what to expect inside

America First Field has general seating throughout the stadium, with some premium club seating and suite options available for purchase. The stadium includes concession stands selling food and beverages at typical sports venue prices — hot dogs, nachos, pizza, beer, soft drinks, and snacks. Restrooms are distributed throughout the facility, and the stadium is generally accessible for people with mobility challenges, though you should contact Real Salt Lake in advance if you need specific accommodations.

The stadium has a video scoreboard and sound system that display match information, replays, and entertainment between plays. Bag policies vary by event, so check Real Salt Lake's website before you arrive to see what you can bring inside. The stadium does not allow outside food or beverages, but you can purchase items at concession stands once you enter.

Weather and what to bring

Salt Lake City sits at about 4,200 feet elevation, and Sandy is slightly higher. The weather varies dramatically by season. Summer matches (May through September) can be hot and dry, with temperatures in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit, while fall and spring matches are mild. Winter matches (November through March) can be cold, with temperatures dropping into the 30s and 40s, and occasional snow.

Bring sunscreen and a hat for daytime summer matches, as the sun is intense at this elevation and there is limited shade in the stadium. For evening or winter matches, bring a jacket or sweater. The stadium sits in an open area without much wind protection, so on breezy days it can feel colder than the actual temperature. Check the weather forecast the day before your visit and dress in layers so you can adjust as needed.

Hotels and restaurants near the stadium

Sandy has several hotels within a few miles of America First Field, including chain hotels like La Quinta, Best Western, and others. These hotels range from budget to mid-range pricing and are convenient if you are traveling from out of town and want to stay close to the stadium. Downtown Salt Lake City is also an option if you prefer more dining and entertainment variety, though it is a 20 to 30-minute drive or light rail ride away.

The area around the stadium has casual dining options including chain restaurants and local spots. If you want to eat before or after a match, plan ahead — restaurants near the stadium can get crowded on match days, and some may have limited seating or longer wait times. Downtown Salt Lake City has more restaurant variety and is worth exploring if you have time before or after the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into America First Field?

No, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the stadium. However, you can purchase food and drinks at concession stands once you enter. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, contact Real Salt Lake ahead of time to ask about options or accommodations.

What is the best way to get to the stadium if I do not have a car?

The S Line light rail is the most straightforward option. It runs directly to a station next to the stadium and costs less than parking. You can also take a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, though prices surge on match days, especially after the game ends.

How early should I arrive before a match?

Arriving 90 minutes before kickoff gives you time to park, walk to the stadium, find your seat, and grab food without rushing. On high-attendance matches, arriving even earlier is wise. If you are taking the S Line, you can check the schedule and time your arrival accordingly.

Is America First Field accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the stadium has accessible seating, parking, and restrooms. Contact Real Salt Lake directly before your visit to reserve accessible seating or discuss any specific accommodations you need. They can also provide information about accessible parking and entrance routes.

What should I wear to a match in winter?

Bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves. The stadium is outdoors with limited wind protection, so it feels colder than the actual temperature. Layers work best so you can adjust as the game goes on and your body warms up from sitting in the crowd.