What You Need to Know About Paycor Stadium
Paycor Stadium is the home of the Cincinnati Bengals, located in downtown Cincinnati along the Ohio River. The stadium opened in 2000 and holds approximately 65,500 people for football games. It sits in the same riverfront district as the Cincinnati Reds' baseball stadium, making it straightforward to reach by car or public transit if you are planning to attend a game or tour the facility.
The stadium is named after Paycor, a payroll and human resources software company based in Cincinnati. Before 2022, it was called Paul Brown Stadium, named after the Bengals' founder. If you are looking up directions or older information online, you may still see the former name used.
Key Takeaways
- Paycor Stadium holds about 65,500 people and is located in downtown Cincinnati near the riverfront, with multiple parking options nearby.
- Seating is divided into lower bowl, club level, and upper deck sections, with prices varying by game and opponent.
- Parking lots surround the stadium, though prices increase on game days and fill up quickly for popular matchups.
- Public transit via Metro bus and the streetcar system offers an alternative to driving, with stops within walking distance of the stadium.
- The stadium has restaurants, concessions, and family areas, though food and drink prices are higher than outside venues.
Seating Sections and Ticket Pricing
Paycor Stadium has three main seating levels: the lower bowl (closest to the field), the club level (middle section with premium amenities), and the upper deck (farthest from the field). The lower bowl offers the best view of the action but costs more. Club level seats include access to exclusive lounges and better food options. Upper deck seats are the most affordable but require climbing stairs and offer a more distant view.
Ticket prices depend on the opponent, day of the week, and how far in advance you purchase. Games against popular teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers or Baltimore Ravens cost significantly more than games against less-watched opponents. Weekend games typically cost more than weekday games. Prices also rise as game day approaches, so buying tickets weeks in advance usually saves money.
You can purchase tickets through the Bengals' official website, Ticketmaster, or resale sites like StubHub and SeatGeek. Resale sites sometimes offer lower prices for less popular games, but prices can spike for playoff games or rivalry matchups. Check multiple sources before buying.
Parking Near Paycor Stadium
Multiple parking lots surround Paycor Stadium, operated by different companies and the Cincinnati Bengals organization. Lot prices on game days typically range from $15 to $30, depending on proximity to the stadium and demand. Lots closer to the main entrance fill up first and cost more. Lots farther away are cheaper but require a longer walk.
Parking fills quickly for popular games, so arriving at least two hours before kickoff increases your chances of finding a spot. For playoff games or rivalry matchups, lots may be full three hours before the game starts. Some lots offer online pre-purchase options, which may provide a spot but usually cost slightly more than day-of parking.
If you prefer not to drive, street parking exists in downtown Cincinnati, though it is limited and meters run on game days. Parking garages in the area also offer spaces, though they charge similar rates to stadium lots and require walking several blocks.
Public Transportation and Getting to the Stadium
Cincinnati's Metro bus system serves Paycor Stadium with multiple routes that stop within a few blocks of the venue. The most direct option is the streetcar system, which has a stop near the stadium entrance. Both options cost less than parking and eliminate the stress of finding a spot or driving in traffic after the game.
The streetcar runs from the northern neighborhoods through downtown and stops near the riverfront district where the stadium sits. Bus routes vary by direction, so check the Metro website or use Google Maps to find the route that works for your location. Service runs frequently on game days to handle the crowd.
If you are traveling from outside Cincinnati, Amtrak and Greyhound both serve the city, with stations downtown. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in Cincinnati and offer another option, though surge pricing applies on game days and can make rides expensive during peak arrival times.
Stadium Amenities and What to Bring
Paycor Stadium has concession stands throughout the building selling hot dogs, nachos, pizza, and other typical stadium food. Prices are higher than restaurants outside the stadium — expect to pay $15 to $20 for a sandwich and $8 to $12 for a drink. The stadium allows you to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages in clear bags, which can save money if you plan ahead.
The stadium has family areas with quieter seating and reduced noise levels, useful if you are bringing young children. Restrooms are located throughout the building, though they get crowded during halftime. The stadium is accessible for people with mobility issues, with elevators, accessible seating, and designated parking spaces.
Bag policy limits what you can bring inside. Clear bags no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches are allowed. Small clutches without straps are also permitted. No outside alcohol, weapons, or recording devices are allowed. Check the Bengals' website for the full list before you arrive.
Stadium Tours and Non-Game Day Visits
Paycor Stadium offers guided tours on days when the Bengals are not playing. Tours typically last 60 to 90 minutes and include the locker room, press box, field level, and other areas not visible during games. Tour prices vary but usually cost between $15 and $25 per person. Children and seniors sometimes receive discounts.
Tours must be booked in advance through the Bengals' website or by calling the stadium directly. Availability depends on the team's schedule, so tours may not be offered during the season or around playoff games. Off-season tours (May through August) are usually easier to schedule.
Weather and What to Expect During Games
Cincinnati's weather varies by season. Fall and early winter games (September through November) can be cool and rainy, so bring a jacket and consider a rain poncho. Late-season games (December and January) are cold, sometimes below freezing, and occasionally snowy. Dress in layers and bring a warm coat, hat, and gloves.
The stadium is not fully enclosed, so you will be exposed to weather during the game. Wind can make it feel colder than the actual temperature. Spring games (if the Bengals host playoff games) are typically milder. Check the weather forecast the week before your game and plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a camera or phone to record video at games?
Personal cameras and phones for photos are allowed, but professional recording equipment and tripods are not. Video recording for personal use is permitted, but the Bengals retain rights to any footage. Do not sell or distribute recordings online.
What time should I arrive before a game?
Arriving two to three hours early gives you time to park, find your seat, and grab food without rushing. For popular games, arrive even earlier. Gates typically open two hours before kickoff, and concession lines get long in the hour before the game starts.
Are there accessible parking spaces for people with disabilities?
Yes, Paycor Stadium has designated accessible parking spaces near the main entrance. You must display a valid disability parking permit. Reserve accessible parking in advance through the Bengals' website or by calling the stadium to may provide a spot.
Can I bring my own food and drinks into the stadium?
Non-alcoholic beverages and outside food are allowed in clear bags meeting the size requirements. Alcohol purchased outside the stadium cannot be brought in. This policy helps reduce concession costs if you plan ahead.
How do I get a refund if a game is cancelled?
Ticket refund policies depend on the reason for cancellation and the ticket seller. Check your ticket confirmation email for the refund policy. Contact Ticketmaster or the Bengals directly if you have questions about a specific game.