What Lambeau Field Is and Where It Sits

Lambeau Field is the home stadium of the Green Bay Packers, the NFL team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The stadium opened in 1957 and has been the Packers' home ever since, making it one of the oldest continuously used stadiums in professional football. It sits in the northeast part of Green Bay, about two miles from downtown.

The field is named after Curly Lambeau, the Packers' first coach and founder. The stadium's official name is Lambeau Field, though locals and long-time fans sometimes still call it by its older name, New Stadium, or refer to it straightforward as "the frozen tundra" because of the harsh Wisconsin winters that can make games there brutally cold.

Key Takeaways

  • Lambeau Field opened in 1957 and is one of the oldest active NFL stadiums, located in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
  • The stadium holds roughly 81,000 people and is known for its outdoor field and cold-weather conditions during fall and winter games.
  • The Packers play eight regular-season home games there each year, plus playoff games if the team makes the postseason.
  • Lambeau Field has a waiting list for season tickets that can stretch for years because demand far exceeds available seats.
  • The stadium underwent major renovations starting in 2003 to add modern amenities while keeping its historic character.

Stadium Capacity and Layout

Lambeau Field currently holds approximately 81,000 people. The seating bowl is divided into sections, with the field running north to south. The stadium is an open-air facility, meaning there is no roof, so fans are exposed to the weather — which in Green Bay means cold temperatures, wind, and sometimes snow during the season.

The field itself is natural grass. The Packers' sideline runs along the west side of the field, and the visitor's sideline runs along the east side. Behind each end zone are the north and south end zones, with the scoreboard and video displays positioned to be visible from all seating areas.

When Games Are Played and How Often

The Packers play eight regular-season home games at Lambeau Field each year, spread across September through December. The NFL schedule is released in the spring, and it lists which games are home games and which are away. Home games typically fall on Sunday afternoons, though some may be scheduled for Sunday night or Monday night depending on the NFL's broadcast schedule.

If the Packers make the playoffs, they may host playoff games at Lambeau Field as well. The number of playoff games depends on how far the team advances — a wild-card team might play one or two home games, while a division winner could host more. Playoff games are usually played in January and early February.

Getting Tickets and the Season Ticket Waiting List

Single-game tickets for Packers home games are sold through the team's official website and through authorized ticket vendors. Prices vary depending on the opponent, the time of year, and the seat location. Games against popular rivals or late-season games with playoff implications tend to be more expensive and sell out faster.

The Packers have a famous season ticket waiting list that has been closed to new applicants for many years. The list is so long that people who join it may wait a decade or more before a season ticket package becomes available. This happens because the Packers have a loyal fan base and limited seating, so demand far exceeds supply. If you are interested in season tickets, you can check the team's website to see whether the waiting list is currently open for new members.

Parking and Getting to the Stadium

Lambeau Field has parking lots surrounding the stadium, though spaces fill up quickly on game days. Parking is typically paid, and prices vary depending on the lot and the game. The team and local businesses operate most of the lots, and prices are set by the individual lot operators.

Public transportation options in Green Bay are limited compared to larger cities. Most fans drive to the stadium. If you are traveling from out of town, you can fly into Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB), which is about 10 miles south of the stadium, and rent a car or use a rideshare service. Some hotels in Green Bay offer shuttle services to the stadium on game days.

What to Expect on Game Day

Game days at Lambeau Field draw large crowds, and the atmosphere is intense. Fans arrive hours before kickoff to tailgate in the parking lots — a tradition where people gather around their vehicles, cook food, and socialize before the game. The tailgating culture in Green Bay is particularly strong because of the team's history and the passionate fan base.

Inside the stadium, you will find concession stands selling food and beverages, team merchandise shops, and restrooms. The stadium has been renovated over the years to add modern amenities, but it retains much of its historic character. Dress warmly if you are attending a fall or winter game — the wind and cold can be intense, especially in the upper deck.

Stadium History and Renovations

Lambeau Field opened on September 29, 1957, as "New Stadium." It was renamed Lambeau Field in 1965 to honor Curly Lambeau after his death. The Packers won three consecutive NFL championships in 1929, 1930, and 1931 before the NFL Draft existed, and they won the first two Super Bowls (Super Bowl I and II) in the mid-1960s, both played at Lambeau Field.

Starting in 2003, the stadium underwent major renovations to add modern facilities while preserving its historic feel. These upgrades included new club seating areas, improved concourses, better video displays, and enhanced amenities. The renovations took place over several years and were completed in phases so that games could continue during construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a bag or backpack into Lambeau Field?

The Packers have a bag policy that limits the size and type of bags you can bring into the stadium. Generally, small bags and purses are permitted, but large backpacks and bags may not be. Check the team's official website before you go to see the current bag policy, as it can change.

What is the coldest game ever played at Lambeau Field?

The coldest game was the 1967 NFL Championship Game, played on December 31, 1967, when the temperature was around 13 degrees below zero Fahrenheit with wind chill making it feel even colder. This game is often called the "Ice Bowl." Modern games are still cold, but the stadium's location and Wisconsin winters mean winter games are always frigid.

Are there vegetarian or vegan food options at the stadium?

Lambeau Field has concession stands throughout the stadium that offer various food options. While traditional stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos dominates, most concession areas have salads, fruit, and other options that may work for vegetarian or vegan diets. Calling ahead or checking the team's website can tell you what specific vendors will be operating on game day.

Can I tour Lambeau Field on non-game days?

Yes, the Packers offer stadium tours on days when there are no games scheduled. Tours typically cover the field, locker rooms, press box, and other areas of the stadium. You can book tours through the Packers' official website. Tour availability and pricing vary by season.

What is the best time of year to visit Lambeau Field?

September and early October offer the most comfortable weather for watching a game outdoors. Late-season games in November and December are colder and windier, which can be uncomfortable but is part of the Lambeau Field experience. If you prefer milder conditions, plan to attend an early-season game.