Lucas Oil Stadium is the Indianapolis Colts' home arena, opened in 2008
Lucas Oil Stadium opened on August 24, 2008, in downtown Indianapolis and has been the home of the Indianapolis Colts ever since. The stadium replaced the RCA Dome, which had housed the team since 1984. The facility cost $701 million to build and was funded through a combination of public bonds, a local food and beverage tax, and private investment from Lucas Oil Products, the company that purchased the naming rights.
The stadium sits at 500 South Capitol Avenue in downtown Indianapolis. It holds 67,000 people for regular season games, though that capacity can expand slightly for special events. The building is notable for its retractable roof, which can open and close depending on weather conditions and the type of event being held.
Key Takeaways
- Lucas Oil Stadium opened in 2008 and replaced the RCA Dome as the Colts' home venue.
- The stadium has a retractable roof that opens and closes, making it usable year-round regardless of weather.
- Regular season capacity is 67,000 people, with some flexibility for different event types.
- The facility hosts events beyond Colts games, including concerts, conventions, and the NFL Draft.
Retractable roof design and weather control
The retractable roof is the stadium's most distinctive feature. The roof panels can open fully to expose the field to outdoor conditions or close completely to create a climate-controlled environment. The opening and closing process takes approximately 11 minutes. This design allows the Colts to play in natural sunlight and fresh air during pleasant weather while protecting players and fans from rain, snow, and extreme temperatures when needed.
The roof's engineering was built to handle Indianapolis's weather patterns, which include cold winters and hot, humid summers. The closed roof maintains an interior temperature of around 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making the stadium comfortable regardless of the season. This feature also allows the facility to host events during months when an open-air stadium would be impractical in Indiana.
Seating layout and stadium sections
The stadium is divided into lower bowl, club level, and upper deck sections. The lower bowl seats are closest to the field and offer the most direct views of play. Club level seating provides premium amenities including private restrooms, dedicated concessions, and climate-controlled lounges. Upper deck seats are the most affordable general admission option and provide a full view of the field from above.
Specific section numbers run from 101 to 142 around the stadium. Sections 101 through 120 are on the sidelines, while sections 121 through 142 are in the end zones. The visitor's bench is typically located on the west side of the stadium, while the Colts' bench is on the east side. Wheelchair-accessible seating and companion seating for people with disabilities are distributed throughout all levels of the stadium.
Events beyond Colts games
Lucas Oil Stadium hosts a variety of events throughout the year beyond regular season and playoff Colts games. The facility has hosted the NFL Draft, which brings thousands of fans and media to Indianapolis. The stadium also serves as a venue for concerts, with major artists performing on a stage built over the field. College football games, including bowl games, have been played there as well.
The stadium's convention center capabilities allow it to host large trade shows and business events. High school football championships have been held at the facility, and it has served as a venue for other sporting events including soccer matches and indoor football. The retractable roof makes it possible to host outdoor-style events while maintaining climate control, which expands the types of events that can be scheduled.
Parking and transportation to the stadium
Multiple parking garages and lots surround Lucas Oil Stadium in downtown Indianapolis. The primary parking facilities include the Capital Avenue Garage, the Senate Avenue Garage, and various surface lots operated by different companies. Parking rates vary depending on the event and the lot, typically ranging from $10 to $25 for regular season games. Some lots offer reserved parking for season ticket holders.
Public transportation to the stadium is available through IndyGo, the local bus system. Several bus routes serve the downtown area near the stadium. Ride-sharing services including Uber and Lyft operate in Indianapolis and can drop passengers near the stadium entrance. The stadium's downtown location makes it walkable from many hotels and restaurants in the Indianapolis central business district.
Stadium amenities and fan experience
The stadium features modern concession stands throughout all levels, offering standard stadium food options as well as regional Indianapolis specialties. Restroom facilities are distributed across the building to minimize wait times. The stadium has Wi-Fi coverage in most areas, allowing fans to stay connected during games. Phone charging stations are available in select locations.
The club level includes premium dining options and private suites for groups and corporate clients. General admission areas have standing room only sections that offer a different viewing experience at a lower price point. The stadium's design includes multiple entrance gates to manage crowd flow during arrival and departure. Digital displays and scoreboards provide game information, statistics, and replays throughout the facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the roof be opened during a game?
Yes, the roof can open or close during a game if weather conditions change or if the Colts request it. The opening and closing process takes about 11 minutes, so it typically happens during a timeout or between quarters rather than during active play. The decision to open or close is made by stadium management in coordination with the Colts and NFL officials.
What is the best way to get to Lucas Oil Stadium without a car?
IndyGo bus routes serve downtown Indianapolis and stop near the stadium. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout the city. If you are staying downtown, many hotels and restaurants are within walking distance of the stadium. Check IndyGo's website for specific route numbers and schedules before game day.
Are there accessible seating options for people with disabilities?
Yes, Lucas Oil Stadium has wheelchair-accessible seating and companion seating throughout all levels of the building. Accessible parking is available in nearby garages and lots. Contact the Colts' ticket office directly to discuss specific accessibility needs and to locate the best seating options for your situation.
What events happen at Lucas Oil Stadium besides Colts games?
The stadium hosts concerts, the NFL Draft, college football games, high school championships, soccer matches, and convention center events. The retractable roof and large capacity make it suitable for a wide range of events. Check the stadium's event calendar or the Colts' website for upcoming non-football events.