U.S. Bank Stadium is the home of the Minnesota Vikings in downtown Minneapolis
U.S. Bank Stadium opened in 2016 and sits in the downtown Minneapolis neighborhood along the Mississippi River. The Vikings play their regular season and playoff games there. The stadium holds about 73,000 people and is designed with a distinctive white roof that looks like sails. If you are planning to attend a game, knowing the basics about the building, parking, and what to bring will make the experience smoother.
The stadium is located at 401 Chicago Avenue South in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It is accessible by car, public transit, and on foot from nearby hotels and restaurants. The area around the stadium has grown significantly since it opened, with new bars, shops, and dining options within walking distance.
Key Takeaways
- U.S. Bank Stadium is located at 401 Chicago Avenue South in downtown Minneapolis and holds approximately 73,000 people for Vikings games.
- Parking options include stadium lots, nearby ramps, and street parking, though prices vary and lots fill quickly on game days.
- The stadium has bag policies, prohibited items, and security screening procedures that you should know before arriving.
- Public transit via Metro Transit light rail and buses offers an alternative to driving and parking.
- The stadium has multiple entrances, concession areas, and seating sections, so arriving early helps you find your way.
Parking and Transportation Options
The stadium itself has parking ramps on the north and south sides, though these fill quickly on game days and charge a fee. Lot N (north) and Lot S (south) are the official stadium lots. Prices typically range from $20 to $40 depending on the game and how far in advance you reserve. Many people park in nearby ramps and lots operated by private companies or the city, which may be cheaper or have more availability.
Public transit is a strong option if you want to avoid parking altogether. Metro Transit operates light rail service directly to the stadium via the Blue Line, which stops at the Stadium Village station. Buses also serve the area. You can check Metro Transit's website or use their trip planner to find routes from your location. On game days, transit is often crowded but moves steadily after the game ends.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate at the stadium, though surge pricing is common on game days. If you use rideshare, plan to wait 15 to 30 minutes after the game ends before requesting a pickup, as the area becomes congested quickly.
What You Can and Cannot Bring Into the Stadium
The Vikings and U.S. Bank Stadium enforce a bag policy. You are allowed to bring one bag that is no larger than 14 inches wide by 14 inches tall by 6 inches deep — roughly the size of a small clutch or crossbody bag. Clear bags are permitted and do not count toward this limit. Diaper bags are allowed for parents with small children.
Prohibited items include weapons of any kind, outside food and beverages, recording devices (including professional cameras), and items that obstruct the view of other fans. You cannot bring alcohol, glass containers, or cans into the stadium. Umbrellas are not allowed, even if rain is forecast. If you arrive with a prohibited item, security will ask you to leave it at the gate or return it to your car — there is no storage service.
Exceptions exist for medical equipment and service animals. If you have questions about a specific item, contact the Vikings' guest services before game day rather than finding out at security.
Security Screening and Arrival Time
All guests pass through security screening at the entrance. The process involves a walk-through metal detector and a bag check. On busy game days, this can take 20 to 45 minutes depending on which entrance you use and how crowded it is. The stadium has multiple entrances on different sides of the building, so if one line is very long, you may be able to move to another.
The Vikings recommend arriving at least 90 minutes before kickoff on regular game days and two hours before for playoff games or high-demand matchups. This gives you time to park, walk to the stadium, pass through security, find your seat, and grab food or a drink before the game starts. Gates typically open two hours before kickoff.
If you have mobility issues or need accessible seating, let security know when you arrive. The stadium has elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated accessible parking spaces. Contact the Vikings' accessibility office ahead of time if you need specific accommodations.
Seating Sections and Stadium Layout
The stadium is divided into sections numbered around the field. Lower bowl seating (sections 100–130) is closest to the action and the most expensive. Club level seating (sections 200–230) offers premium amenities and views. Upper deck seating (sections 300–330) is the most affordable but farthest from the field. Your ticket will show your section, row, and seat number.
The stadium has four main concourse levels where you find restrooms, concessions, and merchandise stands. If you are unfamiliar with the layout, ask an usher when you enter — they can point you toward your section and nearby facilities. The stadium is large, so if you need a restroom or food, plan time to walk there and back.
Seating for people with disabilities and their companions is available throughout the stadium. If you purchased an accessible ticket, your location will be marked on your ticket confirmation.
Food, Drinks, and Concessions
U.S. Bank Stadium has numerous concession stands throughout the building selling hot dogs, nachos, pizza, sandwiches, popcorn, and other typical stadium fare. Prices are higher than outside the stadium — a hot dog and drink typically cost $15 to $25 combined. The stadium also has premium dining options in club level areas if your ticket includes access.
Alcoholic beverages are sold at designated stands and must be consumed in designated areas. You cannot bring your own alcohol into the stadium. Non-alcoholic drinks, including water and soda, are available at all concession stands. Some stands have water fountains if you want free water.
Lines at concessions are longest during the first quarter and at halftime. If you want to avoid long waits, grab food before the game starts or during the second quarter when fewer people are in line.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
U.S. Bank Stadium is fully enclosed with climate control, so you do not need to worry about rain, snow, or extreme cold during the game. However, you will experience Minnesota weather walking to and from the stadium, especially during the fall and winter months when the Vikings play most of their season. Dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear, particularly if there is snow or ice on the ground.
Parking lots and walkways are cleared of snow and ice, but the process takes time after a storm. If heavy snow is forecast on game day, plan extra time for travel and parking. Public transit may also experience delays, so check Metro Transit's alerts before you leave home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks into the stadium?
No. Outside food and beverages are not allowed into U.S. Bank Stadium. You must purchase food and drinks from the stadium's concession stands. The only exception is for medical reasons — if you need to bring a specific food or drink for a medical condition, contact the Vikings' guest services ahead of time to request permission.
What is the best entrance to use to avoid long security lines?
The stadium has multiple entrances, and lines vary depending on which one you use and how many people are arriving at that moment. There is no single "best" entrance. If you arrive early and see a long line at one entrance, ask an usher if another entrance is less crowded. Arriving 90 minutes before kickoff helps you avoid peak security times.
Is there accessible parking for people with disabilities?
Yes. The stadium has designated accessible parking spaces in nearby lots. You must have a valid disability parking permit or license plate to use these spaces. Contact the Vikings' accessibility office before game day to reserve an accessible parking space or to discuss other accommodations you may need.
Can I record video or take photos during the game?
Personal photography and video recording for your own use is generally allowed. Professional cameras, video equipment, and recording devices are prohibited. If you are unsure whether your camera qualifies as professional equipment, contact the Vikings' guest services before the game.
What happens if I arrive late and miss the start of the game?
You can enter the stadium at any time during the game, though security screening still applies. However, your seat may be occupied by stadium staff or other guests during the early part of the game. Arrive as early as possible to avoid missing significant portions of play and to may support your seat is available.