Lumen Field is the home stadium of the Seattle Seahawks in Seattle, Washington

Lumen Field sits in the SoDo (South Downtown) neighborhood of Seattle, near the waterfront. The stadium opened in 2002 as CenturyLink Field and was renamed Lumen Field in 2011 when Lumen Technologies purchased the naming rights. The Seahawks have played there since the franchise began in 2002.

The stadium holds 68,740 people for football. It is also used for other events including concerts, soccer matches, and conventions. The field is a natural grass surface, and the stadium has a roof that can be closed during rain — common in Seattle.

Key Takeaways

  • Lumen Field is located at 800 Occidental Avenue South in Seattle's SoDo neighborhood, about two miles south of downtown.
  • The stadium has a seating capacity of 68,740 for Seahawks games and opened in 2002 as the home of the franchise.
  • Public transit options include light rail (Link light rail station is adjacent to the stadium), buses, and the Seattle Streetcar.
  • Parking is available in multiple lots around the stadium, though game-day parking fills quickly and prices vary by lot and event.
  • The stadium features a retractable roof and natural grass field, and hosts events beyond football including concerts and soccer.

Getting to Lumen Field by public transit

The easiest way to reach Lumen Field without driving is the Link light rail system. The Stadium Station stop is directly adjacent to the stadium's main entrance. Trains run from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) north through downtown Seattle and south to Angle Lake, with service every 10 to 15 minutes during the day and every 15 to 20 minutes in the evening.

King County Metro buses also serve the stadium area. Multiple routes stop near Lumen Field, including routes that connect to downtown Seattle, the University of Washington, and other neighborhoods. The Seattle Streetcar's First Hill line runs nearby and connects to downtown and Capitol Hill.

On game days, transit agencies often add extra service to handle crowds. Fares for light rail depend on distance traveled; a trip from downtown Seattle costs less than a trip from the airport. Bus fares are a flat rate within King County.

Parking at and near Lumen Field

Multiple parking lots surround Lumen Field, operated by different companies and the stadium itself. Prices vary depending on the lot, the event, and how far in advance you book. On game days, parking typically ranges from $20 to $40 per vehicle, though some premium lots charge more.

The stadium's official lots fill quickly on game days, especially for popular matchups. Many people park in nearby neighborhoods or at off-site lots that offer shuttle service to the stadium. Some lots offer pre-game parking discounts if you book online before the day of the event.

Street parking is available in the SoDo neighborhood but is limited and often fills before kickoff. Parking enforcement is active on game days, so check posted signs for restrictions.

Stadium amenities and features

Lumen Field has a retractable roof that can close during rain, which is useful during Seattle's wet season. The field itself is natural grass. The stadium includes club seating areas, suites, and general admission sections throughout the upper and lower bowls.

Food and beverage options are available throughout the stadium, including concession stands, restaurants, and bars. The stadium also has family-friendly areas, accessible seating for people with mobility needs, and nursing rooms for parents with infants.

Wi-Fi is available in most areas of the stadium. The Seahawks' official mobile app provides information about parking, concessions, and game details.

Accessibility at Lumen Field

Lumen Field has accessible parking spaces in multiple lots around the stadium. Accessible seating is available throughout the stadium, and the Link light rail station has elevators and accessible entrances. Accessible restrooms are located on multiple levels.

Service animals are permitted in the stadium. People with disabilities can bring one companion into the stadium at no additional cost. Accessible parking requires a valid disability parking permit or license plate.

Events beyond Seahawks games

Lumen Field hosts concerts, international soccer matches, college football games, and other large events. The Seattle Sounders (Major League Soccer) play home games there. The stadium has also hosted the MLS Cup, college football bowl games, and major music festivals.

Event schedules vary by season. The Seahawks' regular season runs from September through December, with playoffs potentially extending into January. Other events fill the calendar during the off-season.

Stadium history and naming

The stadium opened on July 28, 2002, as CenturyLink Field. It was built specifically for the Seahawks and cost approximately $430 million. The name changed to Qwest Field in 2007 when Qwest Communications purchased naming rights, then to Lumen Field in 2011 when Lumen Technologies (the successor company to Qwest) took over the naming rights.

The stadium was designed by LMN Architects and Ellerbe Becket. Notable features include the retractable roof and the "12th Man" culture — the Seahawks' fan base is known for creating loud noise during games, which is part of the team's home-field advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from Seattle-Tacoma Airport to Lumen Field?

Take the Link light rail from Sea-Tac Airport directly to Stadium Station, which is adjacent to Lumen Field. The trip takes about 40 minutes and costs less than parking or a taxi. Trains run every 10 to 15 minutes during the day.

Can I bring a bag or backpack into Lumen Field?

The Seahawks allow clear bags (12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches), small clutches, and medically necessary bags. Backpacks and large bags are not permitted. Check the team's official website for the current bag policy before attending a game.

What is the best time to arrive before a game?

Most people arrive 60 to 90 minutes before kickoff to allow time for parking, transit, and getting to their seats. On game days, parking lots and transit can be crowded, so arriving earlier reduces stress. Gates typically open 90 minutes before the start of the game.

Is there food inside the stadium, or should I eat before arriving?

Lumen Field has multiple food vendors and restaurants inside the stadium. Prices are higher than outside food, so some people eat before arriving. Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the stadium.

Does Lumen Field have a retractable roof?

Yes, Lumen Field has a retractable roof that can open or close depending on weather and the event. The roof is typically closed during rain and open during dry weather. The roof does not fully enclose the stadium — it covers the field but leaves the upper bowl open to the air.