Where Northwest Stadium is located and how to get there

Northwest Stadium, home of the Washington Commanders, sits in Landover, Maryland, about 10 miles northeast of downtown Washington, D.C. The address is 1600 FedExForum Drive, Landover, MD 20785. The stadium opened in 1997 as FedExForum and has carried several names over its history — it was called Jack Kent Cooke Stadium, then FedExForum again, then Washington Football Team Stadium during the 2020 and 2021 seasons, before becoming Northwest Stadium in 2022.

Getting to the stadium by car from D.C. takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic and your starting point. The stadium sits near the Capital Beltway (Interstate 495) and is accessible from both the north and south. Parking is available on-site, though lots fill quickly on game days. If you use public transit, the Washington Metropolitan Transit Authority (WMATA) runs bus service to the stadium on game days, and some routes connect to Metro rail stations in the District.

The stadium is located in Prince George's County, Maryland, not in Washington, D.C. itself. This matters for taxes, local regulations, and which police and fire departments respond to emergencies at the venue.

Stadium capacity and seating layout

Northwest Stadium holds approximately 82,000 people for football games. The seating bowl is divided into upper and lower decks, with club-level seating between them. The field runs north to south, and the stadium's design creates sightlines from most seats, though some upper-deck corners have obstructed views depending on the column placement.

The stadium has undergone renovations since its opening. A major renovation project began in 2022 and continued through 2024, which included upgrades to club seating, premium areas, and fan amenities. These upgrades affected which sections were available during renovation periods and changed the layout of some premium seating areas.

Accessible seating for people with mobility disabilities is distributed throughout the stadium rather than concentrated in one area. Wheelchair spaces and companion seats are located in multiple sections across both decks. The stadium has elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated accessible parking spaces in the surface lots.

Getting tickets and event information

The Washington Commanders sell tickets through their official website and through Ticketmaster. Single-game tickets go on sale at different times depending on the opponent and the game's expected demand. Season ticket holders get first access, followed by members of the Commanders' loyalty program, and then the general public.

Ticket prices vary widely based on the opponent, day of the week, and seat location. Games against division rivals or popular teams cost more than games against less-attended opponents. Thursday night games and Sunday afternoon games have different pricing. Premium seating — club seats, suites, and field-level areas — costs significantly more than upper-deck general admission.

The Commanders' official website lists the full schedule, upcoming promotions, and parking information. You can also call the ticket office directly for questions about specific games or seating options. Third-party resellers like StubHub and SeatGeek also list tickets, though prices on those platforms fluctuate based on demand and may include reseller fees.

What to bring and what is prohibited

The stadium allows clear bags, small clutches, and single-compartment wristlets. A clear bag is defined as one made entirely of clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC with no more than one outside pocket. The maximum dimensions are 12 inches wide, 6.5 inches deep, and 8.5 inches tall. Small clutches can be no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches. One personal item such as a phone or wallet in a non-clear bag is also permitted.

Outside food and beverages are not permitted into the stadium. You can bring an empty water bottle and fill it at water fountains inside, or purchase beverages at concession stands. The stadium has numerous food vendors throughout the building, ranging from traditional stadium fare to regional restaurants and chains.

Prohibited items include weapons of any kind, illegal drugs, recording devices (including professional cameras), drones, laser pointers, and items that obstruct other fans' views. Umbrellas are prohibited except in designated areas during rain. Face paint and costumes are permitted as long as they do not include weapons or obscure the wearer's face in a way that prevents identification.

Parking and transportation options

The stadium has multiple surface parking lots on the property. Parking costs vary by lot and by event — premium lots closer to the stadium entrance cost more than remote lots. Prices are typically announced before the season begins. Accessible parking spaces are available and require a valid disability parking permit or license plate.

If you drive, arrive early on game day. Lots often reach capacity 2 to 3 hours before kickoff, especially for popular games. Traffic leaving the stadium after the game can take 30 minutes to an hour to clear the parking areas and nearby roads.

WMATA bus routes serve the stadium on game days. Route 301 and Route 304 provide direct service from Metro stations in the District and Prince George's County. The bus ride from downtown D.C. takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run before the game and after the game, though post-game buses can be crowded and may take longer due to traffic congestion.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate at the stadium. A pickup zone is designated for rideshare vehicles. Surge pricing is common on game days, especially after the game ends, so fares can be significantly higher than off-game-day rates.

Amenities and fan services inside the stadium

Northwest Stadium has concession stands throughout the building offering food, beverages, and merchandise. The stadium also has a team store where you can purchase Commanders apparel and gear. Restroom facilities are distributed across all levels, and the stadium has upgraded these facilities as part of recent renovations.

The stadium offers mobile ordering through the Commanders' app or through third-party food services, allowing you to order and pay ahead and pick up your food without waiting in line. WiFi is available throughout the stadium, though connection can be slow during peak times when many fans are using their phones simultaneously.

Family-friendly areas include a kids' zone with activities during games. The stadium also has nursing rooms for parents with infants and family restrooms for those who need extra space or information.

Stadium rules and what happens on game day

Gates typically open 2 to 3 hours before kickoff. Security screening is required at all entrances, and lines can be long during the first hour after gates open. Arrive early to allow time for parking, walking to the stadium, and passing through security.

The stadium enforces a strict no-reentry policy — once you leave the building, you cannot return without purchasing a new ticket. Plan your time inside accordingly, especially if you need to use the restroom or get food.

Noise levels during games are high, particularly during defensive plays or when the opposing team has the ball. If you are sensitive to loud noise, consider bringing earplugs. The stadium also has designated quiet spaces for fans who need a break from the noise and crowd.

Key Takeaways

  • Northwest Stadium is located in Landover, Maryland, about 10 miles northeast of Washington, D.C., and holds approximately 82,000 people for Commanders games.
  • Tickets are sold through the Commanders' official website and Ticketmaster, with prices varying by opponent, day of the week, and seat location.
  • Clear bags with specific dimensions are required; outside food and beverages are not permitted, but the stadium has multiple food vendors and concession stands.
  • Parking is available on-site with varying costs, and WMATA bus routes and rideshare services also serve the stadium on game days.
  • Gates open 2 to 3 hours before kickoff, security screening is required at all entrances, and the stadium enforces a no-reentry policy once you leave the building.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food or drinks into Northwest Stadium?

No. Outside food and beverages are not permitted. You can bring an empty water bottle and refill it at water fountains inside the stadium. Food and drinks are available for purchase at concession stands throughout the building, and the stadium offers mobile ordering through its app to reduce wait times.

What is the best way to get to Northwest Stadium from downtown D.C.?

WMATA bus routes 301 and 304 provide direct service from Metro stations in the District and take 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Driving takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on your starting point and traffic conditions. Rideshare services are available but may have surge pricing on game days, especially after the game ends.

How early should I arrive on game day?

Arrive at least 2 to 3 hours before kickoff to allow time for parking, walking to the stadium, and passing through security screening. Gates open 2 to 3 hours before the game, and lines can be long during the first hour after opening.

What items am I allowed to bring into the stadium?

You can bring a clear bag (no larger than 12 inches by 6.5 inches by 8.5 inches), a small clutch (no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches), and one personal item such as a phone or wallet in a non-clear bag. Weapons, recording devices, drones, and items that obstruct other fans' views are prohibited.

Is there accessible parking and seating for people with disabilities?

Yes. Accessible parking spaces are available in the surface lots and require a valid disability parking permit or license plate. Wheelchair spaces and companion seats are distributed throughout the stadium in multiple sections on both decks. The stadium has elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated accessible parking spaces.