Arrowhead

Stadium

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GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium (Harry S Truman Sports Complex)

Capacity:
72 936
Country:
United States of America
City:
Kansas City
Clubs:
Kansas City Chiefs
Inauguration:
08/12/1972 (Kansas City Chiefs - St. Louis Cardinals, NFL)
Construction:
07/11/1968 - 07/1972
Renovations:
2007–2010, 2019
Cost:
$ 43 million,
$ 375 million (2010)
Design:
Kivett and Myers
Structural engineer:
Bob D. Campbell & Co. Structural Engineers
Contractor:
Sharp-Kidde-Webb Joint Venture
Address:
1 Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, MO
Our Reminder on Things to Do for the Best Experience
  1. Buy Tickets in Advance: Secure your tickets well in advance to get the best seats and avoid last-minute hassles. Check for additional Parking Passes. Check security requirements possibly no bags, or clear bags only?
  2. Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the stadium before the game starts. This will allow you to find parking, navigate the stadium, and soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
  3. Check the Schedule: Know the game schedule, as well as any pre-game events, tailgating parties, or fan experiences that might be happening on that day.
  4. Parking: Research parking options in advance, and consider using rideshare services or public transportation to avoid parking headaches.
  5. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you might be walking around a lot.
  6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  7. Bring ID and Tickets: Make sure to have your ID and tickets ready for security checks and entry into the stadium.
  8. Explore the Stadium: Take some time to explore the stadium, including its various levels and amenities.
  9. Try Local Food: Check out the food and beverage options within the stadium. Many stadiums offer local cuisine and unique food items.
  10. Capture Memories: Take photos to capture the memories. The stadium's design and the energetic crowd make for great photo opportunities.
  11. Respect Fan Etiquette: Respect the fans around you, regardless of which team they're supporting. Engaging in good sportsmanship enhances the overall experience.
  12. Follow Security Guidelines: Be aware of the stadium's security guidelines and cooperate with security personnel for a smooth entry process.
  13. Plan for Post-Game Traffic: Consider that traffic leaving the stadium can be heavy after the game ends. Have a plan for transportation after the event.
  14. Visit the Team Store: Check out the team store for merchandise and souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
  15. Download Apps: If the stadium has an official app, download it for real-time updates, interactive experiences, and information about the event.
  16. Respect Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations to ensure a trouble-free experience.
  17. Weather Preparedness: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly if the game is outdoors or has an outdoor component.
  18. Check for COVID-19 Guidelines: Stay updated on any COVID-19 related protocols or guidelines.
  19. Enjoy the Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the excitement of being at a live game, cheer with fellow fans, and create lasting memories.

Kansas City Chiefs' first home was the Municipal Stadium, erected back in 1923. The building, despite having undergone major renovation in 1955, proved insufficient for the NFL team. Especially after the merger of AFL and NFL in 1970, when the minimum capacity criterion changed to 50,000.


A vast plot south-east of the city was selected to host the new venue. Not just that, but an entire complex of two major stadiums (the other being baseball's Kauffman Stadium) and an almost literal sea of parking around them. Launched in 1968, the construction process lasted until mid-1972, ending soon enough to welcome the 1972 football season at Arrowhead.


The first official game played at Arrowhead ended up with St. Louis Cardinals being beaten 24-14. In November of that year the first major attendance record was witnessed as over 82,000 people enjoyed the Chiefs face Oakland Raiders.


In the following years Arrowhead played host to numerous major events, of course mostly with Chiefs being the home side. The 1974 Pro Bowl was staged here, as well as global marching band championships of 1988 and 1989. In 1990s the stadium saw first major upgrades, including the two iconic giant screens shaped like footballs. The synthetic field was replaced by natural grass in 1994.


A fundamental upgrade only came in 2007, worth roughly 6 times the cost of the original stadium. The operation preserved its unique layout and also included changes to the nearby Kauffman Stadium. Most important changes to Arrowhead saw two vast pavilions added to the sides of the stadium, providing new facilities for Chiefs, guests and hospitality clientelle.


As part of the project, monument to historical owner of the team Lamar Hunt was erected. South side of the stadium got additional boxes and media facilities, while the stadium has since then been neighboured by a hall of honour. All of that was ready ahead of the 2010 season.


As mentioned before, Arrowhead has a unique layout, with the second tier resembling a bowl cut on both ends. These ends make a perfect fit for the football-shaped screens. As of writing this, no other stadium has been designed to mimic it.


The Sea of Red, as some call it, is also known for producing quite some noise. It officially enjoyed to records in loudest match noise. First, during the 2013 Oakland Raiders clash, it landed in the Guinness Book of Records with 137.5 decibels. It then lost the record after just a few months to Seattle's CenturyLink Field. Finally, in September of 2014 it regained global dominance with sound reaching intense 142.2 decibels.