Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Stadium

Bills Stadium

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Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Stadium (Bills Stadium)

Capacity:
71 608
Country:
United States of America
City:
Buffalo
Clubs:
Buffalo Bills
Other names:
Rich Stadium (1973–1997), Ralph Wilson Stadium, (1998–2015), New Era Field (2016–2019), Bills Stadium (2020)
Inauguration:
08/17/1973
Construction:
04/04/1972 – 1973
Renovations:
1984, 1992, 1994, 1998, 2007, 2013
Cost:
$ 22 million
Design:
HNTB
Address:
1 Bills Dr., Orchard Park, NY 14127-2237
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.

When Buffalo Bills joined the NFL in 1970, it became evident that the team needed a bigger venue than War Memorial Stadium they played at from 1960 to 1972. NFL officials required a minimum of 50,000 seats and the club's existing facility only housed 47,000.


Ralph Wilson, the Bills's owner at the time, reached an agreement to erect a new stadium in Orchard Park, a town south of Buffalo. Construction began on April 4, 1972 and was completed in record time, as the official opening took place on August 17, 1973.


Initially, the facility could accommodate just over 80,000 spectators on three levels of the stands. The largest one was the bottom ring that stretched uninterruptedly around the artificial pitch. The second tier was similar, but it was much smaller than the bottom bowl of the stadium. The third level of the auditorium consisted of two rectangular superstructures along the playing field.


Structural composition of the arena, which is still unroofed, has not changed much since it opened. The pitch is 15 metres below the ground level and the last tier of the stands towers 18 metres above the ground.


In the mid-1990s, the venue could still admit 80,000 fans. From that moment on, a gradual reduction in capacity began. In 1998, the auditorium dropped to 74,000 as a result of the installation of new, larger seats. Over the following years, the capacity has decreased to just over 71,000.


The stadium has undergone a series of modernization works aimed at expanding the number of premium seats. The vast majority of them are located between the first and second, as well as the second and third tiers of the stands. In 1984, 16 executive suites were created and in 1992 a further 24 were added.


In 1994, an additional 500 premium seats and a massive scoreboard were installed. The latter was replaced after 13 years with an even more modern one. In 2007, electronic ribbon-shaped boards were created in the interior. The last revamp took place in 2013, when the infrastructure around the arena (new entrance gates) and the sponsors' exposure (new electronic boards) were enhanced.


Among important events that took place at Bills Stadium, the 2008 NHL Winter Classic, should be mentioned. It was the game between Buffalo Sabers and Pittsburgh Penguins with over 71,000 supporters attending the stadium (NHL record at the time). In addition, the opening ceremony of the 1993 Summer Universiade was held at the arena.